Sarah Wikle

Sarah Wikle currently works as a senior planner in Scotts Valley, CA. Their prior professional experience includes working in Watsonville, CA as an associate planner (after being promoted from assistant planner) and as a planning intern in Tracy, CA. Wikle also volunteers as a co facilitator for the California Planning Leadership Academy with the California Planning Roundtable.

In Scotts Valley, she is working on program implementation of the City’s Housing Element, managing multi-family housing projects utilizing state streamlining laws such as SB 35, and providing mentoring to one Associate Planner. Highlights from her time in Watsonville include managing the internship program for the Planning Division, drafting an SB 9 implementation ordinance, and developing a youth outreach and engagement plan for Watsonville’s 2050 General Plan Update.

Their favorite aspect of working as a planner is the ability to shape and advocate for equitable community visions and values. They also like advising the community on various planning related social issues such as climate change, environmental justice, and affordable housing. Sarah holds a BA in community studies from UC Santa Cruz and an AA in sociology, social and behavioral sciences from Santa Rosa Junior College.

Sarah is a previous participant in the APA Northern Mentoring program as a mentee in 2021 and keeps in touch with their mentor! She is most excited about improving the mentoring program with her co-director and ensuring that APA Northern members feel supported throughout their journey in the mentoring program.