April 19, 2010
Since 1933, the Official Publication of The United States Conference of Mayors
Volume 77, Issue 07
U.S.
USCM Mourns Polish Tragedy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Economic Downturn Takes Toll on Transit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Public Safety Opposes Spectrum Auction ............. 7
MAYOR
MAYORS PUSH ARTS ADVOCACY AGEnDA
Photo by Andrew Snow
Photo by Andrew Snow
Speaker Nancy Pelosi, center, receives the 2010 Congressional Arts
Leadership Award from Americans for the Arts President and CEO
Charleston (SC) Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. delivers the 2010 Nancy Robert L. Lynch, left, and USCM CEO and Executive Director Tom
Hanks Lecture on Arts and Public Policy. Cochran.
See Story on page 5 See Story on page 5
Mayors Discuss Partnership Support Grows for Local Jobs
with Secretary Chu on Energy for America Act (H.R. 4812)
Block Grant See Story on page 3
as of 04/16/10
Left to right, Gastonia (NC) Mayor Jennifer Stultz, Elizabeth (NJ) Mayor
J. Christian Bollwage, USCM President Burnsville (MN) Mayor Elizabeth
B. Kautz, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, USCM Past President
Trenton (NJ) Mayor Douglas H. Palmer, USCM CEO and Executive
Director Tom Cochran, Santa Ana (CA) Mayor Miguel Pulido, Rep.
Chaka Fattah (PA) and Hallandale Beach (FL) Mayor Joy Cooper.
TO The MAYOR
FROM The CeO AnD exeCUTive DiReCTOR
and when she wasn't operating the ness the first municipal elections since was the mayor of Warsaw before he
crane she was handing out unofficial the 1930s. Thousands of local officials was President. Mayors present will
union newspapers. Her firing was were elected. It was indeed a celebra- remember much of the enjoyable dia-
the defining moment that jolted the tion of democracy. The Solidarity logue with him was about his being a
workers to strike and lead the way to leader who became President of the mayor and it was so good to hear a
the legalization of Solidarity, the first new Poland, Lech Walesa, came to President who understood the role of
trade union in the communist bloc. At Washington after he was elected and a mayor because he had lived it.
April 16 the same time, Lech Kaczynski was a Guy Smith and I met with him at the Polish allies, and observers, stu-
Washington, DC law student and advisor to Solidar- National Press Club. dents and historians all know how
ity. When the communists cracked In October of 1990 with our gov- strong the people of Poland are. They
Poland down with the martial law, both Ms. ernment's support, the Conference have survival in their DNA. They will
The plane crash in Smolensk, Russia Walentynowicz and Mr. Kaczyn- organized a delegation of mayors grieve and have pain. They have an
killing President Lech and First Lady ski were jailed without a trial. After- led by Conference President York abiding faith that runs deep and it
Maria Kaczynski is sad and unbeliev- wards, throughout the 80's the two Mayor Bill Althaus to conduct May- centers them. They have been perse-
able. The political, military, parliamen- of them worked with thousands in ors Leadership institutes in three cities cuted, killed, destroyed, and almost
tary, financial, and academic leaders underground resistance. In the new Warsaw, Krakow, and Rzeszow. The annihilated throughout ancient and
are all gone. My immediate thought Democratic Poland Kaczynski would conference fielded three additional modern history. But they will survive
on April 10th was to call Ambassador go on to become President and she delegations in 2004, 2006, and in and be even stronger. May God
Ashe, our past President and former was an outside critic. 2007 and we held our first ever .out- bless Poland during this most painful
Knoxville Mayor. He said it would be Marjorie Castle, author of Trig- side the USA. International Mayors period as He gives them strength to
in this country as if Air Force One, gering Communist Collapse, writes Institute on City Design. be even stronger, remembering their
loaded with our leadership, crashed beautifully about how these two We are so proud of the distin- great leaders and determined peo-
and killed them all. He is right. national figures boarded a small guished service of former Confer- ple. And soon - just as sure as the sun
Poland's loss today devastates the plane to perish together just a few ence President and former Knoxville comes up tomorrow morning, they
Polish people because the place of miles from where others of national Mayor Victor Ashe, our former Polish will wipe away their tears and march
the plane crash where the national stature in life died seventy years ago. Ambassador who led and accompa- on. Then the heroic saga of Poland
elite died, Smolensk, Russia, is less Castle writes "the irony can not be nied our 2007 mayoral mission to the and her people, rich in history, with
than twenty miles from the Katyn understated" and she goes further to Presidential Palace to spend time with its ups and downs, goes on to fill the
Woods where starting on April 4, point out that the lesser well-known the late President Kaczynski, who pages of the future.
1940, 22,000 of the Polish national names in the passenger manifest
elite were killed seventy years ago. includes relatives and descendants of
These were not only soldiers. Doc- the Polish leaders who died seventy
tors, clergy, professors, business years earlier. These individuals spent
leaders, the national elite leadership decades working to reveal the nature
were shot individually by Russian of those deaths, which was methodi- U.S. MAYOR
secret police with a bullet in the back cal execution by Russian security
of the head. Thousands were shot on police and not by the Nazis. Publisher, Editor-in-Chief
the edges of open pits and fell dead The methodical killing of 22,000 Tom Cochran
on top of their comrades. in April of 1940 and the plane crash ISSN 1049-2119
Once again, the national elite with the national leaders in April of
leadership of the Polish people are 2010, in the same place, only twelve
taken away - instantly. The young miles apart, has caused former Pol- Managing Editor: Ed Somers
and the old grieve together, but ish President Aleksander Kwasniews-
the old grieve deeper because their ki to call Smolensk and its environs Contributing Editors
dynamic and precious leaders have "a cursed place." And Castle writes, Kathy Amoroso Eugene Lowe Crystal Swann
been killed, twice now in the same "Smolensk will be a curse word for Debra DeHaney-Howard Kevin McCarty Elena Temple
place, only twelve miles apart in the generations of Poles, yet unborn." David Gatton Tom McClimon Ron Thaniel
month of April. Larry Jones Geri Powell Laura DeKoven Waxman
The other person who perished Our Connection Kathryn Kretschmer-Weyland Judy Sheahan Jim Welfley
was Anna Walentynowicz. She was The U.S Conference of Mayors has
the "Rosa Parks" of the rebellion at a long friendship with the Polish peo- Produced by: Cicuye Studios, LLC
the Gdansk shipyard in August of ple and with Polish local and national Proofreader: Geri Powell
1980. She was a crane operator, leaders. I was invited in 1989 to wit-
Account Representative advertise@usmayors.org
Doug Baj Fax: 703-832-8317
USCM on U.S. MAYOR (ISSN 1049-2119) is published semi-monthly except for August,
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Page 2 U.S. MAYOR usmayors.org April 19, 2010
USCM President Kautz Leads Mayoral Discussion with
Energy Secretary Chu on Stronger Partnership
Mayors, Rep. In her remarks, Kautz underscored the
mayors’ desire for a stronger partner-
of the program.
