Monali works on developing land use policies for the Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance (USDO) and conducts research on potential grant funding sources. She also works on the Vision Zero Plan, a regional plan with the goal of reducing pedestrian deaths. Monali appreciates that Planning bridges the gap between macro-level development and the community. “I like working in an environment that is community-centric, listening to the people, to create a holistic policy framework that reflects the needs and priorities of residents” she says.
Prior to joining the City of Albany, Monali worked in private sector, non-profit, and community-based organizations in New York City, working on Planning projects in different sectors. Monali has a Bachelor’s in Architecture from the BRICK School of Architecture and a Master’s in City and Regional Planning from the Pratt Institute. Outside of work, Monali enjoys art, painting, interior decorating, cooking, fitness, and travelling.