A COMMUNITY EMBRACING NEW GROWTH Also in this issue GREAT BEND, KS • TALLASSEE, AL • KLAMATH COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT VOLUME 5, ISSUE 06 | JUN 2024 PORTHOPE O N T A R I O Cox Communications High-Speed Internet Enriches Lives. Pg. 117
WWW. BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE .COM Email for all inquiries: info@businessviewmagazine.com 2422 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 820 Sanibel FL, 33957 239.220.5554 CONTACT US TITLE SPONSORS GREAT NEWS! Business View Publishing was named to the 2020 Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies! Read the press release Editor in Chief Karen Surca Research Directors Paul Payne Brendan McElroy Thomas Hiley Chad Loveless Jessica Zaneis Mike Luchetta Ali Ahmed Jillian Hicks Javier Robles Contributing Writers Andrew Macfarlane Michelle Mahoney Brett Anningson Caroline Verner-Hiley Al Krulick Ian Gyan Dan Marcharia Director of Production Jared Ali Director of Administration Michelle Siewah Director of Marketing Nora Saliken Digital Strategist Jon Bartlow Art Director Renée Yearwood Managing Director Alexander Wynne-Jones COO Matthew Mitchell Executive Publisher / CEO Marcus VandenBrink 1 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
EDITOR’S NOTES Dear Readers, The unofficial start of summer has arrived. If you are like me, you are probably having a hard time wrapping your head around how fast the last few months have flown by. Many may welcome the hot and hazy days of summer and are looking to relax. Around the offices of Business View Publishing, we are also certainly feeling the excitement of summer. Although many are looking forward to winding down over the summer months, the cities, organizations, school districts, and airports that we were fortunate to profile are doing the exact opposite. All are revving up to welcome continued growth and new initiatives over the summer ahead. We covered them all with the same enthusiasm we put into every issue of our publications. Business View is proud to continue with our sectorfocus series profiling leading school districts across North America. Education remains the cornerstone to future success and with a new economy comes a shift in curriculum for many school districts across the US and Canada. Prioritizing technology training and focusing on work and co-op experiences for their students, school districts are successfully pivoting to meet the needs of jobs and careers of the future. We sat down with school officials from Peel District School Board, Fenton Area Public Schools, Lanier County School District, Klamath County Schools to Kearney Public Schools to discuss core values, career readiness, and educational initiatives that are setting our students up for success. A sunny June forecast is also predicted for the municipalities we covered for our June issue. We sat down with city officials from Buffalo, Minnesota, Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal, Ontario, Great Bend, Kansas, to Tamaqua, Pennsylvania among other fast-growing municipalities. Commercial growth coupled with residential growth has propelled these municipalities into representing some of the fastestgrowing regions across North America as they continue to implement core infrastructure initiatives for their residents. Company profiles also filled the pages of our June issue as we went the extra mile to highlight winning strategies as these organizations adapt to a more favorable economic climate. We bring you features with Brookens Construction, Claffey Pools, Fortis Corporation, and Fortis Design Build among other top-tier organizations covering a cross-section of business sectors. As we continue to bring you the very best sector and industry-focused features, we hope that you have a little extra time to get outside to read them and welcome the warm spring weather at your doorstep. Karen Surca Editor in Chief 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
CITY VIEW 19 BUFFALO, MN Growth and Community at the Heart of the Midwest 29 EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL, ON A Strategic Vision for Dynamic Growth and Community Focus 43 ELIZABETHTOWN-KITLEY, ON An Eastern Ontario Township Where Rural Beauty Meets Urban Progress 53 PORT HOPE, ON A Community Embracing New Growth 63 GREAT BEND, KS A City Looking Towards Continued Growth V O L U M E 0 5 , I S S U E 0 6 COVER PORT HOPE, ON 2 EDITOR’S NOTES 7 OPENING LINES BUFFALO, MN EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL, ON 19 29 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
Continuously improving is at the core of BrandPoint Services’ DNA. Every job is surveyed and reviewed as part of our quality-control process, ensuring that we delivered on our promise. But we don’t stop there. We find opportunities to deliver an even better experience from location to location, project to project. When you choose BrandPoint, you won’t need to manage multiple suppliers. From painting and flooring to repairs and remodeling, BrandPoint is the solution for expert project management and quality work across North America. Learn how BrandPoint Services can help you improve your next multi-site program. BrandPointServices.com 800.905.4342 PAINTING • GRAPHICS • FLOORING • SURVEYING • GENERAL REPAIRS © 2021 BrandPoint Services, Inc. Improving
V O L U M E 0 5 , I S S U E 0 6 73 PARK CITY, KS The Social Center of the Midwest 83 HAZLETON, PA/HAZLETON REGIONAL AIRPORT Soaring to New Heights in Service and Growth 97 TALLASSEE, AL A Perfect Blend of History, Industry, and Community Spirit 107 TAMAQUA, PA A Thriving and Dynamic Borough 113 WICKENBURG, AZ A Historic Western Gem 127 DISTRICT HEIGHTS, MD A Quiet Gem in Prince George’s County 137 ZUMBROTA, MN The Story of a Flourishing Minnesota Town DISTRICT HEIGHTS, MD TAMQUA, PA 127 107 5 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
The articles in this publication are for information purposes only. Business View Publishing assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed, or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual or organization has been provided by such individual or organization without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is that of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Business View Publishing. EDUCATION 149 FENTON AREA PUBLIC SCHOOLS Pillars of Innovations and Community Engagement 159 HURON-SUPERIOR CDSB Shaping Tomorrow’s Student Success 169 KEARNEY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Blueprint for Excellence 179 KLAMATH COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT From Classroom to Community 189 LANIER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT An Academic Anchor 199 PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD A First-Class Education 213 SUPERIOR-GREENSTONE DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD A Diverse School District that is Cultivating Community and Nurturing Excellence 219 YORKTOWN COMMUNITY SCHOOLS A top-rated public school district in central Indiana LANIER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT FENTON AREA PUBLIC SCHOOLS 189 211 6 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