Joining the Conference
Fattah Cite EECBG ship with Chu and his Department. “We
are here seeking a stronger partnership
delegation was Fattah, chair
of the Congressional Urban
as Starting Point with your department. We want to make
our collaboration on the energy block
Caucus and a key member of
the House Energy and Water
program a success, especially since the Development Appropriations
By Debra DeHaney-Howard and mayors believe it’s vital to our efforts to Subcommittee, who explained
Kevin McCarty move forward on energy independence that EECBG funding in the
and climate protection,” Kautz stated. American Recovery and Rein-
Conference President Burnsville (MN) Citing the substantial work of the vestment Act (ARRA) was “not
Mayor Elizabeth B. Kautz led a Con- nation’s mayors on energy and climate a one shot deal but an initial
ference delegation in discussions with protection, including the more than down payment to cities.”
Department of Energy Secretary Steven 1,030 mayors who have signed the Chu acknowledged that
Chu on implementation of the Energy Conference of Mayors Climate Protection implementation of the energy
Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Agreement, Kautz said, “Funding the block grant program started
(EECBG) Program, explaining how this energy block grant through the Recovery slowly but said through the
new initiative can underpin a stronger Act was a good first step in helping cities work of his Energy Efficiency
partnership between the Energy Depart- meet their emission reduction goals, but and Renewable Energy (EERE)
ment and the nation’s mayors on shared it’s important that the block grant has a team, lead by Assistant Sec-
energy and climate goals. sustained level of funding.” retary Cathy Zoi, block grant
Joining Kautz in the delegation were Following her remarks, each of the funds are moving out to cities Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu
Conference Past President Trenton (NJ) mayors shared their perspectives, prais- faster and implementation has
Mayor Douglas H. Palmer, Elizabeth ing President Obama for his support of picked up speed, building mo-
(NJ) Mayor Christian Bollwage, Hallan- initial EECBG funding in the recovery mentum for the program. Chu The mayors and departmental offi-
dale Beach (FL) Mayor Joy Cooper, Phil- legislation. Each discussed the impor- explained how departmental officials cials pledged to keep working together
adelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, Santa tance of direct funding of cities for their were working to overcome legacy prac- on ways to collaborate more effectively
Ana (CA) Mayor Miguel Pulido, Gasto- energy and climate initiatives, the need tices, such as its procurement rules, that and to promote successes with the use of
nia (NC) Mayor Jennifer Stultz and U.S. for sustained annual EECBG funding and complicated the startup of the EECBG EECBG funds in cities.
Representative Chaka Fattah (PA). ways to further successful implementation program.
Oklahoma! Resolutions/Standing
Committee Deadline
Oklahoma City is the place to be
for the 78th Annual Conference The deadline for member mayors to submit
of Mayors June 11-15. resolutions for action in Oklahoma City is:
WEDnESDAY, MAY 12
Registration at 5:00pm EDT
is now open.
This is the same deadline for standing com-
mittee membership changes.
Contact Carol Edwards at Detailed information on this process has
202-293-7330 or visit our been sent to all member mayors. This and
registration is also available online at:
website at usmayors.org. www.usmayors.org.
April 19, 2010 usmayors.org U.S. Mayor Page 3
Statement from USCM CEO and Executive Director Cochran
Mourning Loss of President Kaczynski, First Lady, national
Leaders of Poland
On behalf of the nation’s mayors and er U.S. and Polish mayors to share best
The United States Conference of Mayors, practices on design and to learn from
CEO and Executive Director Tom Cochran each other.
offers heartfelt condolences to the Polish The Conference of Mayors is proud of
people and its leaders upon the tragic the distinguished service of Former Con-
loss of President Lech Kaczynski. ference President and mayor of Knox-
The U.S. Conference of Mayors ville (TN) Ambassador Victor Ashe, who
has a long friendship with the Polish was sworn in as Ambassador to Poland
people and with Polish local, regional, in June 2004 and served until February
and national leaders. The more than 2009. During the Conference of May-
ten million Americans of Polish ances- ors’ 2007 Mayoral Mission to Poland,
try living in the United States have con- Ambassador Ashe accompanied the
tributed greatly to American cities and delegation to the Presidential Palace to
to our nation. meet with President Lech Kaczynski.
As an organization, the Conference During that meeting, The U.S. Con-
of Mayors has had a cherished friend- ference of Mayors delegation had a
ship with Poland over many years and productive exchange with the President.
especially since 1989. Conference CEO His strong intellect and convictions,
and Executive Director Tom Cochran strength of character, and fierce patrio-
was invited to Poland as an election tism were, as always, evident. The U.S. USCM CEO and Executive Director Tom Cochran paid a visit to the
observer in June 1989, and gladly con- mayors also shared observations with Embassy of the Republic of Poland April 12 in Washington (DC). On
tributed to oversight of that important the President about his having been a behalf of the nation's mayors and The U.S. Conference of Mayors, he
election, the first democratic election in mayor himself, enjoying the President’s conveyed the sorrow and grief felt at the loss of the President of Poland
Poland since the 1930’s. remarks about his tenure as mayor of Lech Kaczynski, his wife Maria, and national leaders. Cochran is writing
In October 1990, with U.S. govern- Warsaw, elected in 2002 and serving a special message and signing the Book of Condolence. His statement in
memory of President Kaczynski and offering condolences to the people
ment support, the Conference of May- until 2005.
of Poland is included in this issue of U.S. Mayor, and his column is also
ors organized a delegation of mayors Poland is a country that produces devoted to Poland's tragic loss.
to conduct Mayors Leadership Insti- giants of science, literature, music,
tutes with newly-elected Polish mayors politics, economics, and all other areas
in Warsaw, Krakow, and Rzeszow. The – Jozef Konrad Korzenlowski (Joseph scholar, visionary, organizer, public ser- Mayors joins with Poland and the
Conference fielded three additional del- Conrad), Ignacy Paderewski, Maria vant, patriot, mayor of Warsaw, and world in mourning the tragic loss of the
egations to Poland – in 2004, 2006, Sklodowska (Madame Curie), Fryderyk President of Poland, will be always re- national military, political, and eco-
and in 2007. In 2007, the Conference Chopin, Adam Micklewicz, Zbigniew spected remembered, and revered for nomic leaders of Poland, of Maria Kac-
held its historic first-ever – outside the Brzezinski, Karol Wojtyla (Pope John his unflinching and dedicated service to zynski, the First Lady of Poland, and of
United States – International Mayors Paul II), and countless others. his people, to his city, and to his country. President Lech Kaczynski.
Institute on City Design, bringing togeth- Lech Kaczynski, teacher, thinker, The United States Conference of
newark Mayor Cory Booker named Honorary Co-Chair
for new Obesity Prevention Foundation
By Crystal Swann will serve as the foundation’s Honorary honorary vice chairs and new board of help bring our nation together for this
Chairperson. directors, and I am confident that their important cause.”
