Board Chair Lydia Ball

Appointed by Mayor, City of San Diego

Lydia Ball is a public policy strategist and consultant with more than 20 years of experience advancing infrastructure, clean energy, and regional economic development initiatives. Through her consulting practice, she advises nonprofits, foundations, and public sector leaders on strategy, policy development, and cross-sector partnerships—bringing a focus on providing clarity in chaos and helping clients navigate complex policy environments.

Previously, Lydia served as Chief of Staff to Council President Sean Elo-Rivera, where she helped guide policy and operational strategy across housing, transportation, climate action,and economic development priorities. She also directed environmental programs at The San Diego Foundation, where she oversaw grantmaking initiatives and played a key role in launching and deploying the region’s $54 million COVID-19 Community Response Fund.

Earlier in her career, Lydia served as Nevada State Director for the Energy Foundation and as Executive Director of the Clean Energy Project, where she built and led coalitions of business, community, and policy leaders to advance clean energy development and economic growth. She brings extensive experience working across government, private sector, and community stakeholders to navigate complex regional challenges and deliver collaborative, results-driven solutions.