Originally from the Chicago suburbs, Jack Bookwalter has restored an 1886 Victorian four-plex in NW Portland and is currently working on his 1926 house here on Klickitat Street. Jack spent 28 years as a land use planner in California, mostly in and around Sonoma County. Jack has a B.A. in Architecture from the University of Illinois, a Master’s of Urban Planning from San Jose State University, and an M.A. in History from Sonoma State University.
How long have you lived in the neighborhood, and what’s your favorite part of living in the neighborhood?
I’ve lived in the neighborhood for the last 11 years. I think my favorite part of the neighborhood is that it is just that, a neighborhood. I get a sense of community here that is missing in much of the rest of the metropolitan area.
What’s your favorite neighborhood store and why?
Ooh, that’s a tough one. There are so many. I’d probably have to say, though, the most indispensable one for me has been Beaumont Hardware. I am in the never-ending process of restoring my 1926 house. Having knowledgeable and helpful people just a block away has been a godsend. I don’t even have to make any lists. If I need something, I just go!
What are you excited about as far as participating on the board?
Because I was a land use planner in northern California, I feel I have been able to utilize my skills and background here as Land Use Chair of BWNA. I have been the neighborhood point person in the city’s proposed Mixed Use Zoning district revisions, intended to replace the current “commercial” designations citywide. The neighborhood is also following the city’s proposed comprehensive plan update. While not BWNA per se, many of our board members, including myself, have been instrumental in establishing United Neighborhoods for Reform, the umbrella organization representing 44 neighborhood associations concerned about the rising number of residential demolitions in the city.
Thank you so much for your service, Jack!