GE AEROSPACE DEVELOPING HYBRIDELECTRIC ENGINE WITH NA Source- https://www.wearefinn.com, Editor News, First Published June 19th, 2024 GE Aerospace is developing a hybrid-electric demonstrator engine with NASA, modifying a Passport powerplant to embed electric motors/ generators and supplement power during different phases of operation, with ongoing evaluations informing an upcoming ground test. Through modifying the high-bypass commercial turbofan with hybrid-electric components, NASA’s Hybrid Thermally Efficient Core (HyTEC) project hopes to advance electric aircraft engine technology; optimizing performance by “creating a system that can work with or without energy storage like batteries,” explains GE. This could help accelerate the introduction of hybrid electric technologies for commercial aviation before energy storage solutions are fully mature. The modification of the Passport engine is one of several GE initiatives underway and is being developed as part of the CFM International Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines (RISE) programme, a collaboration between GE O p e n i n g L i n e s 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
“Our collaborations with industry partners like GE Aerospace are paving the way for US leadership in hybrid electric commercial transport aircraft,” said Anthony Nerone, HyTEC project manager, NASA’s Glenn research centre. Noting that single-aisle aircraft are the biggest contributors to aviation carbon emissions, he added: “That’s why we’re focusing on key technologies that will enable next generation single-aisle aircraft with much greater efficiency and reduced emissions than the other fleet”. Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines. With initial component-level testing and an initial baseline test now complete, the results are now being used to evaluate and update models in preparation for a ground test. Another NASA collaboration involves GE maturing an integrated,megawatt-class hybrid-electric propulsion system as part of the Electrified Powertrain Flight Demonstration (EPFD) programme, with the system scheduled to perform ground and flight tests aboard a modified Saab 340B test-bed this decade. 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
OPENING L INES Source- https://www.wearefinn.com, Howard Hardee, First Published June 24th, 2024 US electric propulsion developer Magnix is rolling out a new line of high-performance batteries known as Samson, promising “industry-leading energy density” to support the fledgling electric aviation industry. The Everett, Washington-based company said on 24 June that the first iteration of its Samson battery line – the Samson300 – will deliver 300Wh/kg and a cycle life of 1,000 “full-depth discharges to reduce operating costs”. The product line represents a ”breakthrough for Magnix and electric aviation”, says Ben Loxton, vice-president of energy storage systems and the NASA Electric Powertrain Flight Demonstration programme at Magnix. “With unrivaled energy density, cycle life and safety features, Magnix’s Samson batteries will help to unlock the tremendous potential of electric flight – enabling many eVTOLs and electric programmes on the edge of viability to become viable.” Magnix says its Samson300 battery is “designed for certification” under civil aviation regulations Magnix, which is developing electric propulsion systems for a variety of light aircraft – including electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles – says that pairing Samson batteries with its electric motors “provides customers with a fully optimized and integrated powertrain for aerospace”. MAGNIX INTRODUCES ‘BREAKTHROUGH’ SAMSON BATTERY LINE FOR ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT 9 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
“The roadmap to an energy density of 400Wh/kg or more is looking very promising,” he says. In April, Canadian seaplane operator Harbour Air signalled intention to purchase 50 electric propulsion systems from Magnix, a move supporting its goal of creating a fleet of all-electric De Havilland Canada aircraft. Magnix supports development of Eviation’s allelectric Alice commuter aircraft, which is currently powered by twin 700kW Magni650 motors. The Magni650 electric propulsion unit has also been applied to Universal Hydrogen’s modified De Havilland Canada Dash 8-300 demonstrator. Increasing the energy density of batteries has been a high priority for the electric aviation sector, with ranges and payloads limited by currently available technology. Magnix’s battery line is intended to maximize energy density for aviation and other highperformance applications. It is also designed for fast turnaround times, ”with active on-ground cooling during charging, and the option for passive cooling in flight, minimizing weight and complexity in the aircraft”. The company claims the battery’s modular architecture will allow it to support larger aircraft. Reed Macdonald, appointed chief executive of Magnix last month, adds that the Samson300 is “just the beginning”. 10 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