The Partnership for a Healthier In their roles, Frist, Booker, Gavin, leadership and experience will help us The Partnership for a Healthier
America recently announced key lead- and the board of directors bring valu- achieve our goal of solving childhood America is an independent, nonpartisan
ers in its effort to address the epidemic able leadership and experience to help obesity within a generation.” organization whose goal is to mobilize
of childhood obesity. The organization drive the Partnership’s activities and Booker has worked tirelessly to pro- broad-based support for efforts to solve
named former Senate Majority Leader ensure the organization is effective in mote healthy lifestyles and physical fit- the child obesity challenge. Other mem-
Bill Frist and Newark (NJ) Mayor Cory establishing measurable solutions for ness for all Newark residents. “What we bers of the board of directors include
Booker as Honorary Vice Chairs, and fighting obesity. are seeing here on the local level, what Deborah DeHaas, Peter Dolan, S. Law-
appointed a board of directors, includ- On a conference call with Frist, Book- we all know, is that this is an epidemic rence Kocot, Deborah Landesman, Janet
ing Dr. James R. Gavin III, who will er, and Gavin, the First Lady welcomed problem within our nation, and we see Murguia, Vivian Riefberg, William L.
serve as chairman. The Partnership is the Partnership’s new leaders. “Revers- it in urban areas in particular. And it is Roper, and Antronette K. Yancey.
working to mobilize the private sector, ing the obesity trend has never been very difficult, as I deal with many chil- For more information on the Let’s
thought leaders, media, and local com- more important to the health of our dren every day, to see the impact that Move! campaign and the new foun-
munities to action and further the goals nation and, to succeed, it will take the obesity has on self-esteem, self confi- dation, go to letsmove.gov and www.
of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s combined effort of public and private dence, the kids’ pride in themselves, aHealthierAmerica.org, respectively.
Move! movement to end childhood obe- sectors,” she said. “I am encouraged kids’ love of themselves…” Booker said.
sity within a generation. The First Lady by the enthusiasm and resolve of the “I am excited to join in this effort and
Page 4 U.S. MAYOR usmayors.org April 19, 2010
Charleston Mayor Riley Honored As nancy Hanks Lecturer
By Tom McClimon evening’s printed program described
Riley as “…one of the most visionary
Conference of Mayors Past Presi- and highly effective governmental lead-
dent Charleston Mayor Joseph P. Riley, ers in America. A recipient this year of
Jr, presented the 23rd Annual Nancy the prestigious National Medal of Arts
Hanks Lecture on Arts and Public Policy by the White House, Mayor Riley has
on April 12 at the John F. Kennedy Cen- set the national standard for urban revi-
ter for the Performing Arts in Washing- talization and been a model of civic
ton (DC). support for the arts and culture.” Riley
Riley is the first mayor to be chosen is a founder of the Mayors Institute on
for this honor, which has included such City Design, which this year celebrates
luminaries as Wynton Marsalis, Wil- its 25th anniversary. Over 800 mayors
liam Safire, Ken Burns, Doris Kearns have participated in its programs. The
Goodwin, Robert Redford, David mayor was also recognized for his local
McCullough, and Arthur Schlesinger, leadership in revitalizing his city, espe-
Photo by Andrew Snow
Jr. This lecture, presented in conjunc- cially the historic downtown business
tion with National Arts Advocacy Day, district and in the creation and growth
draws an attendance of over 1000 of the Spoleto Festival USA.
people each year, including members Riley’s remarks centered on the
of Congress and the Administration, importance of urban design in the build-
leading arts advocates and senior cor- ing and revitalization of America’s cities. At left, Senator Mark Begich (AK) and Charleston (NC) Mayor Joseph P.
porate and government officials. The Using many of the slides, photographs Riley, Jr.
lecture is named in honor of Nancy and projects that he uses at a Mayors
Hanks, a former chair of the National Institute on City Design, Riley encour-
Endowment for the Arts and former aged each of the audience members to much of that is accomplished by good Riley. In 2004 as mayor, Begich par-
president of Americans for the Arts. leave with a better understanding and urban design,” he stated. The mayor ticipated in a Mayors Institute on City
Riley was chosen for this honor by the awareness of the importance that city also called for a White House Summit Design in Charleston. He introduced
Americans for the Arts in consultation design plays in communities. “Each of on Arts and Cities. Riley as “a visionary and dedicated
with Conference of Mayors CEO and us needs to insure that we leave our cit- Alaska US Senator Mark Begich, the public servant that all of us do our best
Executive Director Tom Cochran. The ies as better more livable places and former mayor of Anchorage, introduced to emulate.”
Congressional Arts Leadership Award Philadelphia Mayor nutter
Testifies on Behalf of Arts
Given to Speaker of the House Pelosi Funding
Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter
advocated on behalf of The United States
By Jocelyn Bogen her home of San Francisco and across Arts and the United States Conference of Conference of Mayors for increased
the country. Mayors since 1997. Earlier this year at public funding for the arts and humani-
Conference of Mayors CEO and “Our mayors understand their role the Conference of Mayors Winter Meet- ties at an arts hearing on April 13 hosted
Executive Director Tom Cochran in con- in this legacy: working hand-in-hand ing, the 2010 Public Leadership in the by Chairman of the House Appropria-
junction with Americans for the Arts with art directors in cities large and Arts Awards were presented to Hono- tions Subcommittee on the Interior Rep.
President and CEO Bob L. Lynch pre- small; collaborating with Americans for lulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, Oregon James P. Moran (VA). “The arts anchor
sented the 2010 National Award for the Arts, empowering local artists, and Governor Ted Kulongoski and musician
Congressional Arts Leadership to U.S. investing in local arts education initia- Michael Feinstein. See PELOSI on page 6
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (CA) tives; fighting – alongside Chairwoman
at the Congressional Arts Kick Off event Louise Slaughter – to expand NEA fund-
during the April 13 Arts Advocacy Day ing, even as opponents tried to reduce
on Capitol Hill. investment in the arts,” said Pelosi. She
“Speaker Pelosi grew up in a fam- was also recognized for her personal
ily of mayors and thus understands the involvement and leadership in securing
positive impact of the arts on cities. She funding to save nonprofit arts jobs in the
truly deserves this award for her tire- American Recovery and Reinvestment
less work on placing the arts high on Act of 2009.
our national agenda,” said Cochran. “Speaker Pelosi is on the front lines
“Under her leadership, the 111th Con- in Congress as a champion for the arts,
gress is making great strides in advanc- and her dedication can be demonstrat-
ing cultural policy and federal arts fund- ed by her actions. Under her leader-
ing in the United States.” ship, the House speaks up for all of the
Photo by Andrew Snow
The National Award for Congressio- arts, and often against strong and vocal
nal Arts Leadership award recognizes headwinds. The arts community thanks
distinguished public service on behalf her for her perseverance,” said Lynch.
of the arts. Pelosi received the Congres- The National Award for Congressio-
sional Arts Leadership Award for her nal Arts Leadership is part of a series
commitment to the arts as an outspoken of Public Leadership in the Arts Awards
defender of the creative industries in given annually by Americans for the
At left, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and Kyle MacLachlan.
