We serve municipal leaders of communities large and small by bringing together the intersection of tourism, economic development, amateur sports, and recreation in a way that no one else does. We bring private-sector innovation to government leaders to help protect and secure the future of sport, recreation, and tourism in America.
Editor in Chief
Ashley Whittaker
Feature Editor Johnny Crosskey
Digital Editor
Johnny Crosskey
Assistant Editors
Ali Yenchick
Cameron Connelly
Contributing Writers
Ashley Whittaker
Yvette Hammett Hull
Suzanne Wentley
Cameron Connelly
Creative Team
Tristan Makaroff
Makenna Parks
Research Coordinator Cameron Connelly
Website Manager
Stephen Shafii
Event Manager
Alize Farhat
Playmakers,
This edition delves into the dynamic landscape of economic development. We bring you stories that span from innovative mixed-use projects anchored by youth sports facilities to the rise of neighborhood breweries and the critical need for affordable housing. We also tackle the pros and cons of short-term rentals in your city and highlight the importance of aquatics in fostering vibrant local communities.
Navigating zoning, districting, and P3 partnerships can be daunting, but these tools are essential for driving economic progress. At the heart of these endeavors are local champions like you. Your dedication to rallying political support, educating councils and the public, backing local businesses, and forging strategic partnerships is what fuels economic growth.
We salute you, Playmakers, for your unwavering commitment to public service, your entrepreneurial spirit, and your relentless pursuit of economic development.
Peace, love, and public service,
Ashley Editor
in Chief, Community Playmaker Magazine
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Issue 05: Summer 2024
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MANAGING CITIES, LEADING CHANGE
AN INTERVIEW WITH JENNY HARUYAMA
By Ashley Whittaker
Whether she’s discussing her commitment to her community, evangelizing the work of Brené Brown, sharing stories of parenting her five (yes, five) children, or tackling the next big economic development project, it’s clear Jenny Haruyama, the city manager of Beaverton, Oregon, leads with a heart for public service.
“Lean into the hard,” she says. “When you’re in this business, sometimes you don’t know how to articulate in a certain way. But what it’s really all about is being transformational in service of others.”
Haruyama’s journey in public administration is marked by a deep commitment to community and a drive for transformation marked by her tenure in cities like Tracy, Scotts Valley, Milpitas, and Livermore, California. Her tenure in Beaverton has seen significant achievements, driven by her focus on authenticity, collaboration, and strategic planning.
Image Sources: City of Beaverton
The path to her career in public service was influenced by her family’s deep roots in community-oriented roles. “My dad was a fire chief and my mom a schoolteacher,” she recalls. Growing up in an environment surrounded by public servants naturally led her to a similar path. “My sister is a professor of urban and regional planning, my husband is in the Coast Guard, and many of my relatives have held public service roles.”
A pivotal moment in Haruyama’s early life occurred when she witnessed her father respond to a medical emergency while waiting in line at a drugstore. “I was probably about 11 years old and at that moment, it was just phenomenal to watch him jump into action,” she reflects, “it makes you step back and consider what it’s like to be something bigger than yourself.”
Her early work in Milpitas’ community development and recreation departments further solidified her commitment to
A
significant initiative is the Cooper Mountain development, which plans for 5,000 housing units, including affordable housing options.
public service. Haruyama’s emphasis on relationship-building and community connections has been a consistent theme throughout her career.
Transforming Governance
One of Haruyama’s most notable challenges was guiding Beaverton through a transition from a strong mayor to a council-manager form of government. This change restructured the organization to
enhance collaborative decision-making. “The council at the time felt they didn’t have a voice in many things because the power in a strong mayor tends to be very centralized,” Haruyama explains.
The transition was not without its difficulties. The structural shift required substantial adjustments in administrative processes and relationship dynamics. Haruyama and Mayor Lacey Beaty had to navigate new roles and establish a working relationship that balanced their strengths. “It took about a year to figure out our stride. There was a lot of frustration and confusion in the beginning,” Haruyama admits. However, this effort paid off as it facilitated more inclusive governance and improved operational efficiency. “As we were entering into the second year, we were really starting to gel and figure out how we complement one another.” Mayor Beaty served on the city council for six years before taking office, notably, as Beaverton’s first woman mayor.
Image Sources: City of Beaverton
“I always tell people change is like a metamorphosis. When the butterfly is in the cocoon, it completely deconstructs and comes back into something new.”
Addressing Housing and Homelessness
Under Haruyama’s leadership, Beaverton has made strides in addressing housing affordability and homelessness. A significant initiative is the Cooper Mountain development, which plans for 5,000 housing units, including affordable housing options. This project involves comprehensive infrastructure planning, such as the construction of a 5.5-million-gallon water storage reservoir and new pump stations. “We’ve been able to secure funding for critical infrastructure, which is essential for supporting such a large-scale development,” she notes.
While some projects like Cooper Moun-
tain take years or months to plan, others take just hours During a severe weather event, her team established an overflow shelter in less than a day. This rapid response involved coordination across multiple levels of government and demonstrated the effectiveness of collaborative efforts. “We had to stand up another shelter in less than 7 hours, and that means we did all the legal paperwork, found a shelter provider, and set up everything in record time,” Haruyama proudly recalls.
Economic Revitalization
“We infused probably at least $5 million into downtown with just grant funding alone,” Haruyama highlights. This investment included streetscape improvements
and support for local businesses, significantly reducing vacancy rates and boosting economic activity. Their restaurant row strategy, part of a broader economic development plan, has attracted businesses and visitors alike. This initiative has been instrumental in revitalizing Beaverton’s downtown area and transforming it into a bustling destination.
Moreover, Haruyama’s efforts have extended to supporting local startups and small businesses. The Oregon Startup Center in Beaverton provides resources and incubation support for new companies, fostering innovation and economic growth. “Having a place to incubate businesses makes Beaverton very attractive for entrepreneurs,” she emphasizes.
Image Source: AdobeStock
Building Community and Inclusivity
A core aspect of Haruyama’s leadership is her commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. Beaverton is known for its welcoming environment, and Haruyama has worked to reinforce this reputation. The city hired its first equity officer and established an equity office to ensure that all residents feel a sense of belonging. “You can’t do some of the DEI work until you do the B, which is the belonging and building the trust,” she explains.
Haruyama’s approach to leadership is deeply rooted in authenticity and vulnerability. Inspired by Brené Brown’s work, she values genuine connections and open communication. “My engagement with people isn’t about me being this person
sitting in a five-story city building. It’s about breaking down barriers and finding common ground,” she shares. It’s this philosophy that has helped her build trust and foster meaningful relationships within the community and with city staff.
Overcoming Fiscal Challenges
Beaverton, like many cities, faces limited funding sources and budgetary challenges. Haruyama successfully closed a $10 million budget gap in her first year and an additional $8 million the following year. Her strategic financial management has been crucial in maintaining essential services while advancing key initiatives.
In addition to her own strategic budget management, Beaverton’s budget is sup -
ported through Mayor Beaty’s strategic legislative relationships. “She is a powerhouse when it comes to state, federal, and special district relationships. She is amazing. She has probably generated $20 million for the city,” said Haruyama. “One of the new shelters we have under construction – she got that all paid for with not a dime of taxpayer dollars. It’s all grant-funded from the state.”
“I always tell people change is like a metamorphosis. When the butterfly is in the cocoon, it completely deconstructs and comes back into something new.” That’s exactly what Beaverton is doing. There’s pain before beauty,” said Haruyama. “I’m so proud of what the team has accomplished, but we never forget: success is always under construction.”
Image Source: City of Beaverton
LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVES
ADVICE FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY
Pat Shenigo
County Commissioner
Erie County, Ohio
(pop. 74,035)
Any advice you can give communities who may want to pursue sports tourism as a way to drive revenue and people to their community?
If you don’t have the infrastructure, if you don’t have the hotels to support it, you’re going to have a tough time. When hundreds of teams come to a tournament, they need a place to stay. If they have to drive an hour away to get to a hotel, it’s going to be hard to attract the volume of people needed to sustain a facility.
For people who are new to local government, what advice would you offer them?
I would advise them to be patient and to find their dream team of people— people who can provide valuable insight into the industry. It’s crucial to know your North Star, your passion, and to get grounded in it. Let that passion guide your work. Understand that this is a marathon, not a sprint. The work you’re doing is generational; it’s legacy work, not something that will be completed tomorrow or next week. You’re building a legacy for the community, so you need to be in it for the long haul. When you commit to local government, you’re committing to building a lasting legacy. No matter where you go, you carry that legacy with you, but you’ve created a significant component of it in the community where you serve.
Jenny Haruyama
City Manager
Beaverton, Oregon
(pop. 97,064)
What aspect of city leadership has surprised you thus far?
I’d say budgeting challenges. Services like fire and police are becoming more and more costly and you have to ensure that pay is competitive with other municipalities. Construction costs have gone through the roof and it’s not just new buildings or projects. The cost of repairing infrastructure has risen as well.
At the same time, you know that taxpayers wallets have gotten tighter due to inflationary pressures. So balancing all that has been tough. Doing the right thing, doing what needs to be done, while doing it in a way that’s fair to the taxpayers.
Bruce Rector
Lester Miller
What advice can you give communities that want to pursue a large sports tourism development project?
Do a SWOT analysis of your community. Then look at your identity. For us, music and sports were a part of our identity (in reference to the theme of Macon’s new pickleball facility, Rhythm & Rally Sports & Events).
Think regionally. Look at what your neighbors are doing. If they are building a natatorium, don’t build one too. We want all the communities around us to thrive and work together. That’s what tourism is all about.
Mayor Clearwater, Florida
(pop. 117,010)
Mayor Macon-Bibb County, Georgia (pop. 156,512)
GEN Z CITY LEADERS
PAVING THE WAY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
By Cameron Connelly
Jaylen Smith made national headlines as one of the youngest mayors in history, elected at just 18 years old to lead the city of Earle, Arkansas. Motivated by a vision to rejuvenate his hometown and address the needs of its residents, Smith ran for office with a promise to bring dynamic and youthful leadership to the community.
