The California Coastal Commission voted unanimously Thursday to appoint Charles Lester as the commission’s Executive Director, a press release from the commission stated. Lester has been serving as the Acting Executive Director since former Director Peter Douglas announced his retirement in August.
Lester will become the fourth executive director for the Commission since its creation in 1972. Prior to his appointment, Charles served as Senior Deputy Director of the Commission, holding that position since 2006. His employment at the Commission began in 1997. Previously, Dr. Lester was an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
Peter Douglas, the man Lester replaces, headed the staff of the California Coastal Commission for 26 years and earned a national reputation as one the nation’s most influential environmental regulators. He retired earlier this month due to health reasons.
“The entire Commission recognized and appreciates the unique experience, unwavering integrity, and clear vision Dr. Lester brings to this position. While Peter Douglas leaves very large shoes to fill, Charles fits into them quite comfortably,” Commission Chair Mary Shallenberger said.
Dr. Lester takes the helm of an agency with 142 authorized staff positions and an annual budget of approximately $16 million.
“I am deeply committed to implementing the Coastal Act, but I am also a problem-solver, and I look forward to bringing people together around environmentally sustainable solutions that protect coastal resources and provide maximum public access to the coast for all Californians,” Lester said.