Last Minute Agenda Information. 2025-10-01 — Imperial Beach City Council, October 1, 2025

Page 1 of 1 ends

AMENDED LAST MINUTE AGENDA

INFORMATION
10/01/2025 Regular City Council Meeting
(Agenda Related Writings/Documents provided to a majority of the City Council after distribution of the Agenda Packet for the October 1, 2025, meeting.) ITEM
NO. SUBJECT TITLE DESCRIPTION
6 PUBLIC COMMENT
a. Correspondence from Sandra Brillhart
b. Correspondence from Toni Trinidad

11.a

SECOND ROUND INTERVIEWS OF

CITY COUNCIL APPLICANTS WITH

DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION

TO MAKE APPOINTMENT TO FILL

VACANCY IN CITY COUNCIL
POSITION, DISTRICT 3. (0410-40)
a. Correspondence from Brittany Walk
b. Correspondence from James C. Janney
c. Correspondence from Betty Sanchez
Blevins
d. Correspondence from Mariko
Nakawatase
e. Correspondence from Mark Williams
f. Correspondence from Sandra Brillhart
g. Correspondence from Dave Nearing
h. Correspondence from Anne Pilgrim
i. Correspondence from Taco Corona
j. Correspondence from Mehri Sadri
k. Correspondence from Jared Rapoza
l. Correspondence from Lynne Fischer
m.Correspondence from Corey Emerson
n. Correspondence from David Martinez
o. Correspondence from John Keating
From: Sandra Brillhart
To: Public Comments
Subject: Agenda Item 6 - Public Comments
Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025 5:03:01 AM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Mayor Pro Tem Seabury demonstrated extremely poor judgment at the September 17 IB City Council meeting when she called for a moment of silence for Charlie Kirk at the conclusion ofher committee assignments report. Although she stated it was not an endorsement of politics of any kind, but rather an acknowledgement of sacrifice and a terrible tragedy, she unnecessarily injected a national controversy into a local government meeting.

Charlie Kirk’s murder was indeed a terrible tragedy, as is every life that is lost to gun violence. Perhaps if she had used her positionto call for unity, denounce violence, or express condolences for an IB resident who was killed by gun violence in IB just days earlier, a moment of silence would have been appropriate. But she didn’t do any of those things.

City Council meetings are meant to focus on municipal business, not to elevate partisan or controversial media celebrities. Actions that appear partisan or polarizing alienate portions of the community and erode confidence in government.

Doing this at a public meeting devoted to interviewing applicants for a council vacancy, when neutrality is particularly important, makes it all the more unacceptable.

Our community deserves a government that respects all viewpoints and refrains from partisan acts, overt or perceived, during official proceedings. How about a moment of silence for the loss of that?
Sandy Brillhart
IB resident
.
a.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 6
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Toni T.

To: Public Comments
Subject: Agenda item 6: Public Comment re: 9th Street improvements and stop signs at Donax.

Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 9:42:33 PM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Council Members,
I am writing in appreciation for the successful completion of the 9th street project that began in January 2025, and is now complete! I would like to share my thoughts on the improvements and one decision in need of reconsideration.

I value the added beauty and safety the project has brought to our city. The smooth, clean roadways, the crisp lines, dedicated bike lanes, greenery, mosaic crosswalks, bulb-outs, and reflectors bring a sense of order and pride to IB.

However, I gravely disagree with the removal of the stop signs at Donax and 9th. This one change is antithetical to the main purpose of the project: safety and traffic calming.

Since the signs’ removal, residents have reported multiple accidents at the intersection. This type of outcome does not align with the purpose of the project.

I understand the original decision to remove the signage was due to concerns about traffic backing up from 9th and the shopping center exit. However, I don’t believe a stop sign would severely halt traffic there. It may slow it down a tad, but wasn’t that the aim from the start? I, for one, would rather be slowed down for a minute or two if it can prevent accidents and save lives. I hope we don’t have to wait until there’s a serious injury or fatality to bring back the signs.

I would like to request that the stop signs be returned to Donax and 9th.

We needed stop signs at Elm. And we STILL need stop signs at Donax. Both intersections face the same issues.

Please heed the call for their reinstallation.

Thank you,
Toni Trinidad
IB D3 Resident
Sent from my iPhone
.
b.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 6
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Brittany Walk
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A - Support for Mariko Nakawatase for D3 City Council Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025 1:30:55 PM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear City of Imperial Beach Council-members,
My name is Brittany Walk, and I am writing to express my deep appreciation for Mariko and the support she has provided me and my family.

For many years, I have faced homelessness, often relying on couch surfing, while raising my son who has Autism and ADHD. During this time, I was also pregnant with my now one-month-old. Stability has been extremely difficult to achieve, and the lack of permanent housing has placed a significant strain on both myself and my children.

When I reached out to Mariko regarding my housing situation, she listened with genuine care and compassion. She went above and beyond by researching resources that had not previously been offered to me and reaching out to her own contacts. Thanks to her efforts, my son and I were able to enter Door of Hope, a shelter for single women and women with children experiencing homelessness.

Through that opportunity, I was able to focus on rebuilding stability, access services for my son that were previously out of reach, and begin moving forward. Without Mariko’s support, I would still be struggling to find balance and direction. She selflessly took the initiative, despite her already demanding schedule, and made a lasting impact on our lives.

For these reasons, I am truly grateful to Mariko. Her dedication, compassion, and ability to take action demonstrate qualities that would make her an excellent council member.

Sincerely,
Brittany Walk
Sent from Brittany Walk
.
a.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
James C. Janney
9-28-25
To: Mayor McKay and The Imperial Beach City Council
Subject: The appointment to fill the City Council seat
I am writing In regards to the appointment for the Imperial Beach City Council position for the City of Imperial Beach community. From my experience – experience will of utmost importance to move forward for the remaining short term of office.

I believe that Patrick Bilbray, former Council Member, brings that experience. He served as a viable council person. His experience will count during this short term.

Sincerely,
James C. Janney
James C. Janney
Previous Mayor and Council Member
Received by Email
on Sunday 09/28/25
at 7:26 a.m. jmk
b.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Betty Sanchez Blevins
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:32 AM
To: Jacqueline M. Kelly <[email protected]>
Cc: Tyler Foltz <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Councilmember - District 3 Interviews
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Good morning,
I am withdrawing my quest for District 3 Councilmember. After much thought, I believe it will come down to the two candidates with three votes each. I don’t foresee councilmembers changing their vote, it appeared quite uniform amongst the three.

Because I care about Imperial Beach and my fellow neighbors, I think it’s best for me to withdraw to expedite the process of choosing a candidate.

It has been an honor participating in this process.

Best regards,
c.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Mariko Nakawatase
Sent: Monday, September 29, 2025 7:49 AM
To: Jacqueline M. Kelly <[email protected]>
Cc: Tyler Foltz <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Councilmember - District 3 Interviews
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Good morning Jackie and Tyler,
I wanted to provide two documents prior to the meeting that I will reference to the city council. Just in case I will also have physical copies too.

The first one, is a breakdown analysis of D3, Imperial Beach and the second document is my capstone project I worked on from pages 22-63.

Demographic Breakdown of District 3 - Imperial Beach
d.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

This page was intentionally left blank.
d.4 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Town of Miami
Angel "Jose" Medina, Mayor
Dan Moat, Vice-Mayor
Michael Black, Councilmember
Michael Sosh, Councilmember
Robert Licano, Councilmember
Don Reiman, Councilmember
Sammy Gonzales, Councilmember
Alexis Rivera, Town Manager
Arizona State University (ASU)
Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory
Peter Schlosser, Vice President and Vice Provost, Global Futures Laboratory, and Dean, College of Global Futures
Dave White, Director, Global Institute of Sustainability and Innovation, and Associate Vice President of Research Advancement, Knowledge Enterprise Meredith Simpson, Director of Operations, Global Futures Laboratory On behalf of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory, the Global Institute of Sustainability and Innovation, and the School of Sustainability, we extend a heartfelt thank you to the Town of Miami for enthusiastically engaging with students and faculty throughout the semester. These projects provide valuable real-world experience for our students and we hope that their perspectives shine light on opportunities to continuously improve Miami's future livelihood and community well-being. d.6 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

GET ACQUAINTED

WITH THE PROJECT

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART 2
PART 3
PART 4
PART 1

STRATEGIC

FRAMEWORK PILLARS
& OPPORTUNITY
AREAS

STRATEGIES &

OPPORTUNITIES

FOR ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT

EDUCATIONAL

OPPORTUNITIES FOR

LIFELONG LEARNING
4 Acknowledgments
8 About Project Cities
9 About Miami
10 Miami Community Profile
13 Map of Partner Communities in Arizona
15 Executive Summary
16 Key Student Recommendations
18 Sustainable Development Goal Alignment
23 Introduction
29 Literature Review
40 Findings & Analysis
58 Conclusion
60 References
65 Introduction
65 Community Context
70 Literature Review
71 Strategic Framework
71 Short-Term Opportunities
80 Long-Term Opportunities
85 Conclusion
86 References
91 Introduction
92 Literature Review
93 K-12 Education
101 Higher Education
109 Lifelong Learning
114 Conclusion
115 References
d.7 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
DESTINATION MIAMI:

OPPORTUNITIES FOR

TOURISM
PART 5 121 Introduction
122 Current Miami Tourism
126 Target Tourist Analysis
127 Successful Tourist Mining Towns
144 Recommendation
152 Conclusions
153 References
To access the original student reports, additional materials, and resources, visit:
links.asu.edu/PCMiamiStrategicFramework23F
d.8 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
This page was intentionally left blank.
d.9 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

Founded in 1907, the Town of Miami is situated in the “Copper Corridor,” an area with a rich history steeped in copper mining. Also referred to as a “copper boom-town,” the Miami community has a unique, historical charm dedicated to highlighting the Town’s cultural heritage and missionstyle architecture. Miami residents and visitors alike can enjoy the Town’s homage to Arizona history by visiting the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center and Museum and outdoor recreation in the surrounding Pinal Mountains.

ABOUT MIAMI

MIAMI TEAM
Project Cities Community Liaison
Alexis Rivera, Town Manager
Fall 2023 Miami Project Lead
Alexis Rivera, Town of Manager
miamiaz.gov
Copper center of the world.
d.11 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

Executive Summary 15
Recognized as the “Copper Center of the World,” the Town of Miami is a growing community in the Copper Corridor. The Town and surrounding communities in the Corridor are expected to experience exponential growth in the coming years due to projected private sector development. Continuing to develop its identity as a destination, the Town of Miami is positioned to strategize its planning and development to ensure a thriving and sustainable community.

The Town of Miami seeks to develop a strategic framework to guide its growth and development into the future. The Town is interested in exploring examples of strategic guiding documents from peer communities, opportunities for the Town to gain additional revenue through mining taxation, avenues for collaboration with higher education institutions, and solutions for increasing tourism while still honoring “Old Miami.”
Graduate students from the School of Public Affairs collaborated with the Town of Miami as part of Daniel Schugurensky’s PAF 509 Public Affairs Capstone course. The students identified four focus areas to design a comprehensive strategic framework for the Town, including identifying three Town priorities, economic development strategies, educational pathways, and opportunities for lifelong learning. Each analysis includes a review of peer communities locally, nationally, and internationally. Following the review, students identified opportunities and recommendations for the Town of Miami to consider in their sustainable growth and development.

Students identified three key priorities for Miami’s planning and development:

Economic Development, Emergency Preparedness, and Community WellBeing. Based on these three priorities, the students developed several key strategies for sustainable development, including bolstering the Town’s business sector through tax incentives and enhancing public education through accessible online education programs.

By developing a strategic framework, the Town of Miami can ensure its sustained growth by continuing to serve its residents while planning for the future. The proposed strategies emphasize the Town’s priorities, while building on existing community assets, including its local business network and cultural heritage.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
d.17 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

This page was intentionally left blank.
d.19 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
TOWN OF MIAMI PARTNER PROJECTS:

ALIGNMENT WITH THE UNITED NATIONS'
As the leading international framework
for sustainable decision-making, the 17
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) lay
out a path for partnerships toward global
peace and prosperity. The SDGs provide a set
of goals and metrics for project impact to be
measured, offering an illustration of the benefits
experienced by the cities, towns, and students
who participate in a Project Cities partnership.

For details on the SDGs, visit sdgs.un.org/
goals.

Every project in the PC
program aligns with
SDGs 11 and 17.
d.20 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

This page was intentionally left blank.
d.22 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

22 Strategic Framework

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Faculty
Daniel Schugurensky, Professor, School of Public Affairs & School of Social Transformation
Miami Staff
Alexis Rivera, Town Manager, Town of Miami
Students
Michael Sonenberg
Kristina Roscher
Mariko Nakawatase
Editors
Alison Almand
Pranav Jain
Julia Davis
Anne Reichman
d.24 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 23
Among the rugged landscapes of Arizona, the historic Town of Miami stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the American West. With a rich mining heritage and illustrious past, Miami has weathered the tides of time, evolving from its early 20th-century boomtown days to a community seeking new pathways for prosperity in the 21st century.

As the Town grapples with the challenges of economic development, emergency preparedness, and community well-being, a comprehensive strategic plan is imperative to guide Miami through this transformation.

This report takes the first steps toward a strategic plan by presenting a framework aimed at revitalizing Miami, Arizona, by harnessing its unique strengths, preserving its cultural heritage, and fostering sustainable growth for future generations.

The strategic framework proposed is rooted in a thorough analysis of Miami's current socio-economic landscape, incorporating insights garnered from stakeholder conversations, rigorous data collection, and a meticulous examination of best practices from peer communities.

By recognizing the value of Miami's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and human capital, this framework seeks to lay a solid foundation for revitalization that encompasses economic development, emergency preparedness, and community empowerment.

The framework will delve into the current economic landscape, identifying key sectors for growth, potential areas of diversification, and revenue opportunities. The framework will address critical emergency preparedness plans, creating an Emergency Operations Plan with resource management, education, and recovery planning ideas. Lastly, the framework emphasizes community well-being and engagement. The framework aim identifies Miami’s community aspirations, needs, and concerns by engaging with residents, businesses, and organizations.

Through targeted programs and initiatives, the framework seeks to engage and empower individuals, promote inclusivity, and cultivate a vibrant civic culture that celebrates Miami's diversity.

Ultimately, this strategic framework aspires to chart a course for Miami, Arizona, driven by resilience, sustainability, and prosperity. By aligning the Town's strengths with its vision for the future, the Town of Miami can embark on a transformative journey toward a thriving and sustainable community for generations to come.

INTRODUCTION
d.25 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

26 Strategic Framework
and tourists. At its peak, Bisbee was home to over 20,000 people.

The Town established a Strategic Plan in 1999 and a General Plan in 2003, with the latest update in 2015 (The Bisbee Planning and Zoning Commission, 2014). The General Plan includes information, goals, and specific measures for three focus areas:

1. Encouraging growth

2. Managing land use (zoning)

3. Developing and managing transportation corridors (including the nearby airport)
Julian, California
Nestled in the mountains approximately 60 miles east of San Diego, California, Julian initially attracted settlers in the 1860s after discovering gold nearby. However, the last gold mines closed only 20 years later. In the 1870s, the Julian mining district had a population of 1,500, but this dwindled to around 100 after the mines closed. The town is the heart of the Julian Historic District, known for its picturesque scenery, apple orchards, and historic buildings. Visitors flock from hours away to this charming town to savor the famous apple pies, explore local boutiques, and take in the mountainous outdoors. Julian’s General Plan was initially adopted in 1976 and updated in 2011 and included seven focus areas:

1. Land Use

2. Housing
Figure 5 Julian, by Red Hawk Realty
d.28 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 27

3. Mobility

4. Safety

5. Conservation

6. Open Space

7. Noise
Patagonia, Arizona
Figure 6 Patagonia, by Tucson, Arizona
Positioned in southern Arizona, between Tucson and Nogales, Patagonia’s mining history traces back to the mid-1900s, although the Town was not fully incorporated until 1948. Mining and ranching have declined (but are still present) in the Town’s economy, and tourism has grown significantly over the past 50 years. The Sonoita Creek was dammed in the late 1960s to create Patagonia Lake, a State Park. Since 2009, the mining industry has experienced a resurgence in the area, prompting a commitment to preserving the community's small-town character and ensuring sustainable development. Patagonia’s General Plan has three focus areas:

1. Land Use

2. Transportation (Required by State Law)

3. Energy and Water Resources
d.29 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 29

LITERATURE REVIEW
“Highlighting the Regional Impacts of Copper Mining”
Fiscor, 2023
The Capstone Mining Corp, owners of the Pinto Valley mine in the Globe-Miami mining district, commissioned a study (via an independent third party) to gauge the community’s mindset and engagement about copper mining. They conducted field polling within the Copper Triangle, including Globe-Miami, Superior, and Kearney, with 250 registered voters regarding mining operations in the area. Fiscor (2023) reported that participants ranked jobs and the economy as the number one issue in their area, followed by immigration, education, and water. However, 92% of participants supported copper mining operations and ranked it as the top industry of importance in their area, followed by healthcare, agriculture, and tourism.

The article by Fiscor (2023) also highlights Capstone Mining Corporation’s goals for maintaining a positive influence in the Copper Triangle. For example, Pinto Valley’s employees participate in local community trash removal in the Second Saturday Clean Up. The Gila County events page lists the Second Saturday Clean Up as occurring in Globe (Gila County, 2023), indicating an area of opportunity for Miami to mirror this event for blight removal. Capstone Mining also reported donations to the local community for 4-H, youth sports, and the United Fund. Additionally, they contributed $100,000 to Globe for a new public pool.

