Draft:Janelle Kellman

Janelle Kellman is an American environmental lawyer, entrepreneur, and politician currently serving as the Founder and CEO of the Center for Sea Rise solutions and running for Lieutenant Governor of California.[1] Known for her work in environmental advocacy, urban planning, and coastal resilience, Kellman has made contributions locally, nationally, and globally.[2]

Early Life and Education

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Janelle Kellman was born and raised in Pennsylvania. Her early experiences fostered a deep commitment to environmentalism and community engagement. She graduated from Yale University in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts in History.[3][4] Kellman then earned a degree in Environmental Management from Oxford University in 1996.[5] She completed her Juris Doctor at Stanford Law School in 2000, with a focus on environmental law and policy.[1]

Career

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Kellman began her career in environmental law in San Francisco, where she focused on land use and environmental issues. Her legal practice addressed climate change, sustainable development, and environmental protection.[5][6] Her work involved navigating complex regulatory environments, establishing a foundation for her future roles in policy and public service.

Environmental Protection Agency

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Kellman joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region IX after leaving private practice. There, she worked on water quality and species protection, contributing to the development of Region IX’s first green transportation and hybrid policy. She was involved in advising on solar rebate programs and species permitting for large renewable energy projects.[7][4]

In-House Counsel and Renewable Energy

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In her role as in-house counsel, Kellman was the lead environmental permitting attorney for major renewable energy projects. Her work included securing permits for a 500 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) pilot project and the first battery storage resource in California. These projects sought to advance renewable energy infrastructure and supporting California’s greenhouse gas reduction goals.[3][4]

Entrepreneurship and Advisory Roles

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Kellman is also an entrepreneur who founded an e-commerce platform and consults with startups across various sectors, including clean technology, blockchain, and cybersecurity. Notably, she was a founding member of the Marinship Emergency Medical Manufacturing Group, which produced and distributed over 13,000 plastic face shields during the COVID-19 pandemic. [3]

Public Service in Sausalito

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Kellman’s public service in Sausalito began with her role on the Sausalito Planning Commission from 2002 to 2008 and again from 2016 to 2020, where she served as Chair during her final terms. Her contributions included significant work on the General Plan Advisory Committee and the General Plan Working Group. Elected to the Sausalito City Council in November 2020, she served until 2023, including a term as Mayor in 2022. As Mayor, Kellman led initiatives focused on coastal resilience, sustainable urban planning, and secured over $1 million in state funding for coastal projects.[7][4]

Marin Clean Energy Board of Directors

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Since 2021, Kellman has been a member of the Marin Clean Energy (MCE) Board of Directors. MCE provides renewable energy options to residents and businesses in Marin County and surrounding areas. Kellman’s work with MCE includes advancing renewable energy initiatives and promoting sustainability.[3][8]

Center for Sea Rise Solutions

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In 2021, Kellman founded the Center for Sea Rise Solutions, a nonprofit focused on innovative strategies to combat sea-level rise and enhance coastal resilience. The Center engages in research, policy advocacy, and community engagement to address climate change impacts. Key initiatives involve scientific research collaborations and policy development.[9][10][4][8]

Regional, National, and Global Leadership

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Kellman is recognized as a leader in climate resilience and the “blue economy.” She serves on several local California committees, including BCDC Bay Adapt’s Local Electeds Regional Task Force, BayWAVE’s Steering Committee, and the Marine Exchange of San Francisco’s Sea Level Rise Awareness Team. Her international work includes advancing coastal and ocean health policies with partners in France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.[9][7][4][8]

Campaign for Lieutenant Governor

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In December 2023, Kellman announced her candidacy for Lieutenant Governor of California in the 2026 election. Her campaign platform focuses on climate action, sustainable economic practices, and social equity in environmental policy. So far, she's engaged with communities to discuss environmental issues and advocate for legislative changes.[1][10][11][12]

Personal Life

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Kellman is an avid ultramarathon runner and self-described "life-long athlete." She has completed several ultra races, including the Western States Endurance Run.[13][1][4]

  1. ^ a b c d "Dick Spotswood: Sausalito's Kellman entering 2026 state lieutenant governor race". Marin Independent Journal. 2023-12-12. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  2. ^ "Sea Change". www.wwno.org. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  3. ^ a b c d "Meet 5 Local Changemakers". Marin Living Magazine. 2021-09-24. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  4. ^ a b c d e f g Towle, Grace (2023-10-20). "Janelle Kellman on Politics, the Environment and Her Work as Mayor". Marin Magazine. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  5. ^ a b "Lieutenant governor candidate brings climate conversation to Encinitas". The Coast News. 14 December 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  6. ^ "Janelle Eve Kellman # 212355 - Attorney Licensee Search". apps.calbar.ca.gov. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  7. ^ a b c "Janelle Kellman". City of Sausalito. Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  8. ^ a b c "Rising Tides and Coastal Resilience with Janelle Kellman". MCJ. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  9. ^ a b "Home | Center for Sea Rise Solutions". CSRS. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  10. ^ a b Bajko, Matthew (13 December 2023). "Political notebook: Out Sausalito councilmember Janelle Kellman runs for CA lt. gov". Bay Area Reporter. Retrieved 28 July 2024.
  11. ^ "Janelle Kellman for LTG". Janelle Kellman. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  12. ^ "janellekellmanforltg". Instagram. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  13. ^ "Janelle Kellman's Results". ultrasignup.com. Retrieved 2024-07-29.