OPENING L INES Source- https://www.americancityandcounty.com/, Timothy Menard, First Published June 24, 2024 In recent years, pedestrian safety has become a growing issue in urban planning and traffic management. Alarmingly, the number of traffic-related incidents and fatalities involving pedestrians has increased rapidly, raising significant concerns among policymakers, city planners and the general public. According to a report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian deaths in the United States dropped by 4% in the first half of 2023, but remain 19% higher than in 2019 before the pandemic began, and fatalities have risen a staggering 58% between the first half of 2013 and 2023. It’s time city planners and officials took a closer look at the reasons behind the worsening pedestrian safety, the dangers at intersections, and how artificial intelligence (AI) transit prioritization systems can play a crucial role in improving safety at these critical junctures. THE DETERIORATION OF PEDESTRIAN SAFETY One of the primary reasons for the increase in pedestrian deaths is the rise in vehicle miles traveled (VMT). As more people drive, the likelihood of pedestrian-vehicle interactions increases, leading to a higher number of accidents. Another contributing factor is distracted driving while sitting in traffic. The ubiquity of smartphones and in-car entertainment systems has led to a surge in distracted driving incidents. Drivers who are stuck in traffic are increasingly texting, browsing social media, looking at incar infotainment systems or using navigation apps, and are less likely to notice pedestrians, leading to more accidents. URBAN SPRAWL & TAKING A CITIZEN APPROACH IN URBAN DESIGN Urban sprawl and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure also play significant roles. Many cities were designed with a focus on vehicle traffic rather than pedestrian movement. As a result, sidewalks, crosswalks and pedestrian signals are often inadequate or simply configured. Intersections are particularly hazardous for pedestrians. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 40% of pedestrian fatalities occur at intersections. Intersections today are complex environments where multiple streams of traffic converge. Pedestrians must navigate vehicles turning left or right, often against the light, while also contending with cyclists and other pedestrians. This complexity increases the likelihood of accidents. REASONS FOR INCREASED TRAFFICRELATED INCIDENTS The increase in traffic-related incidents involving pedestrians can be attributed to several societal and technological changes. Urbanization, while generally positive for economic growth and social vibrancy, has brought about denser traffic conditions. Cities are seeing more cars on the road and more people walking, creating additional opportunities for conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles. City planners and elected officials are not taking pedestrians and citizens into account in their planning THE GROWING CRISIS OF PEDESTRIAN SAFETY: A CALL FOR PREDICTIVE & PRESCRIPTIVE AI-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS 11 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
efforts. In the development of today’s truly smart cities, the infrastructure is at the core of all things pedestrian. This is being seen up and down the West coast of the U.S., in cities like Seattle; Portland, Ore.; and San Jose, Calif., where officials are reshaping busy corridor strategies leveraging AI and data technology to move urban transit, pedestrians, bikers, commuters, and first responder vehicles in a more concerted effort. These reshaped urban transit strategies, centered on prescriptive efforts in reducing congestion, have resulted in less stop-and-go traffic, where pedestrians can be more in tune where they co-exist better with traffic systems. The design of modern vehicles also plays a role. Today’s cars are equipped with numerous in-dash technologies that,while convenient, can also be distracting. Infotainment systems, navigation aids, and even advanced driver assistance systems can divert attention away from the road. Furthermore, larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks, which are more popular today than ever, pose a greater threat to pedestrians due to their size and weight. As one example, Tesla’s Cybertruck is measured at 6,843 pounds, and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds. For comparison, the 2023 Ford F-150 starts at slightly more than 4,000 pounds and can go from 0-60 mph in about 5.5 seconds. The Cybertruck’s extreme acceleration capabilities, combined with its weight, means that drivers will have less time to react to pedestrians, and collisions with them will be deadlier. THE ROLE OF AI IN ENHANCING PEDESTRIAN SAFETY AT INTERSECTIONS AI offers promising solutions to improve pedestrian safety at intersections. AI transit prioritization systems can enhance the management of traffic flow, reduce accidents, and save lives. Here’s how: • Adaptive traffic signals: AI-driven adaptive traffic signals can adjust signal timing based on real-time traffic conditions and pedestrian activity. Traditional traffic signals operate on fixed schedules that do not account for variations in traffic flow or pedestrian presence. AI systems can analyze data from cameras, sensors, and other inputs to dynamically adjust signal timings, ensuring pedestrians have sufficient time to cross safely. This will result in resetting roads not just to the demands of vehicles and constantly changing vehicle traffic patterns, but also resetting to pedestrian and bicyclist demands. Imagine a day when walkers and runners can enjoy a series of green lights, in addition to cars and buses. • Predictive analytics: AI can use historical data and real-time inputs to predict potential pedestrian-vehicle conflicts. By identifying patterns and high-risk times or conditions, city planners and traffic managers can implement targeted measures to enhance safety. For instance, predictive models can inform the placement of additional signage, speed bumps or pedestrian crossings in areas with high pedestrian traffic. • Enhanced data collection and analysis: AI can improve the collection and analysis of data related to pedestrian safety. By continuously monitoring traffic patterns, pedestrian movements and accident data, AI systems can provide valuable insights for improving intersection design and traffic management strategies.This data-driven approach enables more informed decisionmaking and better resource allocation. As we continue to embrace technological advancements, it is imperative that city planners, policymakers, and technology developers collaborate to implement AI-driven solutions that are more predictive and prescriptive. The future of pedestrian safety depends on our ability to leverage these innovations to create smarter, safer and more efficient urban environments. 12 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
