Press Release
Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA), is pleased to share the selection of Beth Burks as the next Executive Director. This significant leadership addition comes just after RCEA celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of providing sustainable energy initiatives, customer-centered programs, and the advancement of renewable resources for Humboldt County.
Beth is proactive, values communication and transparency, and is committed to amplifying community voices across Humboldt County drawing on her existing relationships and community connections.
Sarah Schaefer, Chair of the RCEA Board of Directors
With more than 18 years of local planning experience in both the public and private sectors on housing, energy, and transportation-related projects, Burks brings a wealth of expertise to this role. During four years as the Executive Director of the Humboldt County Association of Governments (HCAOG), Burks oversaw the update of the Regional Transportation Plan including the adoption of the Safe and Sustainable Transportation Targets and completed two cycles of the Regional Transportation Improvement Plan that brought nearly $20 million in transportation improvements to our region. She also secured grants supporting infill affordable housing, micro-transit, and other initiatives that supported mode shift to active transportation, transit, and transitioning to zero-emission vehicles.
Sarah Schaefer, chair of the RCEA Board of Directors, said Burks brings strong organizational leadership and a clear vision to Redwood Coast Energy Authority.
“With deep local knowledge and a broad strategic perspective, her experience in energy issues, policy, and both public and private sectors make her an ideal fit to lead the organization,” Schaefer said. “Beth is proactive, values communication and transparency, and is committed to amplifying community voices across Humboldt County drawing on her existing relationships and community connections.”
Burks will start her new role in early 2025.
“I am honored to be stepping in to lead the phenomenal team at Redwood Coast Energy Authority. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, I look forward to working with the RCEA Board, staff, and our community to further RCEA’s mission,” Burks said.
Burks replaces Interim Executive Director, Eileen Verbeck, who is excited to return to her original role of Deputy Executive Director.
For more information, community members are encouraged to email info@redwoodenergy.org or call (707) 269-1700.
About RCEA
Established in 2003, the Redwood Coast Energy Authority is a local government joint powers agency whose members include the Blue Lake Rancheria, Yurok Tribe, the County of Humboldt, the seven cities within the county, and the Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District. RCEA’s purpose is to develop and implement sustainable energy initiatives that reduce energy demand, increase energy efficiency, and advance the use of clean, efficient, and renewable resources available in the region. For more info, visit redwoodenergy.org.