STEPHEN (Steve) Burke

Worked for an architect, builder before moving on the Sacrament Housing Authority and then the Sacramento Regional Planning Commission. Moved to Santa Rosa in 1976 where I was director of housing and, in 1984, became the city's director of housing and redevelopment until retirement in 2004. Still involved in city and non-profit boards and commissions with a focus on housing and community development.

Too many to recall and some I'd like to forget.

I have been very fortunate to combine my interest in architecture with addressing social needs to be involved in the development of a number of affordable housing complexes in Sacramento and Santa Rosa. In addition, shepherding redevelopment gave me another experience in commercial and retail development that led to helping to bring a first-class hotel and conference center to downtown Santa Rosa. This effort was a real treat and brought in revenue to help produce much needed housing.
I am still very fortunate to be involved in housing and community development pursuits serving as a volunteer on both public and non-profit boards.
None of these experiences compare with the joy of family, with a wonderful spouse, children and now grandchildren.

Traveled with long time friends that I met while in elementary school (Hollywood Park) and high school in Sacramento. We have traveled worldwide with Jim and Barbara Derich and more locally with Bob and Lynn Wiedman. These life long friendships have endured and are especially meaningful and rewarding.

The Devil and the White City and more recently, One Summer, Boys in the Boat, The Undoing Project and Sapiens.