North Austin News

The Office of Sustainability has announced the addition of Braden Latham-Jones as its new Climate Program Manager. In this role, Latham-Jones will lead the City's Climate team and foster partnerships to support the Austin Climate Equity Plan.

Latham-Jones shared insights about his background and motivations for joining the Office of Sustainability. "I was born outside of Dallas and grew up mostly in small towns throughout the Midwest," he said. Reflecting on his childhood experiences, he added, "Walking through those woods for hours with my grandfather remains among my best memories. It also taught me how to love and understand ecosystems and all the life within, eventually leading me to this work."

Discussing his interest in the position, Latham-Jones expressed admiration for the Office of Sustainability's efforts. "I've had a long-standing respect for the Office of Sustainability team and their commitment to building a livable future," he noted. He highlighted Austin's pioneering Climate Equity Plan, stating, "Austin's Climate Equity Plan was also the first climate plan in the nation to provide strategies that address the unequal impacts of climate change on communities of color."

Latham-Jones is eager to achieve significant milestones during his tenure. "Our community expects us to meet the goals they helped establish through the Climate Equity Plan to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040," he remarked. Emphasizing collaboration, he stated, "I'm most excited to work with our community and City leaders to help us get there."

Outside of work, Latham-Jones enjoys exploring Austin's natural spaces. "If I have a free weekend, I usually wander around the beautiful greenbelts, waterways, and parks across Austin," he shared. His favorite spot is the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

In his personal life, Latham-Jones practices sustainability through gardening. "It reduces our carbon footprint and allows me to enjoy the sun and play in the dirt," he explained. He also participates in composting efforts facilitated by the City's program.

When it comes to food preferences, Latham-Jones favors traditional Chinese cuisine with a particular fondness for Sichuan dishes due to their distinctive flavor.