Since taking office, Mayor Smith has been a transformative figure in Earle, spearheading initiatives that have had a lasting impact on the city. One of his primary focuses has been on improving local infrastructure. Under his leadership, the city has secured significant funding for road repairs and upgrades, enhancing transportation safety and accessibility.
In an era defined by rapid change and unprecedented challenges, a new wave of leadership is emerging from Generation Z (people born between 1997 – 2012), bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to local governance. This article highlights five trailblazing Gen Z municipal leaders who are making a significant impact in their communities. These young visionaries are not only breaking barriers with their age but also setting new standards for what effective and inclusive leadership looks like in the 21st century. Join us as we explore how these inspiring individuals transform their cities and pave the way for future generations.
Mayor Smith has also emphasized the importance of education and youth engagement, working closely with local schools to create programs that encourage student participation in civic activities and career development. His efforts have revived community spirit and fostered a sense of pride among residents.
Additionally, Smith has been a strong advocate for economic development, attracting new businesses to Earle and creating job opportunities for its citizens. His innovative policies and dedication to his community have quickly garnered respect and admiration, proving that age is no barrier to effective leadership. Jaylen Smith’s journey as mayor highlights the power of youthful energy and vision in municipal governance.
Jaylen Smith
Mayor of Earle, Arkansas
Rory Bialostosky
Mayor of West Linn, Oregon
Rory Bialostosky made history as the youngest mayor of West Linn, Oregon, elected at the age of 23. Driven by a deep commitment to community engagement and a desire to bring a fresh perspective to local governance, Bialostosky ran for office to better represent the voices of young residents and ensure that all community members had a say in the city’s future.
During his tenure, Mayor Bialostosky has been instrumental in several key initiatives that have significantly improved the quality of life in West Linn. He has championed sustainability efforts, including the implementation of comprehensive
recycling programs and the promotion of green energy projects. Additionally, Bialostosky has focused on enhancing public safety, with investments in modernizing the city’s emergency response systems and increasing community policing efforts.
Under his leadership, West Linn has also seen a revitalization of its downtown area, fostering economic growth and creating vibrant public spaces that encourage social interaction and local business development. Mayor Bialostosky’s innovative approach and dedication to community well-being have earned him widespread respect and admiration.
Chi Ossé is the youngest member of the New York City Council’s 36th district, elected at 23 years old and the only member representing the vibrant Gen Z demographic. Driven by a passion for social justice and a desire to bring fresh perspectives to city governance, Ossé ran for office to advocate for marginalized communities and promote progressive policies.
Since joining the council, Council Member Ossé has been a formidable force in addressing key issues affecting New Yorkers. He successfully passed legislation providing anti-overdose medication to bars and nightlife establishments across the city, significantly enhancing public health and safety. Additionally, Ossé introduced a legislative package to tackle
Gotham’s Public Enemy Number One: rats, demonstrating his commitment to improving the quality of life in New York City.
Ossé has also been a vocal advocate for affordable housing, tirelessly working to combat homelessness and support tenants’ rights. His efforts have led to new housing developments and stronger protections for renters facing displacement.
In addition, he has focused on climate action, introducing legislation to reduce the city’s carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices. Through his dedication and innovative approach, Chi Ossé has quickly become a respected leader, proving that the voices of young people can drive meaningful change.
Chi Ossé
City Council Member in New York City, New York
Juliana Bennett is a young leader making waves in Madison, Wisconsin. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she earned degrees in Real Estate and Political Science, Bennett has dedicated her career to community advocacy and public service. Her journey into politics was fueled by her passion for social justice and her active role in the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement. As a co-founder of the Madison Black, Indigenous, People of Color Coalition, Bennett has been instrumental in advancing the needs of students of color through actionable initiatives.
Elected as an Alder on Madison’s Common Council in 2021, Bennett has leveraged her position to champion a range of critical issues. She has been an ardent advocate for affordable housing, pushing forward policies that provide more housing options for low-income residents.
Additionally, she has spearheaded violence prevention initiatives and worked diligently to ensure fair representation through equitable redistricting.
Bennett’s commitment to equal access to transportation has led to significant improvements in the city’s transit systems, making them more inclusive and accessible for all residents. Her efforts have also focused on uplifting the voices of the underserved, ensuring that their needs are at the forefront of council decisions.
Re-elected to serve as the District 2 Alder, Bennett continues to prioritize downtown and the greater Madison area’s community needs. Her ongoing focus includes expanding affordable housing, promoting equitable transportation solutions, and advancing violence prevention efforts.
Juliana Bennett
Alder in the Common Council of Madison, Wisconsin
Nick Roberts
City Council Member in Indianapolis, Indiana
Nick Roberts, sworn in as an Indianapolis City-County Councilor on January 1st of this year, made history as the youngest city councilperson among the largest 50 cities in the United States at just 23 years old. Driven by a commitment to public service and fresh perspectives, Roberts ran for office with the goals of making Indianapolis safer, more accessible, and healthier.
Since his election, Councilmember Roberts has prioritized public safety, working diligently to implement initiatives that enhance neighborhood security and foster strong community-police relations. His efforts aim to create a safer environment for all residents, ensuring that public safety measures are both effective and equitable.
Roberts has also been a vocal advocate for infrastructure improvements, particularly in regard to road conditions. He has successfully secured funding for significant road repair and maintenance projects, improving transportation networks and ensuring safer, more efficient travel for commuters and residents alike.
In addition, Roberts has placed a strong emphasis on mental health investment, recognizing its critical role in overall community well-being. He has championed programs that expand access to mental health services, providing much-needed support to those in need and working to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Councilor Nick Roberts’ dedication and innovative approach to governance have already made a positive impact on Indianapolis.
SINK OR SWIM: AQUATIC CENTERS PROVE VALUABLE COMMUNITY ASSETS DESPITE SUBSIDY
By Matt Swenson
When Harris Rosen, hotelier and philanthropist, mulled purchasing the YMCA of Central Florida, he was advised against it. He was told that making a profit was akin to swimming upstream. To be fair, history has not necessarily been kind to the facility. It first shuttered in 1992 before Rosen pulled some impressive strings to keep the site afloat until the COVID-19 pandemic sent finances underwater in 2020.
Despite the odds, the Orlando business icon played lifesaver again, pouring finances and resources into what is now the Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center. Located on Orlando’s famed International Drive, the facility debuted under its new name and improved offerings in 2021 and is a genuine lifeline for Orange County residents and guests.
“It’s amazing what Mr. Rosen does,” said Mike Miller, executive director of the Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center. “It’s almost like he is not even human the way he gives back to the community.”
The aquatic center was a veritable perfect storm of Rosen’s core beliefs. Since devel-
oping his local hotel empire–he operates eight properties in the Orlando area–he has developed multiple programs for underserved members of the community, particularly youth. It’s also no secret how Rosen, who turns 85 years young in September, stays in remarkable shape: He swims about 1.5 miles per day at the center, making him the ideal case study for the importance of maintaining aquatics facilities regardless of region.
Life-Saving Skill
Despite the financial burdens associated with providing safe swimming centers, the benefits outweigh the costs, said Marina Wells, general manager of Pelican Bay Aquatic Center in Edmond, Oklahoma. She compared aquatics facilities to public services such as emergency response offered by police and firefighters–which draw from the same money pot as publicly funded pools.
“Swimming is a life-saving skill,” said Wells
“One drowning is too many,” said Miller. “Until we get to zero, our job is not complete.”
Money Drains
Despite the numbers, communities struggle to keep up with the demand even as families cope with tragic accidents during seemingly innocent recreational activities like a backyard swim or a trip to the river or lake. Aquatic centers have higher built-in costs, such as chemically treating water, filters, and other equipment, that activities like soccer don’t have. It is not uncommon for a local government to subsidize aquatic facilities up to $1 million annually.
“The reason we don’t have more is they’re expensive to build and they’re expensive to pay off,” said Kevin Post, CEO of Councilman-Hunsaker, a leading aquatic planning and design firm.
Few communities are as fortunate as Orlando to have a private citizen with the means to rescue struggling swim centers. But Post said it’s incumbent on local governments to find a way to ensure people of all ages learn the basics about swimming. “It’s something we are supposed to provide,” he said.
Wells agreed: “It adds to the quality of life within a community.”
Ken Cobb, senior vice president at The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), a firm that operates aquatic venues through the U.S. including Artesia Aquatic Center (AAC) in New Mexico, said the goal in his first full year was to strike a balance between reducing the city’s financial subsidy while maintaining and expanding safety and popular programs.
Popularity isn’t an issue at the facility–it was at or near capacity most of last season. Jayde Burnell, recreation supervisor for the City of Artesia, said the swim center is a tremendous resource to the township.
“The AAC offers a family-friendly entertainment environment in a small town where people can say there isn’t much to do. They host movie nights, kids carnivals, and food truck Fridays,” Burnell said. “The AAC adds tremendous recreational value, wonderful health and wellness benefits, and greatly improves the quality of life in Artesia.”
The only trouble is previous management struggled to create revenue out of the usage. Which is why they outsourced to The Sports Facilities Companies, to reverse the pool’s fortunes so it can remain economically viable.
Leadership at AAC said the most noticeable change this summer is that outside food will not be allowed while the concession
stand offerings are enhanced. The AAC is also encourag ing more cabana rentals, looking to attract more parties, and reaching out to local businesses to become sponsors.
AAC successfully bid on two state competitions that drew off-season crowds–potential custom ers for the concession stand. After the success of both meets, the AAC plans to bring in additional competitions. They are also eyeing ways to use the grounds for addi tional events like concerts to draw in revenue when the pool isn’t open.
Image Sources: Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center
Community Centers
The desire among those in the swim community is that toddlers and young children who wade into a zero-entry pool are taking the first step toward a lifetime passion. Adults may cede splash pads to younger generations but can have their fill of water through swimming daily laps like Rosen or taking aqua-aerobics classes that relieve joint pain and are an enjoyable social outlet for seniors and/or individuals with special needs.