UNDERSTAND THE NUANCES OF NEW TECHNOLOGY According to a 2024 HR Trends report by NEOGOV released earlier this year, “operational efficiency is important for any organization, but especially for government agencies struggling with staffing shortages and high turnover. The majority of agencies say their operational efficiency, which is defined as the ability to deliver high-quality service at scale with few resources, is good (46 percent), and even excellent (10 percent). To improve these operational inefficiencies, agencies are turning to technology.” AI is a good example of a technology that can be used to improve efficiencies, yet it also highlights why policy and systematic policy management is necessary. As a relatively new and rapidly evolving technology it is a welcome tool, especially when it comes to the HR function. It is clear that there are many advantages of AI, however for local governments, it is crucial to understand that there are also risks to consider. Take ChatGPT. It is now one of the most widely used AI tools, according to Forbes. And with good reason. It has proven to be incredibly effective for many individuals and organizations, streamlining many otherwise tedious and HOWONE CITY IS PROACTIVELYMANAGING AI USE—AND WHAT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS CAN LEARN FROM IT OPENING L INES Source- https://www.americancityandcounty.com/, Tod Hurley, First Published April 08, 2024 AI (artificial intelligence) had a big year last year. A topic once reserved for tech circles, it became a frequent news headline and a regular dinner table conversation piece. Governments across the world began shaping policies for AI. In the U.S., President Joe Biden enacted his executive order in October, which created several initiatives to promote transparency, safety and security. While this is likely just the beginning of more regulation to come, presently, local government agencies are more or less faced with creating their own nuanced approaches to AI policy. While AI’s uses and implications are just being figured out, for local governments AI could create security issues because AI search becomes public, which can put sensitive information at risk (security protocols, etc.). And while some municipalities have banned AI outright for this reason, the city of Grove City, Ohio, is taking a different approach. They are creating a model for how other local governments can create and share an AI policy for safe and appropriate use. LAY THE GROUNDWORK Grove City’s approach is grounded in proactive governance and risk mitigation. However, before creating an AI policy, the city first took a hard look at its policy management practices. At a high level, they wanted to ensure that employees had a clear understanding of acceptable conduct and performance from day one of their career journey. Upon review, the city realized it lacked formal policies for several aspects of employee conduct and performance. As a result, the city adopted a policy management system already utilized and proven by the Grove City Police Department, to lay the foundation, transfer its existing policies into the cloud, then establish new policies and add them into the mix, helping them to accomplish a more formalized sense of compliance and communication. With this simple move, Grove City immediately added an enhanced layer of professionalism to its HR processes.When employees start their career at the city, they now have clear expectations and accountability for a wide range of policies, from the appropriate use of assets to the city’s drone policy. Employees acknowledge and sign off on these policies as well, so when the city must undergo an audit, it has a direct record of signatures to establish compliance. Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, when a policy is updated or a new policy created to adapt to an evolving technology, Grove City has a simple, straightforward way to communicate with employees in real-time and ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of what the policy means for them. 13 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
CREATE A POLICY THAT WORKS In Grove City, the information systems department took all of this into consideration and championed the development of a policy to ensure the city could embrace the operational efficiencies that come with AI, while ensuring its sensitive data remained protected. First, the city took a detailed look at its data and classified it accordingly. Generally, it fell into four classification levels: public data, internal data, confidential data and restricted data. The city then determined that AI fit into the appropriate use policy and updated that policy with the core consideration that all uses must be approved by the information systems department. Employees must sign off on this policy at the time of hire, and then on an annual basis. When considering a request to useAI,the information systems team reviews what classification of data a department is using and if it will put the city’s data at risk. For example, any information that would need to be redacted upon reporting, i.e. personal identifiable information (PII) or victim information would not be approved for AI use. Additionally, Grove City’s information systems department manages IT for five township fire departments in the city, so in that case healthcare considerations come into the equation. For example, patient information and HIPAA considerations. While the above scenarios are mostly a common sense take on what would qualify as sensitive information, there are often scenarios that are more nuanced. For example, sharing information about the city’s infrastructure, and the potential for cybersecurity risk.According to Forbes,“global cybercrime damage costs are expected to grow by 15 percent per year over the next two years, reaching $10.5 trillion USD annually by 2025.” This is a crucial consideration. Water, sanitary, stormwater, communication, IT infrastructure in the state of Ohio is protected infrastructure and should not be disclosed as they can put a municipality at high cybersecurity risk. AN EVOLVING TECHNOLOGY LANDSCAPE Whether local governments decide to enact a formal policy or more informal guidelines, it is important that they recognize that AI is a growing force in our technology landscape—one that must be given careful consideration. The efforts in Grove City serve as a model for local governments grappling with the complexity of AI governance. As the nature of AI changes, and experts learn more about its many pros and cons, the policies can and will shift as well. Having a strong framework in place will help adapt to an ever-changing technology environment to continue to ensure the safety and security of employees, citizens, and municipalities as a whole—now and in the future. time-consuming tasks. But using a tool like ChatGPT comes with