Through these contributions, the Pinto Valley Mine hopes to maintain a positive reputation and impact within the local communities. It is possible that companies like Freeport-McMoRan, Resolution Copper, and Carlotta Mine are interested in or are currently operating the same way.

Therefore, partnering with the local mining companies can allow Copper Triangle residents, such as those in Miami, to progress on goals that improve the quality of life for mining employees and their families. d.31 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
30 Strategic Framework
“Strategic Approach to Rural Shrinkage”
Tietjen & Jorgensen, 2016
The authors focus on strategic planning as a combination of strategic vision and projects (Tietjen & Jorgensen, 2016). Strategic vision can be defined as long-term development visions based on social negotiation, participation, and SWOT analysis. In contrast, strategic projects are short-term, limitedscale results that align with the development vision and allow for continuous reevaluation as projects are completed. This study used these definitions to analyze the effectiveness of “The Good Life at Seaside” program that sought to combat rural shrinkage in Denmark by increasing tourism and settlement.

The authors of this case study broke the strategic process into four stages that can vary in length based on the municipality’s needs. The first stage, problematization, allows the formation of hypotheses based on challenges and opportunities in the municipality's current state.

Next, the interessement stage requires a site evaluation, identification, communication with relevant stakeholders, and activities inviting community or public involvement. This stage can be lengthy and will likely be revisited as projects develop. The next stage is enrollment, which includes a defined project plan with concrete actions and actors. Finally, the mobilization phase allows actor networks to plan toward a common goal.

Within these stages, planners must consider human and non-human networks that can work together in resource partnerships. Community engagement and collaborative decision-making also drive progress and bolster commitment to the strategic vision. For example, planners sought project ideas from all stakeholders in this case study. They organized them into key action areas related to the vision goals of tourism and settlement and the SWOT analysis. Any ideas that did not fit the current goals were publically put into an “idea bank” for future use. Ideas that progressed were presented and voted on to move into the conclusion of plan formation, the definition of pertinent actors, and interactions such as new cooperation plans with close communities.

In conclusion, the authors of this case study stressed the importance of collaboration, identification of beneficial actor networks, and community buy-in to the process. Planners ultimately integrated citizen ideas, the strategic vision, current and necessary policies, optimized resources, and strengthened partnerships.
d.32 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 31
“Community Resiliency in Declining Small Towns:

Impact of Population Loss on Quality of Life over 20
Years”
Peters, 2019
The article by Peters (2019) focuses on quality of life (QoL) in small Iowa towns that have experienced population loss over 20 years. The author conceptualized QoL in the community services dimension, which is made of business (employment, commercial, entertainment, and telecommunications), nonprofit (health care, social services, recreation, religious venues, and civic venues), and government (public safety, utilities, transportation infrastructure, public schools, etc.) components.

Peters (2019) also discusses community resiliency and vulnerability to describe how a community responds to losses or hazards. Population decline represents a long-term “press” hazard rather than a sudden emergency.

Past research cited by the author indicates that economic factors rank lower than QoL in the decision to leave a small town. Instead, the community considers factors such as government services, community attachment, entertainment, civic and community engagement, and life satisfaction more influential in rural out-migration. Additionally, social capital (social networks, trust, etc.) can positively influence community satisfaction through bridging. Bridging allows a diverse community to carry out collective actions with wider access to resources and more social support.

Results of the study found resilient decline can be characterized by higher measures of QoL in nearly all categories. Despite the consistent population decline, these towns demonstrated higher scores in QoL, more diversity and heritage, higher employment participation, faster median household income gains, and higher civic engagement.

Considering civic engagement specifically, resilient towns demonstrated more participation in community improvement projects and feelings of support in completing those projects.
d.33 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
32 Strategic Framework
“The Best of Times, The Worst of Times: Antecedents
for and Effectiveness of Community Engagement in
Two Small Rural Towns”
Wilson & Sanyal, 2013
Authors of this study compare two small rural communities, Dayton (Washington) and Priest River (Idaho), in regards to their reported values and the amount of community engagement in each town. Through community engagement workshops and semi-structured interviews of elected officials, journalists, government employees, local commercial interests, and community members, the authors could evaluate the persistent themes in each community.

Dayton has approximately 2,000 residents who reportedly value their small-town atmosphere, agriculture, historic sites, and youth retention through economic incentives. They even created a downtown historic district by leveraging local taxes and workshops. Authors coded several themes from the interviews in Dayton: community engagement is considered essential, citizens are empowered, stakeholder diversity is a strength in planning and implementing new ideas, politics are best transparent, and the community is cohesive by being interdependent.

Authors found their community to have increased feelings of bridging social capital and higher resiliency.

Priest River has approximately 1,754 residents who report valuing the Town's small-town rural feel and aesthetics, their freedom, and a limited government. They identify their city as fragmented but are willing to Figure 8 Dayton WA, by Historic
Dayton
Figure 9 Priest River ID, by The City
of Priest River Facebook
d.34 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 33
commit to town clean-up, a community garden, events, and recreation.

The coded themes from Priest River include community engagement being very relevant, citizens providing input and direction, stakeholders being strong but similar in mindset, politics being adversarial and conservative, and citizens being independent regarding cohesion.

Considering the whole picture, residents see value in community cooperation but do not feel it works well. Authors point out that they practice more bonding social capital, resulting in “getting by” rather than “getting ahead.”
The authors conclude that Dayton’s community engagement has given the City an advantage in completing goals and cooperating in plans. They report that both municipalities feel community engagement is important; however, Dayton speaks more positively of their current landscape and addresses shortcomings as opportunities to improve. In contrast, Priest River speaks more negatively about their leadership and the City's trajectory, feeling their plans and implementation are fragmented.

Key takeaways from the literature

1. Towns are able to form partnerships with mining companies such as Pinto Valley, who have an interest in maintaining a positive image and impact within copper mining communities (Fiscor, 2023). These partnerships can help achieve strategic goals through volunteerism and donations.

2. Combating population decline in rural areas can be addressed strategically by identifying the challenges and opportunities of an area, evaluating available resources and stakeholders, involving the community in planning activities, developing a plan based on identified goals, and mobilizing human and non-human networks to carry out plans (Tietjen & Jorgensen, 2016).

3. Small towns with consistent population declines can still achieve resiliency and high quality of life through focuses on bridging social capital and civic engagement (Peters, 2019).

4. Towns that employ bridging social capital and community engagement have an advantage in collaborating and carrying out strategic goals while maintaining the community's vision (Wilson & Sanyal, 2013).
d.35 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
34 Strategic Framework
Previous research for Miami, Arizona
ASU student researchers from the JUS 301 Research Methods course conducted a literature review and survey of Miami residents in 2023, with a focus on four areas: young adult migration, business development, post-secondary education, and tourism. Their findings were published in the report More than Mining: Creating a Tourist Destination Town of Miami, Arizona, available on the ASU Project Cities website.

The More than Mining report encompasses a comprehensive review, drawing from over 30 references predominantly comprising scholarly articles. These sources were examined to gain insight into the current landscape regarding the sustainability of small towns. Moreover, the researchers delved into the archives of the Greater Arizona Collection at the Arizona State University Library, which includes primary source documents and supplementary materials. While not every discovery is detailed here, several noteworthy findings are outlined below.

Throughout its history, Miami thrived by providing mining employment and cultivating a close-knit rural community, drawing settlers with its unique appeal. Yet, in a century, preferences and societal norms have evolved. The idea of migrating from rural to urban settings, as it is equated with success while staying in rural areas, implies a need for more (Cook & Cuervo, 2018). This issue isn't exclusive to Miami but resonates with numerous small towns nationwide. Consequently, Miami might need to adapt to provide the amenities and experiences that align with contemporary desires.

The literature review doesn't paint a grim picture but a realistic one.

Several instances exist similar to Miami, where towns have experienced a second life facilitated by tourism, the influx of new residents, or a combination of both. Typically, this rejuvenation is rooted in leveraging the historical essence of a community or through the cultivation of special holiday and festival events (Jensen, 2006). Miami stands to benefit from its rich mining legacy, which could serve as a valuable heritage asset. This strategic move has proven successful in places like Martigues, France, where the industrial heritage has been instrumental in drawing tourists (Condevaux et al., 2021). Additionally, local festivities play a pivotal role, exemplified by the North Jutland, Denmark mussel festival, turning the town into a sought-after destination for tourists (Blichfeldt & Halkier, 2014). Nevertheless, Miami's leadership must approach these changes mindfully, recognizing the potential impacts that d.36 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 35
new residents and visitors may bring. A thorough assessment of current issues is imperative before any community changes. These shifts can leave a lasting imprint on the community's character and should only be executed with a profound understanding of the town's fiscal standing, business stability, and distinctive culture.

In recent years, Miami confronted two significant crises—the Telegraph Fire and the subsequent 2021 flood. While these events do not solely define Miami, they hold crucial lessons for city planners. It is imperative to comprehend their impact on the town's residents and to fortify preparedness for future emergencies. These crises can impede economic development if barriers to recovery are not overcome. Key obstacles in the path to recovery encompass financial constraints, limited access to essential resources, and the enduring psychological trauma experienced by the affected populace (Runyan, 2006).

Figure 10 Martigues, France, by Camping Direct
Figure 11 The Telegraph fire, by The Gila Herald
d.37 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
36 Strategic Framework
Education stands as a prerequisite for economic development. However, small towns face a particular challenge in funding education through property taxes. Communities with lower property values or tax payment rates may encounter difficulties in meeting the educational needs of their students, especially considering that small towns tend to allocate more resources per student. Nevertheless, the literature offers examples of innovative approaches to address this challenge. For instance, a mining town in Virginia successfully increased the number of students classified as "gifted" by adopting a methodology tailored to rural communities, thereby enhancing their prospects for higher education (Azano et al., 2017). Similarly, the College Ambition Program (CAP) has demonstrated the potential to elevate the college attendance rates of rural students, such as those in Miami (Schneider, 2014). Moreover, the demand for online learning offered by numerous universities, including ASU, allows students to pursue higher education without leaving their communities.

Figure 12 ASU students visiting the Town of Miami
In compiling this report, researchers engaged with a diverse crosssection of the Miami community, including Town staff, residents, business owners, and students. While the sample size was modest (n~20), it provides a broad spectrum of perspectives. Notable observations include:

1. While current residents express a desire to stay close to home because of family ties, there is a lack of “magnetism” that keeps young adults from leaving the town.

2. Business owners feel supported by the community and town officials, d.38 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 37
but face obstacles accessing grant funding and other sources of financial support.

3. Opportunities for young people are limited. The perception is that there are two options for young people:
a. Employment in the mining sector.
b. Pursue higher education outside of Miami.

4. Collaborative Efforts with ASU to offer nursing classes as a proactive approach to educational enrichment.

5. Like many small towns, drugs and related concerns are an issue.

6. Miami is interested in becoming a tourist destination and hosts several events each year to attract people regionally.

Recommendations from the “More than Mining” report
The report concludes with the thought that Miami can become a destination for community, cultural, and historical heritage by expanding outreach about local events. Specific recommendations made by the researchers in the JUS 301 report were:

Tourism

1. Elevate the profile of Small Town Christmas Event Leverage social media platforms for event promotion.

2. Undertake the restoration of historical sites.

3. Create and foster dedicated citizen groups to focus on these endeavors.

Business development

1. Promote local businesses through active engagement on social media.

2. Develop a range of events tailored to the town.

3. Simplify Processes for Businesses seeking assistance Education

1. Educate comprehensive college information to local students.

2. Engage students in managing social media campaigns and showcase their skills for the community's benefit.
d.39 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
38 Strategic Framework
Current socio-economic landscape
On September 22, 2023, new researchers immersed themselves in Miami, facilitated by ASU Project Cities, and engaged with several prominent town officials. This immersive site visit encompassed a range of activities, including presentations, an illuminating tour, and extensive dialogues with key figures shaping the Town's trajectory. The Town officials in these discussions were:
• Jose Medina, Mayor
• Alexis Rivera, Town Manager
• Christine Duarte, Community Services Director
• Evelyn Vargas, Economic Development Director
• Dr. Richard Ramos, Assistant Superintendent, Miami Unified School District
The discussions with the Town officials brought to light a medley of challenges. Foremost among the concerns of community members was the state of local roads, particularly in the southern area of town, which have experienced wear and tear over time. The potential flooding, starkly demonstrated in 2021, remains a pressing issue. The lack of proximate grocery stores creates a food desert scenario, with local convenience stores charging threefold for essential items compared to establishments in Globe. The absence of a communal swimming pool, once a hub of community gatherings, has left a void in community cohesion.

Furthermore, the scarcity of educational opportunities compels the youth to seek prospects elsewhere, leading to a notable departure from Miami.

Editor's Note
In spring 2024 the Town of Miami broke ground on the improvements to the swimming pool on Sullivan Street. The pool updates are supported by the local hospital as well as the Town. The projected completion date is summer 2024.

Town officials identified an array of opportunities on the horizon. A key opportunity is hosting community events, though not directly funded by the Town, facilitated by a separate non-profit entity, Miami Genesis.

The Town's proximity to lakes, mountains, and hiking trails positions Miami as a potential epicenter for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. A wide spectrum of grant possibilities spanning government channels, local employers, and non-profit organizations. Recent successes include securing a $2.5 million grant from FEMA, in collaboration with d.40 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 39
the Army Corps of Engineers, to combat flooding and establish a robust emergency management plan and $25 million earmarked for crucial road enhancements. An additional $3 million has been allocated to uphold the wastewater treatment plant, and a grant has been procured to retain essential police officers. An innovative proposal for a "Youth and Education Council" has emerged, aimed at affording young individuals opportunities to engage in local governance, gain recognition for their contributions, and improve their educational outcomes. Also mentioned was the possibility of annexing land around the town, providing larger development opportunities.

Figure 13 Swimming Pool under construction in Miami, by Town of Miami d.41 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 43
Youth Council
Establish a youth council within the community to give youth and students a platform to voice their opinions and gain experience with local government. Empowering them to be a part of the decision-making process within the community will give them a sense of ownership and responsibility over Miami. This council will lead initiatives to use new perspectives to develop solutions for community challenges and focus on issues impacting young people, such as education, employment opportunities, recreational activities and more. A potential first project for the youth council would be to help local businesses establish social media programs to leverage the power of social media to effectively promote and support local businesses, drive engagement, and revenue growth.

Economic Development Council
Create an Economic Development Council consisting of business leaders and interested community members. This council will focus on creating the prerequisites for further economic development and make recommendations to the Town Council for policy changes and grant programs developed by the Town.

Implementation Plan
• Identify initial group of
interested students and
provide them with training on
local government processes.
• Hold interviews and review of
applications for the final youth
council.
• Hold regular community
meetings to discuss youthrelated issues and initiatives.

Performance Metrics
• Measure the level of student
participation and engagement
in council meetings.
• Monitor the reach and
impact of social media posts,
including likes, shares, and
comments.
• Gather feedback from both
students and the community
on the effectiveness of these
initiatives.
d.45 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
44 Strategic Framework
Implementation Plan
• Identify influential business
leaders and community
members to invite to the
council.
• The Town Council should
refer items for discussion
and recommendation to
the Economic Development
Council.

Performance Metrics
• Gather feedback from
members of the council on
effectiveness of council
recommendations.
• Evaluate success of councilrecommended programs.

Tourism Advisory Committee
Establish a Tourism Advisory Committee to bring together stakeholders, the opportunity of tourism, and the local community to establish community values and preserve cultural heritage. This committee will focus on enhancing the overall visitor experience and contribute to the long term success of becoming a destination all while safeguarding the unique identity and environment of Miami.

Mining Town Branding/Cultural Events & Festivals
A well-defined brand gives any town a distinctive identity and communicates with what makes the town unique through its history, culture, and natural beauty. From establishing civic pride, cultural Implementation Plan
• Begin identifying interested
community members,
business owners, various
stakeholders from tourismrelated industries and local
stakeholders.
• Hold interviews and review
of applications for the final
tourism advisory committee.
• Hold regular community
meetings to discuss tourismrelated issues and initiatives.

Performance Metrics
• Assess the effectiveness
of the Tourism Advisory
Committee in providing
valuable guidance for tourism
development within a one year
to three year period.
d.46 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 45
Land Annexation
Land annexation in Miami, Arizona, holds significant importance for the Town's growth and development. By expanding the town's boundaries through annexation, Miami can strategically plan for future residential, commercial, and industrial development, accommodating the needs of a growing population. This process will lead to efficient land use planning, enabling the Town to provide essential services, utilities, and infrastructure to newly annexed areas. It also facilitates coordinated and comprehensive land management, ensuring that development aligns with the town's long-term vision and sustainability goals. Ultimately, land annexation is a strategic step towards shaping the future of Miami, enhancing its resilience, and positioning it as a thriving and well-planned community.
preservation, to finally marketing the town to attract new customers Miami has a huge opportunity to lean into the “Copper Center of the World”.

Implementation Plan
• Develop marketing materials
and promotional strategies
highlighting the town's mining
heritage.
• Organize regular cultural
events and festivals, involving
local artisans, historians, and
performers.

Implementation Plan
• Initiate the land annexation
process through a thorough
feasibility study, assessing the
potential areas for expansion
and their compatibility with the
town's development goals.
• Engage with stakeholders,
Performance Metrics
• Monitor visitor attendance and
feedback for tours, interactive
experiences, and educational
programs.
• Track attendance and
community participation in
cultural events and festivals.
• Measure any increase in
tourism-related revenue.

