ZacCast Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/zaccast The official podcast for local government nerds, from the folks behind ZacTax. We talk about everything from sales tax to city management to college sports, and bring you stories from the front lines of local government administration. 2024 TeamZac 552bcd49-4a09-5c0f-a5ad-4619adf48af6 yes Chad Janicek Patrick Lawler The Trailer en Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:06:53 -0500 Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:44 -0500 https://www.zaccast.com https://img.transistorcdn.com/ZPoCQb0DorZVL718mL_8FK0rHGPYuaMxNZ5pHb88Svg/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9zaG93/LzM5MjgvMTU3MjI4/NDU4Ni1hcnR3b3Jr/LmpwZw.jpg ZacCast https://www.zaccast.com episodic TeamZac The official podcast for local government nerds, from the folks behind ZacTax. We talk about everything from sales tax to city management to college sports, and bring you stories from the front lines of local government administration. The official podcast for local government nerds, from the folks behind ZacTax. local government, technology TeamZac Yes No Throwing the kitchen at SB10 Throwing the kitchen at SB10 full 27186cb2-8fd3-4754-94b1-8eae3cd35c26 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bee3f542 In this episode, Patrick and Chad discuss the latest twists in SB 10 and what a proposed 1% property tax cap could mean for Texas cities. They break down how appraisal methods are quietly shifting more of the tax burden onto homeowners, why the Legislature’s “populist” fixes may actually worsen the problem, and what cities can do to prepare. From the looming pressure to fee out basic services, to the long-term need for more housing supply, they explore the fiscal tradeoffs facing local governments—and why telling a clearer story to residents and legislators is key to surviving the next round of reform.

Timeline
00:00 - Summer Reflections and Family Adventures
06:15 - Legislative Updates: SB 10 and Property Tax Changes
12:53 - Navigating Local Government Challenges
18:13 - The Burden Shift: Residential vs. Commercial Property Taxes
25:32 - The Future of Housing and Urban Development
34:31 - Impact of Prop 13 on California's Housing Market
40:39 - Understanding Tax Burden and Housing Development
41:09 - It's College Football Season, Baby!

]]> In this episode, Patrick and Chad discuss the latest twists in SB 10 and what a proposed 1% property tax cap could mean for Texas cities. They break down how appraisal methods are quietly shifting more of the tax burden onto homeowners, why the Legislature’s “populist” fixes may actually worsen the problem, and what cities can do to prepare. From the looming pressure to fee out basic services, to the long-term need for more housing supply, they explore the fiscal tradeoffs facing local governments—and why telling a clearer story to residents and legislators is key to surviving the next round of reform.

Timeline
00:00 - Summer Reflections and Family Adventures
06:15 - Legislative Updates: SB 10 and Property Tax Changes
12:53 - Navigating Local Government Challenges
18:13 - The Burden Shift: Residential vs. Commercial Property Taxes
25:32 - The Future of Housing and Urban Development
34:31 - Impact of Prop 13 on California's Housing Market
40:39 - Understanding Tax Burden and Housing Development
41:09 - It's College Football Season, Baby!

]]> Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3642 In this episode, Patrick and Chad discuss the latest twists in SB 10 and what a proposed 1% property tax cap could mean for Texas cities. They break down how appraisal methods are quietly shifting more of the tax burden onto homeowners, why the Legislature’s “populist” fixes may actually worsen the problem, and what cities can do to prepare. From the looming pressure to fee out basic services, to the long-term need for more housing supply, they explore the fiscal tradeoffs facing local governments—and why telling a clearer story to residents and legislators is key to surviving the next round of reform.

Timeline
00:00 - Summer Reflections and Family Adventures
06:15 - Legislative Updates: SB 10 and Property Tax Changes
12:53 - Navigating Local Government Challenges
18:13 - The Burden Shift: Residential vs. Commercial Property Taxes
25:32 - The Future of Housing and Urban Development
34:31 - Impact of Prop 13 on California's Housing Market
40:39 - Understanding Tax Burden and Housing Development
41:09 - It's College Football Season, Baby!

]]> local government, technology No Chad Janicek Patrick Lawler Will the voucher debate spare Texas cities this session? Will the voucher debate spare Texas cities this session? full 4d8af574-06b9-4229-8a09-343617102f69 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e30613ec In this episode, Chad and Patrick discuss innovations in local government presented at the AFI conference last week, and check in on the Texas Legislature as the session is kicking into high gear.

Timestamps
00:00 Legislative Updates and AFI Innovations
11:05 The Voucher Debate in Texas Politics
21:02 Local Government Legislation and Its Implications
32:19 Impact of Corporations on Local Economies
34:04 Legislative Challenges and Political Interests
36:11 Property Tax Legislation and Its Implications
40:10 AI in Economic Development: Innovations and Applications
54:38 Building Secure AI Models for Confidential Data

]]> In this episode, Chad and Patrick discuss innovations in local government presented at the AFI conference last week, and check in on the Texas Legislature as the session is kicking into high gear.