April 19, 2010 usmayors.org U.S. MAYOR Page 5
new Survey Finds Economic Downturn have laid off employees. Among
larger transit agencies, the cuts in
Taking Severe Toll on Transit Systems staff have been more common, with
four out of five (80 percent) reduc-
ing positions and more than half (57
By Ron Thaniel percent) projecting budget shortfalls percent) laying off employees.
in the coming year. As reported in the April 5 edition of
A survey released on March 31 by • Despite actions taken to address the U.S.MAYOR, The U.S. Conference
the American Public Transportation budgetary issues, 11 transit agencies of Mayors is urging that federal sup-
Association (APTA) reaffirms The U.S. project shortfalls in excess of 20 per- port for operations be restored for the
Conference of Mayors concern regard- cent, and the cumulative projected large transit agencies to stabilize their
ing the deteriorating state of the nation’s shortfall among participating transit services. As pointed out in the APTA
transit systems. agencies is almost $2 billion. survey, transit agencies serving urban-
According to the Impacts of the Reces- • More than eight out of ten transit ized areas of 200,000 or less in popu-
sion on Public Transportation Agen- agencies (84 percent) have cut ser- lation, or serving rural areas may use a
cies survey, transit systems are facing vice or raised fares or are consider- portion of their federal formula funding
unprecedented funding challenges due ing either of those actions for the for operating assistance. Larger transit
to widespread declining state and local future, with nearly three in five agen- agencies cannot use their federal for-
revenues. cies (59 percent) having already cut mula funding for operating and clearly
The survey found the following: service or raised fares. are impacted the most.
• Revenue decline is widespread; with • Larger transit agencies were more percent) have cut service. Nearly all The APTA survey is based on a sur-
90 percent of public transit agencies likely to have a decrease in local, (97 percent) of larger agencies have vey of 151 transit agencies representing
reporting flat or decreased local regional, or state funding, or fare cut service or raised fares or are more than 80 percent of the nation’s tran-
funding and 89 percent reporting flat revenue than other transit agen- considering doing so in the future. sit riders, and includes 19 of the top 25
or decreased state funding. cies. Among larger agencies, more • More than half of all transit agencies agencies in terms of annual ridership.
• Budgetary pressures are increasing than half (54 percent) have already (53 percent) have eliminated posi- The full survey can be viewed at
with seven out of ten agencies (69 increased fares, and two in three (66 tions and one in three (32 percent) www.apta.com.
Amtrak to Significantly Increase Speeds
Above 150 on northeast Corridor
Ridership on allow Amtrak to significantly increase ida. In California, funding from ARRA
operating speeds above 150 mph on will go toward the construction of a increase over the same period the prior
Record-Breaking the Northeast Corridor. new, electrically powered high-speed year and is about 100,000 more riders
The announcement also states that the rail system of 800 miles serving major than the 13.5 million posted in FY 2008,
Pace railroad “will also pursue partnerships population centers from San Francisco which turned out to be Amtrak’s best rid-
with states and others in the passenger and Sacramento to Los Angeles and San ership year in history when the railroad
rail industry to develop federally-des- Diego with over 300 trains per day. carried 28.7 million passengers.
By Ron Thaniel ignated high-speed rail corridors such Comparing March 2010 to March
as the new projects moving forward in Ridership Increases 2009, ridership increased by 13.5 per-
Amtrak President and CEO Joe California and Florida.” Significantly cent to a record 2.47 million passengers
Boardman announced on March 19 In Florida, grants from the American Amtrak announced on April 8 that it for the month. In addition, every single
that he is creating a new high-speed Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) is on pace to break its annual ridership Amtrak route carried more passengers
rail department to pursue opportunities will go toward the creation of a new record carrying more than 13.6 million with several experiencing double-digit
to expand high-speed rail operations. high-speed rail corridor that connects passengers between the first two quar- growth.
The department will work on the plan- Tampa Bay, Orlando, Miami and other ters of FY 2010 (October 2009 - March
ning and development activities that will communities in central and south Flor- 2010). This is an increase of 4.3 percent
PELOSI approve a budget of $180 million for the billion in annual expenditures, 40,000
from page 5 National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) jobs and $158.5 million in State and
for the creation, preservation, and pre- local taxes.”
sentation of the arts in America. Nutter Witnesses at the “Arts in Service of
our neighborhoods. They are an integral stated, “Philadelphia Arts organizations Communities” hearing included: NEA
part of our civic identity, a vital part of employ residents, and attract and retain Chairman Rocco Landesman, Lynch,
the fabric of Philadelphia community life, residents, job seekers and businesses. On actors Kyle MacLachlan and Jeff Dan-
a key ingredient in the education and a regional basis, about 1,300 non-profit iels, Ovation CEO Charles Segars, Brig.
enrichment of our children, as well as arts organizations put on more than Gen. Nolen V. Bivens, and North Dako-
a major segment of our economy,” said 50,000 events annually. The regional ta arts leader Terri Aldrich.
Nutter. He asked the Subcommittee to non-profit cultural sector generates $1.3
Page 6 U.S. MAYOR usmayors.org April 19, 2010
WASHInGTOn OUTLOOK
State-Local Elected, Public
Safety Officials Oppose
Spectrum Auction in
national Broadband Plan
By Laura DeKoven Waxman to public safety.” Organizations repre- believes that it must be able to access
senting public safety officials, including a broadband network capable of pro-
Opposition to the proposal in the the International Association of Chiefs of viding reliable high speed applications
National Broadband Plan to auction off Police, International Association of Fire (both data and voice), and that develop-
the D block of the 700 MHz spectrum has Chiefs, Major Cities Chiefs Association, ing broadband technologies will require
been building among mayors, governors, and the Police Executive Research Forum, a minimum of 20 MHz of spectrum (the
police and fire chiefs, and other state and also have called for reserving the D block 10 MHz currently licensed to the Public and emergency medical personnel, as
local officials and emergency respond- for public safety. Safety Spectrum Trust and the adjacent well as provide excess capacity during
ers and the organizations that represent The National Broadband Plan, 10 MHz in the D block) to be able to meet times of emergency.” It concludes that
them in Washington. The executive direc- released by the Federal Communica- current and future public safety needs. the 700 MHz D block is crucial to build-
tors of the “Big 7” organizations, which tions Commission March 16, proposes The Big 7 letter echoes the posi- ing the needed national system and
represent state and local government, that the D block be auctioned to the tion of the public safety community. It expresses concern that providing “pub-
including Conference of Mayors CEO highest bidder. The winner of the auc- explains that “for years, state and local lic safety roaming and priority access
and Executive Director Tom Cochran, tion—expected to be a commercial first responders have sought to build a on other commercial 700 MHz networks
wrote on April 14 to the chairmen and carrier—could use the block for com- national interoperable communications for a fee…relies on untested technolo-
ranking members of key House and Sen- mercial applications, but also would be network that allows real-time informa- gies and new regulations that cannot
ate Committees and Subcommittees with required to give public safety agencies tion sharing through high speed video ensure reliable and resilient commu-
jurisdiction over the Plan, urging them priority access to the airwaves, particu- and data,” and that “this requires an nications capabilities to meet stringent
to “oppose a commercial auction of the larly when they need it most to respond appropriate, dedicated band of spec- public safety needs.”
