Building A Community with Michael Spurgeon

Summary
This conversation explores the journey and experiences of a city manager in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, reflecting on the importance of community engagement, effective governance, and the challenges of managing a growing city. The discussion highlights the significance of maintaining a small-town feel while fostering economic development and supporting local businesses. The city manager shares insights on the structure of local government, the role of events in community building, and the importance of communication and transparency in governance. The conversation explores the growth and development of Broken Arrow, focusing on population projections, educational advancements with NSU, the future of the amphitheater, and the importance of community engagement. The speakers discuss the balance between operational management and visionary planning, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the influence of key figures in their lives. Emphasis is placed on the need for effective communication and listening skills in leadership roles.
 Takeaways

• Reflecting on a long career in public administration is valuable.
• The journey to Broken Arrow involved gaining necessary experience.
• Maintaining a small town feel is crucial for community identity.
• Events play a significant role in bringing the community together.
• Understanding the city government structure is essential for effective management.
• The city manager has extensive responsibilities, including hiring and budget management.
• Communication and transparency are key to public trust.
• Supporting small businesses is vital for economic growth.
• Exciting developments, like new parks, enhance community life.
• Future growth opportunities exist in Broken Arrow's available land. By 2060, Broken Arrow's population could exceed 250,000.
• Planning for future growth is essential for city services.
• NSU's expansion will enhance local education opportunities.
• The amphitheater is expected to boost economic development.
• Effective city management requires balancing operations and vision.
• Community engagement is crucial for responsive governance.
• Listening skills are vital for effective leadership.
• Entrepreneurship involves risks that must be carefully managed.
• Influential mentors shape personal and professional growth.
• Building relationships is key to successful community leadership.

  Chapters
00:00 Reflecting on a Career in Public Administration
03:03 The Journey to Broken Arrow
06:02 Maintaining a Small Town Feel in a Growing City
08:58 The Role of Events in Community Building
12:00 Understanding City Government Structure
15:09 The City Manager's Responsibilities
18:07 Communication and Transparency in Governance
20:48 Supporting Small Businesses in Broken Arrow
23:55 Exciting Developments in Broken Arrow
26:54 Future Growth and Development Opportunities
35:33 Population Growth and Urban Planning
37:15 Educational Development and NSU's Role
40:28 The Future of the Amphitheater
44:31 Vision and Long-Term Planning
49:24 Entrepreneurship and Risk Management
55:43 Influential Figures in Personal Development
01:07:09 Community Engagement and Responsiveness


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