Timestamps
00:00 Legislative Updates and AFI Innovations
11:05 The Voucher Debate in Texas Politics
21:02 Local Government Legislation and Its Implications
32:19 Impact of Corporations on Local Economies
34:04 Legislative Challenges and Political Interests
36:11 Property Tax Legislation and Its Implications
40:10 AI in Economic Development: Innovations and Applications
54:38 Building Secure AI Models for Confidential Data

]]> Wed, 16 Apr 2025 16:15:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3594 In this episode, Chad and Patrick discuss innovations in local government presented at the AFI conference last week, and check in on the Texas Legislature as the session is kicking into high gear.

Timestamps
00:00 Legislative Updates and AFI Innovations
11:05 The Voucher Debate in Texas Politics
21:02 Local Government Legislation and Its Implications
32:19 Impact of Corporations on Local Economies
34:04 Legislative Challenges and Political Interests
36:11 Property Tax Legislation and Its Implications
40:10 AI in Economic Development: Innovations and Applications
54:38 Building Secure AI Models for Confidential Data

]]> local government, technology No Chad Janicek Patrick Lawler This is an April Fools joke, right? This is an April Fools joke, right? full c3293f12-39fd-4e31-9520-87b278f96f1c https://share.transistor.fm/s/8d05ab41 In this episode, Chad and Patrick discuss the current state of the economy, focusing on market uncertainty and the challenges faced by city managers in forecasting sales tax revenues. They explore the importance of data-driven decision-making and the use of leading indicators to understand consumer behavior. The conversation reflects on past economic crises and emphasizes the need for caution in navigating current economic challenges, advocating for a measured approach to decision-making during uncertain times.

00:00 - Market Uncertainty and Economic Indicators
07:28 - Forecasting Sales Tax in Uncertain Times
16:38 - Probabilistic Approaches to Budgeting
23:39 - Leveraging Data Science for Economic Predictions
25:02 - Analyzing Consumer Sentiment and Sales Tax Predictions
30:15 - Historical Context: Lessons from Past Economic Downturns
33:35 - Navigating Current Economic Uncertainty
38:18 - Making Informed Decisions in Times of Crisis
41:37 - Finding Balance: Optimism vs. Pessimism in City Management

]]> In this episode, Chad and Patrick discuss the current state of the economy, focusing on market uncertainty and the challenges faced by city managers in forecasting sales tax revenues. They explore the importance of data-driven decision-making and the use of leading indicators to understand consumer behavior. The conversation reflects on past economic crises and emphasizes the need for caution in navigating current economic challenges, advocating for a measured approach to decision-making during uncertain times.

00:00 - Market Uncertainty and Economic Indicators
07:28 - Forecasting Sales Tax in Uncertain Times
16:38 - Probabilistic Approaches to Budgeting
23:39 - Leveraging Data Science for Economic Predictions
25:02 - Analyzing Consumer Sentiment and Sales Tax Predictions
30:15 - Historical Context: Lessons from Past Economic Downturns
33:35 - Navigating Current Economic Uncertainty
38:18 - Making Informed Decisions in Times of Crisis
41:37 - Finding Balance: Optimism vs. Pessimism in City Management

]]> Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2789 In this episode, Chad and Patrick discuss the current state of the economy, focusing on market uncertainty and the challenges faced by city managers in forecasting sales tax revenues. They explore the importance of data-driven decision-making and the use of leading indicators to understand consumer behavior. The conversation reflects on past economic crises and emphasizes the need for caution in navigating current economic challenges, advocating for a measured approach to decision-making during uncertain times.

00:00 - Market Uncertainty and Economic Indicators
07:28 - Forecasting Sales Tax in Uncertain Times
16:38 - Probabilistic Approaches to Budgeting
23:39 - Leveraging Data Science for Economic Predictions
25:02 - Analyzing Consumer Sentiment and Sales Tax Predictions
30:15 - Historical Context: Lessons from Past Economic Downturns
33:35 - Navigating Current Economic Uncertainty
38:18 - Making Informed Decisions in Times of Crisis
41:37 - Finding Balance: Optimism vs. Pessimism in City Management

]]> market uncertainty, economic indicators, forecasting, data-driven decisions, consumer behavior, leading indicators, economic crises, sales tax forecasting, city management, economic challenges No Chad Janicek Patrick Lawler What happens in Austin doesn't always stay in Austin What happens in Austin doesn't always stay in Austin full d14fdf76-b452-4e46-8d2b-3b8cd370f631 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b6cc72d8 In this episode, Chad and Patrick highlight 5 bills pending in the Texas House. What are they, and what might they mean for local governments across the state? Join us to find out!

Timestamps
00:00 Greetings
07:13 On to the legislative session
14:23 HB 250
16:33 HB 416
30:18 HB 217
37:18 HB 1433
52:21 HB 924
56:21 School funding and wrap-up

]]> In this episode, Chad and Patrick highlight 5 bills pending in the Texas House. What are they, and what might they mean for local governments across the state? Join us to find out!

Timestamps
00:00 Greetings
07:13 On to the legislative session
14:23 HB 250
16:33 HB 416
30:18 HB 217
37:18 HB 1433
52:21 HB 924
56:21 School funding and wrap-up

]]> Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 4666 In this episode, Chad and Patrick highlight 5 bills pending in the Texas House. What are they, and what might they mean for local governments across the state? Join us to find out!