700 MHz D block and support legisla- to major disasters or terrorist incidents. trum that can accommodate the every- The Big 7 letter to Congress is avail-
tion to reallocate the D block of spectrum The public safety community strongly day needs of firefighters, police officers able at www.usmayors.org.
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April 19, 2010 usmayors.org U.S. MAYOR Page 7
WASHInGTOn OUTLOOK
FCC Announces Broadband Agenda: USCM
Continuing to Meet with FCC on Rights-of-
Way, Public Safety Concerns
rates, terms and conditions for access to • Improve the transparency of spec- FCC data collection to better monitor
public rights-of-way. trum allocation and utilization. and promote broadband competi-
By Ron Thaniel In addition, the Plan recommends Accelerate Universal Broad- tion.
the license of the D-block for commer- band Access, Adoption, Advance • Fulfill mandate from Congress to
The FCC announced on April 8 the cial use, with options for public safety national Purposes Such as Edu- ensure that video navigation devices,
agenda for implementing recommenda- partnerships. The Conference of Mayors cation, Health Care such as smart video devices, are
tions of the National Broadband Plan is opposed to a commercial auction of • Carry out the transformation of the available to consumers in the market-
(Plan) that will involve more than 60 the 700 MHz D-block. The Conference, Universal Service Fund over the next place, spurring innovation in home
rulemakings and other notice-and-com- along with a coalition of state and local ten years to support broadband ser- video devices and driving increased
ment proceedings. government associations, is support- vice. broadband adoption and utilization.
Of particular interests to The U.S. ing legislation to reallocate the D-block • Upgrade the E-rate program. Advance Robust, Secure Pub-
Conference of Mayors is that the Rights- of spectrum for public safety. Of note, • Reform and upgrade the Rural Health lic Safety Communications net-
of-Way Task Force is scheduled to begin and to this point, the FCC will adopt an Care Program. works
work in July and in late Q2 or early Q3 order and NPRM to pave the way for an • Create a Connect America Fund • Facilitate the creation of a nationwide
2010. auction of the 10 MHz of spectrum in to extend broadband service to interoperable public safety wireless
After a successful local government the Upper 700 MHz D-block in the first unserved areas of the nation and to broadband network.
lobbying campaign led by The U.S. half of 2011. ensure affordable broadband ser- • Promote cybersecurity and protect
Conference of Mayors, the Plan, man- The 2010 Broadband Action Agenda vice in high-cost areas where support critical communications infrastruc-
dated by last year’s economic stimulus focuses on four key goals: is necessary. ture.
package, did not include recommen- P r o m o t e Wo r l d - L e a d i n g • Create a Mobility Fund to bring all • Aid the transition to next-generation
dations that would have limited local Mobile Broadband Infrastruc- states to a baseline level of “3G” (or 911 and alerting systems.
government rights-of-way authority or ture, Innovation better) wireless coverage. For specific details, please see the
would have undermined local budgets • Seek to make an additional 500- Foster Competition, Maxi- 2010 Broadband Action Agenda at
by imposing a less than fair market megahertz (MHz) of spectrum avail- mize Consumer Benefits Across http://www.broadband.gov/plan/
value as the standard for fair and rea- able for mobile broadband within Broadband Ecosystem broadband-action-agenda.html and
sonable rights-of-way compensation. the next ten years. • Enhance broadband and market- an implementation schedule at http://
However, while the Conference of May- • Increase opportunities for unlicensed place choices for small businesses www.broadband.gov/plan/chart-of-
ors closely monitors this through ongo- devices and innovative spectrum and mobile providers by establishing key-broadband-action-agenda-items.
ing discussions with FCC staff, the Plan, access models. consistent policy frameworks for spe- pdf.
as referenced, does call for a Rights-of- • Expand incentives and mechanisms cial access and wholesale wireline
Way Task Force with state, Tribal and to reallocate or repurpose spectrum competition.
local policymakers to craft guidelines for to higher-valued uses. • Improve consumer disclosures and
ABOUT THE MAYOR
Diaz are among the 19 hand-picked
new and innovative board directors for
the Foundation. In their roles, Booker
and Diaz will bring their expertise to the
Foundation in the areas of the arts, edu-
cation, public health causes and innova-
tion in government.
newark Mayor, Former Miami The Board, which also includes two
Mayor Tapped as Board of former Governors, two former Sena-
Directors of Multimillion Dollar tors, a former U.S Secretary, artists and
Philanthropic Foundation Bloomberg’s daughters, will not run the
The Bloomberg Family Foundation organization but will serve in an advi-
expanded its philanthropy work into sory role and provide oversight.
new territory when it announced the first The brand new board members
Board of Directors on March 31, draw- will be paid stipends and some travel
ing on high-profile people in different expenses, but Booker will serve as a vol- Long Beach (CA) Mayor Bob Foster was reelected to a second term
fields from all over the nation. unteer because he is currently an elected on April 13 with almost 84 percent of the vote. In commenting on
Newark (NJ) Mayor Cory Booker official. his victory, Foster said, “It is a safer, stronger, and cleaner city today
than four years ago. Challenges have arisen and we’ve met them.
and former Conference of Mayors Pres-
We’ve dealt with problems now, not at some future time. We have
ident Former Miami Mayor Manny laid the foundation for a better future. And we have trained our
young people for careers, not simply jobs.”