Performance Metrics
• Implement robust
performance metrics to
measure the success of land
annexation.
• Track the increase in the
town's tax base resulting
from the annexed areas
d.47 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
46 Strategic Framework
including current residents
and local businesses, to
gather input and address
community concerns.
• Develop a comprehensive
land use plan outlining zoning
regulations, infrastructure
requirements, and service
provisions for the newly
annexed areas.
• Collaborate with relevant
government agencies to
streamline the annexation
process and ensure a smooth
transition for the affected
communities.
• Establish communication
channels to keep residents
informed and engaged
throughout the process.
and monitor economic
development indicators such
as new businesses and job
opportunities that could arrive.
• Assess the effectiveness of
infrastructure and service
provisions in the annexed
areas through regular
evaluations and resident
feedback.
• Conduct periodic reviews
of the land use plan to
ensure alignment with the
Town's long-term vision and
sustainability goals.

Create a General Plan
Miami should create a General Plan to guide its development. Without a set General Plan, efforts to improve the Town may be difficult to sustain into the future. Minimum requirements for general plans are prescribed by statute, but additional focus areas can be added if they are important to the community. Other towns of Miami’s size have developed these plans with the help of consultants.

Implementation Plan
• Partner with a consultant to
develop a General Plan with
the minimum requirements.

This plan should be developed
with community input from
its residents as that way
members of the community
could invest in the future of
Miami.

Performance Metrics
• Monitor progress on the
development of the plan.
d.48 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 47
Food Desert
Miami has limited food accessibility, with a majority of options on the outskirts or surrounding communities it is of the utmost importance for the community's health, well-being, and overall vitality. To maintain a healthy lifestyle, there is a need to address the lack of accessible and nutritious food options. This in turn would reduce the risk of food-related health issues for the community. By developing a plan to bring a small grocery store to Miami, the Town can enhance food security, providing a diverse range of fresh and affordable produce closer to its residents.

This initiative not only promotes physical health but also supports the local economy by creating more jobs and stimulating commerce.

Downtown Improvements
To revitalize the heart of this community, they need to enhance the Town’s overall appeal and main thruway. There needs to be a focus on infrastructure enhancement, creation of public spaces and green areas, as well as historic preservation. Currently, Miami has empty and abandoned retail locations, a lack of mixed use spaces, and a lack of road maintenance.

Implementation Plan
• Conduct market research
to identify suitable locations
and potential partners for the
grocery store.
• Implement targeted incentives
to attract grocery store
owners and other developers
to invest in Miami.
• Add additional focus areas to
the plan that are important to
the community.

Performance Metrics
• Measure the timeline from
inception to the opening of the
grocery store.
• Track sales and customer
satisfaction levels.
d.49 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 49
Introduction to Public-Private
Partnerships, etc.) to all
stakeholders.
• Create an all-hazards
emergency management
plan to include a list of
stakeholders, evacuation
procedures, and recovery
procedures.
• Publish completed emergency
plan on Miami and Gila County
websites.
stakeholders and peer
communities to confirm
agreements and gather
feedback.

Mitigation
Mitigation of hazards occurs during the emergency planning process. It involves identification of major risk factors and taking steps to mitigate the effects of those risks, should they occur. Miami has an increased risk from hazards like wildfires (see Figure 15), flooding, drought, and winter storms.

Implementation Plan
• Mitigate flood risk by
redirecting the river, creating
barriers near critical
infrastructure, and/or planting
additional vegetation to
absorb water.
• Mitigate fire risk with building
renovations to adhere to fire
code and remove dried brush
and debris throughout the
town.
• Stockpile supplies for water
shortage and isolation in the
event of road closure due to
storms.

Performance Metrics
• Track completion of major risk
factor list.
• Track completion of grant
applications.
• Monitor grant allocation
and use of contractors or
volunteers to complete
projects.
• Monitor emergency reserves.
d.51 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
50 Strategic Framework
Regional Partnerships
Partnerships with local and state entities increases resilience by allowing Miami to acquire resources (sand bags, water, fire trucks, etc.) and aid (funding, volunteers, etc.) pre- and post-disaster. Miami currently has an agreement with Tri-City Fire District for fire protection services.

Communication
Miami needs communication networks that ensure all citizens receive timely alerts during critical incidents, whether or not they have access to smartphones or the internet. Alerts and advisories should be broadcast Implementation Plan
• Ensure existing agreements
are active and updated.

Identify new opportunities
for partnerships (i.e. mining
companies providing volunteer
services for clean-up).
• Identify entities that can
provide additional support or
redundancy (i.e. Globe and
Gila County police officers
to bolster Miami Police
Department staffing and
response).

Performance Metrics
• Track increase in active
partnerships.
• Monitor response times for
resources and aid.

Figure 16 Wildfire Risk for the Town of Miami (Gila County, 2022) d.52 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 51
using multiple communication formats such as smartphone applications, the town website, TV, radio, and/or PA announcements.

Implementation Plan
• Contact residents to survey
and record their preferred
contact method.
• Create or utilize applications
such as ReadyGila to
distribute emergency
information.
• Create infrastructure to
broadcast information or
emergency tones that will
prompt residents to listen to
the radio/TV or log-on to the
town website.

Performance Metrics
• Track citizen satisfaction with
methods of communication.
• Track response time in terms
of information dissemination to
emergency response partners
and citizens.

At-Risk Infrastructure
Factors such as building age, construction materials, and previous damage, can impact the vulnerability of structures during a natural disaster. Based on the age and condition of many buildings in Miami, there is a higher probability for damage to occur, be higher in magnitude, and cost more to rebuild.

Implementation Plan
• Assess current structures
(houses, businesses, and
critical service infrastructure)
to identify which ones are not
up to modern building code for
hazard management and which
have additional vulnerabilities.
• Maintain an enforcement
procedure for commercial
structure renovation. Create
incentives for private home
renovations.

Performance Metrics
• Create a file of Miami
structures to track pending,
in progress, and completed
hazard renovations.
d.53 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 53
interests to foster a sense of
community.
• Establish partnerships with
local businesses for potential
sponsorships to fund these
enhancements.
• Organize community events
centered around the pool
to encourage participation
and foster a strong sense of
community.

Educational Opportunities
Education is a powerful catalyst that not only equips individuals with essential skills and knowledge but also empowers them to contribute to their communities. In Miami, access to diverse educational resources is limited, providing opportunities for learning becomes opportunities for expanded horizons. This can open doors to a range of career paths, enhance critical thinking, and cultivate a sense of community pride and engagement. Here the Miami community can bridge gaps, reduce disparities, and build a foundation for sustainable development, ensuring that residents have the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Implementation Plan
• Create partnerships with
neighboring educational
institutions to diversify
available programs.
• Introduce tailored learning
initiatives that address the
unique needs of students in
Miami, Arizona (trade schools).
• Invest in technology
infrastructure to enhance
digital learning capabilities.

Performance Metrics
• Monitor enrollment rates in newly
introduced programs.
• Evaluate student achievement
levels through standardized
testing and academic
performance indicators.
• Collect feedback from educators
and students regarding the
impact of the initiatives on the
learning experience.
• Regularly assess the
effectiveness of technology
integration in education.
d.55 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
54 Strategic Framework
Community Events
When establishing a community’s culture it is vital to foster social cohesion, enhancing community spirit, and promoting overall well-being.

Miami is a community that is close-knit, where community events provide valuable opportunities for residents to come together, share experiences, and build meaningful connections. Within every local community events like these contribute to the cultural richness and celebrate local traditions and fosters a sense of pride in shared heritage. Community events can also stimulate the local economy by attracting visitors, supporting local businesses, and creating a platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents. By organizing and participating in these events, the Town of Miami can strengthen their bonds, enhance social resilience, and create a vibrant and thriving local culture.

Outdoor Recreation Hub
Establishing Miami, Arizona, as an outdoor recreation hub is essential for numerous reasons. There are prime opportunities to attract outdoor enthusiasts, just like a majority of the state there is a natural beauty and diverse landscape. By developing outdoor recreation hotspots (hiking trails, parks, and adventure activities), Miami can capitalize on its scenic surroundings, offering residents and visitors a chance to connect with nature and engage in the outdoors. This can boost local businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the overall quality of life in Miami, making it a more attractive and dynamic place to live and visit.

Implementation Plan
• Organize regular cultural
festivals and community
forums to promote
engagement.
• Collaborate with local
businesses to sponsor and
participate in events.
• Establish a community events
committee responsible for
planning and coordinating
various activities.

Performance Metrics
• Track attendance rates at
community events to measure
participation levels.
• Assess community feedback
through surveys and
testimonials.
• Evaluate the economic impact
of these events on local
businesses and the overall
community.
d.56 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 55
Implementation Plan
• Develop hiking trails, parks,
and adventure activities to
position Miami as an outdoor
recreation hub.
• Establish partnerships with
local outdoor recreation
organizations. Invest in
signage and marketing to
promote the town's outdoor
offerings.

Performance Metrics
• Monitor the usage statistics
of newly developed outdoor
spaces.
• Collect visitor satisfaction
feedback through surveys and
online reviews.
• Measure the economic
benefits, including increased
tourism and revenue for local
businesses.

Quality of Roads
Just like within most major cities, improving Miami's roads is important for the Town's overall success and sustainable development. Wellmaintained roads enhance the efficiency in transportation, ensuring smoother commutes and facilitating the movement of goods and services. Improved road infrastructure also contributes to public safety by reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing emergency response capabilities. These roads contribute to the overall aesthetics of the town, creating a positive impression for residents and visitors alike.

Ultimately, investing in road improvements is an investment in the Town's connectivity, safety, economic growth, and overall improvement of the quality of life for the community.

Implementation Plan
• Develop a comprehensive
infrastructure plan outlining
road maintenance schedules
and improvement projects.
• Allocate budget resources for
road repair and maintenance.
• Implement community
awareness campaigns
regarding road safety and
improvement initiatives.

Performance Metrics
• Regularly assess road
conditions through surveys
and inspections.
• Track the completion of
scheduled road maintenance
tasks.
• Gather feedback from the
community on transportation
improvements and road
quality.
d.57 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
56 Strategic Framework
Implementation Plan
• Conduct a market
compensation study to
determine competitive officer
pay against other agencies in
the area.
• Seek partnerships with Globe
Police and Gila County Police
to supplement staffing while
salary increases are pending.
• Create and update policy
and procedure to address
essential functions and code
of conduct for the agency.
• Partner with or create a family
advocacy agency (i.e. the
Copper Hills Family Advocacy
Center in Globe) to assist
with juvenile delinquency and
domestic crimes.

Performance Metrics
• Track recruitment and
retention of personnel.
• Measure response times
to calls for service and
reasonable safety outcomes.
• Track availability and use of
victim and family advocacy
resources.

Public Safety
Miami has a dedicated police department, Miami Police, that employs certified police officers and certified reserve officers within the valley.

The department has struggled with low staffing, acquiring updated equipment, and policy/procedure maintenance. These areas need to be addressed to bolster safety for Miami citizens, maintain adequate response to calls for service, provide resources for juvenile delinquency and family issues, and decrease agency and town government liability. d.58 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 57
Implementation Plan
• Form partnerships with local
developers and government
entities, outlining clear
timelines for increased
housing units.
• Streamline processes,
providing financial incentives
to developers prioritizing
affordable housing.
• Educate the community about
housing programs, creating
simplified application materials
and investing in technology for
a smoother process.
• Establish a dedicated
assistance center with trained
staff to guide residents
through applications.

Performance Metrics
• Evaluate success by tracking
the number of new affordable
housing units developed,
approval rates, and the
economic impact on the
community.
• Assess the effectiveness
of educational campaigns
through surveys, gathering
qualitative feedback from
residents.
• Regularly adapt strategies
based on evolving community
needs, ensuring sustainable
and accessible affordable
housing for Miami.

Affordable Housing Options
Improving affordable housing options in Miami, Arizona, is vital for the community's prosperity and inclusivity. Affordable housing ensures that residents have access to safe and comfortable living spaces, fostering stability and a sense of belonging. This initiative addresses the fundamental need for housing security, promoting overall well-being and mental health among community members. By making housing more accessible, Miami can attract and retain a skilled workforce, driving local economic growth and sustaining a thriving community for years to come. d.59 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
58 Strategic Framework
This strategic framework represents the strategic planning process's beginning, not the end. The students strongly encourage Town officials to collaborate with residents to build upon this plan and make it their own.

Ultimately, it is in the hands of Miami's residents to shape the community they desire and determine the course for its development. While the suggestions outlined here present potential paths, they are not the sole options. The authors of this report are optimistic about Miami’s future if they create a well-defined plan and execute it diligently.

CONCLUSION
Figure 17 ASU students discussing Miami community priorities with local leaders during a fall 2023 visit
d.60 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

60 Strategic Framework

REFERENCES
ASU Sustainable Cities Network. (2023, April). More than Mining:

Creating a Tourist Destination Town of Miami Arizona. ASU Project Cities. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/8ies7ek54oyxz0c/
AABG5OdcLo4249yHEeIIwvZja?dl=0&preview=JUS+301+Re
port_Community+Survey.pdf
Azano, A. P., Callahan, C. M., Brodersen, A. V., & Caughey, M. (2017). Responding to the challenges of gifted education in rural communities. Global Education Review, 4(1).

The Bisbee Planning and Zoning Commission. (2014, June). City of Bisbee General Plan Update. https://www.bisbeeaz.gov/DocumentCenter/ View/799/2015GeneralPlanUpdateVolume1Final_001?bidId=
Blichfeldt, B., & Halkier, H. (2014). Mussels, Tourism and Community Development: A Case Study of Place Branding Through Food Festivals in Rural North Jutland, Denmark. European Planning Studies, 22(8), 1587-1603.

City of Deadwood. (2018, November). Draft Deadwood Comprehensive Plan. https:// www.cityofdeadwood.com/sites/default/files/fileattachments/planning_ and_zoning/page/28761/deadwoodcompplan_draft_november2018.pdf Condevaux, A., Gravari-Barbas, M., & Guinand, S. (2021). Before and after tourism: How places\"enter" and "exit" tourism. In Tourism Dynamics in Everyday Places.

Routledge.

Cook, J., & Cuervo, H. (2018). Staying, leaving and returning: Rurality and the development of reflexivity and motility. Current Sociology, 68(1), 60-76.

Fiscor, S. (2023). Highlighting the Regional Impacts of Copper Mining in Arizona. E&MJ, 14-16. https://miningamigos.com/images/Arizona-Mining-2023-flipbook. pdf
Jensen, L. (2006, November 28). New immigrant settlements in rural America:
problems, prospects, and policies. UNH Scholars' Repository. Retrieved October 8, 2023, from https://scholars.unh.edu/carsey/17/ Peters, D. (2019). Community Resiliency in Declining Small Towns: Impact of Population Loss on Quality of Life over 20 Years. Rural Sociology, 84(4), 635-668.

Runyan, R. C. (2006). Samll business in the face of crisis: Identifying barriers to recovery from a natural disaster. Journal of Contingencies and Crisis Management, 14(1), 12-26.

Rural Emergency Preparedness and Response Overview. (n.d.). Rural Health Information Hub.Retrieved November 27, 2023, from https://www. ruralhealthinfo.org/topics/emergency-preparedness-and-response#allhazards-approach San Diego County. (2011, August 3). Julian Community Plan. https://www. sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/pds/docs/CP/Julian_CP.pdf Schneider, B. (2015). The college ambition program: A realistic transition strategy for traditionally disadvantaged students. Educational Researcher, 44(7), 394-403.

Southern Gila County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). (2021, March 15). d.62 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 61
IIS Windows Server. Retrieved November 27, 2023, from https://cms3.revize. com/revize/gilaaz/government/health_and_emergency_services/gilaem_ eoc/docs/2022SoGilaCountyCWPP_Final_printable_032322.pdf Tietjen, A., & Jorgensen, G. (2016). Translating a wicked problem: A strategic planning approach to rural shrinkage in Denmark. Landscape and Urban Planning, 154, 29-43.

Town of Patagonia. (2022, December 8). Draft Patagonia General Plan 2022. https:// patagonia-az.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Final-Town-Plan-forSubmission-to-Town-Council-Draft-12-08-22.pdf U.S. Census Bureau. (2022, August 30). Profile for Bisbee city, Arizona. Data.Census.

Gov. Retrieved September 30, 2023, from https://data.census.gov/profile/ Bisbee_city,_Arizona?g=160XX00US0406260
U.S. Census Bureau. (2022, August 30). Profile for Julian CDP. Data.Census.Gov.

Retrieved September 30, 2023, from https://data.census.gov/profile/Julian_ CDP,_California?g=160XX00US0637582
U.S. Census Bureau. (2022, August 30). Profile for Miami town, Arizona. Data.Census.

Gov.Retrieved September 30, 2023, from https://data.census.gov/profile/ Miami_town,_Arizona?g=160XX00US0446350
U.S. Census Bureau. (2022, August 30). Profile for Patagonia town, Arizona. Data.

Census.Gov. Retrieved September 30, 2023, from https://data.census.gov/ profile/Patagonia_town,_Arizona?g=160XX00US0453490
d.63 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
This page was intentionally left blank.
d.64 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

64 Strategic Framework

The analysis is followed by a literature review on rural economic development and a strategic framework to identify initiative objectives and opportunities. Next, the analysis details available opportunities for economic development in Miami, both short and long-term opportunities.

The analysis concludes with a summary of key highlights from this assessment.

Budget summary
Property tax
In Fiscal Year (FY) 2023, the maximum allowable property tax levy was approximately $282,000. In FY 2024, the maximum allowable property tax levy is projected to remain the same as the previous budget year. The primary property tax rate for FY 2023 was 4.5%. In FY 2024, the primary property tax rate is projected to remain the same. The total primary property tax collected for FY 2023 was $194,726. The total property tax collected for FY 2024 is projected to increase to $197,832.

