Lara Gates is a highly effective planner with the ability to work across groups to develop and execute consensus-based plans based on 24 years of public policy experience. She is fluent in German, interested in volunteerism and recognized for superior community service, community relations, negotiation, communication, and consensus-building skills.

Leadership
- Past President of the Mission Hills Town Council
- Grant K-8 PTA President
- Past Grant School Foundation Trustee
- Guest Lecturer at UCSD, SDSU and New School For Architecture
Awards
- 2016 American Planning Association Paul Davidoff Award for Advancing Diversity and Social Change Environmental Health Coalition’s
- 2014 Healthy Communities Champion Award
- State of California Senate 39th District 2014 Champion Award Commendation for the Barrio Logan Community Plan Update
- California State Assembly Certificate of Recognition for service as President of the Mission Hills Town Council (January 9, 2014)
- 2013 San Diego Architectural Foundation Orchid for the Lewis Street Pocket Park
- City of San Diego’s Fiscal Year 2004 Outstanding Customer Service Employee Award