Page 8 U.S. MAYOR usmayors.org April 19, 2010
WASHInGTOn OUTLOOK
$156 Million in Sustainability Transit Grants
Announced by FTA
formula funds. The FTA will also accept The FTA has established a range To view the federal/local matching
applications from direct recipients, tribes of funding that will be considered for requirements and funding restrictions
for rural areas, and State Departments approval. Each submitted project must for both grants go the Federal Regis-
of Transportation in attainment areas. request a minimum of $1,000,000 ter at http://www.fta.dot.gov/laws/
Eligible projects include purchasing and must not exceed a maximum of leg_reg_86.html. For proposal specific
or leasing clean fuel buses, constructing $25,000,000. Applications for projects information contact the appropriate
By Ron Thaniel or leasing clean fuel bus facilities and less than $1,000,000 may be applied FTA Regional Administrator. For gen-
related equipment, and projects relating for if they are part of a consolidated eral information on the Clean Fuels/Bus
The Federal Transit Administration to clean fuel, biodiesel, hybrid electric, proposal submitted by the State DOT, and Bus Facilities Program, contact Juan
(FTA) announced April 13 the avail- or zero emissions technology buses that which in total, meets or exceeds the Morrison, Office of Program Manage-
ability of $81.2 million in discretionary exhibit equivalent or superior emis- $1,000,000 threshold. ment, at 202-366-7005 or juan.mor-
resources for the Clean Fuels/Bus and sions reductions to existing clean fuel or Only public transportation agencies rison@dot.gov. For general information
Bus Facilities Program and $75 mil- hybrid electric technologies. or state DOTs may apply for the TIGGER on the TIGGER grant, contact Walter
lion in discretionary resources for the grant. Kulyk, Office of Mobility Innovation,
TIGGER program. The discretionary TIGGER Eligible expenses must be an eligible at 202-366-4995 or walter.kulyk@dot.
resources are designed to encourage The TIGGER program also has a two- capital expense as defined under 49 gov.
transit projects that promote the usage fold purpose. First, for capital invest- U.S.C. 5302(a)(1); and the project will Remember the deadlines! Clean
and development of energy efficient ments that will assist in reducing the assist in the reduction of the energy con- Fuels/Bus and Bus Facilities Grant
technologies that reduce greenhouse energy consumption of a transit system. sumption of a public transportation sys- Deadline is June 14, and TIGGER Dead-
gas emissions and other pollutants. And, second, for capital investments that tem and/or the reduction of greenhouse line is August 11.
will reduce greenhouse gas emissions of gas emissions of a public transportation
The Clean Fuels/Bus and Bus a public transportation system. system.
Facilities Program
The Clean Fuels/Bus and Bus Facili-
Clean Fuels/Bus, Bus Facilities Grant
ties program has a two-fold purpose.
First, the program was developed to
assist nonattainment and maintenance
areas in achieving or maintaining the
National Ambient Air Quality Stan-
Deadline: June 14
dards for ozone and CO. The second
program purpose is to support emerg-
ing clean fuels and advance propulsion
technologies for transit buses and mar- Transit Investments for Greenhouse Gas
and Energy Reduction Deadline:
kets for those technologies.
Eligible applicants under the Clean
Fuels Grant program are recipients in
maintenance or non-attainment areas
for ozone or CO, which are entities
August 11
designated to receive federal urbanized
President Obama, Senate Democrats Make Financial
Regulatory Reform Top Priority
By Eugene T. Lowe lator over products such as mortgages But Senate Republicans do not like The consumer protection agency
and credit cards. the idea of a new consumer agency is only one of many provisions in the
Back from the Easter and Passover Last December, the House of Repre- with as much power as authorized in financial reform legislation. In addition
recess, and with Health Care Reform sentatives passed legislation (H.R. 4173) the House bill. In a compromise, Dodd to Representatives Fattah’s mortgage
behind them, President Barack Obama that would create a separate, indepen- accepted a consumer regulator inside prevention provision, financial deriva-
and Senate Democrats have made the dent Consumer Financial Protection the Federal Reserve with a council of tives, and a provision that would put
passage of financial regulatory reform Agency. In that same legislation, Repre- financial supervisors that could by two- private sector and public sector bonds
their top priority. But the legislation is sentative Chaka Fattah (PA) offered an thirds majority vote overrule decisions on the same rating system, are some of
far from passage with GOP leaders amendment that was passed that would of the consumer regulator. Senator the other key measures included in the
opposed to it. A draft of the bill was create another round of the Neighbor- Richard Shelby (AL), ranking member legislation. As U.S.Mayor goes to print,
approved by the Senate Banking Com- hood Stabilization Program (NSP) and of the Banking Committee, has moved President Obama has summoned both
mittee, chaired by Senator Chris Dodd provide other mortgage foreclosure pre- the debate up a notch with an idea that democrats and republicans to the White
(CT) on March 22 along a party-line vention funds. The House legislation is the consumer agency be freestanding House to encourage movement on the
vote. At issue is the power that would largely what the Obama administration but with financial regulators having veto legislation in the Senate.
be given to a consumer protection regu- wanted. power over its actions.
April 19, 2010 usmayors.org U.S. MAYOR Page 9
Honolulu a Leader in Energy Savings, “Green” Practices
The city and county of Honolulu was outreach to residents about their energy
recently recognized as a national lead- use, swapping out more than 20,000
er in conserving energy and promot- incandescent bulbs with more energy-
ing “green” practices that help address efficient fluorescent and LED bulbs, and
global climate change. The U.S. Envi- the development of a Hawaii-specific
ronmental Protection Agency presented residential energy audit. The project will
Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann with fund energy audit and weatherization
a $499,000 Climate Showcase Com- “green jobs” training, and will include
munities grant and two Energy Star the installation of 300 whole-house,
building awards for meeting high-ener- real-time energy monitors. Among the
gy performance standards at Honolulu 300 households that receive monitors,
Hale (Honolulu’s city hall) and the near- 150 will also be given comprehensive
by Fasi Municipal Building. energy audits.
“This grant will go a long way Honolulu Hale and the Fasi Munici-
toward reducing our dependence on pal Building are two of the latest build-
foreign oil, which is a key component of ings in Hawaii to be designated Energy
our nationally recognized 21st Century Star Buildings by EPA’s Energy Star Pro-
Ahupuaa City Sustainability Plan,” said gram. The buildings met Energy Star’s
Hannemann, referring to Honolulu’s requirements for energy performance,
unique approach to environmental pro- thermal comfort, indoor air quality and
tection, based on traditional Hawaiian lighting levels.
At right, EPA Regional Administrator Jared Blumenfeld presents Honolulu
concepts of responsible stewardship of The structures rate in the top 25 per- Mayor Mufi Hannemann with Energy Star award for meeting high-ener-
natural resources. cent of similar facilities nationwide for gy standards in city buildings.