inherent risk. For example, hypothetically, if Grove City’s HR team was interested in changing the city’s dress code, it could easily ask the free-to-use AI ChatBot, ChatGPT, to write a policy that explains that a blue polo is now required. However, what many don’t realize is that the data fed into ChatGPT is now no longer proprietary; it is now in the public domain. This essentially means that this data could be used by others outside of the organization, and potentially in ways that were not intended. In this hypothetical example, the data is not sensitive, therefore risk is low. However, local governments deal with a large amount of sensitive information that should not be shared publicly. This is where the right policy comes into play. According to the same HR Trends report referenced earlier, a whopping 78 percent of government agencies do not have documented policies or procedures surrounding AI, even though it is already being used to help agencies automate routine tasks, develop data-driven policies, and improve service delivery. 14 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
OPENING L INES CITIES AND COUNTIES EXPAND SKILLS OF THEIR TECHNOLOGY TEAMS TO MEET TODAY’S CYBER-THREATS Source- https://www.americancityandcounty.com/, Micheal Keating, First Published 14 March, 2024 Government IT operations are vulnerable. More than a third of IT leaders in state and local governments say their number one challenge heading into 2024 is the possibility of a data breach as a result of inadequate staffing. These findings are from a recent survey from Ensono, a technology consulting and managed service provider. Cities and counties need a variety of skills on their techbuying and IT maintenance teams, says Dean Johnson, senior executive government advisor at Ensono. Johnson previously worked for more than two decades managing IT initiatives for the Georgia state government. His view: Cybersecurity experts are essential for safeguarding sensitive public sector data and are needed more than ever in local government workforces. Johnson says local governments face several key challenges when they try to recruit, train and retain IT staffers. He says they “struggle to attract and retain qualified candidates due to comparatively lower salaries offered in the public sector as opposed to the private industry.” He points to other challenges: • Inadequate training programs for existing staff members in government can hinder their ability to keep up with evolving technologies. This helps contribute to a skills gap. • Problems with recruitment and retention of government workers further compound the issue of maintaining an adequate workforce. • Jurisdictions lack a comprehensive strategy to address these concerns and ensure a skilled and motivated IT workforce in local government. They need a complete strategy to maintain appropriate staff counts to meet growing workloads. Johnson says one way to meet these challenges is to develop a hybrid workforce leveraging public-private 15 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
S partnerships with managed service providers. He adds: “With our Flex Engineering capabilities, Ensono can tailor a solution to address many of the skill gaps found within local government.” Johnson says there are tools that cities and counties can use to recruit experienced ITmaintenance staffers.“Local governments can leverage their existing staff members’ vast network of the skilled IT workforce they already know. They can use a variety of outreach techniques (email, LinkedIn, phone calls, texts, etc.) that your staffers regularly use to stay in touch with their peers and contacts throughout the industry.” His conclusion: “Referrals from existing staff are one the most effective ways to recruit, especially when recruiting in the public sector space, given the unique nature of many of these positions.” Technology procurement in local governments demands a variety of skills, Johnson believes. He lists some of the key players who belong on the tech-buying team: • The chief information officer (CIO) provides strategic direction, aligning technology initiatives with organizational goals. • An IT project manager oversees project implementation, ensuring effective resource allocation. • Cloud ERP specialists facilitate the transition to cloud-based systems, enhancing efficiency. • AI and Internet of Things (IoT) specialists contribute innovative solutions. • Cryptocurrency and e-procurement specialists can help governments navigate evolving trends. • Other skilled personnel, including database administrators, IT support professionals, data analysts and network administrators can help the public sector ensure day-to-day operations, data management, informed decision-making, and infrastructure maintenance are well-addressed. The Ensono executive offers this final opinion on team building: “This diverse team composition reflects a holistic strategy, vital for successful and forward-thinking tech-buying decisions in local government settings.” Johnson says digital transformation in organizations (including governments) involves the mapping of the technology being used to the business functions that the organization performs. “Public sector employees at large will need to have the skill to map the relevant data and technology resources to the business functions they serve in government. These staffers will need to work out what information is consumed and then define how it’s delivered back to agencies and the public that uses it.”He adds that governments can assess their current workers who understand the business side of government. Those workers, he explains, can be trained to work as business analysts, data architects, and program managers. Johnson points to one procurement tool that can offer potential value: “Cooperative purchasing agreements can indeed be extremely instrumental in helping cities and counties secure the necessary IT support services for their jurisdictions. By collaborating with other entities, local governments can benefit from economies of scale, negotiating better rates, and accessing a broader range of expertise. This approach fosters cost-effectiveness, enhances procurement efficiency, and allows for shared resources, enabling municipalities to navigate the complexities of IT support services more effectively.” 16 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
