Celebrating 55 Years of Land Use and Climate Innovation

On Sept. 19, the California Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) proudly marks 55 years of service to the people of California.

Founded in 1970 under Gov. Ronald Reagan as the Office of Planning and Research (OPR), the office was established to guide long-range planning, coordinate across state agencies, and provide forward-looking solutions to complex land use challenges. Over time, its mission evolved to meet the realities of a changing climate, culminating in its transformation into the Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) in 2024-a hub for integrating sustainable planning with resilience and economic opportunity.

"For 55 years, this office has drawn strength from Californians who believe that bold action, fair access, and collaboration are the foundation of a stronger California," said Samuel Assefa, director of LCI. "Together with our team and partners, we will continue to ensure the Golden State remains a place of innovation, equity, and resilience."

A Legacy of Leadership

"Fifty-five years ago, then Governor Ronald Reagan created this office to think beyond the moment," said Governor Gavin Newsom. "Today, that mission is more urgent than ever. As we celebrate this anniversary, we recommit to leading with innovation, ensuring that the choices we make now will give future generations the chance to thrive. This anniversary is not just about looking back, it is a commitment to the work ahead to ensure a California for all."

For more than five decades, LCI has helped shape policies and practices that touch every community in California. Some of the office's most notable contributions include:

• Advancing statewide planning through the General Plan Guidelines and CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) updates, ensuring California communities grow sustainably.
• Driving climate action by supporting the development and implementation of the state's climate adaptation and resilience strategies.
• Promoting equity and innovation by championing programs that transform brownfields into community assets, foster clean energy and manufacturing hubs, and expand much-needed housing.
• Building global partnerships that connect California with international leaders in climate and sustainable land use innovation and foster collaboration across borders.

Looking Ahead

As LCI celebrates this milestone, it remains committed to its founding purpose: Accelerating innovation and implementation that supports thriving people and communities here in California - and beyond. With climate resilience, equitable growth, and economic dynamism at the heart of its work, LCI will continue to serve as a catalyst for bold ideas that protect California's people, lands, and resources for generations to come.

Here's to the next 55 years of innovation and impact.

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Inspiring Leadership

LCI has been led by a diverse group of changemakers committed to shaping California's future. From launching key initiatives to advising governors across administrations, our past directors have left a legacy of public service, policy, and innovation.

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Fifty-five years, one home

For 55 years, LCI has been housed in the historic Blue Anchor Building, which originally served as the California Fruit Exchange headquarters from 1932 until 1966. Through the years our staff have worked to maintain as much respect for its original use as possible - including utilizing the original safe on the main floor, working around old doors to nowhere, and utilizing antique built-ins.

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LCI 55 celebrates community first, bipartisan dedication to strategic and intentional government. LCI55 elevates CA 175 - which celebrates California's 175th year of statehood. For more visit CA 175