Sales tax, fines and fees
Other than property tax revenue, the Town’s General Fund revenues come primarily from municipal sales tax, with actual revenue for FY 2023 coming to around $539,000. Arizona State shared sales tax is Miami's second biggest source of General Fund revenues, with actual revenue for FY 2023 approximately $236,000. Other notable sources of General Fund revenue come from Urban Revenue Sharing, the Gila County Youth Program, and franchise fees. The breakdown of General Fund revenue sources is listed below:

INTRODUCTION

COMMUNITY CONTEXT
d.67 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

68 Strategic Framework
thus, it is recommended to implement strategies that bolster sales tax and property tax rather than relying on grant funding.

Natural resources
The Globe-Miami region has a long mining history, with copper production in the northeast vertex of Arizona’s Copper Triangle totaling

13.6% of all U.S. copper production (University of Arizona, 2022). Copper production and development has been a key revenue stream for the Town. Outside of copper production, Miami’s turquoise, chrysocolla, and quartz mines are other notable natural resources (Discover Gila County, n.d).

Physical infrastructure
Many of Miami’s buildings are made of poured concrete, making many extremely solid (Sanders, 2016). Most housing properties are built on slopes, which limits the accessibility needs of residents to available buildable sites and increases the cost of construction (The Drachman Institute, 2006). Though the Town boasts a wealth of historic buildings, there are few merchants (On the Road Arizona, n.d). Earlier this year, a fire in Miami destroyed several historical buildings (AZ Family, 2023).

From testimony with the Town’s Council, many buildings and homes are vacant and desperately need renovation and rehabilitation.

Figure 4 Mining in Miami, by Western Mining
History
d.70 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 69
Labor force characteristics
From 2021 U.S. Census data, the approximate population of Miami was around 1,490, a decline of about 22.4% from 2020. Median household income increased in 2021 by 6.7%. The largest ethnic groups in Miami are White (Hispanic), comprising 40.5% of the population, and White (non-Hispanic) at 31.2%. The median property value is reported to be around $66,800, with a homeownership rate of 68.4%. In 2021, Miami employed around 527 people, the largest industry being educational services, mining, quarrying, oil and gas extraction, and retail trade.

Employment declined in Miami by 26.8% from 2020 to 2021. There were about 626 households in Miami in 2021. As attested by interviews with the town’s Council, a large share of the labor force of Miami commute to Miami to work. About 27.4% of Miami’s population live below the poverty line.

Figure 5 Hilltop view of Miami facing north
d.71 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
70 Strategic Framework

LITERATURE REVIEW
Rural economic development literature affirms the importance of developing place-based economies. In developing rural economies, focusing economies on community assets such as cultural heritage and built landscapes is critical. Increasing the viability of such strategies requires partnerships and cooperation to establish sustainable and successful place-based economies (Sullivan et al., 2014). Collaboration between various stakeholders strengthens social capital and fosters new forms of innovation (Sullivan et al., 2014).

Previous approaches to rural economic development focused on equalization, farm competitiveness, and income (OECD, 2014). The key target sector of such policies was primarily the agriculture sector of rural economies through subsidies (OECD, 2014). More increasingly, the new approach to rural economic development focuses on establishing the competitiveness of rural areas, using local assets and unused resources (OECD, 2014). The target sector is no longer solely contained in agriculture but now extends to other sectors of rural economies, such as tourism and manufacturing, primarily through investments (OECD, 2014).

Establishing rural economic development initiatives means investment, embracing placemaking, developing tourism infrastructure, and attracting, retaining, and expanding small and medium-sized businesses are key components (Kerlin et al., 2022). The economic development plan will orient the outlined strategies to strengthen Miami’s local economy.
d.72 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

72 Strategic Framework
Hotel incentive grant
Allocate $150,000 for the Hotel Incentive Grant and designate a maximum award of up to $150,000 or 50% of project costs. These costs would be reimbursable for the construction of a hotel. The potential hotel would not generate sales tax, but a Transient Lodging Tax would be earmarked for costs associated with generating tourism.

New business and business expansion grant
Allocate $150,000 for a New Business/Business Expansion Grant with an eligibility requirement that the business be a retail or restaurant business and is in good standing on all sales tax payments. Designate a maximum award of up to $50,000 or 50% of project costs. These costs would be reimbursable for the relocation of a business currently not in Town limits or for an existing local business to expand by hiring more employees. The eligibility requirement would ensure a return on investment through future sales tax, and the potential for new employees within Miami Town Limits could generate additional property tax as well.

Infrastructure grant
Allocate $100,000 for an Infrastructure Grant with an eligibility requirement that the business be either commercial or industrial and in good standing on all sales and property taxes. Designate a maximum award of up to $50,000 or 50% of project costs. An Infrastructure Grant should be awarded to businesses to reimburse costs associated with repair to electrical, plumbing, fire suppression, and asbestos abatement. An Infrastructure Grant's eligibility requirements should allow non-sales tax businesses to take advantage of the opportunity, as the improvements to real property within City Limits would generate additional property tax revenue.

Non-financial incentives should also be considered part of the Town’s incentive package. It is recommended these incentives be in the form of negotiating utility tie-ins for new business development within Miami Town Limits.

Real property (residential)
In addition to sales tax revenue, property tax should be at the forefront of a sustainable revenue generation strategy. An increase in housing supply will generate an increase in housing demand, increasing both d.74 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 73
property tax and sales tax that the Town generates. The caveat to residential development is that it hinges on primary sector development and new employment. An increase in residents drives both new property tax and new sales tax.

There are several ways the Town can promote new residential development; however, it is recommended to not become a Housing Finance Authority. Rather, the Town should engage in property development with a contingency on land use and initial home price. The first step would be for the Town of Miami to secure real property within the extra-territorial jurisdiction (ETJ). Property between 30 and 40 acres would allow for nearly two hundred units of mixed-use residential development. For the portal property, the Town should contract for a utility study and have the property platted to support single- and multifamily housing. After the subdivision is platted, it is recommended the Town of Miami tie in water and sewer infrastructure but avoid paving any streets, alleys, or other rights-of-way. Finally, the Town should sell the property to a developer with a contingency on the maximum value of the initial sale.

Retail consulting
To drive growth in sales tax revenue, the Town of Miami should prioritize retail and restaurant businesses as central to their recruitment strategy.

The Town of Miami can contract with a retail recruitment consultant to market Miami to potential retail and restaurant chains nationwide.

One example of a retail consultant is the Retail Coach, which uses market research and established relationships with retail chains to attract businesses to client communities. Retail consultants should also represent the Town of Miami at any ISCS Conferences.

The Town of Miami has a potential service area much greater than its population due to its proximity to the City of Globe. A retail recruitment strategy tailored to the Town of Miami would incorporate Globe and surrounding communities as part of its service population. This means not pitching or incentivizing businesses that already have a presence in the surrounding communities.

Contractors sales cost
A strategy to increase sales tax revenue does not have to fall entirely to generating new spending; a proper sales tax strategy should include d.75 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
74 Strategic Framework
capitalizing on the spending already taking place within the Town’s tax limits. One such example of this concerns contractors, an industry that generally contributes to a significant portion of rural industry.

Construction, repair, and maintenance contractors typically bill their clients in a lump sum for materials and labor, which means no sales tax is being paid at the project’s point. If billed in a lump sum, the contractor pays sales tax at the point of purchase for their materials, which may be at Ace Hardware or the lumberyard in Globe, and the customer pays no sales tax on the work done. If, instead, the contractor were to bill separately for labor and materials, the contractor would pay sales tax at the job site address.

However, it is much easier for a contractor to complete their billing in a lump sum; contractors have no incentive to itemize their billing process and thus create more work for themselves on the backend. The Town of Miami can provide incentives for the contractor to itemize their billing process within Town limits. This could be done by ensuring all contractors are registered through the Code Enforcement and waiving any fees associated with contractor registration if the contractor agrees to itemize their billing.

Partnerships and rural hubs
Collaboration among community stakeholders is critical for rural economic development. Nurturing social capital by strengthening community cohesion and capacity is important for the resilience and stability of rural communities (Sullivan et al., 2014). Establishing partnerships and rural hubs in rural economic development initiatives is vital in creating economies of scale that direct expertise and limited resources (Kerlin et al., 2022).

Figure 7 Rural Partners
Network
Figure 8 Local First
Arizona
Partnerships like those with the Rural Partners Network focused on rural community resilience can be leveraged to strengthen social capital.

Local First Arizona is a nonprofit organization whose work connects d.76 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 75
communities for actions that build Arizona’s local businesses through entrepreneurship and rural community development. The U.S. Economic Development Administration is another viable partner as the agency is a source of place-based investment whose mission is to spur local innovation and entrepreneurship (Ajilore & Willingham, 2020). Continuing the work to connect Miami to Arizona universities is another critical means to build community cohesion and capacity.

Tourism
The 2022 travel impacts for the Coconino, Gila, Pinal, and Navajo counties projected that travel spending totaled $1.3 million (Dean Runyan Associates, 2023). In 2021, travel impacts from the four counties resulted in $341 million in earnings. Local tax revenue from travel totaled $46 million, while state tax revenue totaled $51 million. The breakdown of travel impacts from the four counties is listed below:

Figure 9 Travel impacts of Coconino, Gila, Pinal, and
Navajo Counties
d.77 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
76 Strategic Framework
From the Arizona Office of Tourism (2021), top origin markets for overnight stays came from Phoenix and the Tucson/Sierra Vista area with time in destination averaging around two days. Peak travel trips occur during Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend. A detailed graph of visitation data for Gila County in 2021 is listed below:

Figure 10 Gila County Visitation Data, 2021
Bicycle tourism
The development of bicycle tourism results in beneficial economic growth through expenditures on meals, services, and overnight stays (Center for Sustainable Tourism, 2016). A 2013 study found that bicycle tourism contributed “$88 million to the Arizona economy, including $57 million in retail sales” (Center for Sustainable Tourism, 2016).

Arizona biking assets
Arizona Trail
The Arizona Trail (AZT) is an 800-mile trail from the Arizona-Utah border to the Arizona-Mexico border (Center for Sustainable Tourism, 2016). Partnering with organizations like the Arizona Trail Association to promote mountain biking excursions allows incoming tourists and residents to visit the Town, thus strengthening community cohesion and capacity (Center for Sustainable Tourism, 2016). Designing and integrating long and short-distance itineraries for different parts of the trail provides economic development for rural communities like Miami by promoting local opportunities along the trail, such as overnight stays, dining, service stops, and events (Center for Sustainable Tourism, 2016). d.78 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 77
According to the Arizona Trail Association website, Globe is a gateway community close to the trail. While most services are in Globe, additional services can be found in Miami. Leveraging this asset can be an avenue for Miami to consider in its economic development initiatives.

Figure 11 Map of the
Trail, by Arizona Trail
Association
Figure 12 Scenic Arizona Trail, by
Travel + Leisure
Bicycle friendly communities
Leveraging bicycle-friendly communities is a strategy for Miami to promote bike excursion businesses to support and incentivize deals to bike users and promote the town as a destination (Center for Sustainable Tourism, 2016). Nurturing relations with these communities will continue efforts to build rapport and trust between community stakeholders.

Bicycle-friendly communities include Scottsdale, Tempe, and the Tucson-East Pima County region. Other notable biking associations include the Mountain Bike Association of Arizona and the Southern Arizona Mountain Biking Association.

Figure 13 Map of the Trail, by The
Arizona State Press
Figure 14 Map of the Trail, by Visit
Mesa
d.79 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
78 Strategic Framework
Birding tourism
Birding tourism for many communities has resulted in new economic income. The popularity and growth of birding tourism have expanded in the last two decades. Between 1992 and 2013, the number of birders rose by 225% (Vaz, 2013). In 2001, an “estimate of 46 million Americans were believed to be involved in some form of birdwatching” (Vaz, 2013).

A survey found that birding tourism resulted in approximately $32 billion in retail sales, accounting for $85 billion in overall economic output, contributed significantly to federal and state income taxes, and created new jobs (Vaz, 2013). In more recent years, the estimates from the past have been affirmed by data that finds that in 2016, “45 million birders in the U.S. spent $39 billion on travel and equipment aimed at observing birds” (Schwoerer & Dawson, 2022).

Birding festivals
Birding trails are designed to maximize the number and variety of birds a birder can see, all to enhance the satisfaction of bird watchers. To illustrate a successful birding trail, take, for example, the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. An economic study of the trail found that the “average visitor devoted 31 days a year on the trail, average visitor trip was approximately 9 days and 8 nights, with a direct expenditure of approximately $700 USD on the trail and associated attractions” (Vaz, 2013). Developing a sustainable birding trail requires strategies are planned by professional planners, financial or business stability, and are properly monitored (Vaz, 2013).

Figure 15 Birdwatchers at Sweetwater Wetlands
Park, by Visit Tucson
d.80 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 79
Hiking and walking tourism
Hiking and walking tourism presents economic value and local development opportunities for Miami. In Arizona, results of trail user data reveal that users visit trails between 48 to 117 million times per year (Duval et al., 2020). Per-visit consumer surplus is estimated to be “between $90.32 and $128.03… and total statewide consumer surplus estimates between $6.2 billion and $10.6 billion” (Duval et al., 2020).

Recreational activity spurred by hiking and walking tourism generates economic activity and increased spending in local communities. In encouraging population expansion, access to outdoor recreation infrastructure is an important factor for the development of Miami, considering that such access is “an important factor for many individuals in their choice of where to live” (Duval et al., 2020).

Developing sustainable and successful outdoor recreation infrastructure requires an assessment of budgetary and human resource capacities and how they support or constrain the facilities (Winter et al., 2019).

Though Miami has opportunities to initiate outdoor recreation activities, such as walking tours of the town’s historic sites, innovative and stable structures and processes must first be developed to support these nature-based activities (Winter et al., 2019). Developing the capacity of these tools and mechanisms requires collaboration among stakeholders to leverage resources and expertise to build these tourist sectors (Winter et al., 2019).
d.81 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
80 Strategic Framework

LONG-TERM OPPORTUNITIES
Vacancy tax
A major challenge to business development, especially in rural communities, can be the propensity of commercial property owners to let their properties sit vacant as a tax write-off for lost income.

Vacant and boarded-up commercial properties can be a blight for many communities. The lack of productive use not only misses an opportunity to generate additional employment and sales tax but also causes property taxes to decrease in the vacant property and neighboring properties. On top of this, vacant properties can attract unwanted activities such as vandalism or squatting.

It is recommended that Town Council consider a Vacancy Tax on commercial properties that are not in productive use to promote productive use in all commercial properties. This is a stick approach to commercial property owners who may leave the property vacant as a tax break. Still, it is also a carrot approach to nearby property owners who are in productive use by reducing blight and encouraging new commercial spending. There are two ways the Town Council could potentially enact a Vacant Property Tax to achieve the intended effect.

The first strategy would be to charge a percentage of the assessed value between 3-5% percent if the property has not been productive for over three consecutive months. This is a more aggressive approach that is sure to catch the attention of absentee property owners. A less aggressive approach is also possible and may be more digestible for council members, to charge a flat rate of $2,000 per year if the property has not been in productive use for more than three consecutive months.

It is important to give commercial property owners a grace period to rent the property to a new commercial business, not to penalize property owners actively trying to lease their space.

It is recommended the Town Council consider a Vacant Property Tax regarding commercial properties due to the potentially significant revenue generation the Town is not capitalizing on when these properties are unproductive. A policy affecting commercial properties should also stimulate employment and income generation for residents, which will have snowballing effects on the Town’s economy. However, a similar policy could be considered regarding residential property if the Town Council has the political will for it. Residential vacancy taxes are more d.82 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 81
common in larger municipalities with significant housing crises but could also translate to rural communities.

TIF district
Unfortunately, Arizona is the only state that does not allow for decentralized municipal Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts.

However, this does not mean it's impossible to establish a TIF district, as proven by Tucson’s Rio Nuevo TIF. Instead, establishing the TIF district is subject to statewide voter approval via a ballot proposition, making it harder to establish a TIF district in Arizona than in any other state.

Despite the more challenging path to establishing a municipal TIF, the benefits to such a district are so significant that it is recommended that the Town Council consider navigating the state requirements to establish a TIF district.

Figure 16 The Rio Nuevo Multipurpose
Facilities District, by Linkedin
A Tax Increment Financing District works by establishing a baseline level of property taxes collected within a given district; for the Town of Miami, the most applicable district would be in the Town’s downtown commercial district and then earmarks any increase in property tax revenue within the district to be reinvested within the district. This creates exponential growth in property tax revenue within the TIF district so that when the TIF sunsets, the property tax revenue has increased well beyond the point it would have otherwise risen to during the project’s timeframe. Typically, a TIF district will be set at 20-30 years.

While the State of Arizona has created considerable hoops for a municipality to jump through to establish a TIF district, the development impacts of a TIF outweigh the procedural headache. A TIF district, on d.83 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
82 Strategic Framework
average, will leverage private investment at a ten-to-one ratio compared to public costs. Every $1 in public investment will generate $10 in private investment within the district. The property tax benefits of a TIF district are considerable on their own; however, when you establish a TIF in a commercial district, private investment is mobilized to generate additional employment, wage growth, tourism, and sales tax revenue.

The previous governor and the new governor have shown great interest in protecting the state’s only TIF district and have displayed the political will to decentralize further governance related to municipal TIF projects.

If the State can follow decentralized models set in Texas, California, and other states, the Town of Miami should immediately pursue a TIF district for its downtown commercial district.

Industrial Park
In addition to developing real property for residential use, it is recommended that the Town actively develop real property for commercial and industrial use. The impacts of new residential and retail development are mitigated if the service economy’s area is not actively promoting growth in primary sector employment. Without growth in the primary sector, new retail development can create a revolving door of employment where workers, customers, and tax revenue shift from one local business to another, giving the perception of new growth without realizing any benefits.