city view PARKCITY, KS THE SOCIAL CENTER OF THE MIDWEST HAZLETONPA/HAZLETON REGIONALAIRPORT SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS IN SERVICE AND GROWTH WICKENBURG, AZ A HISTORIC WESTERN GEM EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL, ON A STRATEGIC VISION FOR DYNAMIC GROWTH AND COMMUNITY FOCUS BUFFALO, MN GROWTH AND COMMUNITYAT THE HEART OF THE MIDWEST PORTHOPE, ON A COMMUNITYEMBRACING NEWGROWTH TALLASSEE, AL A PERFECT BLEND OF HISTORY, INDUSTRY, AND COMMUNITYSPIRIT ELIZABETHTOWN-KITLEY, ON WHERE RURAL BEAUTYMEETS URBAN PROGRESS GREATBEND, KS A CITY LOOKING TOWARDS CONTINUED GROWTH TAMAQUA, PA A THRIVING AND DYNAMIC BOROUGH ZUMBROTAMN THE STORYOF A FLOURISHING MINNESOTA TOWN DISTRICTHEIGHTS, MD A QUIET GEM IN PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY 17 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
18 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
BUFFALO, MN GROWTHANDC ATTHEHEART MIDWEST AT A GLANCE CITYOF BUFFALO, MINNESOTA WHAT: A vibrant, growing community known for its picturesque lakes, dynamic culture, and strategic economic development. WHERE: Buffalo, Minnesota WEBSITE: www.ci.buffalo.mn.us 19 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
COMMUNITY OFTHE Blending a rich heritage with innovative growth strategies to foster a tight-knit community. Buffalo,Minnesota,a charming cityabout 42 miles northwest of Minneapolis, blends small-town warmth with vibrant community spirit. Known for its picturesque settings, Buffalo is bordered by two beautiful lakes, Buffalo Lake and Lake Pulaski, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city’s parks, trails, and community spaces are well-maintained and invite residents 20 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
and visitors alike to enjoy year-round activities, from summer concerts in Sturges Park to winter skating at the Civic Center. A hub of local culture, Buffalo hosts an array of events that draw crowds from across the region. The annual Buffalo Days, celebrated every June, features a grand parade, fireworks, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Championship Rodeo, Minnesota’s oldest rodeo, showcases thrilling performances of cowboy skill and tradition. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s numerous public sculptures and murals and the popular Art & Craft Festival held each August. Mayor Teri Lachermeier shares her enthusiasm about what makes the city stand out.“I consider myself the number one cheerleader for our community,” she begins, highlighting the intimate charm of Buffalo. “We’re a very quaint town with a strong sense of community,” she notes. The mayor also outlines the extensive recreational infrastructure that makes Buffalo a notable destination. “We have 30 public parks, two arenas, and our civic center,” she shares. The city also prides itself on its 27miles of bike and pedestrian trails and a municipal airport that hosts a popular annual aviation event. “These facilities and events highlight what we have to offer and put our city on the map,” she adds. CELEBRATING RECREATION AND CULTURE IN BUFFALO The Planning and Economic Development Director, David Kelly, brings a unique perspective on Buffalo’s geographical charm.“One of the things that I always find exciting from the planning side is that we have two massive lakes in the city,” he points out. Buffalo Lake and Lake Pulaski are substantial in size and central to the community’s lifestyle and recreational activities. “People come from around the area to go fishing, and we utilize the lakes. We’re planning to enhance this interaction even further in the future,” Kelly explains, sharing his vision for leveraging these natural resources to enrich community life further. He also touches on a curious local cultural quirk related to the city’s name. “It’s funny because we have these bison statues throughout our downtown, representing buffaloes, yet ironically, we’re named 21 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06 BUFFALO, MN
22 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
after the buffalo fish,” Kelly adds, illustrating how these icons have become embedded in the city’s cultural fabric. Mayor Lachermeier expands on this cultural emblem with “Do the Roam,” a local art initiative involving uniquely decorated buffalo statues throughout Buffalo. “There’s a map listing all of the buffaloes within the community, each one uniquely decorated by our arts guild. People come to Buffalo to ‘do the roam,’” she says, pointing out that the number of statues has grown beyond the original 21 listed. This initiative not only celebrates local artistry but also fosters a unique interactive experience for residents and visitors, further encapsulating the communityoriented nature of Buffalo. DEVELOPMENT IN BUFFALO As Buffalo continues to cultivate its charm and viability as a city, several major development projects and infrastructure initiatives are underway. Kelly outlines several substantial initiatives that are shaping Buffalo’s future. “We have three big ones,” he says, his enthusiasm evident. “The future of Buffalo, the Business and Commerce Park is probably the biggest development project.” Located on a 95-acre site formerly used as a gravel pit along State Highway 55—one of the main thoroughfares through the city—this new industrial park represents a significant shift. “We’ve been eager to create a new industrial park for several years because the one we currently have had been pretty full for a while,” Kelly explains. With plans for building out the site in the coming years and searching for an anchor tenant, this development is poised to become a central hub for industrial growth. Another significant project is the redevelopment of Real People offering Real Solutions. Bolton-Menk.com We are a proud partner of the City of Buffalo. 23 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06 BUFFALO, MN
