The Future of Local Sustainability Codes: Insights from Local Experts

The Community Office for Resource Efficiency has announced the appointment of Tara Stitzlein as the new chief executive officer. Stitzlein takes the helm from John Dougherty, who was appointed by the board as the organization’s contracted CEO in 2023. She is “marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history and the broader climate movement,” a press release states. “I am honored to continue serving CORE as CEO, building on the legacy that John and the previous climate leaders at CORE have shaped.” she said in the release. “The urgency of the climate crisis demands that we expand our impact while ensuring that our work remains community-rooted. I am thrilled to steward CORE’s mission and make climate action accessible for all residents throughout Pitkin, Eagle, and Garfield counties.” Dougherty will remain with CORE for a transitional period to support Stitzlein in her new role. Her official start date in this new role in Sept. 15. She holds a Master of Science in Biology, with a concentration in Molecular Environmental Biology from The Arctic University of Norway, where she researched the marine plastic microbiome for her thesis. She is currently pursuing a Master of Legal Studies in Environmental Law at the University of Denver. She has also served in various leadership roles at CORE since June 2022, most recently as the director of Climate Action Programs. She has overseen operations, strategy, personnel management, and significant projects like the Coal Basin Methane Capture initiative.  “We are thrilled to welcome Tara as our new CEO,” said Tessa Schreiner, CORE’s board chair, in the release. “Her extensive experience as a leader in climate action, coupled with her impressive educational background as a scientist, makes her the perfect fit for CORE at this pivotal time. Tara’s unique blend of scientific expertise and passionate commitment to environmental sustainability aligns seamlessly with our mission. We are confident CORE can scale climate solutions to meet the increasing urgency of the climate crisis, and we believe that under her leadership, CORE will expand its impact and further engage the community.” And Stitzlein is no stranger to the Roaring Fork Valley. Her husband, Cole Green-Smith, is a native of the area who graduated from Aspen High School and currently works as a hydrologist for the U.S. Forest Service, bringing over a decade of experience in public service. They reside in Missouri Heights with their 16-month-old daughter, June. “This personal connection to the community further enhances Tara’s commitment to leading CORE and making a positive impact in our region,” the press release states. Stitzlein will be at CORE’s Green Expo on Sept. 12 at the Limelight Hotel in Aspen. The community is encouraged to attend this event from 1-5 p.m., followed by a social hour from 5-6 p.m. where attendees can meet her and learn more about her vision for the future. The event is free and open to the public — registration can be completed at aspencore.org/green-expo . CORE has pledged to address climate change “swiftly, impactfully, and courageously while enhancing its capacity to combat the climate crisis.” CORE aims to align community priorities with climate action and bridge the gap between ambitious climate goals and measurable action. For more information about CORE and Stitzlein’s vision, visit the aspencore.org or contact the organization directly.

Just beyond the Downtown Core lies Smuggler Park, a fabled Aspen subdivision the HOA says is made up of “real homes for real locals.” Two of those locals, Sam and Desi Barney, are using a CORE grant to drive real change when it comes to how their home uses energy.

In Pitkin County, buildings account for over 55% of greenhouse gas emissions. As a property owner, your building design choices significantly impact both your bottom line and our shared environment.

April 17, 2025

Tax Day is April 15, and whether you have already filed or are still pulling receipts together, it’s nice to know what tax breaks could help you save - both dollars and the planet.

Living in the Roaring Fork Valley means adapting to an ever-changing mountain climate. Outdoor enthusiasts will tell you that the right combination of base, middle, and outer layers is the secret to staying cozy, safe, and energized in varying conditions.

January 23, 2025

Randy Udall was a visionary leader in the fight against climate change. He was CORE’s first executive director, and his efforts laid the foundation for transformative energy solutions across the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond.

Success Stories from Building IQ Participants Embracing Benchmarking