EPA Regional Administrator Jared energy performance. Commercial build-
Blumenfeld, who made the presentation ings that earn the Energy Star label use
during a March 30 ceremony at Hono- an average of 35 percent less energy vation efforts,” Hannemann said. “We Civic Center Parking Structure and Neal
lulu Hale, said the city has been very than typical buildings and release 35 work to lead by example. While Hono- Blaisdell Center.
effective at leading by example. percent less carbon dioxide into the lulu has the smallest carbon footprint of Energy Star is a government-backed
“By investing in energy efficiency, atmosphere. any major American city, we are con- program helping businesses and con-
residents and businesses will become To earn its Energy Stars, Honolulu stantly striving to improve the impact sumers protect the environment through
less reliant on imported energy and invested approximately $2.6 million in city facilities have on our environment.” superior energy efficiency. More than
will lessen environmental impacts,” Blu- Honolulu Hale and $6 million in the Fasi Honolulu is planning to use Federal 8,000 organizations partner with the
menfeld said. “President Obama and Municipal Building to retrofit the office Energy Stimulus funds to implement EPA in the Energy Star program. The
EPA are committed to improving the with more energy efficient lighting and lighting retrofits at two other city struc- overall goal of the Climate Showcase
nation’s energy outlook, through pro- modernize the air conditioning systems. tures: Kapolei Hale and the Administra- Communities grant program is to cre-
grams like Honolulu’s and the use of The annual energy savings for these tion Building at the Kalihi-Palama Bus ate replicable models of sustainable
Energy Star tools to benchmark build- buildings are approximately $130,000 Maintenance Facility. Additional ener- community action that generate cost-
ing energy use.” and $440,000, respectively. The city’s gy conservation projects in Honolulu effective and persistent greenhouse gas
The Climate Showcase Communities returns on its investments are 20 and 14 include the installation of photovoltaic reductions while improving the envi-
grant will create quantifiable and long- years, respectively. systems at the Halawa Corporation Yard ronmental, economic, public health, or
lasting residential greenhouse gas reduc- “We appreciate the EPA’s recognition and Pearl City Bus Maintenance Facility, social conditions in communities.
tions. The approach includes community of our administration’s energy conser- and lighting improvements in the Fasi
MAYORS BUSInESS COUnCIL
Member Profile MAYORS BUSInESS COUnCIL
Member Profile
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For more Business Council profiles visit
the Conference of Mayors website at usmayors.org/buscouncil
Page 10 U.S. MAYOR usmayors.org April 19, 2010
Rio World Urban Forum
Focuses on Problems of
Rapidly Growiing Cities
By Eugene T. Lowe HUD Secretary Donovan told the
large international audience during
Some 21,000 people registered for the opening ceremony March 22 that
the fifth session of the World Urban he was “honored to lead the U.S. del-
Forum in Rio de Janeiro-Brazil during egation to the World Urban Forum …
the week of March 22 – 26. The theme to discuss how we can work together to
of the meeting was “The Right to the lift the standard of living for billions of
City: Bridging the Urban Divide.” Touted people, promote democracy and human
as being one of the most inclusive inter- rights, and enhance global health, food
national gatherings, the forum brought security and energy efficiency. I believe
together government leaders, ministers, this forum offers three key opportunities
mayors, diplomats, members of nation- for partnership with our nation – to build
al, regional and international associa- our communities more sustainability, to Left to right, Felipe Augusto Faria, Cristina Mendonca, North Little Rock
tions of local governments, non-govern- restore security to our housing markets, Mayor Patrick Henry Hays, and Casius Pealer spoke at the Conference of
mental and community organizations, and to embed innovative and sustain- Mayors and Green Building Workshop.
professionals, academics, grassroots able approaches into the way we plan
women organizations, youth and slum for disaster.” talked about efforts to institutionalize session where mayors from around the
dwellers. All attended to participate in President of Brazil Luiz Inacio Lula sustainability in local government. world discussed challenges and issues
dialogues and debate at main plenary da Silva welcomed the participants, The National League of Cities also unique to their cities. Sonoma County
and networking events (workshops) that saying, “Our country is open to good held a workshop titled “Building Sus- (CA) Board of Supervisor and President
addressed the critical urban problems of practices from elsewhere and we invite tainable Cities as Centers of Diversity, of the National Association of Counties
the world today. According to UN Sec- you to visit our cities and let us learn Inclusivity, and Innovation.” The work- (NACo) represented the United States at
retary General Ban Ki-Moon, with over from your experiences.” Tibaijuka in her shop focused on the “importance of the Mayors’ Roundtable. She described
half the world’s population now living opening remarks said that only partner- social inclusion and equity in building the public policy issues of Sonoma Coun-
in cities, and cities making a dispropor- ships could work toward a sustainable sustainable cities.” There was also a ty where traffic congestion is a major
tionate contribution to climate change, urban future. “One cannot do it alone. Mayors’ Roundtable that focused on problem. “We are constantly trying to
urbanization is one of the “crucial agen- Governments cannot do it alone. Cities, how social inclusion and urban infra- move people around more efficiently,”
das” of our time. big business and civil society cannot do structure can improve access and pro- she said, while keeping sustainability
The World Urban Forum was orga- it alone. We need clear and coherent mote inclusive cities, taking into account in mind. “We must build a sustainable
nized by the United Nations Human partnerships and commitments,” she the needs of all different urban actors. infrastructure,” Brown said.
Settlements Programme, UN-HABI- stated. Other speakers at the open- More than 200 people attended the
TAT, which is mandated by the United ing ceremony included the President of
Nations General Assembly “to promote Uganda Yoweri Musevendi, Third Vice
socially and environmentally sustainable President of Spain Manuel Chavez Gon-
towns and cities with the goal of pro- zalez, Vice President of the Philippines
viding adequate shelter for all.” Anna Noli de Casiro, Rio de Janerio Mayor
Tibaijuka, Under-Secretary General Eduardo Paes, and Governor of Rio MAYORS BUSInESS COUnCIL
of the United Nations, is the Executive Sergio Cabral.
Director of UN-HABITAT. The first World The U.S. Conference of Mayors and
Member Profile
Urban Forum was held in Nairobi, the U.S. Green Building Council held
Kenya in 2002, and then in Barcelona
in 2004, Vancouver in 2006, and Nan-
a workshop March 23, titled “Energy
Efficiency and Climate Protection: Chal- The John Buck Company
jing in 2008. lenging Our Assumptions.” HUD Chief
HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan led of Staff Laurel Blatchford moderated Established in 1981, The John Buck Company (JBC) is a privately owned, vertically inte-
the United States delegation that includ- the session. Hays presented an over- grated, full-service real estate company headquartered in Chicago with more than 150
ed HUD Deputy Secretary Ron Sims, view of the global importance of cities employees. JBC has developed, redeveloped and acquired more than 45 properties rep-
and Assistant Secretaries Mercedes in addressing climate change. Hays resenting in excess of 33 million square feet of office, retail, hotel and residential projects
that have generated more than $10 billion in cumulative transaction volume. JBC collabo-
Marquez (Community Planning and described many of the efforts of his city
rates with several internationally acclaimed architects, and works with industry experts
Development), Raphael Bostic (Policy in energy conservation. “The results have in the fields of development, leasing and property management in both the public and
Development and Research), and John been outstanding and can be duplicated private sectors. JBC’s focus on quality has ensured the retention of an impressive client
Trasvina (Fair Housing). White House in other cities,” Hays said. Casius Pealer roster; and a sophisticated yet hands-on approach to commercial real estate has resulted
Office of Urban Affairs Director Adolfo of the US Green Building Council talked in over 50 real estate industry awards. Clients have access to JBC’s in-house resources in
finance, construction management, marketing, leasing, accounting, information systems
Carrion and Special Assistant to the about the need for and value of metrics
and management to address a complete set of complex real estate challenges. Through
President on Urban Policy Derek Doug- and measurement in addressing climate the use of these internal resources, the extensive public and private expertise of key per-
las represented the White House. North change. Felipe Augusto Faria, Opera- sonnel and the utilization of strategic alliances, specialists and outside consultants where
Little Rock Mayor Patrick Henry Hays, tional and Legal Manager of Green beneficial, JBC is able to develop and deliver on a customized strategy for each assign-
National League of Cities (NLC) Presi- Building Council, Brazil, described the ment. Case studies and key personnel information can be found at http://www.tjbc.com.
