Laurie Tamura, EconAlliance Board President, has been officially named as the recipient of the prestigious Robert P. Hatch Citizen of the Year Award by the Santa Maria Valley Chamber at its annual awards gala.

This honor recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, dedication, and a long-standing commitment to improving the local community. As the President and Principal Planner of Urban Planning Concepts, Inc., Tamura has spent decades shaping the regional landscape and advocating for sustainable growth and economic development.

The surprise announcement took place during the Chamber’s 101st Annual Gala, “A Celebration of Excellence,” where a standing ovation from community leaders underscored the impact of her lifelong work. The award was presented by Eric Daniels, Public Policy manager for PG&E and EconAlliance Board Member.

The Gala Program states:
This award goes to an individual who works tirelessly to make the Santa Maria Valley a better place, someone whose leadership and selflessness serve as an inspiration to others.

They are the kind of person who shows up before they’re asked, who leader not for recognition but because it’s simply the right thing to do, and whose quiet, consistent commitment to this community has mad e a lasting difference, often behind the scenes, without ever seeking the spotlight.

As the President and Principal Planner of Urban Planning Concepts, Inc., Tamura has spent over three decades shaping the regional landscape, serving as a critical bridge between local businesses, government agencies, and residents.

Shaping the Santa Maria Valley Landscape

Under her strategic leadership at Urban Planning Concepts, which she has steered since 1989, Laurie has been instrumental in executing landmark projects that drive economic development and build neighborhoods. Her key professional milestones include guiding the construction and planning efforts for the Enos Ranch Development and bringing highly utilized retail hubs like Costco and Lowe’s to the area.

Agricultural Innovations

She has facilitated structural development for prominent regional fixtures like Windset Farms and Presqu’ile Winery & Vineyards.

Residential & Public Planning

Her company has crafted prominent residential communities like Rice Ranch and Westgate, alongside vital infrastructural support for the Santa Ynez Airport and various local schools.

A Legacy of Dedication to Local Youth

Laurie’s impact reaches far beyond zoning and blueprint approvals. Her profound humbleness and dedication to service are best highlighted by her 20+ years of voluntary leadership on the Executive Board for the Los Padres Council Scouting America. Notably, she spearheaded critical fundraising and coordination efforts to completely rebuild the Camp Rancho Alegre Outdoor School following the devastating 2017 Whittier Fire, ensuring future generations of children continue to have a safe space to grow and learn.

Her deep roots in community service and professional excellence, as well as her service to the EconAlliance organization, make her a fitting addition to the distinguished list of past honorees who have left a lasting impact on the Santa Maria Valley.

Congratulations to Laurie Tamura on this well-deserved recognition!