Trunk Highway 25.“While a joint City-MnDOT project, the redevelopment of this highway will activate a major area right in the city’s downtown,” Kelly notes. The project has introduced more green space and potential uses for the lake, enhancing the downtown area’s aesthetic and functional aspects. Kelly also highlights the City’s efforts to replace older infrastructure in key areas of the city.“We have another street project coming up that will update some city infrastructure, including sewer service lines from the 1930s,” he reveals. Such updates are crucial for modernizing the city’s foundational services and ensuring sustainability for future generations. The former Wright County Government Center project is potentially the most transformative for Buffalo’s downtown landscape.“This property is 6 ½ acres of lakefront property, and the County recently entered into a purchase agreement with a developer to redevelop the parcel in conjunction with our 2040 Downtown Visions Plan,” Kelly shares. The mixed-use development envisioned for this site could include residential and commercial spaces, significantly impacting the city’s core. Kelly points to Buffalo’s growth as a residential haven when discussing housing developments. “We have a lot of single-family homes, unsurprisingly, as the West Metro keeps growing out of the Twin Cities,” he says. Developments like Greenbriar Hills and Settlers Brook are expanding Buffalo’s housing stock. At the same time,multifamily and senior living facilities like Creekside Manor cater to diverse needs, including the increasing demand for affordable housing.“We’re actively seeking additional affordable housing opportunities to provide a better housing mix to our residents,” he adds, indicating a strategic focus Teri Lachermeier, Mayor 24 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
on inclusivity in Buffalo’s housing market. This blend of development initiatives underscores a concerted effort to craft a thriving, inclusive community that balances growth with quality of life. A MAGNET FOR GROWTH AND INNOVATION Buffalo’s strategic advancements in infrastructure, particularly in telecommunications, have significantly elevated its appeal as a prime location for businesses and residents alike. Mayor Lachermeier emphasizes the city’s recent strategic enhancements. “We just recently made a large investment in fiber. Our council decided to move forward with City owned, Buffalo Fiber, extending our fiber network to priority areas first,” she states. This move aims to bolster the city’s future business and commercial prospects, offering competitive rates that challenge the private sector. “It’s a big piece of what people are looking for,” she adds, noting the importance of high-speed connectivity in today’s digital economy. Highlighting the city’s cultural vibrancy, Mayor Lachermeier proudly mentions,“We have events like the Street Party of Hope, Buffalo Days, and Kites on Ice, which attract visitors and former residents. Every Thursday during summer, we offer free concerts in the park supported by local businesses, emphasizing our community spirit without relying on taxpayer dollars.” Kelly shares insights into the thriving local business scene thanks to the city’s supportive environment and desirable location. “Forget Me Not Cafe and OutDo Work suites are just a couple of examples of businesses that have expanded significantly,” he explains. Similarly, JTB Home Furnishings has tripled its space, diversifying its product offerings and contributing to the downtown’s economic vitality. Taylor Gronau, the CityAdministrator, brings attention to the healthcare sector, specifically Allina FullService Hospital, a significant regional employer and healthcare provider. “They offer a range of specialties, from cardiology to oncology, right here in town,” Gronau points out, highlighting the hospital’s ongoing plans for expansion despite spatial limitations. This breadth of services underscores Buffalo’s capacity to provide comprehensive care and 25 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06 BUFFALO, MN
employment opportunities, reinforcing its status as a growing hub within the state. MEETING CHALLENGES WITH RESILIENCE AND INNOVATION Despite its thriving community and economic development, Buffalo has faced significant challenges, particularly around local employment and infrastructure shifts. Kelly discusses the relocation of the Wright County Government Center from downtown.This move initially sparked concerns about a potential downturn in local business due to the loss of daily foot traffic. “When they were relocating, there was a genuine concern about losing 300 plus people who would eat, shop, and spend time downtown,” he explains. Surprisingly, this shift did not lead to the business closures anticipated. “Few, if any, business closures have resulted directly from this.With the downtown investments, our business environment has proven to be largely stable and quite resilient,” Kelly observes. He also highlights several initiatives that have bolstered downtown Buffalo’s resiliency and curb appeal. “The HRA’s downtown facade improvement program, offering $7,500 in matching grants, for specific façade updates has been very successful,” he states. Alongside, programs like the local spending campaign and a commercial repair program encourage businesses to invest in maintaining and enhancing their premises, ensuring lively and active downtown streets. Mayor Lachermeier adds perspective on relocating the government center to just outside the city limits, suggesting it could spur further economic development.“Due to the number of employees and the traffic the new campus attracts, it’s going to bring a lot of retail, restaurants, and other services,” she points out. This strategic move will expand Buffalo’s city limits and economic footprint. FUTURE GROWTH AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT As Buffalo looks toward the latter half of 2024 and beyond, the city is poised on the cusp of a carefully managed growth trajectory, emphasizing 26 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
infrastructure development and community engagement. Mayor Lachermeier articulates the balance Buffalo seeks to maintain as it grows. “We’re innovating with growth and challenges. We are growing at such a nice pace, but it’s sometimes overwhelming,” she admits. The mayor emphasizes the importance of maintaining the city’s small-town feel alongside its expansion. “We want to keep that sense of community because we don’t want people to be strangers.We want them to come together,” she says. This balance involves ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with growth, including maintaining roads, expanding fiber access, and supporting retail and industrial developments. Kelly highlights the specific areas where Buffalo intends to invest, mainly focusing on infrastructure and downtown revitalization. “The investments in infrastructure,whether it be fiber, streets, or pavement management plans, are huge,” he notes. He also points to placemaking and wayfinding downtown 27 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06 BUFFALO, MN