For additional inquiries regarding The John Buck Company, please contact Lori Healey
dent Riverside (CA) Mayor Ron Lov- innovative climate change projects and
at 312-441-4162 or via email at lhealey@tjbc.com.
eridge, National Association of Housing policies and ongoing challenges across
and Redevelopment Official (NAHRO) Brazil. He also explained the process Special Interests: Community Development, Downtown Development, Economic Develop-
Chief Executive Officer Saul Ramirez and benefits of establishing a national ment, Housing, Infrastructure, Neighborhood Redevelopment, Parking, Pension Issues,
and National Building Museum Presi- Green Building Council. Cristina Men- Privatization, Public Works, Real Estate, Retail Development, Transportation, Utilities
Issues
dent and Executive Director Chase Rynd donca, Director of the Clinton Climate
were some of the other members of the Initative in Rio de Janeiro, described
United States delegation. At least 500 some of the climate protection innova- For more Business Council profiles visit
the Conference of Mayors website at usmayors.org/buscouncil
people from the United States attended tive projects and policies and ongoing
the forum. challenges in Rio de Janeiro. She also
April 19, 2010 usmayors.org U.S. MAYOR Page 11
U.S.MAYOR
1620 I Street NW, Fourth Floor
Washington, DC 20006
Oklahoma City Revitalizes
Historic Hotel, Brownfield
Site – Skirvin Hilton Hotel
One of the younger cities in the
Midwest, Oklahoma City, was devel-
oped literally overnight. In 1928, oil
was discovered in Oklahoma City. The
increased oil revenues changed the
once subtle city into a thriving, large
metropolis.
William Balser Skirvin was one of
those fortunate to prosper in the oil and
land development in Texas. In 1906, renovation process was allowed to begin reopening, a downtown canal has been
Skirvin and his family moved to Oklaho- to eliminate the pathways for exposures built, derelict sites cleaned up, arenas
ma City to begin their new lives. Okla- and health threats to workers and pub- and ball parks were constructed which
homa City was experiencing a rapid lic. The air quality in the hotel was poor, support the Bricktown Entertainment
expansion during the early 1900's and containing carcinogens, biological vec- District and enable it to thrive.
Skirvin took the opportunity to invest fur- tors, and toxic substances. The greatest challenge posed to
ther in new lands and oil. The possibility The Skirvin’s second chance came Oklahoma City was overcoming the
of a new luxurious hotel struck Skirvin after two decades of remaining dor- initial funding gap for the project. The
as a valuable investment in the city. mant. On September 28, 1999, the Skirvin Solutions Committee created by
The Skirvin Hotel opened in 1911 Skirvin Solutions Committee (SSC) was the city determined that revitalization of
and easily became one of Oklahoma created by then Mayor Kirk Humphreys the hotel would not be possible without
City’s finest attractions. The magnifi- to address the remediation and reno- significant public assistance. Another
cent ten-story building with its red brick vation of the Skirvin Hotel. The project key was Cornett’s continued commitment
laid in Flemish bond pattern separates was continued and completed during and understanding of the importance to
itself from nearby buildings. The hotel the tenure of Mayor Mick Cornett. revitalizing the hotel as an essential part
Oklahoma City Mayor Mick
encompassed 250,600 square feet and Oklahoma City with its many public- of the downtown area’s success. This
Cornett
the property covered 1.45 acres. The private partnerships was able to raise project was an important milestone in
hotel would become the jewel of the city money and interest needed to restore redeveloping the downtown area result-
that attracted many celebrities, politi- less times by numerous investors. The the hotel. Affected residents, downtown ing in increased economic prosperity
cians, and the wealthy. It entertained decline of the oil industry and the wan- workers, and local organizations were for the city; projected sales and tax rev-
such guests as former President Harry ing downtown area ultimately led to the consulted throughout the decision-mak- enues over the next 15 years soared to
Truman, Actor John Wayne, the interna- closure of the hotel. ing process including those related to $15.5 million for local and $9.1 million
tional “Hostess with the Mostess” Perle The years of abandonment caused the environmental cleanup that would for state.
Mesta, along with a number of other the Skirvin Hotel to go through a rough be necessary to reopen the building. The U.S. Conference of Mayors will
celebrities and socialites. The hotel deterioration. The lack of maintenance Various federal, state, and private insti- be holding an evening event at the
graced the city skyline with its grandeur caused much of the asbestos to crumble tutions were included in the process as Skirvin Hilton Hotel during the Confer-
for the next 70 years before closing in and be exposed throughout the hotel. well. The newly renovated and renamed ence of Mayors 78th Annual Meeting in
the late 1980’s. The paint that was used throughout the Skirvin Hilton Hotel reopened for busi- Oklahoma City.
The death of William Skirvin in 1944 hotel also contained lead. Each of the ness in 2007, bringing back its prestige
was the onset of the hotel’s downfall. For rooms in the hotel contained mercury to the city and re-energizing the down-
years until the hotel’s closing in 1988, thermostats as well. The lead paint and town area.
the Skirvin was bought and sold count- asbestos had to be removed before the A combination of Tax Increment
Financing, an Economic Development
Initiative grant, the Brownfields Cleanup
Revolving Loan fund, tax credits, and
private equity were used to finance
the project. The total cost for asbestos
abatement was roughly $1,600,000,
and additional environmental costs
for the project cleanup were about
$719,000. The total project cost an esti-
mated $56,413,586. The private sector
contributed nearly 60 percent of that
cost, or about $36.4 million and public
funding resources provided the remain-
ing $20 million.
The renovation of the hotel generated
over 400 construction jobs. After com-
pletion, 255 new positions would be
created to run the hotel. The renovation Mayors are invited to submit the “Best
of the historic hotel would bring renewed Practices” of their cities to U.S. MAYOR.
energy to the city and serve as a catalyst Contact Public Affairs at 202-293-7330 or
send eMail to info@usmayors.org
for other redevelopment efforts. Since
Page 12 U.S. MAYOR usmayors.org April 19, 2010