Grasping the fundamentals at an early age is the foundation for aquatics facilities, which strive to provide affordable swim lessons so that price doesn’t become a deterrent. Rosen’s Learn to Swim program allows 90 children to take lessons for free and the separate Step Into Swim grant program provides newcomers one month’s worth of classes. Both programs are designed to eliminate the fear factor some have around the water and encourage ongoing participation that can open future opportunities, said Miller.
Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center has 1,300 membership units (which can include entire families). The facility also hosts swimming, diving, and water polo teams from six Orange County high schools. Many members of those teams go on to earn college scholarships, adding to the physical benefits swimming provides.
“We’re assisting student-athletes on getting to the next level–whether that be with academics or athletics–whatever that next level is,” said Miller.
The universal appeal of the facility is apparent in the Central Florida hot spot. Not only does the center prove a beacon for the sizable senior population, but it also works closely with Special Olympics
Image Sources: Artesia Aquatic Center
athletes–not just for swimming, but other sports. Notably, the 2022 Special Olympics was hosted there.
Outdoor aquatics centers like Pelican Bay and AAC are seasonal and weather-dependent. Beyond out-of-school students lounging in their free time, such facilities are meaningful to communities for myriad reasons. Safety outreach extends beyond swim lessons to lifeguard training. Teenagers legally old enough to use Pelican Bay without parental supervision are still required to go through a program establishing protocols and expectations. This training not only strengthens skills and fosters a lifelong love of the pool for teens, but guests can also feel confident that their aquatic experience will be a safe one.
More than that though, swimming pools are an affordable venue for fun and bonding. Communities with well-maintained pools gain access to a top-of-the-line site for local summer teams to practice and compete. Pool parties and other celebrations are also popular. When combined, Pelican Bay welcomes more than 50,000 people seasonally, according to Wells.
Programs like Junior Guards, which teaches pre-teens the basis of lifeguarding, build a feeder system to fend off the country’s national lifeguard shortage. The American Lifeguard Association estimated that one-third of the 309,000 pools in America were affected by the lifeguard shortage in 2023.
Creating a bond within the community has additional benefits. Wells credits her strong relationship with Edmond’s Parks and Recreation Department for facilitating maintenance and repairs–a top priority when Brad Raney took over as department director last year. As the only outdoor public pool in the Edmond area, Pelican Bay holds a special place among
The Data
from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
Drowning
is a leading cause of death for children
More children
die from drowning than any other cause of death in the United States ages 1–4
For children
ages 5–14
drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes.
Every year, there are
fatal unintentional drownings in the U.S.—an average of 11 drowning deaths per day 4,000
Additionally, there are
8,000
nonfatal drownings—that is an average of 22 per day–that can cause long-term health problems, including brain damage and disabilities.
its residents, as demonstrated by its popularity–it regularly wins polls as the region’s best place to swim.
Yet, after more than 20 years in operation, Pelican Bay is ready for some tender loving care. By being transparent about the site’s needs, including fixing a leak in the pool, Raney found a receptive audience when presenting plans for renovations to the Edmond City Council, which quickly made improvements to Pelican Bay a four-star goal.
“I had that tough conversation with our council,” said Raney. “But it was important that the council knows what’s going on so when we go to do major renova-
tions, they know why we’re spending that money.”
Continued Raney: “It’s critical that we have places where we can offer swim lessons for public safety. Something I’ve learned throughout my career is that pools are often not great financially for a local government, but they play a critical role in the safety of the public. I think the council understood that pretty well.”
Meanwhile, leadership at AAC are also making their case for their pool’s importance by recruit ing sponsors.
“Aquatic centers like Artesia may not pay for themselves, but can cut down costs without reducing enjoyment,” said Cobb.
“Few aquatics centers generate profit,” said Cobb. “But the impact on community safety, health and wellness, and hometown pride is worth the investment.”
Image Sources: Pelican Bay Aquatics
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THE CASE AGAINST AND FOR SHORT-TERM RENTALS
By Suzanne Wentley
The first red flags were all the unfamiliar cars parked along the streets, sometimes even blocking driveways. Then, there were loud parties. Then one day, an 18-wheeler truck parked along the street — even though everyone who lived in Alamosa, Colorado knew that wasn’t legal on residential streets.
Mayor Ty Coleman said it finally got to the point where the elected officials in the small town, which serves as a main
commercial hub near the Great Sand Dunes National Park, had to somehow address the number of short-term vacation rentals doing brisk business in their neighborhoods.
“It’s a beautiful place, with several hundred thousand people visiting on an annual basis. We have hotels, but not a lot. It is attractive to have short-term rentals as an option,” he said.
According to a report from Airbnb analytics provider, AirDNA, there are 2.4 million vacation rental listings in the U.S.
But as the city staff began to investigate the issue, they discovered that a handful of investors had begun buying up the already tight inventory of homes. That made it hard for locals to buy or rent their own.
“When there is a challenge for people to find housing, there is a challenge for employers to find people to work,” he said. “We want to recruit doctors, professors, and law enforcement officers. These bright minds don’t come to our
Vrbo now has over 2 million unique places
Vrbo’s Timeline At A Glance
Image Source: AdobeStock
A Short History of Airbnb, Vrbo Rentals
Balancing the desires of full-time residents with the need to drive tourism revenue is a challenge in many U.S. cities. If a community borders a desired destination but doesn’t have an adequate amount of hotel rooms, short-term rentals can be a good tool for making sure that revenue doesn’t go to a neighboring town. However, as the tight housing market makes adequate affordable homes increasingly sparse, short-term rental platforms like Airbnb, and Vrbo may present more challenges than benefits.
Nearly 25 years ago in 1995, Vrbo — short for “vacation rental by owner “— launched in the ski town of Breckenridge just a short drive from Alamosa.
The business model gave travelers access to kitchens and more privacy than in hotels and motels while providing a “side hustle” for people with extra bedrooms, a second home, or unused real estate. An owner of a single-family house or condominium could list their property on the website and perform the entire rental transaction online. Popularity grew as people got more comfortable with online businesses and mobile applications.
In 2006, Vrbo was acquired by HomeAway and two years later, Airbnb launched their company. According to a report from Airbnb analytics provider, AirDNA, there are 2.4 million vacation rental listings in the U.S. community if they can’t find housing.”
Short-term vacation rentals are often less expensive than hotel rooms and provide a more localized and unique experience.
The Benefits of Short Term Rentals
The growing numbers highlight a growing demand. Visitors to towns and cities appreciate a private, homey experience. Short-term vacation rentals are often less expensive than hotel rooms and provide a more localized and unique experience. Sometimes, hosts will provide free snacks, coffee, and advice that enhance the guest’s time in the community.
For cities, short-term rentals increase their lodging inventory which can keep travelers in a specific community. For
“Everything has a place, and singlefamily dwellings are not the place,” said Councilwoman Noel
Image Source: AdobeStock
“Some business owners came to the table and helped us come up with solutions. There was common ground, and that’s where we ended up. It seems to be working well and seems to be fair,” said Mayor Coleman.
example, according to AirDNA data, Davenport, Florida has 16,954 short-term rental units. This helps the community of just over 13,000 residents compete with larger and more hotel-heavy cities like Orlando and Kissimmee for revenue from travelers to local attractions such as Disney World and Universal Studios. Davenport is part of an emerging tourism market in Polk County, Florida that drives $1.5 billion in tourist spending, according to Visit Central Florida.
While the demand declined in 2020 during the pandemic, the industry was still expected to top $109 billion in 2022 and continue growing 11 percent by 2030, according to a report by Grand View Research.
Impacts on Housing for Community Members
While the growth of the short-term rental market has drawn visitors to certain communities, it has impacted longer-term housing in others. Mayor Coleman said the town of Alamosa recently completed
a housing stock analysis to discover they were 400 housing units short of the need. With local developers building around 40 houses a year, the situation in Alamosa is dire.
As short-term rentals reduce the available stock of rental properties in many areas, prices also rise in those areas leaving some without homes. According to the Housing Affordability Index measured by the National Association of Realtors, homes today are even less affordable than during the height of the housing bubble.
For context, a Housing Affordability Index value of 100 means that families have exactly enough income to qualify for a mortgage. The higher the value, the more affordable homes are per median income. In 2021, the index was 148.2 and over the previous 10 years the average index was 164.5. In 2022, the index dropped to 103.8, the lowest number since 2006 (107.1.)
Due to the impact of short term rentals on local residents, several international cities
with housing shortages, including New York City, Paris, and Vienna, have taken a harder stance through new policies meant to limit the number of properties that can become short-term rentals. Small cities and towns are following suit.
In Burlington, Vermont, elected officials enacted new laws restricting short-term rentals that aren’t located in the host’s primary residence. The owners must register the property with the local government and pay for permits.
Chattanooga City Councilwoman
Marvene Noel, whose historic district is close to the downtown commercial center, said she and her Orchard Knob neighbors only saw negatives like loud parties, non-compliant parking, and a less secure community because of short-term rentals.
While such rentals weren’t permitted in residentially zoned districts, many went under the radar by applying for renovation permits as if they lived in the home. After much discussion, city officials last
year passed new ordinances forbidding absentee owners and only permitting new rentals along commercial corridors.
“Everything has a place, and singlefamily dwellings are not the place,” Councilwoman Noel said. “If you live in your home and stay there, you can rent that out. Otherwise, the neighborhood has to deal with whatever mess, and we don’t benefit from it at all.”
Local Discussions Create Local Solutions
Councilwoman Noel said she started the conversation with her fellow elected officials after attending her local neighborhood meetings. The staff researched ordinances in other cities. Eventually, they voted on stronger rules with a more stringent permitting process that stopped her district from feeling like a “dumping ground.”
In Alamosa, Mayor Coleman said the first step to address the concerns was to schedule a series of work sessions open
to the public. They wanted to hear perspectives from both sides — from local business owners supporting tourist desires to parents worried about having a revolving door of tourists around their children.