as major focal points for future investments.“Greater activation of Buffalo Lake, given its location right on the lake, is another priority. We’re excited to see how the redevelopment of the government center can enhance its use and integrate it more fully into the life of the downtown,” he explains. Furthermore, Kelly discusses the importance of increased collaboration with stakeholders and the public to meet the community’s needs.“We’re always trying to find new ways to engage the public,” he states, mentioning new initiatives like the “See It, Fix It” infrastructure complaint service and the “Citizens Academy,” which aims to educate residents about city operations.“We’re aiming for more engagement, and I think, from there, we can only strengthen our community,” Kelly concludes. Through thoughtful planning, innovative community engagement strategies, and a focus on enhancing everyday life for its citizens, Buffalo is setting a course for a future that respects its heritage while embracing the possibilities of growth and change. This strategic approach ensures that Buffalo will continue to thrive as a vibrant community, balancing the challenges of development while preserving its cherished small-town essence. PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER nBolton & Menk Inc www.bolton-menk.com 28 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL , ON ASTRATEGICVISIO GROWTHANDCOM AT A GLANCE EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL WHAT: A township renowned for its strategic economic positioning and community-driven initiatives WHERE: Ontario, Canada WEBSITE: www.twpec.ca Melding a rich heritage with innovative strategies to foster a vibrant future. 29 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
ONFORDYNAMIC MMUNITYFOCUS e growth Edwardsburgh/Cardinal, Ontario, is a captivating fusion of industrial dynamism and serene natural beauty, strategically nestled along the St. Lawrence River. With a rich history rooted in the logging and milling industries, this township has blossomed into a versatile hub, fostering significant growth in agriculture and advanced manufacturing. Its strategic location, with major highways, international 30 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
bridges to New York, and a main CN rail line, sets Edwardsburgh/Cardinal apart as a gateway for businesses and a charming yet vibrant community for its residents. Mayor Tory Deschamps underscores the township’s exceptional geographical advantage. “We’re uniquely positioned just under two hours east of Montreal and under one hour south of Ottawa, with convenient access to Kingston as well,” he elaborates. The mayor accentuates the township’s connectivity, “With two international bridges and intersecting major highways like the 401, our location is ideal for industrial, tourist, and residential growth.” The appeal of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal extends far beyond its logistical advantages. Mayor Deschamps vividly describes a region teeming with natural and recreational opportunities. “The area is a true gem, adorned with picturesque countryside settings and lively small downtowns. We boast a plethora of historical sites and top-notch recreational facilities,” he enthuses. This rural charm and affordable quality of life make it an irresistible destination for families and businesses. ECONOMIC ENGINES OF EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL In the heart of Ontario, Edwardsburgh/Cardinal is not just a picturesque locale but a thriving center of economic activity, harnessing its unique assets to propel growth. Mayor Deschamps beams with pride as he points to the municipal ownership of the Port of Johnstown, a key element in the township’s economic strategy. “Owning an international deepwater port provides us with significant leverage. We’re not just bringing in steel and working on energy projects; we also handle massive quantities of agricultural products like grain, wheat, corn, and soy,” he explains. This port supports the local agricultural sector by moving a vast amount of produce to market and services a substantial area, including eastern Ontario and western Quebec. Highlighting the dual nature of the local economy, Mayor Deschamps adds, “While we’re anchored in agriculture, our industrial capabilities are 31 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06 EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL , ON
32 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06
expansive. The industrial park here was sold out recently, emphasizing the demand for space spurred by businesses keen to capitalize on our strategic location.” Greenfield Global’s recent $165 million investment in producing very high-quality alcohol in the township demonstrates Edwardsburgh/Cardinal’s industrial appeal. Discussing the logistical advantages, the mayor emphasizes the strategic positioning between major cities and close to the U.S. border. “The St. Lawrence Seaway and our international bridges afford us exceptional cross-border and global distribution channels. Each vessel that docks at our port translates into hundreds fewer trucks on the road, enhancing our logistical efficiency,” he states. This capability extends beyond mere transportation, offering profound environmental and economic impacts. Mayor Deschamps also sheds light on the local impacts of economic development, from creating jobs to reducing transportation costs for businesses. “The recent establishment of a distribution center by Giant Tiger here led to savings of over $1 million annually in fuel costs alone for the company,”he notes, showcasing how local infrastructure improvements directly benefit large corporations. REVITALIZING SMALL-TOWN COMMERCE In the quaint streets of Spencerville within Edwardsburgh/Cardinal, a revival of mom-and-pop shops is underway, exemplifying the community’s efforts to support an entrepreneurial spirit. Dave Grant, Chief Administrator, Township Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal, elaborates on these small enterprises’ role in the local economy. “In Spencerville, places like the Village Pantry, known for their cinnamon buns, become landmarks that draw visitors. It’s not just about shopping; it’s about experiencing our community,” he says. During the pandemic, the township adapted swiftly to support these businesses. “We reconfigured parking spaces into patio areas, helping restaurants and cafes continue operations and maintain their vibrancy,” Grant adds, highlighting the adaptive measures taken to ensure business continuity. 33 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06 EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL , ON
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx