Malibu's own Environmental Sustainability Director, Yolanda Bundy, has been recognized for her outstanding leadership and commitment to the environment with the Supervisor of the Year award from the California Water Environment Association's Los Angeles Basin Section (LABS). Bundy's efforts have made her a standout figure in the community and a beacon of innovation in environmental conservation.
In a move that underscores her dedication to the unique needs of Malibu, Bundy has spearheaded a swath of environmental projects, ensuring compliance with regulations and safeguarding the local wildlife and coastal waterways. Mayor Steve Uhring expressed his admiration for Bundy's work. "During my time on the City Council, Yolanda has been one person I have worked with who uniquely stands out," he said. "She understands Malibu’s unique environment and has been flexible and willing to take on our many environmental projects," Uhring added, emphasizing the critical updates she provides on the progress of her programs, according to the City of Malibu.
The recognition by CWEA highlights Bundy's role in not just supervising, but actively mentoring her team. She has nurtured talent within the Environmental Sustainability Department, promoting professional growth and fostering a culture deeply conscious of environmental stewardship. CWEA, an entity with over 10,000 California professionals, annually awards individuals who excel in furthering environmental causes, and this year Bundy's exceptional leadership has been put on full display.
Beyond her current role in Malibu, Bundy's extensive experience with post-disaster recovery was solidified following the 2017 Thomas Fire in Ventura. Developing a fast-track permit approval process, she aided the rebuild of more than 524 structures—a feat demonstrating her expertise and adaptability in crises. This expertise was an asset for her role in Malibu post the devastating 2018 Woolsey Fire when she joined the team to support the rebuilding of the 488 structures lost in the fires, as reported by the City of Malibu.