The Town of Miami is recommended to develop real property for industrial and commercial use. Like residential property development, the Town can secure real property with the Town Limits or the extraterritorial jurisdiction and zone the property for industrial use. Next, platting the property depending on the size of employers the Town is targeting for business attraction. The Town can platter industrial lots between 5 and 50 acres. Once the property is platted, it is recommended that the Town invest in utility improvements, including water and sewage mains, but refrain from street paving. Upon completing the utility tie-ins, the Town will be able to market the lots to industrial developers and new primary sector businesses. The affordable industrial property becomes a useful tool in business attraction as part of the Town’s incentive package.

By offering low-cost industrial property, the Town hopes to attract new d.84 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 83
business growth in sectors that will stimulate the service and retail economy throughout the rest of the town and attract new employees to the community to utilize additional housing. This then generates new sales and property tax revenue.

Industrial development authority
To further capitalize on opportunities to promote primary sector job growth, the Town of Miami can establish an Industrial Development Authority to assist in the financing of commercial and industrial enterprises and affordable housing developments. An Industrial Development Authority would allow the Town the capacity to provide tax-exempt financing through industrial revenue bonds, which would be offered to primary sector job creators as part of the Town’s suite of incentive packages. Importantly, the Industrial Development Authority would not act as a traditional lender as it would not loan its capital; instead, it would sell bonds to third-party lenders who would then maintain the loan to new commercial or industrial enterprises within the Town Limits.

The municipal Industrial Development Authority model has been deployed throughout Arizona and has grown significantly. This approach to development has been employed in Yuma, Flagstaff, and several other municipalities in the Valley.

Additionally, suppose the Town of Miami will act on the recommendations to secure and develop real property for residential and industrial growth. In that case, establishing an Industrial Development Authority may be a preferred vehicle to own and improve such property. This allows the Town to maintain governance over the development of real property without making the Town liable for development. Establishing a secondary entity would better allow the Town to actively participate in property developments within the Town’s extra-territorial jurisdiction.

Tourism
Repurposed buildings attract tourists and tourist dollars and thereby stimulate local development. As communities embrace placemaking, travelers are bound to seek authentic, historical, and preserved structures that make a community unique (Center for Sustainable Tourism, 2016). In addressing the vacancy challenges in Miami, repurposing structures is a viable strategy. As noted in this assessment, d.85 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
84 Strategic Framework
the cost of vacancy is considerable in limiting local development and opportunities. Repurposing structures in Miami can aid in the creation of local jobs. In particular, repurposing structures may involve “techniques and trades associated with the artisan economy, oftentimes in the name of preserving an historical artifact” (Interior Architects, n.d.).

Adaptive reuse projects can be a resource for fledgling businesses and ultimately make communities marketable by preserving space that defines and maintains a community's sense of history and character (Interior Architects, n.d.). However, it is also important to note the challenges of adaptive reuse projects. Repurposing structures such as post-mining areas presents safety issues requiring immediate mitigation (Konieczna-Fuławka, 2023). Nevertheless, in addressing the impact vacant properties have on quality of life and the fiscal damage to local governments, repurposing structures remains an important tool for revitalizing Miami.

To illustrate the potential of adaptive reuse projects, consider Crosby, Minnesota. Crosby is a rural community with about 3,000 people. In the past, the town was an important industry player in the iron ore mining sector. Leaders and other stakeholders within the community petitioned the state to repurpose the former mining sites and surrounding land into a recreation site (Kerlin et al., 2022). In 1993, the recreation site was established, and in 2011, the area secured a mountain bike park that features miles of trails (Kerlin et al., 2022). Since 2011, the site has created 15 new businesses that serve thousands of visitors (Kerlin et al., 2022).

Figure 17 Downtown Crosby, Minnesota, by
Wikimedia Commons
d.86 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 85
Possible ideas for repurposing structures include adapting old churches into theaters, art galleries, or community center spaces. Vacant downtown stores or buildings in Miami can be repurposed as additional townhouses, daycare for children, flea markets, or restaurants. Provided safety issues are mitigated, post-mining areas can be adapted for mining tours, underground parks, adventure-tourism destinations, and underground laboratories.

While Miami faces significant resilience and growth challenges, there are opportunities for local development. In promoting primary sector growth, the development of industrial parks and an Industrial Development Authority can improve Miami’s economic development. It is recommended that residential development and establishing contractor sales tax, vacancy tax, and a TIF district to increase revenue streams Incentive grants and retail consulting are strategies to help invest in local businesses. To develop tourism infrastructure and embrace placemaking, it is recommended to repurpose structures and establishing bicycle, birding, hiking, and walking tourist destinations. Participation and engagement with networks and rural hubs can strengthen social capital.

CONCLUSION
d.87 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
86 Strategic Framework

REFERENCES
Ajilore, O., & Willingham, C. Z. (2020). The Path to Rural Resilience in America. Center for American Progress. https://www.americanprogress.org/article/pathrural-resilience-america/.

Anthony, J. (2022, May 16). Better-managed tifs: A look at Arizona’s only TIF - the Rio Nuevo Multipurpose Facilities District. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/ pulse/better-managed-tifs-look-arizonas-only-tif-rio-nuevo-anthony Arizona Family. (2023). Fire Destroys 4 historical Buildings in Miami, AZ; 2 Firefighters Badly Burned. https://www.azfamily.com/2023/08/25/fire-destroys-4- historical-buildings-miami-2-firefighters-badly-burned/ Arizona Office of Tourism. (2021). Gila County Visitation Data 2021. https://tourism. az.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Gila-County_Arrivalist-One-Pager_ GCOT-2021.pdf
Arizona State University Center for Sustainable Tourism. (2016). Sustainability Initiatives: Bicycle Tourism. https://tourism.az.gov/wp-content/ uploads/2019/06/3.4_NicheTourismStudies_Sustainability-InititiativesBicycle-Tourism-FINAL.pdf Arizona State University Center for Sustainable Tourism. (2016). Sustainability Initiatives: Repurposing and Greening Structures.https://tourism.az.gov/ wp-content/uploads/2019/06/3.4_NicheTourismStudies_SustainabilityInititiatives-Repurposing-Structures-FINAL.pdf City of Yuma, AZ. (n.d.-a). Boards, Commissions & Committees. https://www.yumaaz. gov/government/city-clerk-s-office/boards-commissions-committees City of Chandler. (2023, February 22). Chandler Industrial Development Authority (CIDA). https://www.chandleraz.gov/business/economic-development/ business-services/incentives-and-funding/chandler-industrialdevelopment-authority Data USA. (n.d.). Miami, Arizona. https://datausa.io/profile/geo/miami-az/ Dean Runyan Associates. (2023). Arizona Travel Impacts by Legislative District, 2022p. https://tourism.az.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AZLegDist22.pdf Discover Gila County. (n.d.). "Copper Center Of The World": Mining, History & Mexican Food. https://www.discovergilacounty.com/miami
Drachman Institute. (2006). Outdoor Recreation, Nature-Based Tourism, and Sustainability. Arizona Department of Housing. https://capla.arizona. edu/sites/default/files/DI-ADOH_Globe%20Miami%20Housing%20 Assessment_2006s.pdf
Duval, D., Frisvold, G., & Bickel, A. (2020). The Economic Value of Trails in Arizona. The University of Arizona. https://economics.arizona.edu/economic-valuetrails-arizona-travel-cost-method-study City of Yuma, AZ. (n.d.). Incentives & Programs. https://www.yumaaz.gov/business/ economic-development/incentives-programs
d.88 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 87
City of Flagstaff. (n.d.). Industrial Development Authority. Industrial Development Authority. https://www.flagstaff.az.gov/2787/Industrial-DevelopmentAuthority Interior Architects. (n.d.). The Impact of Adaptive Reuse on Economic Development. https://interiorarchitects.com/the-impact-of-adaptive-reuse-oneconomic-development/ Kozłowska-Woszczycka, A., Joutsenvaara, J., & Aro, P. (2023). Challenges Related to the Transformation of Post-Mining Underground Workings into Underground Laboratories. Sustainability, Vol. 15(13).

Lawton, L. J. (2009). Birding Festivals, Sustainability and Ecotourism: An Ambiguous Relationship. Journal of Travel Research, Vol. 48(2), 259-267.

Kerlin, M., O’Farrell, N., Riley, R., Schaff, R. (2022). Rural Rising: Economic Development Strategies for America’s Heartland. McKinsey & Company. https://www. mckinsey.com/industries/public-sector/our-insights/rural-risingeconomic-developm ent-strategies-for-americas-heartland Sanders, P. (2016). Examining the Building Blocks of Globe-Miami. Globe Miami Times. https://www.globemiamitimes.com/examining-building-blocks-globemiami/ Schwoerer, T., & Dawson, N. G. (2022). Small Sight—Big Might: Economic Impact of Bird Tourism Shows Opportunities for Rural Communities and Biodiversity Conservation. National Institutes of Health.

Sullivan, L., Ryser, L., & Halseth, G. (2014). Recognizing Change, Recognizing Rural:

The New Rural Economy and Towards a New Model of Rural Service. Journal of Rural and Community Development, Vol. 9(4), 219-245.

The Retail Coach. (2023, June 14). About Us. https://theretailcoach.net/about-us/ University of Arizona. (2022). Mining History of Globe-Miami Area, Arizona. https:// blog.azgs.arizona.edu/blog/2022-01/mining-history-globe-miami-areaarizona Vas, K. (2013). Birding Trails as Sustainable Tourism Development. OIDA International Journal of Sustainable Development, Vol. 6(3).

Winter, P. L., Selin, S., Cerveny, L., & Bricker, K. (2019). Outdoor Recreation, NatureBased Tourism, and Sustainability. Sustainability, Vol. 12(1). d.89 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
This page was intentionally left blank.
d.90 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

90 Strategic Framework

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Faculty
Daniel Schugurensky, Professor, School of Public Affairs & School of Social Transformation
Miami Staff
Alexis Rivera, Town Manager, Town of Miami
Students
Dohyeong Kim
Kyoung-hoon Park
Isa Nam
Editors
Alison Almand
Pranav Jain
Julia Davis
Anne Reichman
d.92 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 91
Education is a transformative force that extends beyond personal enrichment, significantly impacting societal and economic dynamics. A recent report released by the National Center for Education Statistics reveals a noteworthy 21% increase in median income for individuals holding a master's degree or higher compared to those with a bachelor's degree (NCES, 2023). This highlights the influence of education on personal financial well-being. UNESCO (2015) further underscores education's broader societal impact, citing it as the most potent force for transformation, fostering human rights, dignity, health and poverty eradication.

In the unique context of Miami, AZ, this report navigates the intricate tapestry of education, considering its implications on personal growth and community development. Taking into account the disadvantages faced by rural children with limited access to quality education (Worldnoor 2023), the document examines challenges and presents recommendations for K-12 education, higher education, and lifelong learning. This report aims to suggest several pathways, organized into 11 recommendations, for a comprehensive and inclusive educational landscape in Miami, recognizing the interconnectedness of educational facets.

INTRODUCTION
Figure 1 Historic Bullion Plaza Cultural Center &
Museum, formerly a school in Miami, by Trost
Society
d.93 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
92 Strategic Framework
A recent report released by the National Center for Education Statistics confirmed the intricate correlation between educational attainment and financial prosperity. In 2021, individuals holding a master's degree or higher earned a median income of $74,600, marking a 21% increase compared to those with a bachelor's degree ($61,600). Similarly, those with a bachelor's degree earned median incomes that were 55 percent higher than individuals who had completed high school, with a median income of $39,700 during the same period. These findings unequivocally underscore how education shapes an individual's economic trajectory.

However, the impact of education extends far beyond the realms of personal wealth. UNESCO (2015) positions education as the most potent force for societal transformation, playing a crucial role in fostering human rights and dignity and eradicating poverty. This perspective illuminates education’s profound influence on addressing broader social problems, highlighting its pivotal role in shaping the fabric of communities and societies.

Moreover, recognizing education as a crucial developmental pillar for Miami becomes imperative. The influence of education transcends individual concerns and profoundly shapes the trajectory of the entire community, especially in the context of rural areas. Worldnoor (2023) aptly points out that the absence of access to high-quality education places children in more rural areas at a distinct disadvantage when competing for employment and opportunities. Gibbs (2005) further emphasizes the ripple effect, noting that enhancements in rural school systems contribute significantly to the potential for local economic development.

Thus, it becomes evident that addressing educational challenges is paramount for the holistic development of Miami. Education is not merely a personal pursuit; it is an essential catalyst for community advancement.

Recognizing this, and as an extension of a broader commitment to community well-being, this report explores the landscape of education in Miami. The intention is to delve into the challenges, opportunities, and strategic pathways that can shape a thriving educational environment, contributing to the comprehensive growth of Miami and its residents.

LITERATURE REVIEW
d.94 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

94 Strategic Framework
The academic achievement of Miami students is noticeable low, particularly in mathematics. Only 6% of Miami students are above proficiency. This is lower than Globe (16%) and the Arizona average (33%), and much lower than East Valley cities like Chandler (52%) and Gilbert (51%). The reading scores are better (18%), but still half of the Arizona average (40%) and one third of Gilbert and Chandler. Although student achievement scores do not tell the full story, many parents and guardians may consider them as proxies for the academic performance of a school when deciding where to send their children for education.

Given the stark differences between Miami and other towns and cities in Arizona, it is pertinent to ask why Miami students are not demonstrating the same level of academic performance. A first possible explanation is teacher/student ratios, but the table shows similar ratios. A second possible explanation is teacher salaries. However, not only are there no significant differences, but also Miami teacher salaries are above Globe and above the Arizona average. A third possible explanation is the quality of the teaching body. As Figure 2 indicates, almost all Miami teachers are certified (94.8%), a percentage well above the Arizona average (59.5%).

Moreover, Miami teachers have more years of experience than Globe and Chandler, and they exceed Gilbert by 14 points. A fourth possible explanation is per student expenditure, but Miami is roughly at the same level as Globe, and even a little higher than the Arizona average.

Interestingly, Miami is performing well in other indicators such as four-year graduation rate, dropout rate and end of year promotion rate. Miami's rates are higher than the Arizona average, and similar to Chandler and Gilbert.

In any case, the four factors noted above fail to explain why Miami's academic achievement is low. A fifth explanation could be related to the socio-economic context of Miami schools, students, families, and surrounding community. The average household income of Miami is $46,758, lower than neighboring Globe ($64,733) and Arizona ($73,450), and much lower than Chandler ($116,068) and Gilbert ($126,446). Even if this was the case, drastic increases in the average annual income of Miami residents are beyond the scope of this paper, which focuses on the educational system. In this regard, another explanation could be the number of full-time counselors in Miami schools. As indicated in Figure 2, Miami has five schools and only one full-time counselor. This would be problematic in any school district, but even more in a small rural town. As the National Association of State Boards of Education (2016) stated:
d.96 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 95
"Geographic isolation also has negative consequences. The smaller pool of students leaves them without enough highachieving peers to motivate them to excel. Students are less likely to discover career possibilities that exist only outside their rural communities, which can affect their motivation and success" (p. 11).

Indeed, students in rural areas tend to have difficulties with motivation and setting long-term goals, and their horizons and perspectives may be limited. In this context, lack of clear plans and low motivation can be one of reasons explaining low academic achievement (Al-Zoubi & Bani Younes, 2015). School counselors who help students succeed in school, plan their career and form healthy goals, mindsets and behaviors can compensate for this (American School Counselor Association, 2023).

The nearby Globe District does not have any counselors, and this could explain why the academic achievement of these two towns falls below the Arizona average and differs greatly from that of other East Valley districts.

Meanwhile, the Miami Unified School District offers a variety of online education programs to improve academic achievement (see Figure 1). However, these programs are recorded one-way lectures and are not necessarily tailored to the needs and interests of Miami students.

According to Baum and McPherson (2019), the lack of adequate personal interaction between students and instructors can cause lack of engagement, limited feedback, difficulty for self-motivation, limited opportunity for questions, and depersonalization. Considering these problems, it appears that one-way online education is not having much of an effect in situations where students are not motivated.

Figure 3 Miami Junior-Senior High School, by Miami
Unified School District #40
d.97 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
96 Strategic Framework
Mentoring programs
United States
In the United States, various organizations operate mentoring programs.

Some organizations involve costs, like City Year (n.d.), while others, like Big Brothers Big Sisters (n.d.), operate primarily on donations and volunteers. These organizations operate throughout the United States, and there are also organizations that operate mentoring programs centered in local communities. Based in New York, Break Through supports student success through a 10-year, tuition-free program and recruits volunteers to connect with students (Break Through, n.d.).

Figure 4a City
Year
Figure 4b Big
Brothers Big
Sisters
Figure 4c Break
Through
However, unlike the business industry where one-stop online mentoring platforms that enable instant messages, voice chat, or video conferences are actively provided, it is difficult to find a platform where mentoring and education are provided simultaneously for elementary, middle, and high school students. For example, Khan Academy provides a variety of free educational resources, but it only provides lectures in the form of recorded videos rather than interactive education with students (Khan Academy, n.d.). In addition, Chegg tutors focuses on providing homework help by qualified experts and does not lead to mentoring that motivates individual students (Chegg, n.d.). Other similar platforms such as Preply and Brainly also serve as a medium to connect tutors and students and do not focus on mentoring.

