The Strong Towns Podcast

ZacTax is a financial analysis firm that helps city officials understand their revenue streams and make smarter financial choices. Today, Chuck is joined by its founders, Chad Janicek and Patrick Lawler. They explain how they work effectively with local governments and how their work is helping drive a cultural shift toward stronger and more productive cities. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES Learn more about ZacTax: Website LinkedIn Connect with Chad and Patrick: Email: chad@zactax.com || patrick@zactax.com LinkedIn: Patrick Lawler Learn more about the Strong Towns approach to finance. Chuck Marohn (Substack)

Dive into a discussion about the pressing fragility of urban infrastructure across America. Recognizing that waiting for change is not an option, the conversation emphasizes grassroots movements for local action. Community empowerment and awareness are highlighted as crucial for rebuilding systems from the ground up. Additionally, the importance of constructive dialogue in addressing societal unrest is showcased, urging listeners to engage actively in their own neighborhoods.

Kevin Blanchard, the CEO of Downtown Lafayette, and Carlee Alm-LaBar, Chief of Staff at Strong Towns, share their insights from their time as city staff in Lafayette, Louisiana. They discuss the challenges of balancing community demands with bureaucratic hurdles, emphasizing the fear and scarcity mindset that stifles innovation. They also delve into the intricate dynamics of property rights and zoning laws, and how citizen engagement is vital for navigating local governance. Their experiences reveal the importance of empathy and collaboration in driving community progress.

Explore why the current moment is a golden opportunity for promoting walkable streets and bike-friendly spaces. Discover how small investments can drastically improve community well-being. Learn about the outdated economic models hampering urban planning and the substantial financial benefits of walkable neighborhoods. Delve into the misalignment of federal funding with local needs and the importance of human-centered design. Finally, uncover practical strategies for enhancing safety and livability through local community involvement.

The podcast delves into how road design influences driver behavior, arguing that environments can spark aggression. It compares American and European roundabouts, showcasing a human-centric design in Poynton, England. A tragic pedestrian accident in Hyattsville underlines the flaws in prioritizing speed over safety. The discussion emphasizes the need for collaborative crash analysis and improved road audits to make urban spaces safer for walking and biking, ultimately urging a rethink of traffic planning standards.

Mark Moses, the author of "The Municipal Financial Crisis," delves into the complexities of government budgeting. He critiques the often-misunderstood concept of balanced budgets, pointing out the pitfalls of short-term fiscal strategies. Moses sheds light on the disparity between city finances and business models, particularly in recreation and housing. He advocates for more market-driven approaches and discusses the inefficiencies of privatization in utilities. The conversation reveals a pressing need for transparency and accountability in local government finance.

A keynote address reveals the alarming rise in traffic fatalities during the pandemic and advocates for 'forgiving design' in roadways to enhance safety. The importance of a human-centered approach in urban transportation design emerges, critiquing ineffective 'stroads' and the economic challenges of funding safer systems. The discussion highlights the need for infrastructure that accommodates all users, emphasizing pedestrian and cyclist safety. Ultimately, it calls for community engagement in street design to create more inclusive urban environments.

Rick Cole, the chief deputy controller of Los Angeles and a councilmember in Pasadena, brings his city finance expertise to the table. He discusses how budgets serve as value statements and the importance of directional financial management. The conversation dives into the critical role of public participation in financial decisions, emphasizing the need for community engagement. Cole highlights innovative budgeting strategies and the moral implications of spending choices, making a strong case for civic involvement in shaping effective city governance.

Shayne Kavanagh, a Senior Manager of Research for the Government Finance Officers Association, shares valuable insights on local government finance. He discusses the crucial role of finance officers as 'decision architects' and offers innovative strategies for effective budgeting and financial reporting. The conversation delves into balancing short-term demands with long-term planning, the importance of bond ratings, and understanding complex financial reporting issues. Kavanagh emphasizes collaboration and transparency as key to enhancing city fiscal health.

What cities have successfully financed housing at the local level? How does tax increment financing work? When should cities stop subsidizing large-scale housing projects? Strong Towns President Chuck Marohn answers all these questions and more in this episode of the Strong Towns Podcast. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES There are six code reforms your city officials can implement today to welcome more housing to your community. Learn more here. Do you want 1-on-1 coaching with Chuck on how to bring more housing to your community? Sign up for the Accelerator coaching program before spots run out! Chuck Marohn (Substack)