At the same time, they put a moratorium on new short-term rentals until city staff could analyze the market and research solutions. They mapped the city’s four main residential wards and determined that certain areas had a greater density of offerings.
“If we have too many in certain areas, we can minimize the growth in those areas,” he said. “We didn’t want to eliminate the opportunity to have short-term rentals.”
Instead of “zero tolerance” on Airbnb and other short-term rentals, Alamosa added several deterrents. Mayor Coleman said the permitting fee was increased until they saw the number of applications dropping. Prospective hosts also must check that their street or ward hasn’t exceeded the maximum allowed. If so, they’ll have
to wait until a permit is vacated or try a different location.
“We don’t get any complaints anymore,” he said. “Some business owners came to the table and helped us come up with solutions. There was common ground, and that’s where we ended up. It seems to be working well and seems to be fair.”
Elected officials know they can’t wait for the real estate market to regulate or incomes to rise. Even as they wish to support tourism and provide solutions to meet the evolving desires of modern travelers, many council members are discovering that proactivity is the best way to handle this complex problem.
Do new rules settle the controversy over short-term vacation rentals? In some places, the answer is yes — at least for now.
Image Source: AdobeStock
By Jake Kring-Schreifels
In cities and neighborhoods across the country, it’s almost impossible not to stumble upon a craft brewery. Whether you’re near old industrial centers or visiting emerging suburban areas, these sudsy operations—which cater to a variety of beer lovers— have created a strong buzz within their communities and attracted locals and out-of-towners alike.
The surge occurred between 1985 and 2010, when mom-and-pop beer makers and their brick and mor-
tar shops grew from 27 to 1,754. Over the next five years, that number accelerated to 4,225. As of 2023, the amount more than doubled to 9,683, a breakneck pace that only recently leveled off thanks to the pandemic.
As a result, craft breweries have become more than just local watering holes or distribution sites with adjacent taprooms. They are now symbols of transformation and revitalization within cities and surrounding areas, contributing to their economic and social growth, and
often signaling revitalization in small communities and downtown districts by attracting tourists, restaurants, and other businesses.
Consider cities like Asheville, Tampa, Charlotte, Richmond, and Boise, whose clusters of craft breweries over the last decade have turned once-empty neighborhoods into metro centers bustling with young professionals and cultural capital.
“I also knew that if we were going to be a hip, cool place, that the emerging craft beer industry as well as cutting edge chefs and restaurants and food trucks had to be a part of that mix.” says former Tampa Mayor Buckhorn
“The whole craft beer industry scene has been extremely valuable,” says Matthew Robinette, Richmond Region Tourism’s vice president of visitor experience. “There’s a lot of value in craft beer as both an attraction in and of itself, and as a necessary experience for general visitors and residents.”
The economic impact has been hard to disregard. According to the Brewers Association, craft breweries contributed $72.2 billion to the U.S. economy in 2022, which comprises both beer itself and non-beer products like food and merchandise. The industry also created 460,000 total jobs, with close to 20,000 working at breweries themselves.
Still, in a post-Covid world, many craft brewers are adjusting their business models and finding new ways to attract beer drinkers whose habits and interests may have changed in recent years. That included opening taprooms with food options, using their space for game nights and communal events, and being more tactful about the beer they produce and the locations they open and expand.
“A lot of brewers are taking a look at what is important to their business,” says Mark DeNote, editor of Florida Beer News. “But what you see is this push, this kind of reinvention.”
When Bob Buckhorn took over as Tampa’s mayor in 2011, the city was in the throes of its worst recession since the Great Depression. As he took stock of job loss and house foreclosures, he mostly noticed that Tampa was losing its intellectual capital, as recent college graduates began migrating from Florida to other sunbelt cities—Austin, Raleigh, Durham, and Nashville. “There were no jobs here, there was no hope here, there were no opportunities here,” Buckhorn says.
If Tampa was going to compete to retain and attract young talent, Buckhorn knew he needed to change the economic DNA of the city. So he targeted a transformation of its downtown district, developing areas by the Hillsborough River, building out more residential housing, and promoting Tampa’s diversity and culture.
“To make this a city that was welcoming to everybody, I knew it meant turning our development strategies to focus on the waterfront and making that an asset as opposed to a liability,” Buckhorn says. “I also knew that if we were going to be a hip, cool place, that the emerging craft beer industry as well as cutting edge chefs and restaurants and food trucks had to be a part of that mix.”
Over time, Tampa’s cultural scene began to change, anchored by Joey Redner’s Cigar City Brewing, which kickstarted the city’s craft beer boom in 2009 by hiring and training brew masters that soon spawned competition. By 2017, one-third of Florida microbreweries came from Tampa, according to a micro-brew study at the time. The emergence of the craft beer industry in Tampa is a part of a larger movement in the state of Florida, where a recent study showed that craft beer contributed $3.1 billion to the economy and over 21,000 jobs.
Along the way, Buckhorn made concerted efforts to facilitate and champion various craft beer business milestones and openings, streamlined the parallel food truck industry, and even pronounced a “Florida Craft Beer Day.”
“They became tools for economic development, whether they knew it or not,” Buckhorn says of craft breweries. “It was one of the many tools in our toolbox that we took advantage of, that we cultivated, that we grew, that we celebrated, that we highlighted, that allowed us to go from a donor city of talent to an attractor of talent.”
Though Buckhorn left office in 2019, the momentum from his campaigning has continued, noticeable in Tampa’s various growing neighborhoods like Seminole Heights. That’s where Tallahassee-based Ology Brewing Company, founded by Nick Walker, opened a brewery and taproom in 2022, banking on the community’s love for craft beer and its recent growth within the industry.
“There’s a great craft beer culture, and being in Florida, we’ve been a part of that tangentially and had a lot of good relationships there for years,” Walker says.
“The breweries moved in just as the people started moving in,” DeNote says. “The density of people who had disposable income, who could afford the Seminole Heights experience, who were looking to take the kids to have a pint and a pizza—it gives you a consistent customer base before you even open your door.”
As it’s become harder to get people out of the house, breweries like Ology have also made sure to offer more than just beer. Across various cities, craft breweries are attracting a more diverse clientele and turning their drinking tables into communal spaces, often hosting trivia nights, themed gatherings, and family-friendly events.
“The brewery functions as this kind of multi-purpose space in a way that maybe it
hadn’t previously,” DeNote says. “There’s people that use the brewery as their babysitter, and then there are people who go to the brewery for a quiet experience. Whether it’s right or wrong, the key is, do you want the brewery to survive?”
More people means more money. In addition to beer, Ology also has produced rum and bourbon and offers various cocktails, working with distributors to get their beer and liquor into local grocery stores. They’ve also opened up two nextdoor coffee shops and watched local pizza restaurants move in by a pair of their locations.
“We encourage and enjoy the growth around us,” Walker says. “In many ways [craft breweries] have become like the new church, where people have a place to go, socialize, relax, and be part of the community,” he adds. “You come hang out, have a conversation with a bartender, have conversations with people around you. It’s very much a community-driven business.”
The symbiotic relationship between craft breweries and local food and entertainment establishments have become catnip for tourism boards. A decade ago, Richmond’s historic Scott’s Addition neighborhood was a tough sell for visitors. But once brewers and then restaurants began migrating to the area, housing developments emerged, and the neighborhood became a destination.
“[Brewers] created an area that people could live, work, and play and potentially never leave,” Robinette says. “Someone could go grab some drinks at a brewery, head over to a [baseball] game, go back for dinner, and then catch a show at the Triangle Players Club. That’s awesome for residents and it’s awesome for visitors.”
With more brewers clustering together in different pockets of the city (a decision that allows them to share equipment and provide easy training), Richmond began marketing its own beer trail, a paper map
Image Sources: Ology Brewing Co.
that with enough stamps could earn beer drinkers free merchandise. But Robinette wanted a better understanding of where people were migrating and how long they were spending at various beer stops.
So, at the beginning of April, Richmond Regional Tourism announced a “mobile passport” that can be downloaded to smartphones, allowing visitors and residents the chance to check in to the city’s approximately 35 breweries, which generates $1.5 billion in economic impact. Though it’s a new program, Robinette is excited about having data on where drinkers are going, making it easier to promote specific breweries and the city itself.
“The brewery scene is kind of a reflection of the vibe and energy and creativity of the destination as a whole,” said Robinette.
You may not have heard of Mattoon, Illinois, acknowledges its Mayor, Rick Hall. But Chicago, Saint Louis, and Indianapolis are instantly recognizable. If Hall has his way, Mattoon may be just as known as those major cities within the sports tourism world–and the city’s proximity to those regional hubs is a big piece of the puzzle.
Later this year, Emerald Acres Sports
YOUTH SPORTS AND COMMUNITY RECREATION VENUES ARE BECOMING THE DRAW FOR MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY
By Matt Swenson
Connection comes to life–the result of a private-public partnership between the City of Mattoon and local agricultural giant, Rural King. In an ocean of youth sports facilities across the country, Emerald Acres stands out for being part of a new wave of complexes hosting elite youth and amateur athletics. Beyond the courts and fields–which are impressive–Mattoon’s new gem is the anchor for a massive amount of mixed-use development including hotels, restaurants, and retail options.
Athletes and their families, to say nothing of the city’s 16,700 residents, will be walking distance from everything they need to enjoy their multi-day stay. That ease of experience is a new emphasis within the sports tourism industry, notes Walter Franco, principal at Victus Advisors, a sports consultancy firm.
“Sports tourism trips end up doubling as a whole family vacation,” said Franco. “You want to have close access to hotels, close access to restaurants, and some amenities there to recreate.”
In 2004, San Diego altered the stadium landscape with its vision for Petco Park and the surrounding area, the country’s first dedicated sports-entertainment district. Atlanta, Cleveland, and Detroit are among the notable communities to build
upon the idea of creating a destination where spectators come for the game but stay for the food, shopping, and other activities (concerts, festivals, etc.).
Despite the reliance on hotels, restaurants, and retail that drive sports tourism dollars to a tune of $52.2 billion annually countrywide, complexes hosting tomorrow’s future star athletes remain behindthe-times when compared to their pro sports counterparts.
Complexes such as Emerald Acres, which specializes in youth and amateur sports, have the potential to take the model to another level. Athletes, often accompanied by their parents, siblings, and extended family, are not in town for a single game but a weekend full of tournaments and competitions. As a result, their needs–for food, lodging, and entertainment–are greater.
And so too, have the needs increased for specialty operators to supply both a great
guest experience and drive the economy surrounding projects of this magnitude. This has given rise to firms like The Sports Facilities Companies, who currently operate over 60 of these properties across the country and have a line of new properties in development.
Out-of-town guests are not the only ones who benefit from expansive sports-based campuses. Local residents, from toddlers to seniors, gain access to elite facilities to play soccer, basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and more at a variety of levels. Adults dropping off children needn’t rush home, but can grab a coffee or snack as they wait.
While the intangibles are nice to have, local governments and facility operators also have to look at the business side. By building beyond a sports-only venue, the developments become destinations unto themselves, be it for a seasonal festival or weekend movie and shopping trip. Community engagement can be the difference between a sports complex struggling to
perform and one that’s financially viable.
Here, we look at how the mixed-used development trend is altering the landscape of sports tourism.
AdventHealth Sports Park at Bluhawk, Overland Park, Kansas
Overland Park, the thriving suburb of both Kansas Cities (Missouri and Kansas), is already a renowned home for youth sports thanks to its acclaimed soccer facility, Scheels Overland Park Soccer Complex. Now, Price Brothers Management Company is leading the next generation of sports in the state of Kansas with the upcoming debut of AdventHealth Sports Park at Bluhawk.
“What we love about Bluhawk is the experience it creates for the traveling sports family,” said Bart Lowen, vice president of development for Price Brothers. “Whether it’s a three day weekend or a week-day
Images Source: AdventHealth Sports Park at BluHawk
night - you’re not getting back in the car. You’re walking across the street and everything is happening right there. Shopping. Eating. Staying in hotels. We’ve created an experience you can’t find anywhere else outside Disney.”
The 420,000 square foot multi-sport and entertainment complex will open in two phases–the first of which is slated for Fall 2024. Phase One includes an NHL-sized ice rink, a turf field, and eight basketball courts that can be converted to 16 volleyball or pickleball courts, building upon Overland Park’s claim as the most obsessed city with the booming racquet sport.
Private funds and $70 million in sales, tax, and revenue (STAR) bonds are financing the mixed-use development, according to a Kansas City Star article. Lowen notes that today he’s seeing three primary options for municipalities financing sports centers like this - issuing general obligation bonds, public private partnership,
and/or creating a taxing or special-use district. Previous to the youth and amateur sports facility, the development team had considered a traditional arena-style venue or a museum as anchor tenants.
“The Bluhawk development project will greatly enhance the quality of life in Overland Park and the surrounding communities,” said Governor Laura Kelly in a statement. “It will not only attract visitors, recreation-seekers, and sports enthusiasts from across the region to Kansas but also expect to drive a projected $3.8 million in economic impact through new market sports and spending revenue to Overland Park in its first year.”
Among the off-the-field amenities will be two restaurants, health and wellness facilities, and a family entertainment center that will include arcade games, bowling, laser tag, an e-sports center, golf simulators, and a roll glider. The surrounding Bluhawk district adds retail, dining, a
grocer, and luxury apartments–making it one of the most anticipated projects in Kansas. The next phase of the destination is 200,000 square feet of retail with outdoor placemaking called the Boundary and Bluhawk which connects to the front door of the sports facility.
“In today’s market, it’s tough to take developments to real estate committees or public companies,” continued Lowen. “You have to answer the question of why they should pick your development over any other opportunity - and for us, it was a 420,000 square foot sports center. Now, 90 percent of our retail is occupied.”
Blake Pierce, president of Emerald Acres Sports Connection, recalls a time when Mattoon was on the list for several national brands’ expansion prospects– just not
Building Blocks
Five keys to building a mixed-use de velopment around a sports complex, as suggested by Mattoon Mayor Rick Hall and Community Development and Planning Director Alexander Benishek.
necessarily at the top of that list. Looking to elevate Mattoon’s status, he was part of a team at Rural King, a farm supply giant based in Mattoon, that devised a plan in 2019 to create a sports facility that would get the city “over the hump.”
cago, Indianapolis, and Saint Louis. It will have an indoor facility for basketball and volleyball (eight and 16 courts, respectively) that will debut this fall, and eight baseball diamonds and 16 rectangular fields scheduled to open in Spring 2025.
Make it a joint venture. If a community doesn’t have skin in the game, the project won’t con nect the way it’s needed to be a
Be open and honest. Holding public meetings to explain why a multi-million-dollar project is needed to secure community buy-in. Taxpayers are going to want to know how their money is being spent.
When most of the complex opens this fall, the 150-acre development plans to be a crown jewel for elite youth sports, complete with top-shelf retail and program-driven experiences for the entire family. When completed, Emerald Acres is expected to annually attract 580,000 visitors and fill 59,000 hotel rooms, which calculates to a $23.8 million economic impact, and create jobs to keep up with that demand.
“The whole purpose of the project is to draw additional amenities to the area,” said Pierce.
Forge partnerships. Not ev ery community will have a company like Rural King that can foot most of the bill. But each city has business leaders who can sponsor amenities and make inroads with a potentially skeptical public.
Location matters. Find a site off a major highway and avoid an un seemly location like an old indus trial site. Remember, the facility must be inviting.
Emerald Acres poses minimal economic risk to the city, which wasn’t required to raise property taxes to pay for the site while it collected more than $10 million in community donations, according to Mayor Hall, a lifelong Mattoon resident. “We incurred no debt or liabilities for the sports complex, yet we played a critical role,” Hall said.
Trust the experts. Local munic ipalities should enlist advisors with experience in sports facili ties, and then listen to their ad vice. More often than not, the ex perts are going to keep the project going in the right direction.
To facilitate as smooth an opening as possible, the local government continues to be of vital importance. Infrastructure projects include improving traffic patterns and working with development companies to entice more affordable homes to be built for the influx of employees. Officials like Alexander Benishek, the city’s community development and planning director, are also educating existing businesses about what to expect once the facility comes online so they can be staffed properly.
Emerald Acres is positioned to be a regional attraction, as it is located within driving distance of major cities like Chi-
The campus will include a new 140,000 square foot shopping center and 11,000 square foot strip mall in a safe walkable environment. Chick-fil-A is among the dining options scheduled to reside on the premises, with more announcements scheduled as opening day approaches. One hotel is in development and a second could be on the way soon. There will also be an entertainment center and urgent care.
“We’re anticipating $200 million in construction occurring over the next two to three years,” Pierce said. “In an area like this, that is astronomical.”
Pierce said Mattoon is playing to its strength by turning to sports tourism. The city previously hosted baseball and softball tournaments drawing hundreds of teams but needed a modern facility to keep up with today’s demands, which include turf fields, indoor and outdoor venues, and on-site amenities. Mayor Hall is already envisioning local colleges hosting national championships at Emerald Acres.
Benishek compared the ongoing development to what an international airport could spur. Hall went a step further: “We don’t really know any other thing that could bring this many people to us from such a distance to a city of our magnitude,” said the Mayor.
World Equestrian Center –Ocala, Ocala, Florida
Stepping onto the grounds of the World Equestrian Center – Ocala in central Florida is like entering a magic kingdom
for horse enthusiasts. And to boot, Marion County boasts the country’s largest equine population (75,000), making it, with all due respect to the Kentucky faithful, the official “Horse of the Capital of the World.”
“Most people refer to us as kind of a Disneyland for horse people,” said Leah Tong, director of marketing and brand strategy for the WEC, which also sports an indoor equestrian venue in Wilmington, Ohio, the company’s original venue.
Equestrian activities alone are responsible for 1.2 million visitors to the Ocala campus in the past year. The site places the economic impact at $4.2 billion when factoring in the site’s international drawing power.
However, the 378-acre facility can’t be saddled as just a one-trick pony. While international and local equine competitions fill the center’s calendar, it also hosts youth sports (volleyball, martial arts, etc.), local celebrations, and business conferences. A new events center targeting corporate events is scheduled to open in 2025 and will be accompanied by additional retail.
The 248-room Equestrian Hotel is a luxurious property, matching some of the high-end retailers with on-site locations. But as WEC evolves, its offerings extend to different price points. The Riding Academy Hotel, a family- and pet-friendly offering with 390 guest rooms, opened this spring and is expected to be popular for the youth competitions occurring in
Images Source: World Equestrian Center
one of the five (soon to be six) indoor arenas. There are seven restaurants within the WEC grounds, ranging from upscale Southern fare to Mexican food, pizza, burgers, and sweet shops.
“With the year-round events that are not limited to equestrian events and multiple restaurants to fit various price points, World Equestrian Center offers not just a place for tourists but also a place for locals to visit and enjoy, even on a daily basis,” noted Loretta Shaffer, tourism development director at the Ocala/Marion County Visitors & Convention Bureau.
Oktoberfest and the spectacular Winter Wonderland are holiday celebrations that have become annual traditions since WEC opened in Ocala in 2021. With so many amenities, events, and offerings, WEC has the feel and drawing power of a resort.
“By offering world-class facilities, versatile event spaces, on-site lodging and a variety of shops and restaurants, we’re not only providing exciting and diverse experiences for competitors and visitors, but also
driving our local economy forward,” said Justin Garner, senior director of hospitality operations at World Equestrian Center – Ocala. “Our aim is to continuously elevate and evolve, always bringing our core values of quality, class, and distinction to those we serve.”
Meeting the Expectations of Athletes
Pierce notes that youth sports have changed. While there is an overall decreased participation among youngsters, the majority of active athletes typically play on a different tier than their parents did. Club teams and travel tournaments come with a hefty price, which adds expectations about the entire experience–not just on the field.
That’s why Franco anticipates more mixed-use developments surrounding youth sports complexes to match the trend among professional venues with nearby hotels, shopping, and dining options. Franco stressed sports complexes must be built to last, meaning they need to be multifaceted and focus on quality of life.
“In order for these facilities to be sustainable and adaptable to changing trends, you need to plan for the future,” he said. “That’s why we’re seeing that there’s been an increased demand for building ancillary developments surrounding these facilities to ensure that the facility is maximized for as much usage as possible.”
Image Source: Emerald Acres Sports Connection
perkinswill.com/sports-rec
THE CODE FOR SHAPING COMMUNITIES
By Suzanne Wentley
Acommon question that makes it to the desks of many elected officials: Wouldn’t it be great if that underused area in town could somehow be transformed into a special place that attracts new residents and drives revenue for the community?
Or maybe it’s the opposite problem, one of trying to preserve the special place that already exists. When property rights go unchecked, city councils may be surprised when a private developer proposes a potentially controversial plan. They may not have as much control as they thought over the future of their community.
Instead of reacting to outside economic pressures or proposals, communities can proactively create a long-term vision that reflects citizens’ needs, tastes, and desires.
Zoning, usually part of a larger and more comprehensive land use code, is a type of law that determines how land can be used within districts in cities and towns
“Zoning has a huge impact on how a community grows,” he said. “We did a good job identifying issues, and we made a case that the best way to address the issues is to rezone the city top to bottom.”
throughout the United States. Zoning and land use maps are available to the public, so property owners understand the parameters for what they can build and the types of businesses they can operate.
Zoning codes can also serve as structures through which cities can collect additional taxes to reinvest in their districts to incubate growth. This is how some cities in the U.S. implement visions for a variety of entities, including new entertainment or business districts, which in turn support broader, citywide economic development initiatives that support the quality of life of residents.
While the concept is logical and, many times, helpful for cities and residents, the historical execution of zoning is complicated.
Image Source: AdobeStock - Greenville, South Carolina
Zoning as a Community Shaper — A Complicated History
The concept began back in the early 1900s when retail shops started buying out the mansions that once lined Fifth Avenue in New York City. This area became the high-end fashion district that it remains today thanks to the city’s zoning code, according to the Manhattan Institute.
City officials developed the protective code when store owners took exception
Zoning Issues Include:
to garment manufacturers setting up shop in the same area. The industrial workers made white-gloved shoppers uncomfortable and threatened the retail district’s economic development.
New York City’s zoning code was so effective in limiting land use turnover and influencing the look and feel of the area that other cities followed suit and devel-
oped their own codes. In the following decades, many states created planning laws that required cities to codify land use and zoning.
But history has shown that there are downsides to traditional zoning districts. Putting “like with like” has unintended consequences over time.
Segregation: Both economic and social segregation are underscored and reinforced by zoning laws. Limiting multi-family and rental housing to less desirable areas often results in racial segregation as well.
Urban Sprawl: Low-density residential zoning codes spread out housing, leading to an increased dependence on cars, longer commutes, and greater public infrastructure costs.
Environmental Degradation: Urban sprawl also negatively impacts the natural areas within a community. Habitat loss, increased stormwater runoff from more asphalt, and fragmented ecosystems make regions less desirable to humans, animals, and plants alike. More cars also mean worse air pollution and carbon emissions.
Reduced Housing Affordability: Zoning can limit development with minimum lot size requirements or bans on apartment buildings, which in turn restricts the housing supply. This drives up prices and makes housing sometimes totally unaffordable to large parts of the community.
What’s more, outdated zoning codes can also stifle innovation and even cause unnecessary legal and administrative costs for cities.
By the early 1980s, trends in new urbanism offered an alternative. Cities and towns started to create mixed-use districts to allow residential and commercial structures on the same property. These compact, walkable districts offset the otherwise common suburban sprawl, providing new economic opportunities as well as lower costs for public services.
The following examples showcase cities that are using zoning as a tool to both protect and preserve the character of their communities and drive economic growth.
Protecting What Makes a Town Special
Sometimes, stifling growth isn’t a bad thing for the local economy. City officials in the town of Eureka Springs, Arkansas use zoning to protect its historic downtown from uses that would detract from the tourist-friendly bathhouses, restaurants, and shops.
“We’re very restrictive with our historic zoning. That’s our number-one attraction to the town,” said Terry McClung, a longtime city councilmember and a real estate broker in the area for almost 50 years. “In our residential neighborhoods, we use zoning as a tool to prevent homes from being opened up as short-term vacation rentals.”
Councilmember McClung said they also use zoning-specific spaces to create solutions for residents. When a new pawn shop proposed an unpopular request to sell guns along the commercial corridor of the town’s main highway, the planning
commission was able to use the zoning code as a reason to turn down the variance request. (However, the property owner filed an appeal that’s still ongoing in court, the councilmember added.)
One reason the process was smooth was that through understanding resident concerns, city leaders were proactive in developing solutions through their policies.
And when investors proposed turning a motel into long-term housing rentals for workers, it was the zoning code that welcomed multi-family units as a creative solution to the affordability crisis. The city’s code allowed for the apartments to be developed in the commercial corridor away from the historic downtown.
In this way, the city council used “zoning as a tool” to solve problems that come from balancing the desires of the 750,000 annual visitors with the needs of the 2,100 full-time residents, he explained.
Image Source: AdobeStock - Eureka Springs, AR
“There are several motels that have been purchased and reconditioned as living quarters, because housing for the employee sector, the workforce housing, is really limited,” he said. “It’s the toughest equation we’ve ever come across.”
While the town’s residential zoning codes allow for smaller lot sizes than normal, development is still limited by the hilly terrain and limited commercial structures. To combat rising housing costs, city officials used the zoning code to prevent investors from buying up homes to rent to vacationers.
Changing Codes To Create New Spaces
Changing laws is never an easy endeavor — and for good reason. Old zoning, designed to preserve the status quo, can be an obstacle for planners and elected officials interested in bigger ideas for change within city limits. The trick, said Mayor Knox White of Greenville, South Carolina, is to listen to residents and be dynamic.
“Zoning has a huge impact on how a community grows,” he said. “We did a good job identifying issues, and we made a case that the best way to address the issues is to rezone the city top to bottom.”
Like many cities, Greenville had a “patchwork” zoning code that was last given focus back in the 1970s. So, Mayor White said it wasn’t a hard sell to encourage residents to embrace change rather than continue on with what some considered an outdated vision for the city.
By working with a private consultant and a forward-focused planning director, the council eventually voted on a plan that included creating mixed-use districts outside of downtown. They spent a lot of time gathering public input with the help of a large citizen committee. Listening actively to concerns and visions helped its success.
The whole process took about a year, which he knew was faster than other cities that embarked on similar efforts.
One reason the process was smooth was that through understanding resident concerns, city leaders were proactive in developing solutions through their policies. For example, the city provided frequent code reviews in the legislation to check if new growth patterns impacted issues like traffic and affordable housing.
The new zoning codes also allowed the city to collect Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds. These TIF funds were funneled into public investments like streetscapes and widened sidewalks that enhanced the area. Today, green spaces like Falls Park on the Reedy and new private investments throughout the city continue to show that a renaissance is possible with the right effort.
“Zoning by definition injects rigidity into any growth pattern, and that’s a criticism of people who don’t like traditional zoning,” Mayor White said. “But our process itself wasn’t rigid. Our document is a living document. We are giving ourselves more flexibility.”
Image Source: AdobeStock - Eureka Springs, AR
TURNING SEASONAL TOURISM INTO YEAR-ROUND PROSPERITY TURNING SEASONAL TOURISM INTO YEAR-ROUND PROSPERITY TURNING SEASONAL TOURISM INTO YEAR-ROUND PROSPERITY
HOW ERIE COUNTY BECAME A HUB FOR FAMILIES, ATHLETES, AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
By Judy Leand
Erie County, Ohio is the setting for many family vacations and a destination for elite athletes in a variety of sports. This is due to its abundant natural beauty combined with world-class venues and attractions. Erie County has just shy of 75,000 residents, with the city of Sandusky accounting for about 25,000 of them. Nestled within these relatively small populations are several nationally and internationally renowned venues. These include Cedar Point theme park—billed as “The Roller Coaster Capital of the World”—as well as Cedar Point Sports Center, Sports Force Parks, and the Boardwalk at PutIn-Bay. While all succeed in attracting vacationers and sports, cultural, and business events, that’s not where their
impact ends. Each tourism asset is a key component in enhancing the quality of life of locals. From driving revenue to support infrastructure projects to enhancing the health and well-being of residents to providing fun, leisurely activities to do on days off, Erie County’s famous amenities stand at the center of life in this community.
Driving Economic Development
According to County Commissioner Pat Shenigo, his home of Erie County and neighboring Ottawa County have about 8,000 hotel rooms. Until recent years, many stayed
According to the company, the facility drove a $22.6 million in economic impact in 2023. That’s after driving over $19 million in economic impact in 2022
Image Source: Cedar Point Sports Center
empty in the winter months. Cedar Point is a seasonal theme park, closing at the onset of fall, which left the community without a draw after the summer. County leaders set out to change that and a family trip sparked an idea that was a difference-maker for the community. “My wife and I and our kids used to ski at Peek n’ Peak Resort in New York. On the way out there, we often drove through Erie, Pennsylvania and I was curious how the hotels there were always full in the winter,” said Shenigo. “So I asked around and it turned out that there was an indoor soccer facility in the area. I visited the facility one day and the manager told me that they fill hotel rooms yearround because of their events. That was the real inspiration for us.”
This experience planted the seeds of a collaborative effort among the county and its most prominent businesses to build an indoor sports facility that drives visitors during the traditional off-season. The Cedar Point Sports Center (CPSC), located in Sandusky, Ohio, is a state-of-the-art indoor sports and events venue with more than 145,000 square feet of space with 10 basketball hardwood courts or 20 volleyball courts, a championship arena with retractable seating, a 9,500-squarefoot entertainment center, an on-site cafe, concessions, and meeting and event spaces. Cedar Point’s parent company, Cedar Fair, acquired the land the facility was built on, a former airport, for $3 million. The company also provided $3 million for interior furnishings at the venue.
Erie County provided $20 million using 1 percent of its bed tax to fund construction. Firelands Regional Medical Center agreed to a $11 million sports medicine center attached to the sports complex.
Image Source: Shores & Islands, OH
Cedar Point Sports Center is operated by The Sports Facilities Companies, a company that partners with communities to plan, develop, and manage sports, recreation, and aquatics venues. According to the company, the facility drove $22.6 million in economic impact in 2023. That’s after driving over $19 million in economic impact in 2022. CPSC’s General Manager Justin Kijowski reports, “It was a busy year last year. That number is strictly from sports tourism—we don’t in-
increases in tax rev enues, according to Shenigo. “When I be came commissioner in 2009, our sales tax was about $12 million per year. We’re going to hit $23 million this year.”
Shenigo continues, “We col lected $683,000 in real estate taxes for the sports complexes in 2022. The inflow of money has also allowed the county to pay down debt and finance in frastructure projects, according to Shenigo. This impact can be felt in the day-to-day lives of Erie County residents.
Justin Kijowski adds “We host everything from tournaments to craft shows to food shows, to conventions and symposiums.”
clude any of our leagues, camps, clinics, or programming numbers in that. Last year alone, we hosted 3,622 teams and had over 100,000 visitors.”
He also pointed out that about 15,000 hotel room nights were driven by sports tourism in 2023. In 2024, Cedar Point Sports Center is slated to host 46 tournaments and 4,000 teams throughout the year, driving more than $25 million in economic impact to local communities.
The success of CPSC and the adjacent outdoor sports venue, along with Cedar Point and other area amenities, led to
“We have great restaurants, re tail, and [many amenities] that we probably wouldn’t have if we didn’t have Cedar Point and some of these other activities. We use sports as an economic devel opment tool and so far, it’s worked out well for us,” says Shenigo.
Beyond Economic Impact
Kijowski notes that CPSC sup ports the surrounding commu nity in two ways. “Our impact is twofold. Our primary pur pose is sports tourism and the economic impact of hotels, overnight stays, and spending by teams that are brought into the commu nity through our tour naments.”
“The other is the wide variety of high-qual ity sports and recreation pro gramming where
Image Source: Shores & Islands, OH
we provide leagues, camps, and clinics
CPSC’s programming provides league, camp, and clinic opportunities to youth in the Erie County area. “Last year alone we hosted over 2,000 athletes in those programs, and that includes schoolyear programming and our summer camps. I think we’ve done a great job of offering healthy activities for local kids that weren’t available before the building opened,” Kijowski says. He adds that, for adults, there’s a walking track open to the public at no cost, and there’s adult pickleball during the day. “We are tremendously proud of our ability to balance our impact on the community with local offerings throughout the week while also driving consistent economic impact through sports tourism on the weekends.”
Kijowski adds, “We host everything from tournaments to craft shows to food shows, to conventions and symposiums. We just worked with our communities to host a solar eclipse event here at the facility. We’ve really become more than a sports tourism venue. I believe we serve a need in the community for a lot of people.”
Becoming the Go-To Place for Big Events
On July 21st, athletes from around the world will take to the waters of Erie County’s Shores and Islands. They’ll also take to the roads on foot and bike. The region has hosted IRONMAN 70.3 OHIO now for two years and recently signed a contract to host the event for three more
Image Source: Shores & Islands, OH
years after the contract ends in 2025. Last year, about 1,600 people participated and another 2,500 cheered on competitors. The economic impact was more than $5 million—from that weekend alone.
Shenigo notes that the area’s natural beauty is what attracts Ironman and other events, including the Ohio Bike Week which draws in over 100,000 people every year. Our area is a big boating area because of the shallow lake and the islands. I think that draws events like Ironman and I think that’s what attracts people overall.”
With its blend of natural beauty and world-class attractions like Cedar Point and the Cedar Point Sports Center, Erie and Ottawa Counties have not only become a premier destination for tourists and athletes but also a vibrant community enriched by these assets. The economic benefits are substantial, driving revenue, supporting local infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of life for residents. More than just a seasonal hotspot, this area now thrives year-round, fostering local youth programs, hosting diverse events, and drawing international attention with major competitions.
“People are coming in for Ironman from all over the country plus eight or nine foreign countries,” explains Larry Fletcher, president of Shores & Islands Ohio, the area’s destination marketing organization.
“This gives us an opportunity to welcome a lot of first-time visitors to the area. It’s a whole new audience to the region, and that will continue to pay dividends for us.”
DISTRICTING DYNAMICS:
HOW SPECIALIZED DISTRICTS ARE TRANSFORMING URBAN ECONOMIES AND ENHANCING COMMUNITY LIFE
By Yvette Hammett Hull
Virginia Beach, Virginia inspires visitors and residents alike with spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean from its sandy shoreline. And while those sunsets are a great magnet for vacationers, city leaders wanted more for the community. They wanted a way to generate more revenue, bring in more people, add new job opportunities, and create a vibrant urban environment.
To achieve this, Virginia Beach, like many other cities and counties across the nation, have created special districts. This urban planning strategy is increasingly recognized as a powerful tool for meeting a range of economic and community devel-
opment goals. Districting allows cities to address diverse local needs, from enhancing arts and entertainment to bolstering healthcare, technology sectors, and educational facilities.
Funding for these districts is just as diverse. Some regions use ad valorem tax funding, while others develop Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts or apply for grants.
Virginia Beach, thanks to a push by the local arts community, now has a thriving arts and entertainment district working as part of its economic development strategy. It not only stimulates economic
growth but concentrates cultural activities and entertainment venues in one area, increasing its attractiveness to both residents and tourists.
Such districts can increase property value, which, in turn, increases tax revenue and creates more interest from investors. It can also increase the quality of life for those living in or near the district. However, for the positive impact that special use districts can have, this strategy is not without its challenges. In this article we will examine both and highlight the importance of careful consideration and oversight when developing special-use districts.
Image Source: St. Petersburgh Pier - AdobeStock
How Districts Are Funded
Funding for districts vary significantly depending on the specific services they provide and the legal frameworks of the states in which they operate. Here are a few ways in which they are funded:
Property Taxes: Many special districts have the authority to levy property taxes on residents and businesses within their boundaries. These taxes are often the main source of revenue for districts that provide services with broad public benefits. This may include park districts, entertainment districts, or school districts.
Assessments: Some districts may levy assessments against properties that directly benefit from the district’s activities. Unlike general property taxes, these assessments are generally based on the degree of benefit derived from the service. For example, an improvement district that installs a new sewer system may assess properties that connect to the system more heavily than those that do not.
Sales Taxes: In some communities, special districts can levy sales taxes within their boundaries. This is common for regional transit authorities or health districts. Sales taxes provide a significant revenue source that is not directly linked to property ownership.
How the Vibe in ViBe Was Funded
According to Virginia Beach Mayor Robert M. “Bobby” Dyer, 2 percent of the city’s amusement tax helps fund its ViBe Creative District. A portion of their amusement tax is charged for all concerts, shows, and conventions. For Virginia Beach, arts and entertainment are a core piece of how they drive new residents to their communities.
“When a company comes to your city, they look at public safety and affordability, but they also look at arts and entertainment, key ingredients for the quality of a place,” Dyer said. “Having a robust creative arts program attracts tourists as well as young people who will want to come here to live, work, and play.”
Building a Dynamic Neighborhood Starts With Building a District
The vibrant and accessible vibe found in Virginia Beach’s arts and entertainment district is no accident. A successful districting approach begins with strategic planning. Cities and counties must chart goals and objectives with a time frame, typically two- to five years. This becomes a road map to navigate the business environment, determine needed legislation, and traverse department dynamics and budgets.
Bonds: Special districts can issue bonds to finance large capital projects such as the construction of facilities, infrastructure improvements, or major equipment purchases. These bonds are typically repaid over time with revenue from taxes, fees, or assessments specifically pledged for that purpose.
A great example of these principles can be found in another waterfront community, hundreds of miles south of Virginia Beach. St. Petersburg, Florida, a small city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is known as a vibrant, walkable, and culturally-rich enclave and alternative to the sprawl of its neighbor, Tampa. In recent years, it’s made successful efforts to draw young professionals, families, and entrepreneurs to its sunny confines. As part of this effort, the city established four Main Street
Image Source: Virginia Beach Art Center
Districts. All of which are thriving, according to Alizza Punzalan-Randle, St. Pete’s managing director for communications and community engagement, speaking on behalf of Mayor Ken Welch.
“Overall, creating business districts is seen by the (city) as a strategic approach to support economic development, attract investment, and enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses alike,” she said. The city created its first formal business districts in 2000 but blossomed in 2014 when the EDGE District, a popular shopping and entertainment destination for young adults, and the Skyway Marina District were formed. The city also works with other business districts, including the MLK Business District, and the Warehouse Arts District.
To develop these districts, St. Pete used the Grow Smarter Initiative to identify five major industry sectors with the greatest potential to create new jobs and drive more people to the city with the goal of improving the economy.
The Grow Smart Initiative is a collective impact approach to economic development. In St. Pete, seven workgroups
In St. Pete, seven workgroups made up of civic leaders, residents, business owners, and community leaders were formed. The groups met periodically to collaborate on ways to drive progressive growth in their community.
made up of civic leaders, residents, business owners, and community leaders were formed. The groups met periodically to collaborate on ways to drive progressive growth in their community.
“The primary goal is economic development,” Punzalan-Randle said. “These dis-
tricts attract investors, create jobs, and foster business growth. They also stimulate urban revitalization in depressed areas.” She added, “The final goal is collaboration with stakeholders that include local businesses, property owners, developers, and community organizations to plan and implement business district initiatives. Engaging stakeholders in the decision-making process gives the city better input on how to best use its resources.”
St. Pete’s strategy has been a gamechanger for the community of 263,553 residents. The city’s waterfront downtown area bustles daily with restaurants on nearly every block. These restaurants serve a community that has seen a 66 percent increase in net jobs over the last two decades, according to a report by local branding and marketing agency Pyper, Inc. The area’s growth has also spawned a thriving arts scene which had a $133 million economic impact in recent years. It buoyed the local sports scene as well, leading to a partnership with the Tampa Bay Rays to build a state-of-the-art baseball stadium. Overall, St. Petersburg’s tax revenue has grown from $97.95 million in 2011-2012 to over $216 million in 2022-2023, according to city revenue reporting.
Image Source: AdobeStock
Image Source: City of Virginia Beach
Districting To Serve a Critical Need
In Travis County, Texas, which includes the Austin area, a special district funded through property taxes provides healthcare, including clinics to underserved populations, and has for 20 years.
“We are ensuring that people can get quality medical care without going to the emergency room and that saves tons of money,” said Travis County Healthcare District Spokesman Mike Clark-Madison. “Healthy people go to work every day, which helps keep the economy humming.”
Legislation allowed a measure onto the ballot in 2003 to vote on the district and once approved by voters, the district formed in 2004.
“There were a lot of problems with access to healthcare,” Clark-Madison said. Now, not only are 280,000 people getting the care they need, from primary care to specialty care, but the area’s healthcare industry is growing, bringing more jobs to the Austin region.
“We have not yet done an economic impact study, but we are undergoing a performance review right now,” he said, and that will be followed by an economic impact study.
Currently, 11 cents of every $100 in property taxes in the regional area goes to fund the healthcare district.
Challenges to a Special-Use District Strategy
For all the successes, the creation of special-use districts is a controversial strategy in many U.S. cities. Critics point to examples in cities where districting has focused on areas with higher economic potential, leading to further economic disparities within a city. Increasing the economic impact of an area can increase the value of local homes, but it can also drive up the cost of living and drive out low-income families. Opponents to this strategy also feel that special-use districts can favor large companies who financially benefit from the new district.
Special districts often operate with a degree of autonomy that can lead to concerns about transparency and accountability. Critics argue that these districts may not be as closely monitored as general government entities. In a 2017 report on online reporting by special-use districts, a public interest research group, US PIRG, found that 38 percent of the group studied published their most recent budgets on their websites and 30 percent posted comprehensive annual financial reports.
As cities like Virginia Beach, Austin, and St. Petersburg demonstrate, districting serves as a vital tool in urban development, providing targeted solutions that enhance economic growth and quality of life. By strategically planning and implementing district-based initiatives, these cities have successfully attracted investments, created
jobs, and revitalized their communities. This approach not only supports local economies but also enriches the social and cultural landscape, proving that when cities invest in specialized districts, they lay the foundation for a dynamic and prosperous urban future.
$97.5m 2011-2012 $216m 2022-2023
Overall, St. Petersburg’s tax revenue has grown according to city revenue reporting.
COMMUNITY PLAYMAKER “CRIBS”
FIVE BREATHTAKING CITY HALLS
By Cameron Connelly
Hello and welcome to Community Playmaker Cribs!
In this ‘episode,’ we will stray from the normal format of showing off the lavish mansions of your favorite celebrities and instead focus on five of America’s most breathtaking city hall buildings.
These buildings won’t feature living room hot tubs or massive closets full of designer clothes, but they will still show you “where the magic happens.” But the “mag -
ic” in this case is city council members discussing and voting on local laws, policies, and budgets.
Aside from the magic of local legislation, city hall buildings serve as the central hub of government operations, civic engagement, and public services. They house the offices of elected officials and several city departments, allowing for efficient administration and collaboration between the different departments.
Their central locations and variety of services make it easy and convenient for community members to attend public hearings, participate in local governance, and access essential services. While what goes on inside the building is the most important aspect, the architecture and design of the building itself can showcase the area’s style and serve as a point of civic pride for all residents.
Image Source: San Francisco Travel Association
San Jose City Hall
San Jose, California
San Jose City Hall is a modern architectural landmark, and when juxtaposed against the previous city hall, it shows how a building can embody the spirit of a community. In this case, the San Jose City Hall tells a story about the progressive nature of Silicon Valley.
Designed by renowned architect Richard Meier and completed in 2005, this sleek, contemporary building features a striking combination of glass, steel, and concrete. Its design emphasizes transparency and openness, reflecting the city’s commitment to accessibility and civic engagement.
The most prominent feature is the 18-story tower, which provides expansive views of the surrounding
Philadelphia City Hall
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
First on our list is a stunning example of Second Empire architecture and a key part of Philadelphia’s history. Designed by architect John McArthur Jr. and finished in 1901, it showcases the Second Empire style with its elaborate decorations, steep roofs, and detailed sculptures.
Once the tallest habitable building in the world, and currently the largest municipal building in the U.S., its 548-foot tower is topped with a statue of William Penn, which was created by Alexander Milne Calder. The interior and exterior are adorned with over 250 sculptures, including historic figures and local wildlife.
area. Adjacent to the tower, the distinctive rotunda with its glass dome serves as a focal point, housing public events and meetings in a light-filled, open space. The building’s layout encourages public interaction, with inviting plazas and landscaped areas that create a welcoming environment.
Inside, San Jose City Hall houses the offices of the mayor and city council, along with various municipal departments. This state-of-the-art facility not only supports the administrative needs of the city but also stands as a symbol of San Jose’s forward-thinking and innovative character.
The building’s interior features a central courtyard, grand staircases, and ornate rooms, serving as the center of Philadelphia’s government. Built with over 88 million bricks and strong iron and stone, it reflects the architectural goals of the 19th century.
Today, Philadelphia City Hall remains an important administrative center and a National Historic Landmark, drawing visitors to admire its beauty and significance.
Image Source: City of San Jose’s Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs
Image Source: B. Krist for GPTMC
San Francisco City Hall
San Francisco, California
Inspired by the Beaux-Arts architecture style famous in Paris from the 1830s through the 19th century, this masterpiece stands as a testament to the city’s resilience and grandeur. Designed by architect Arthur Brown Jr. and completed in 1915, it replaced the original city hall destroyed in the 1906 earthquake.
The building features an impressive façade with classical columns, intricate carvings, and grand staircases. Its most striking feature is the massive dome which rises 307 feet above the ground, making it one of the tallest in the world and even taller than the U.S. Capitol dome.
Milwaukee City Hall
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Completed in 1895, Milwaukee’s City Hall is a spectacular example of the Flemish Renaissance Revival architecture style. Designed by architect Henry C. Koch, the building features a distinctive façade with ornate terra cotta detailing, a soaring clock tower, and a steep, copper-tiled roof.
Standing 353 feet tall, the clock tower was one of the tallest in the world at the time of its completion and remains a prominent feature of the city’s skyline.
The interior boasts grand staircases, intricate woodwork, and stained-glass windows that add
The interior is equally grand, with a sweeping marble staircase, gilded details, and elegant rotundas. The building houses the offices of the mayor, city supervisors, and various municipal departments. It also serves as a popular venue for civic events, weddings, and public gatherings. Most notably, Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio got married in one of the private rooms in city hall in 1954.
San Francisco City Hall functions as the heart of city government and stands as a symbol of the city’s architectural beauty and historical significance.
to its historical charm. Milwaukee City Hall serves as the central hub for the city’s government, housing the offices of the mayor, city council, and various municipal departments.
Its design and craftsmanship reflect Milwaukee’s rich heritage and commitment to preserving its architectural legacy. Today, it continues to be a focal point for civic administration and a beloved landmark, symbolizing the city’s enduring pride and history.
Image Source: San Francisco Travel Association
Image Source: AdobeStock
Chandler City Hall
Chandler, Arizona
Chandler City Hall exemplifies the vibrant spirit of Chandler, Arizona with a modern architecture style that embraced the influx of tech companies in the area in the 1970s.
Completed in 2010, the building showcases a contemporary design with sleek lines, geometric shapes, and expansive glass facades that reflect the city’s desert surroundings. Designed to prioritize sustainability, Chandler City Hall incorporates energy-efficient features such as solar panels, water-saving systems, and natural ventilation.
Its awe-inspiring exterior is complemented by landscaped courtyards and public plazas, providing invit-
ing spaces for community gatherings and events. Inside, the building features modern amenities, including spacious atriums, conference rooms, and collaborative workspaces, fostering a dynamic and efficient environment for municipal operations.
Chandler City Hall serves as the administrative headquarters for the city, housing offices for the mayor, city council, and various departments. With its innovative design and commitment to environmental stewardship, Chandler City Hall stands as a symbol of progress and pride for the community.
It’s clear that America’s city halls are more than just government buildings; they are beautiful symbols of civic pride and history. From the grand Philadelphia City Hall to the modern Chandler City Hall, each one tells a unique story of the city’s past and future.
These stunning buildings serve important government functions and stand as icons of their communities. Whether it’s the historic charm of Milwaukee’s clock tower or the eco-friendly, modern design of San Jose’s glass rotunda, these municipal buildings show the diverse architectural styles that shape our cities.
Has your city launched an innovative program or initiative? We want to hear about it! Nominate your city for Community of the Year 2024.
UPCOMING PLAYMAKER EVENTS community of the year 2024
PLAYMAKER EVENTS
Ready to learn? Attending Community Playmaker webinars and events is a great way to connect with our community of leaders (aka Playmakers) and discover best practices from inspiring cities around the country. Stay informed by visiting our events website:
West
Charleston & VIRGINIA Kanawha County
Kanawha County, West Virginia Commissioner Ben Salango, Mayor Amy Goodwin of Charleston, West Virginia, and U.S. Senator Joe Manchin have a vision that goes beyond the crane that rest in the rubble of the former Macy’s in the city’s downtown. They’re looking at the future site of an innovative new sports venue. The venue will be a multisport complex featuring six basketball/12 volleyball courts, eight pickleball courts, a wrestling room, a fitness center, a turf soccer field, a running track, a swimming pool, and a rock-climbing wall. The new facility is part of a larger effort to revitalize downtown Charleston and a symbol of the shift to sports as an anchor to drive new businesses, visitors, and residents.