International examples
In the United Kingdom, The Prince's Trust based charity that runs various mentoring programs for young people, including those in the K-12 age group (Prince’s Trust, n.d.). They connect young individuals with adult mentors who provide guidance, skills development, and career advice. d.98 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 97
Additionally, in Australia, The Smith Family runs mentoring programs for disadvantaged children and youth in poverty (Smith Family, n.d.). Their programs aim to improve educational outcomes and provide long-term support.

Figure 5 His Majesty King Charles III dedicated to improving lives of disadvantaged young people in the UK, by Prince's Trust United Kingdom
In South Korea, KT corporation has signed an agreement with the Seoul Metropolitan Government and is providing an online platform that supports mentoring and education at the same time. The so-called LAN cable night school is conducted in a non-face-to-face group mentoring format, with one university student mentor taking on three school student mentees and four people. Students who participate in mentoring focus on learning the subjects they want, focusing on basic subjects such as Korean, English, and mathematics, and meet four hours a week using an online platform. The online education platform provides real-time video classes and class materials. It is a one-stop integrated platform that provides functions necessary for distance learning, such as academic management, attendance, and assignments. It is well-received for its advantages of overcoming geographical restrictions, overcoming the disadvantages of online education such as one-way education, and providing mentoring (KT, n.d.).

Sisterhood relationships
Between schools
Sidwell Friends school (Washington, D.C.) students explore various cultures and global links as integral components of their education, with a curriculum that incorporates these elements from early childhood through graduation (Sidwell Friends, n.d.). The School's programs are designed to enhance and extend the school's rigorous academic base d.99 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
98 Strategic Framework
by incorporating cultural events, virtual interactions, travel opportunities, school partnerships, and hands-on global service projects. These initiatives equip students to become conscientious global citizens.

In addition to this school, many other schools, such as the Hotchkiss School (Connecticut), Boston Latin School (Massachusetts), and Riverdale Country School (New York), go beyond sisterhood relationships and operate overseas school exchange programs for one semester or one year, but they are all private schools. It is difficult to find cases where public schools themselves establish sisterhood relationships, but sisterhood relationships are established at the city level with overseas cities and students interact with each other.

Between cities
In May 2007, Chicago and Busan City established a sisterhood relationship, and in May 2008, Korean Language students from Northside College Prep High School visited their counterparts in Busan over spring break. And in January 2010, Teachers from Busan visited Chicago as the second group participating in the 22-week Professional Bridge Development Program of the expanded Visiting Teachers MOU between Chicago and Busan (Chicago Sister Cities International, 2017).

In the United States, 1,200 cities have sister relationships with 2,100 cities around the world. There are over 1,100 sister cities in the U.S. and Asia (Asia matters for America, n.d.). For example, the state of Arizona established a sisterhood relationship with South Korea's Jeollanam-do in 2010, and the City of Phoenix established a sisterhood relationship with Korea's Suwon City in 2021. Under this sisterhood between cities, mutual exchanges between schools often occur, as in the case of Chicago.

Additionally, Tempe, approximately 75 miles from Miami, currently has sister relationships with 11 overseas cities, starting with Skopje and North Macedonia in 1971. In addition, for over 40 years, Tempe Sister Cities has been hosting the annual Oktoberfest celebration to raise money for Tempe Sister Cities’ important work. To provide an opportunity for Tempe students and families to develop understanding among the people of sister cities, the City of Tempe selects Student Ambassadors every year and provides travel opportunities. (Tempe Sisters Cities, n.d.) d.100 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 99
Figure 6 Oktoberfest celebration, by J.H. Pohl
Recommendations
Following up on the previous discussion, the recommendations for K-12 are split into three categories: a) online mentoring program, b) sisterhood relationships, and c) specialized programs.

Establishment of online platform after mentoring program pilot project
Dr. Richard Ramos, Director of Innovation and Learning at Miami Unified School District, has acknowledged the importance of a mentoring program and has mentioned that Miami is likely to implement one within the next five years. However, considering the current situation of Miami students, it is recommended that a pilot project be introduced first. The Town can recruit volunteers and implement at least one program on a small scale as soon as possible. Connecting with a nearby university, such as ASU, may be helpful in securing mentors.

Therefore, if they run a mentoring program that combines online meetings and two-way education through Zoom, it is expected to be effective in a short period of time by compensating for the problem of the lack of counselors and one-way online education. If the program proves to be effective, it could gradually increase in numbers of students served and services provided. In the future, the mentoring program promoted by Miami will need to move forward in the direction of building Miami's own online platform so that it can be operated stably in the long term as well as mentoring and education based on this.
d.101 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
100 Strategic Framework
Mutual exchange through sisterhood relationships with
overseas cities
Our second recommendation is that the Town of Miami promotes sisterhood relationships with overseas cities. It is expected that this will increase understanding of each other's cultures and broaden perspectives through various methods such as online communication, letter exchanges, foreign language learning programs, homestay exchanges, teacher training and sharing of curricula, programs and best practices. If Miami establishes the online platform mentioned above, it will be able to contribute to mutual learning and understanding of foreign languages through online meetings with international students.

In particular, if sisterhood relationships are established with overseas mining cities with similar industrial structures, it is expected that various synergy effects, such as information sharing, can be achieved not only in education but also in other fields.

Promotion of global expert specialized programs
Our third recommendation is that the Miami School District pursues global expert specialization. If they create a continuous and systematic process of understanding and learning foreign languages and cultures from kindergarten to 12th grade based on the exchanges through the sisterhood relationship and online education platform mentioned above, it will be helpful to improve the competitiveness of students. Furthermore, considering that “Scope for Extracurricular Interests” is one of the top factors to consider when choosing a school for kids (Safe Search Kids, n.d.), it can enhance the attractiveness of Miami District in the long run.

As in the case of Sidwell Friends school mentioned in a previous section, it is necessary to run a systematic program that fosters curiosity about foreign countries in the lower grades and moves toward learning language and culture as the grades go up. There are many schools that teach second languages, but they do not go beyond the language to a level where students can fully understand the country, including its culture, traditions, and history. Miami's global expert schools would not simply be about studying a second language but also about improving students’ understanding of the region by learning about its traditions, culture, history, and politics.

Miami has very favorable conditions for running specialized programs. d.102 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 101
First, because the number of students per grade is relatively small (between 48 and 87 per grade), it is relatively easy to start a program targeting the entire class. Second, there are only one or two elementary, middle, and high schools within the Miami school district, which enable it to operate a continuous program for the entire school district.

Miami is currently part of Eastern Arizona College (EAC), one of Arizona's 10 College Districts. No Community College is located in Miami, but the closest community college is Gila County Community College in Globe, near Miami. Gila Community College (GCC) is currently the Gila Pueblo campus of Eastern Arizona College.

The distance from Miami to the GCC is about nine miles and takes about 20 minutes by car. The lack of public transportation between Miami and Globe implies that commuting to and from the community college requires access to a car. There are 1,400 students in GCC. It is difficult to ascertain the exact number of those who are Miami residents. Still, considering the ratio of Miami's population of 1,541 to the entire county's population of 53,272 (based on the 2020 census), it could be estimated that about 40 community college students are likely to be Miami residents.

Figure 7 Gila Community Collge, by GCC
According to the 2020 Census, 18.5% of Miami's population has a bachelor's degree or higher. This is a very low percentage compared to the percentage of the Arizona population and the U.S. population holding a bachelor's degree or higher(33% and 37.5%, respectively). As of the fall semester of 2023, EAC operates five Accreditation courses,

HIGHER EDUCATION
d.103 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 103
transportation. In other words, there is a possibility that students will not attend the community college because it is almost impossible to travel using public transport. Based on County demographic data, our overall estimate is that around 40 Miami residents attend GCC. However, due to the accessibility problem, there is a possibility that the number is lower.

This barrier to study calls for creative solutions.

The population of Miami with a bachelor's degree or higher is significantly lower than the Arizona average and the U.S. average. Several reasons may explain this. Among them are the following:
• Lack of educational facilities: Residents need educational facilities such as colleges and universities to obtain degrees, but accessibility to community college is lacking in Miami. Access to universities is another critical challenge.
• Industrial Structure: The mining industry, the main employment sector in Miami, does not require a bachelor's degree or higher. Thus, employees who may be working in labor occupations require specific trade skills rather than degrees. Hence, younger people may have less motivation to pursue higher education to secure a job in Miami. • Population structure: The fact that many youth who attend higher education in other places do not return to Miami may also explain the low proportion of the population with degrees. In addition, workers migrating to Miami to find employment opportunities in the mining industry are likely to have a lower level of formal education. • Economic situation: The time and funds required to obtain a degree may become difficult, depending on the local economic situation.

As noted above, Miami's average household income is lower than in other parts of Arizona. In particular, many households may see the same trend due to the industrial structure concentrated in the mining industry. If the economic downturn continues, many households experiencing difficulties may increase, making it difficult to obtain a degree.
• Limited course offering: Courses related to mining, a significant industry in Miami, are not yet offered at community colleges. Due to Miami's population and industry size, this may be due to a lack of demand for students seeking training in the mining industry.

Alternatively, the nature of the sector may require special skills and equipment and safety regulations, making it difficult for community colleges to meet these requirements. In addition, it may be because the outlook for jobs in the mining industry is challenging due to economic conditions such as the industry outlook.
d.105 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
104 Strategic Framework
Notably, Arizona lags the nation in recognizing the value of nondegree industry certifications. Arizona lacks a clear definition of critical workforce programs that provide students with the skills and knowledge to meet business and industry needs. Therefore, discussions are underway to legally define these programs and establish a rigorous, industry-led workforce credentialing process. In particular, it is important to focus on occupations that do not require a degree or license, emphasizing prospective employees with certifications in their skills and education. This continues to increase demand for a variety of industry credentials. Given funding and spending constraints, the Legislature is working to pass new legislation to support community college programs.

This will allow Arizona to meet critical workforce needs and expand educational opportunities. Mining, a significant industry in Miami, should also strive to receive support due to these discussions.

In Arizona, Gila County is a region with low population density, and Miami is a town with a small population percentage. In other words, due to a smaller local population, the demand for education is relatively low, and as a result, the courses offered at community colleges are often lacking in diversity. In particular, considering that the mining industry requires unique technology and equipment, additional costs and efforts are required from the educational institution's perspective, and it can be analyzed that it will be difficult to operate if future industrial demand is not supported.

Recommendations
Self driving shuttle bus
The self-driving car market is growing rapidly worldwide, and it is expected to be introduced first as a public transportation service that operates on designated routes rather than as a private passenger vehicle. This is relevant to Miami-Globe because the operation route is limited and repetitive, so there are fewer unexpected situations and high efficiency. In the U.S. a pilot operation was completed to demonstrate the development of autonomous shuttle technology for limited shortdistance sections; it has been in operation within the University of Michigan since 2017 and has recently begun operations in Orlando, San Francisco, and other cities.
d.106 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 105
Figure 9 Self-driving shuttle in
San Francisco, by SFCTA
Figure 10 Self-driving shuttle
in Orlando, by The Hill
If a shuttle bus is introduced to run between Miami and GCC, Miami residents' accessibility to GCC will be strengthened. The fact that the service section between Miami and GCCfollows a simple route may be advantageous for introduction. In particular, if unmanned shuttle buses are introduced, labor costs related to operation can be reduced. This transportation can focus on students attending community college first and incorporate other residents and other travel purposes over time.

This will be possible by minimizing the additional funding burden through close consultation with local governments and companies seeking to expand the operation of self-driving vehicles and buses. In other words, self-driving companies will be able to obtain data accumulated through the operation and the development of self-driving technology under the condition of receiving permission to operate uncrewed shuttle buses along a designated course on actual roads. Through negotiations with self-driving vehicle operating companies, local governments could introduce the operation of buses that allow students to ride for free.

Activation of online education programs
Efforts to promote quality education and equal educational opportunities are being strengthened in the United States and worldwide through online lectures using the Internet and mobile devices. This can be seen in the many cases—including ASU, especially the preparatory academy, EAC, UA, etc.—that provide opportunities to complete degrees through online courses operated by universities and community colleges. This helps solve the problem of students in local cities having difficulty entering universities due to issues such as accessibility by providing flexible learning opportunities. Additionally, although there may be a lack of education in specific career fields in smaller, more rural cities such as Miami, online courses can enhance education in those fields and improve job opportunities in the community. However, because online education's learning experience is different from face-to-face education, d.107 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
106 Strategic Framework
the problem that interaction and learning experience are difficult to replace completely is also pointed out. To this end, it activates online communication, promotes motivation so that students can feel a sense of accomplishment, and provides a way to combine online and face-to-face classes harmoniously.

In Miami, an online education center can be established and operated by utilizing unused space in the Town to make it easier to use online courses operated by universities and the community college. If so, students will have better access to education; in particular, students will be able to more easily use online education programs provided by existing community colleges and universities. Through this, it will be possible to give lectures that combine online and offline, and the mobility problem will also be alleviated.

Education system led by local government
Korea is creating a promotion system called RISE (Regional Innovation System & Education). It is a system in which local governments promote shared growth between regions and universities by supporting universities and colleges in connection with regional development.

Most of the support projects for universities and community colleges from Korea's central government (Ministry of Education, etc.) will be transferred to local governments. Still, universities and CCs will be supported according to plans linked to local development strategies.

The program provides comprehensive support to help students graduate from local universities and colleges, find jobs in the region, and live a satisfying life through a collaboration system between local governments, universities, and various local support organizations. To establish a local talent training system suited to the conditions and characteristics of each region, the region must take the lead in the entire process from planning to project implementation. However, the program is still in the early stages of implementation in Korea. So, no specific results have been confirmed; it is creating a virtuous cycle that leads to support for local universities, enhanced employment, and revitalization of the local economy.

Higher education programs support local development strategies in collaboration with community colleges and Universities. Support the operation of universities and colleges centered on local governments by reorganizing financial support projects for universities and colleges to d.108 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 107
reflect local demands such as industry-university cooperation, lifelong education, and vocational education.

Figure 11 Microelectronics Workforce Development, by ASU News Miami and Arizona's development strategies must be supported by universities and community colleges. The ASU Microelectronics workforce development hub is an excellent example of courses on industries such as microelectronics, which are significant sectors in Arizona. Classes related to the mining industry, which is a substantial industry in Miami, should be able to be offered. Additionally, if tourism is included in Miami's development strategy, it will be necessary to open a course that reflects this.

School of mines
Although Golden, Colorado, is a small city with a population of about 20,000, it is home to the Colorado School of Mines, a public research university established in 1874. CSM provides academic studies in all oil, energy, and minerals fields.

Figure 12 Colorado School of Mines, by The Colorado Sun d.109 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
108 Strategic Framework
It offers courses in mining, metallurgy, geophysics, geology, chemistry, and petroleum engineering and is evaluated as “a school equivalent to Caltech in coal and Oxford in oil.” CSM advocates training from the intermediate technician level, not beginners, and promotes the training of professional technicians rather than academic goals as its ultimate educational policy.

Graduates of the school complete courses based on field training with the pride of being the best in the country in the field of mining science.

Students study in energy-related fields, and from the second year onwards, a program is implemented where students sign contracts with specific companies and have students work in the field regularly.

Opening an Arizona School of Mines may be considered in connection with the copper mine operating in Miami. In particular, considering the region's abundant mineral resources, such as the world's largest lithium mine recently discovered in an area adjacent to Arizona, the importance of mining continues to increase, and the demand for technology and knowledge will also increase. In particular, the Town can focus on promoting innovation and development of mining technology through research linked to mining industry practice and strengthening education and research to make mining technology safe and sustainable considering environmental impacts. In other words, by connecting with local mining companies, the Town can develop education and research programs that meet industry needs.

Figure 13 Pinto Valley Mine, by Globe Miami Gazette
d.110 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 109
Lifelong education is a cornerstone of community development and personal growth, offering individuals the opportunity to enhance their knowledge, skills, and competencies throughout their lives. In the context of Miami, Arizona, a small yet vibrant community, the potential for fostering a robust lifelong education system is significant. This section of the report aims to explore strategies to activate and enrich lifelong learning opportunities for the residents of Miami, leveraging the Town's unique demographic profile and existing infrastructure.

The demographic context of Miami provides a revealing snapshot into the age composition of its population, which is a crucial factor in planning and implementing community services such as adult and continuing education programs.

According to the 2021 Census, Miami has a total population of 1,490 residents. A notable characteristic of this population is its age distribution, particularly the proportion of residents who are over the age of 40. The data indicates that 27.4% of the population, which amounts to approximately 408 individuals, are over the age of 60. This is a significant statistic, as it suggests that more than a quarter of the Town's population is of an age where they may be considering retirement or may already be retired. This segment of the population often has specific educational interests, such as learning new skills for personal development or leisure, staying mentally active, or even preparing for a second career.

Furthermore, the demographic data reveals that 50.9% of the Town's residents are over the age of 40. This equates to roughly 758 individuals who are in the prime of their working lives or are approaching later maturity. This group is likely to have a vested interest in adult education programs that can provide them with opportunities for career advancement, professional development, or a shift in their career trajectory. The presence of such a substantial number of mature adults in Miami suggests that there is a considerable audience for adult and continuing education programs. These programs could cater to a range of needs and interests, from vocational training to recreational learning.

These programs can play a vital role in supporting the personal and professional growth of the town's residents, contributing to their quality of life and the overall well-being of the community.

LIFELONG EDUCATION
d.111 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
110 Strategic Framework
The demographic trend points to the potential for a robust market for educational services tailored to older adults, including those seeking to enhance their employability, those interested in pursuing new hobbies and interests, and those wanting to engage in social and community activities through educational settings.

Economic landscape
The economic landscape of Miami, as reflected by its median household income, presents a stark contrast to the broader financial picture of the state of Arizona. With a median household income of $34,464, Miami's residents earn significantly less than the state median of $74,568. This discrepancy not only highlights the economic challenges faced by the Town but also emphasizes the potential role of education in economic development and individual financial improvement. The median household income is a critical indicator of the economic health of a community. It influences the quality of life, access to healthcare, education, housing, and other essential services.

Considering this economic context, there is a clear and pressing need for educational programs that can catalyze economic upliftment. Education is widely recognized as one of the most effective tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and enabling upward mobility. By providing residents with access to quality education and training, Miami can equip its workforce with the skills and knowledge necessary to compete in a rapidly changing job market. In other words, this disparity underscores the need for educational programs that could contribute to economic upliftment and provide pathways to better employment opportunities for the residents.

Cultural fabric
The cultural fabric of Miami, Arizona, is a vibrant and complex mosaic that reflects the Town's social and demographic diversity. The Hispanic or Latino community forms a significant part of this tapestry, with 807 residents, while the White population is slightly larger at 881. This ethnic diversity is mirrored in the linguistic landscape of the Town, where a notable 31.6% of Miami's residents speak a language other than English within their homes. Spanish is the predominant language among these, spoken by 29.6% of the population. The term "Cultural Fabric" aptly captures the essence of Miami's community life, highlighting the interwoven nature of the Town's social features, practices, beliefs, and expressions. This fabric is made up of the languages spoken, the traditions upheld, the customs practiced, the arts appreciated, the historical d.112 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 111
narratives told, the religious beliefs observed, and the shared values and norms that guide daily life.

Figure 14a Downtown Miami, by On
The Road Arizona
Figure 14b Cultural Fabric of Miami,
by The Crazy Tourist
The presence of multiple languages in Miami presents unique challenges for educational programs, particularly those aimed at adult and lifelong learning. However, these linguistic dynamics also offer rich opportunities to create inclusive, culturally responsive education initiatives that leverage the town's linguistic assets.

Existing infrastructure
Miami's existing infrastructure is a bedrock upon which the Town can build and expand its lifelong education initiatives. The presence of the Miami Memorial Library, Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum, and the Senior Citizen Center offers a trio of established venues that can be leveraged to foster a culture of continuous learning and community engagement. Miami Memorial Library serves as a hub of knowledge and resources, providing a wealth of information through its collections. It can be the epicenter for adult literacy programs, educational workshops, and digital literacy classes.

Figure 15a Miami Memorial Library,
by Gila County Library District
Figure 15b Inside Miami Memorial
Library, by Miami AZ Facebook
d.113 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
112 Strategic Framework
Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum is a treasure trove of local history and culture, which can be used to engage the community with its past and inspire the future. It can offer educational programs that delve into the town's heritage, art exhibitions, and cultural events that celebrate diversity and foster a sense of community pride. The museum can also collaborate with local schools and educators to provide hands-on learning experiences for students of all ages.

Figure 16 Bullion Plaza Cultural Center &
Museum, by Arizona Historical Society
The Senior Citizen Center is a vital gathering place for the Town's mature population. It can offer specialized programs tailored to the interests and needs of older adults, such as health and wellness workshops, financial planning seminars, and technology classes that help seniors stay connected in an increasingly digital world. Moreover, it can be a venue for intergenerational learning, where seniors share their knowledge and skills with younger generations, promoting social cohesion and mutual understanding.

They can provide accessible learning opportunities that are inclusive of all demographics, from children to seniors, and responsive to the community's evolving needs. By doing so, they not only contribute to the personal growth of individuals but also to the social and economic vitality of Miami.
d.114 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 113
Recommendations
School for seniors
“Seniorenschule EULE”, Senior Owl School, based in Germany, represents an innovative model for educational and social integration that fosters intergenerational exchange and mutual learning. In Miami, as in many communities, the generational divide poses a social challenge that cannot be overlooked. With its multicultural and multigenerational demographic, Miami recognizes the particular importance of intergenerational interaction and integration. Each generation brings its unique experiences, values, and skills to the table, and these differences can sometimes create barriers to understanding and communication.

However, overcoming these gaps and facilitating interactions between generations is essential to strengthening societal solidarity and fostering an inclusive society where people of all ages understand and live alongside one another harmoniously.

This program is a student-led project initiated at the Fürstenberg Gymnasium in Recke, Germany. It involves students becoming teachers for adults over the age of 55, educating them on a variety of topics including English, French, computers, internet usage, memory training, and literature. The program operates within the school, offering a novel educational model termed “school within a school,” where students and seniors learn and interact together. The senior school's classes are held every Friday from 2 p.m. to 4:15 p.m., excluding school holidays. During breaks between the two-hour classes, all participants gather in the school cafeteria for a communal teatime. The senior school acts as a forum for enhancing intergenerational dialogue and social relationships, invigorating the community, and providing students with the joy of engagement and sharing. Additionally, it serves as a space for the elderly to meet and share experiences with peers who have similar interests and inclinations.

Mentorship programs
Develop programs that encourage the sharing of knowledge and skills between the elderly and younger generations. Establish mentorship arrangements where seniors can share their life experiences and professional expertise with younger residents, creating a valuable exchange of wisdom and expertise.
d.115 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
114 Strategic Framework
Storytelling events
Organize regular storytelling events where the town's elders can share stories, impart wisdom, and connect with the younger generation.

These gatherings would act as a forum for preserving oral history and enhancing community spirit, fostering a sense of continuity and shared identity within Miami.

The Town of Miami can provide lifelong educational opportunities for Miami residents, including K-12 education and continuing education for residents aging in place. By investing in the Town’s existing K-12 infrastructure, the Town can expand its educational opportunities by providing intergenerational mentorship programming for the Town’s youth and aging population. By creating intergenerational opportunities for the Town’s residents, Miami can foster a sustainable educational environment for current and future generations.

CONCLUSION
d.116 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 115

REFERENCES
Al-Zoubi, S., & Bani Younes, M. (2015). Low academic achievement: Causes and results.

Academy Publication. Theory and Practice in Language Studies, 5(11), 2262- 2268.

American School Counselor Association. (n.d.). School counselor roles & ratios.

Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/ About-School-Counseling/School-Counselor-Roles-Ratios
Asia matters for America. (n.d.). Sister partnerships by US State. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://asiamattersforamerica.org/asia/data/sisterpartnerships Arizona Department of Education. (2022). AZ School Report Cards. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://azreportcards.azed.gov
Baum, S., & McPherson, M. (2019). The human factor: The promise & limits of online education. American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Daedalus, 148(4), 235- 254.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. (n.d.). Big impact-proven results. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.bbbs.org/impact/
Break Through New York. (n.d.). Mission & values. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://btny.org/mission-values/
Chegg. (n.d.). About Chegg. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.chegg. com/about/
Chicago Sister Citied International. (2017). History of exchange Busan. Retrieved, Nov 5, 2023, from http://www.chicagosistercities.com/wp-content/ uploads/2018/01/Busan-2017.pdf
City Year. (n.d.). Student success coach and mentor. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.cityyear.org/apply-now/city-year-americorps-academictutor-and-mentor/ Gibbs, R. (2005). Education as a rural development strategy. U.S. Department of agriculture, Economic research service, Employment & Education. Retrieved, December 1, 2023, from https://www.ers.usda.gov/amber-waves/2005/ november/education-as-a-rural-development-strategy
Greatschools. (2022). Find a great school. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https:// www.greatschools.org
Ha, B. (2009). The Role and Tasks of Local Government for Improvement of Local Lifelong Education. Gyeonggi Research Institute.

Jeong, H. (2013). Overseas lifelong education cases. The Hope Report, 14, pp. 1-78.

Jordan, M. (2008). Korean exchange students visit Northside. Northside College Preparatory High School. The Hoof Beat, 9(7). Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.northsideprep.org/pdf/hoofbeat/ archive/2007-2008/06_mar08.pdf
Khan Academy. (n.d.). Why Khan Academy works. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.khanacademy.org
Kim, M., & Nam, S. (2023). Financial Expansion Plan to Revitalize Lifelong Education:
d.117 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
116 Strategic Framework
Focusing on Lifelong Education Voucher Project. Journal of Lifelong Learning Society, 19(1), 97-117, 10.26857/JLLS.2023.2.19.1.117
KT. (n.d.). About KT: KT e-mentoring. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://m. corp.kt.com/eng/html/sustain/customer/contribution.html Lee, E., Lee, R., & Jang, J. (2022). A Study for Active Lifelong Education for Older Adults by Collaboration with Higher Education : Cases of Japanese Universities. 성인계속교육연구, 13(3), 91-117.

Miami Unified School district. (n.d.). Academic Learning Links. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.miamiusd40.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ ID=808815&type=d&pREC_ID=1196171
National Association of State Boards of Education. (2016). Educating students in rural America: Capitalizing on strengths, overcoming barriers. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED571539.pdf National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). Annual Earnings by Educational Attainment. Condition of Education. U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences. Retrieved, December 1, 2023, from https://nces.ed.gov/ programs/coe/indicator/cba.

Niche. (2021.). School Search. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.niche. com/k12/search/best-schools/c/gila-county-az/
Prince’s Trust. (n.d.). About us. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www. princes-trust.org.uk/about-us
Safe Search Kids. (n.d.). Top 7 factors to consider when choosing a school for your kids.

Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.safesearchkids.com/top-7- factors-to-consider-when-choosing-a-school-for-your-kids/ Sidwell Friends. (n.d.). Global Citizenship. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https:// www.sidwell.edu/academics/global-citizenship
Smith Family. (n.d.). About us. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www. thesmithfamily.com.au/about-us
Tempe sister cities. U.S. News Education. (2022). Search K-12 Schools. Retrieved, November 5, 2023, from https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/search WorldNoor. (2023). The Role of Education in Rural Communities. Retrieved, December 1, 2023, from https://worldnoor.com/blog/education-in-ruralcommunities/ World Population Review. (2021). Income by household type. Retrieved, November 6, 2023, from https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/miami-azpopulation d.118 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
This page was intentionally left blank.
d.119 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
This page was intentionally left blank.
d.120 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

120 Strategic Framework

This report conducts a comprehensive SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats), target tourists analysis of Miami's tourism sector and a written interview with the Miami representative to understand the current landscape and potential future directions. Furthermore, by examining the successes of other towns in tourism development, the report aims to offer a strategic roadmap for enhancing Miami's appeal as a tourist destination.

This report outlines strategic recommendations for Miami's tourism, segmented into short-term, mid-term, and long-term initiatives.

These include leveraging storytelling, digital marketing, and tourism partnerships in the short term, transforming historic streets, utilizing historic infrastructure and promoting outdoor activities in the mid-term, and developing mining programs and iconic symbols in the long term.

Figure 1 Drive to Miami, by drivetofive

INTRODUCTION
d.123 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
122 Strategic Framework
While exact statistics are not available on how many tourists are currently visiting Miami, Arizona, trends can be gleaned from data on Gila County, of which Miami is a part. Data from June 2020 to June 2021 shows that tourist visits are highest in June and September, with the majority of visitors coming from Phoenix (60%) and some from Tucson (7.2%) and New Mexico (5.3%). This suggests that there is a high demand for shortterm visits, mostly from nearby areas.

Figure 2 Trips by arrival county over time, Gila County Visitation Data, 2021
Meanwhile, the Arizona Travel Impacts by Legislative District 2 report also estimates the size of the tourism economy in the areas surrounding Miami. In this report, the districts that include Apache Junction and Globe are combined and analyzed. First, it shows that the region has the sixth highest total spending from tourism in 2022, at $1,278 million, and the fifth highest earnings, at $372 million, out of all 30 districts. This suggests that this is a competitive region for tourism in Arizona.

Figure 3 shows the monthly statistics of searches categorized under the Miami, Arizona Travel category over the last five years. While there are variations from year to year, the highest sum of search volume is around the end of October, followed by the end of July, the end of November, and December (November and December have not yet been added to

CURRENT MIAMI TOURISM
d.124 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 123
the 2023 data), and the end of January. In other words, the demand for traveling to Miami, Arizona, is mainly in the fall and winter months.

Figure 3 Trends of searching Miami
d.125 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 127
Other potential tourists would be interested in upcoming festivals such as Arizona Poppy Fest and Miami Loco Arts Festival in April, Truck and Motorcycle Show and Miami Fiesta in September, Apache Jii Celebration in October, and Miami Small Town Christmas in December. It will also be possible to keep more motorcyclists, RVers, and bikers in Miami who enjoy the nature and roads around the area.

Primary target tourism population for Miami
Based on the above analysis, the people who are most likely to be interested in Miami are those who live in Phoenix and have the following characteristics.
• Phoenix Area Residents: Those with geographical proximity and an interest in mining and history.
• Family Travelers: Families interested in the educational and historical value offered by Miami's festivals.
• Nature and Cultural Arts Enthusiasts: Individuals attracted to the natural landscapes around Miami and local festivals and cultural events.
• Photographers and Influencers: Those seeking unique landscapes and historical buildings as captivating backdrops for their content.

Notably, Miami's proximity to Phoenix gives it a geographical advantage over other mining-related tourist destinations like Jerome and Bisbee, making it a convenient choice for day trips or short getaways. Given its accessibility and distinctive attractions, Miami holds the potential to attract a wide variety of travelers.

SUCCESSFUL TOURIST MINING
TOWNS
Based on the SWOT analysis and target tourist analysis, the next section of the report focuses on eight peer communities with similar characteristics and tourism elements as the Town of Miami. Each peer community is introduced and its features and lessons learned are described to provide opportunities for Miami to explore integrating into the Town’s strategic plan.
d.128 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information

Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 145
Differentiated tourism attraction development
Storytelling
Miami has many stories to share, like its history as a mining boomtown, generations of families, beautiful churches, and bridges. Tell the stories of these things and create things that people can step into and experience.

Speakeasies
For instance, stories about speakeasies can captivate tourists. Initially, it is possible to introduce narratives tied to speakeasies in Miami. Visitors may have the opportunity to approach the doors of speakeasies and peer inside. As tourist traffic increases and conditions permit, remodeling underground spaces could offer an intriguing experience. Beyond Los Angeles and Butte, numerous cities provide historical speakeasy tours.

Historic building and public art tour
By weaving the history of historic buildings in Miami with the history of the mine, a historical exploration tour could be created. First, create a historic tour map for visitors to get information, or place signs in front of buildings with their stories. The pictures below show a walking tour map in Flagstaff and a historic building sign in Chico, California. If Miami gets a lot of tourists, it could run a guided tour program.

Also, Miami has some cute and unique murals. Creating a story about the murals or a map showing their location would be a positive experience for tourists.

Figure 5 Public Murals in Miami, AZ
d.138 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
146 Strategic Framework
Storytelling on Sullivan Street
Miami's Sullivan Street is home to fascinating and unique antique shops that seem to be relatively undiscovered. Providing the history of these shops on Sullivan Street, what they sell, and the kinds of items they carry could enrich the visitor experience. For example, featuring a different shop each week on Instagram could offer tourists delightful insights.

Creating captivating historic streets
Enhancing the charm and interest of Sullivan Street to make it a desirable destination for tourists to stroll is essential. One effective method to achieve this is through the planting of trees. Trees not only contribute to the aesthetic enhancement of streetscapes but also offer shade, reducing the urban heat island effect and creating a cooler, more comfortable environment for pedestrians. The integration of greenery with historic buildings can create picturesque streets that are frequently found in successful urban design examples.

Additionally, consider utilizing empty spaces along the street for new ventures. Simple setups like food trucks or container cafes that provide refreshments and seating areas can significantly improve the street's appeal. A notable example from South Korea involves revitalizing declining markets by supporting young entrepreneurs to open shops in vacant storefronts, which has brought renewed vigor to entire market areas. Such initiatives could serve as inspiration for similar revitalization efforts on Sullivan Street.

Iconic symbols
Interviews with Miami residents revealed that tourists driving through Miami to get to the Globe was an issue. Considering that Gila County has a significant amount of tourists and they are just passing through Miami, something needs to be done to stop them.

An iconic symbol related to the copper mines can be a significant draw for tourists to Miami. Historical and cultural symbols associated with these mines are especially likely to interest families and key target tourists in Miami who are keen on history, culture, and arts, providing an incentive for them to make a stop in Miami.
d.139 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 147
Historic and natural resource utilization
Dynamic outdoor activities
To attract tourists to Miami, it's essential to create a perception that there is a wealth of activities to enjoy. It is suggested to identify and promote a variety of outdoor activities available in Miami.

Biking
Consider offering tours that integrate Miami's historic buildings and mining landscapes, which could be explored on bicycles or Segways.

Birding
Additionally, the nearby Pinal Mountains are an excellent spot for Figure 6 The Big Miner, Rubyvale,
Australia, by bigthingsofaustralia
Figure 8 Audrey Headframe Park in
Jerome, AZ by Wikimedia
Figure 7 The Big Gold Pick and Pan
in Grenfall, Australia, by Flickr
Figure 9 Map the Miner, Kapunda,
Australia, by South Australia
d.140 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
148 Strategic Framework
bird-watching. Strategies could be developed to entice birdwatchers to visit Miami and to inform visitors about the local avian species.

While birding is predominantly promoted in Globe, it's important to communicate that Miami also offers bird-watching opportunities.

Art
Miami already possesses numerous artistic resources. The Loco Art Festival is in April, and various galleries are present. Beautify and promote the community in collaboration with these artistic venues. If tourists can experience the unique art of Miami, it will add another layer of enjoyment to their visit.

Mining tourism program development
Miami is an easy place to travel to from Phoenix to visit a mine in-person, as they are an impressive sight to attract tourists interested in mining.

The success stories of other small towns around the world often involved making full use of mines as a tourist resource.

