Meet Bird Rock Community Council President Jacqueline Bell

When Jacqueline Bell moved here from Princeton, New Jersey in 2006 she chose to live in Bird Rock because she liked the “neighborly” feel. Now she is part of what makes that all happen. Bell was named president of the Bird Rock Community Council in January 2013 and has since been working diligently to act as a voice of the residents of Bird Rock. She isn’t new to the BRCC, however. Bell has been a member of the organization since 2008 and has served as treasurer and vice president prior to her most recent appointment.

Born and raised in Jamaica, Bell graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University and is a Certified Financial Planner, as well as a Chartered Financial Analyst. She is applying her knowledge and experience from those roles to best manage the BRCC and help keep the traditions, events and other unique aspects of Bird Rock alive.

La Jolla Patch: What made you become interested in being president of BRCC?

Jacqueline Bell: I started attending BRCC community meetings when I moved here from the East Coast in 2006 so I could learn about the community.  My reason for serving on the board initially, and now as president, is that I believe Bird Rock is a very special place to live and I want to help keep it that way.

La Jolla Patch: What are the top three things you want to accomplish in your role?

Bell: As BRCC President I want to improve the health our business district which was hurt by the recession by helping merchants promote their businesses and encouraging residents to shop locally, continue our efforts to beautify the boulevard and adjacent streets by completing the replacement of plants and trees that have not been able to withstand the human, animal, and vehicular traffic to which they are subject, and enhance communications within the neighborhood by expanding our digital footprint via the website and our Facebook page.

La Jolla Patch: What should the public know about the BRCC?

Bell: The mission of the BRCC is to engage in all activities that enhance the growth and development of the Bird Rock neighborhood. This includes:

• Administering the Bird Rock Maintenance Assessment District on behalf of the City of San Diego
• Enhancing the quality of public amenities in the neighborhood such as our newly-installed median lighting
• Supporting educational, cultural, artistic, charitable, and community service activities
• Improving the quality of life and economic well-being of Bird Rock residents, property owners, employees and businesses
• Promoting a safe and inviting village atmosphere
• Maintaining a healthy business environment along La Jolla Boulevard
• Honoring Bird Rock's history and preserving its unique identity within the community of La Jolla 

La Jolla Patch: Are there any misconceptions about the BRCC?

Bell:  I want to remind Bird Rock residents that the BRCC board is comprised of volunteers who do what we do for the love of the neighborhood. We have no staff so we need the help of non-board member volunteers to accomplish everything that we do.  If there's something we're not doing well or could do better, be a part of the solution and volunteer to help us improve. 

La Jolla Patch: What are some of the events or programs funded by the BRCC?

Bell:  The BRCC holds monthly community meetings on the first Tuesday of every month to keep the neighborhood informed about issues important to our quality of life such as Neighborhood Watch, MAD landscaping and infrastructure, city construction projects, and events of interest. We also publish a monthly newsletter to disseminate neighborhood news.  Every January we sponsor a Tour of Homes which is our major annual fundraiser for Bird Rock Elementary School. 

Among other events we host each year a summer picnic, Halloween store window painting, and a December holiday party to bring neighbors together.  We also plan to launch a regular series of neighborhood happy hours as a way of building community spirit as well as to support local businesses.

La Jolla Patch: What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

Bell: I am looking forward to getting to know as many Bird Rock residents and merchants as I can, helping them solve their problems, and bringing the improvements that they want to the neighborhood.

La Jolla Patch: What is your favorite things about Bird Rock?

Bell: My favorite thing about Bird Rock is the warmth and friendliness of the residents and the ability to walk to great restaurants and shops, instead of having to get into the car every time you want to do something.

La Jolla Patch: What are some other hobbies of yours?

Bell: I enjoy reading and am a member of a book club.  I love to travel and I also love to dance, especially salsa and tango.

To learn more about the BRCC, visit their website at www.birdrock.org, or attend their next meeting on March 5.