Gwangmyeong Cave in South Korea has transformed an abandoned gold mine into an upscale cave theme park, attracting tourists from nearby metropolitan areas, while Ashio Copper Mine offers a unique experience that showcases the mine's role in World War II and its history, including a miners' revolt. The Queen Mine Tour program in Bisbee, Arizona, has become a famous program that attracts about 50,000 visitors a year, as visitors descend into the cave of a mine. The following examples highlight mining tourism opportunities offered by other communities, so to inspire future tourism opportunities for Miami to consider:

Asarco Mineral Discovery
Center Mine Tour
Sahuarita, Arizona
• Free self-tours and paid tours
($17.50) available
• Copper mine (open-pit)
• With a small museum
• Providing free transportation
for Arizona schools to
ASARCO center
Photo by Asarco
d.141 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 149
Copper Queen Mine Tour
Bisbee, Arizona
• $14
• Copper mine (underground)
• Opend in 1976; Bisbee’s
mayor at the time established
the mine tour to keep miners
employed
• take a small train down into
the depths of the freezing cold
mine
Kennecott’s Bingham Canyon
Mine (Rio Tinto)
Utah
• $6
• Copper mine (open-pit)
• Tour explains how ore gets
refined to become copper
• Provide Virtual Tour during the
off-season
• Offer field trip reservation for
school
Quincy Mine Tour
Michigan
• Full Tour $35, Above Ground
Only $15
• Copper mine
• Each fall, provide Haunted Min
tour by collaborating with the
Visual and Performing Arts
Department at Michigan Tech
Photo by Copper Queen Mine Tour
Photo by Business Insider
Photo by Quincy Mine Hoist Association
d.142 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
150 Strategic Framework
Historic infrastructure utilization
In the SWOT Analysis, leveraging Miami's historical background and buildings is identified as a key element in the development of its tourism.

Similar to how the Jerome Grand Hotel, once a hospital, became a symbol of the Town's tourism with its ghost stories, successful tourist towns often utilize historical landmarks as focal points of their tourism.

Miami possesses excellent historical sites that symbolize the Town, such as the Bullion Plaza School, YMCA Building, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, Miami Community Church, and the historic five bridges. However, the reality is that the development and renovation of these historical sites are still insufficient. Bullion Plaza, already rich in tourist resources with its historical artifacts and mining stories, needs improvements to its aging facilities and preparation to convey its unique stories more effectively. The YMCA Building also requires enhancements to be repurposed as either accommodation facilities, which the town lacks, or as a visitor center.

The beautiful architecture and history of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church and Miami Community Church should be emphasized through storytelling, developing them into key elements of Miami's tour programs. The development of Miami tour programs utilizing these symbolic buildings, along with mining programs, is expected to become a hallmark of Miami's tourism in the future.

Marketing and promotion enhancement
Online marketing
Miami is currently operating a website and Facebook page to communicate Town news to residents and tourists, but it is not easy to obtain detailed information about events, attractions, and activities for the tour.

As identified in the SWOT analysis as a weakness, it is difficult to find information about events on the Town's homepage, which only provides schedules. The Gila County tour homepage, Globe's Instagram and tourism pages are the only online sources of some information about Miami Tourism.

In order to increase the number of travelers to Miami, people need to d.143 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 151
know what it is like and be attracted to it. Promoting Miami on social media is an important way to do that. Social media is the most influential channel for people to decide where to travel, and a recent study found that Instagram (40%), Facebook (35%), and TikTok (25%) are the top three most influential for travel. Use them to showcase how great Miami is and what's happening in the town.

Figure 10 Tourism Promotional Instgram profiles, gotoglobeaz, goglobemiami and adventurepayson, by mockup.store
Many locales are already doing a great job of promoting themselves on these social networks. See Figure 10 for travel-related Instagram accounts from nearby cities or towns.

Tourism partnerships with neighbors
As identified in the SWOT analysis, collaborating with neighboring cities to collectively promote and manage tourism resources within the region could be an effective strategy for Miami.

Adjacent cities Superior and Globe are attracting many tourists through a variety of tourism programs, websites, and social media operations.

Actively utilizing these cities' tourism platforms could be an effective promotional strategy for Miami, which currently faces short-term challenges in manpower and budget.

Additionally, considering the integration of Miami's attractions, such as Bullion Plaza and the historic Sullivan Street, with the tourism events and @gotoglobeaz
@goglobemiami
@adventurepayson
d.144 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
152 Strategic Framework
programs of nearby cities could be beneficial. In particular, the Superior and Globe-Miami Chambers of Commerce are anticipated to become valuable partners in the future development of Miami's tourism.

Figure 11 Superior, AZ Tour Website and Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce Webpage, by graphictwister
Developing Miami as a tourism destination will foster sustainable economic development for generations. The Town can create tourist opportunities by creating tourist attractions that exemplify the Town’s historic and cultural heritage as a mining town.

CONCLUSION
d.145 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Fall 2023 | PAF 509: Public Affairs Capstone 153

REFERENCES
Arizona State University Project Cities. (2022). Starategies and Opportunities for a Community Arits Incubator: A Fall 2022 Collaborative Project with Arizona State University’s Project Cities & the Town of Clarkdale. https://www.dropbox.com/ scl/fi/xi70hcps15jp2xyl890wc/C08_22F_Arts-Incubat or-Report_Onlinecontent.pdf?rlkey=5y2m817 crc2l18fz0rkgx1ev dl=0 Arizona State University School of Community Resources and Development. (2011).

Perspectives on Tourism in Bisbee. https://scrd.asu.edu/sites/default/ files/2022-07/asu_bisbee_perspectives_report_2011_final_1_0.pdf Cho, Hwi-Hyung. (2017). An Exploratory Study on the Activation Plan of the Urban Area Theme Park through Case Analysis of Gwangmyeong Cave in Gwangmyeong City. Tourism & Leisure Research, 29(3), 37-56.

Hong, Soon-Goo & Lee, Hyun-Mi. (2014). Developing Gamcheon Cultural Village as a tourist destination through co-creation. Service Business. 9. 10.1007/s11628- 014-0252-z.

Kang, Tae-woo, & Kim Jung-hun. (2018). Analysis of Level of Importance and Satisfaction of GwangMyeong Cave Tourists Using IPA method, Leisure & Tourism Research, Journal of Leisure and Tourism Research, 30(30), 21-33 To access the original student reports, additional materials, and resources, visit: links.asu.edu/PCMiamiStrategicFramework23F
d.146 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
Agenda Item 11.a
Mariko Nakawatase
I have had the pleasure of knowing Mariko for several years. She is a smart, practical, and compassionate individual who consistently puts the interests of our community first.

Mariko is both well-spoken and an excellent listener—qualities that are not only admirable but essential for any effective city council member. Her ability to thoughtfully engage with constituents and fellow leaders makes her a standout candidate.

As a youthful and dynamic voice, Mariko brings fresh ideas and a forward-thinking mindset to the table. She is deeply committed to solution-oriented governance and has a natural ability to connect with younger voters—something our city greatly needs to ensure future engagement and innovation.

Mariko is a proud product of our community. She grew up in Imperial Beach, attended Mar Vista High School, began her higher education at Southwestern Community College, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Public Administration from Arizona State University.

In addition to her professional and academic achievements, Mariko is a dedicated volunteer. She serves as a Key Club Advisor at Mar Vista High School, is a Board of Advisors Member for the YMCA of San Diego County, and plays a key role in the Imperial Beach Sun & Sea Festival as the Social Media and Content Manager as well as the Fundraising Chair.

Best Regard’s
Mark Williams
Received via email
on 09/29/25 at
2:51 p.m. jmk
e.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Sandra Brillhart
To: Public Comments
Subject: Agenda Item 11a
Date: Monday, September 29, 2025 3:15:45 PM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Thank you again for conducting an open and transparent process to fill the District 3 Council seat and congratulations to all of the candidates who made it to the second round.

As a long-time resident of District 3, I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts on this important appointment.

All three candidates bring something valuable to the table. Mr. Bilbray’s previous service on the Council is applicable; but it has been almost 10 years since he last served and his more recent experience is not relevant to municipal governance. In addition, his stated priorities, mosquito control and election reform, are odd choices and not top priorities for most District 3 residents at this time.

Both Ms. Blevins and Ms. Nakawatase have highly relevant experience and educational backgrounds, and either could easily step into the role. However, in today’s polarized political climate, it is especially important to choose a candidate who can avoid the appearance of partisanship. Furthermore, Mayor McKay ran as an independent for this council seat; and therefore I feel that his replacement should also be an independent.

While Ms. Nakawatase is clearly well qualified for the position, her political activities and personal and professional connections could raise concerns about impartiality and appear inconsistent with the goal of a truly nonpartisan council.

For these reasons, I respectfully ask you to appoint Ms. Blevins, the only independent candidate, to the District 3 City Council seat. I believe that her relevant experience, education, political independence, and commitment to our community make her the best choice to serve at this time.

Sincerely,
Sandy Brillhart
District 3 Resident
.
f.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Dave Nearing
To: Public Comments; Dave Nearing
Subject: Reference: Agenda item 11.a October 1, 2025
Date: Monday, September 29, 2025 10:40:19 PM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

David Nearing
1030 3rd St.

Imperial Beach, CA
Dear Honorable Mayor and City Council
I have been impressed by the quality of applicants for the D3 Vacancy. The person chosen will directly affect my 40 + years of effort to make Imperial Beach better and validate my chosen City for retirement.

I like the underlying work effort of Mariko Nakawatase, and her desire to use those skills and efforts obtained in prior employment to help shape Imperial Beach's future.

Against the strong resumes and lifelong accomplishments of many of the candidates Mariko Nakawatase stands out: For her youth she has exceeded. Her commitment in helping Imperial Beaches youth, with new ideas and energy, to become involved in our City is refreshing and needed for the city's long term betterment.

I liked Pat Bilbrays prior experience on the council and previously suggested he be considered; thus saving down time learning the "job" so the City can continue its business.

I feel that Ms. Nakawatase, with her background will also fit in well without much effort. I strongly suggest that she be highly considered for D3 Councilmember.

Respectfully
David Nearing
.
g.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Anne Pilgrim
To: Public Comments
Subject: Agenda item 11a
Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 2:59:26 PM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Subject: Support for Independent Appointment to District 3 Council Seat Dear Council Members,
Thank you for ensuring a transparent process in selecting the next District 3 Councilmember. I also congratulate the finalists for advancing to the second round.

As an almost forty year District 3 resident, I value the opportunity to share my input. While Mr.

Bilbray’s past service is appreciated, his recent experience and stated priorities—mosquito control and election reform—do not align with the current needs of our district.

Ms. Blevins and Ms. Nakawatase are both well-qualified, but in today’s polarized climate, maintaining a nonpartisan council is essential. Since Mayor McKay served as an independent, I believe his successor should reflect that same independence.

Although Ms. Nakawatase is capable, her political ties may raise concerns about impartiality. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to appoint Ms. Blevins, whose experience, independence, and dedication to our community make her the best choice.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Anne Pilgrim, District 3 resident
.
h.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Taco Corona
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A - Support for Mariko Nakawatase for D3 City Council Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 7:54:06 PM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Good evening,
I am reaching out in support of candidate Mariko Nakawatase.

I have known her for close to 15 years, and I have always known her to be someone with an immovable determination and and an incredible sense of righteousness. Mariko is someone who cares for her community as much as she cares for her family and friends. She would thrive in city council because not only would she be a fair council member that listens to every side of any situation, but would also always thrive to improve it where she could. In my opinion, Mariko is the best choice for the position and would bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Thank you,
Johnny Corona
.
i.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
To whom it may concern:

I am writing to express my wholehearted support for Mariko Nakawatase as District 3 City Councilmember. From 2021 to 2025, I had the privilege of being mentored by Mariko during my time at the County of San Diego. She introduced me to the power of local government, showing how incremental, thoughtful action can create lasting, meaningful change, a change that I can assure will be brought to the community as a result of her potential leadership.

Mariko’s work ethic was unmatched; she was always the first to arrive and the last to leave, setting an example that inspired not only me but every student and manager around her.

Despite my background in data science and econometrics, it was Mariko who encouraged me to channel these skills into public service, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with her on mapping and strategic outreach projects, using both of our strengths to impact thousands of constituents. Sponsoring me for political conferences, and supporting my own initiatives, Mariko not only knows how to water seeds, but how to assure the strongest growth for individuals across San Diego County.

Her mentorship changed the trajectory of my life. She instilled in me, and in many Gen Z students like me, the belief that our voices matter in local government. Mariko is a trailblazer, the reason a young woman like me found her professional path, and I am endlessly proud to call her a mentor and peer. There is no doubt in my mind that she will bring the same passion, dedication, and transformative impact to the San Diego City Council. I wholeheartedly encourage her appointment/nomination.

Mehri Sadri
Received via email on
10/1/25 at 6: 14 a.m.
jmk
j.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Jared Rapoza
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A- Support for Mariko Nakawatase for D3 City Council Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 8:37:14 AM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

To Whom It May Concern,
My name is Jared Rapoza and I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for Mariko Nakawatase in their campaign for City Council. I have had the opportunity to see her dedication, leadership, and genuine commitment to serving our community firsthand.

Mariko brings not only strong professional skills but also a deep understanding of the needs and challenges facing our city. She listens thoughtfully, acts with integrity, and works tirelessly to ensure that every voice is heard. Her vision for Imperial Beach is exactly what our community needs at this time.

I believe she will be a strong advocate for fairness, transparency, and progress on the council. I wholeheartedly support her candidacy and encourage others to do the same.

Best regards,
Jared Rapoza
.
k.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: LYNNE FISCHER
To: Public Comments
Subject: Comment for Item 11a: 10-1-2025
Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 10:00:28 AM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Thank you again for having a process to fill this vacancy. Several strong candidates came forward, and that was the entire point of having a process.

I am sorry that John Keating is no longer among your choices. I don’t know why he chose to withdraw, but it is a loss for IB. Mr. Keating has a deep level understanding of EIRs, traffic issues, real estate, business, SANDAG and IBWC. It was obvious he would have been a huge asset.

I sit on a committee with him. I know these few things about him, but the one thing I don’t know about him is his politics. And that’s how local politics should be. I’ve no idea where he stands. John Keating is a consummate professional and would have served D3 well.

Among the remaining candidates, Ms. Blevins is clearly the most senior level candidate, with the longest record of relevant and recent experience to step in and serve this temporary position. Blevins 20+ years of government agency experience and knowledge of current programs, strong schools connections make her the best candidate. Mr. Bilbray’s experience is far too old, he was unable to answer many of your questions, and his priorities were not sufficient. Ms. Nakawatase, possesses good qualities and has current experience, however her qualifications of only one government employer in last four years, make her junior to Ms.

Blevins’ more senior level of policy and program experience.This makes Ms. Blevins the best remaining candidate to serve the residents of D3 for the temporary position.

It is my hope that, when presented with the appropriate situation as you are tonight, a few of you will make good on your previously stated promises, and exercise your vote independently for the good of all D3 constituents.Good luck.

Thank you.

Lynne Fischer
IB Resident
.
l.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Corey Emerson
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A - Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatse
Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 10:13:27 AM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Good Morning Members of the City Council and Guest,
I would like to send my public and personal support for Mariko Nakawatase.

I've known Mariko since 2010, when we were both cadets in the NJROTC program at Mar Vista High School. Even then, she stood out among her peers not only as a natural leader, but also as a dedicated civil servant and, above all, a loyal and dependable friend. Her leadership qualities were evident early on, culminating in her appointment as Commanding Officer of our NJROTC unit in 2013 an achievement that reflected both her strong character and the respect she earned from her fellow cadets and instructors alike. Mariko's commitment to service did not end at graduation. She has remained deeply involved in the betterment of our community, especially through her work with the Imperial Beach Kiwanis Club and continued support for youth development programs like NJROTC. Her efforts have consistently focused on uplifting those around her and contributing meaningfully to the city she calls home.

She is not just a capable leader, she is someone whose actions reflect genuine care, dedication, and vision for a better Imperial Beach. I can say with complete sincerity that there is no one more authentic, more communityfocused, or more driven to help move our city forward. I wholeheartedly support Mariko Nakawatase; She is from IB and For IB!
Very Respectfully,
Corey Emerson, Resident of Imperial Beach
.
m.1 10-01-2025 Item No. 11.a
Last Minute Agenda Information
From: david martinez
To: Public Comments
Subject: Nomination of Mariko Nakawatase
Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 11:55:30 AM
CAUTION: This email is from an External source. DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Council members,
I’m writing to wholeheartedly recommend Mariko Nakawatase for a position on the Imperial Beach Council Board.

I had the pleasure of working alongside Mariko, and I can confidently say she brings a rare blend of integrity, leadership, and community driven passion that would be a tremendous asset to the board.

During our time as coworkers, Mariko consistently demonstrated exceptional communication skills, a collaborative spirit, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Her ability to listen deeply, engage thoughtfully, and act decisively made her a natural leader in our workplace and I have no doubt those same qualities will serve the residents of Imperial Beach well.

Mariko’s dedication to public service and her thoughtful perspective on community issues reflect her genuine commitment to making a positive impact. She leads with empathy, thinks strategically, and inspires those around her to work toward shared goals. I believe she embodies the kind of leadership that fosters trust, transparency, and progress.

There have been multiple times during our work time spent together where I felt tired, angry, upset, and even stuck with some situations or with people. Mariko was always there to lift not just my own but my peers spirit's as well as well as having a solution to issues at hand with a cool level head. It’s with great enthusiasm that I support Mariko’s candidacy for the council board
Warm regards,
David Martinez
.
10-01-2025
Last Minute Agenda Information
n.1

Imperial Beach City CouncilOctober 1, 2025

Imperial Beach City Council
October 1, 2025