Timestamps
00:00 Greetings
07:13 On to the legislative session
14:23 HB 250
16:33 HB 416
30:18 HB 217
37:18 HB 1433
52:21 HB 924
56:21 School funding and wrap-up

]]> local government, technology No Chad Janicek Patrick Lawler Hold onto your butts... (property tax edition) Hold onto your butts... (property tax edition) full ac481bb4-852c-45b6-8558-f94a8867d42b https://share.transistor.fm/s/744383f0 In this first episode of 2025, Pat and Chad hit a wide range of topics and do our best to avoid derailing the conversation with too much college football.

Timestamps
04:25 - TPPF Property Tax Proposals
29:51 - TPPF on "Home Sharing"
40:16 - Congestion pricing in New York City
54:12 - Texas AG sues Allstate
67:48 - Comptroller's Biennial Revenue Estimate for 2025-26

Links

]]> In this first episode of 2025, Pat and Chad hit a wide range of topics and do our best to avoid derailing the conversation with too much college football.

Timestamps
04:25 - TPPF Property Tax Proposals
29:51 - TPPF on "Home Sharing"
40:16 - Congestion pricing in New York City
54:12 - Texas AG sues Allstate
67:48 - Comptroller's Biennial Revenue Estimate for 2025-26

Links

]]> Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 4259 In this first episode of 2025, Pat and Chad hit a wide range of topics and do our best to avoid derailing the conversation with too much college football.

Timestamps
04:25 - TPPF Property Tax Proposals
29:51 - TPPF on "Home Sharing"
40:16 - Congestion pricing in New York City
54:12 - Texas AG sues Allstate
67:48 - Comptroller's Biennial Revenue Estimate for 2025-26

Links

]]> local government, technology No Chad Janicek Patrick Lawler The earth's axis vs groundwater The earth's axis vs groundwater full 8c95e8ca-3057-4c43-907a-55d90486ff77 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b3f8a676 In this (probably) final episode of 2024, Pat has a couple of water related articles to discuss. Join us as we talk about how groundwater use is affecting the earth's axis; how bottled water may be way less healthy than tap water; and of course, as we recap the return of Texas vs A&M after 13 long years.

00:00 - Welcome back... 
01:37 - Patrick makes excuses for A&M's performance against Texas
05:26 - National Signing Day updates
11:06 - Are we changing the earth's rotation via groundwater usage?
26:14 - Is bottled water even healthy for us?
35:17 - Unpinning an earlier item
36:46 - Remembering a friend of ZacTax
38:00 - Wrap up

Links

Fact-checking Patrick

]]> In this (probably) final episode of 2024, Pat has a couple of water related articles to discuss. Join us as we talk about how groundwater use is affecting the earth's axis; how bottled water may be way less healthy than tap water; and of course, as we recap the return of Texas vs A&M after 13 long years.

00:00 - Welcome back... 
01:37 - Patrick makes excuses for A&M's performance against Texas
05:26 - National Signing Day updates
11:06 - Are we changing the earth's rotation via groundwater usage?
26:14 - Is bottled water even healthy for us?
35:17 - Unpinning an earlier item
36:46 - Remembering a friend of ZacTax
38:00 - Wrap up

Links

Fact-checking Patrick

]]> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 3114 In this (probably) final episode of 2024, Pat has a couple of water related articles to discuss. Join us as we talk about how groundwater use is affecting the earth's axis; how bottled water may be way less healthy than tap water; and of course, as we recap the return of Texas vs A&M after 13 long years.

00:00 - Welcome back... 
01:37 - Patrick makes excuses for A&M's performance against Texas
05:26 - National Signing Day updates
11:06 - Are we changing the earth's rotation via groundwater usage?
26:14 - Is bottled water even healthy for us?
35:17 - Unpinning an earlier item
36:46 - Remembering a friend of ZacTax
38:00 - Wrap up

Links

Fact-checking Patrick

]]> local government, technology No Chad Janicek Patrick Lawler The case for public space The case for public space full 6951ed07-39a4-4755-a789-dc91021a2a20 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2a248ffc This week's episode centers on a Texas Monthly piece titled "Why does Texas have so little public land?" Pat and Chad talk about the article and discuss whether cities can improve their development patterns and fiscal health by emphasizing the acquisition of more public space.

Topics
00:52 - Why does Texas have so little public land?
04:28 - Patrick proposes using public land acquisition to combat fiscally unproductive sprawl
07:54 - Distinguishing local parks and green space from urban growth boundaries
08:20 - Why do cities cede the public realm of our neighborhoods to the developer?
11:07 - Why is public space in single family neighborhoods often so non-functional?
13:25 - Life, then spaces, then buildings
14:34 - We've moved public amenities to the private realm
17:01 - To each his own, sans subsidy
17:32 - Should federal land be used for housing?
18:47 - Time to debate urban growth boundaries
25:08 - What causes us to ignore the pain points in our feedback loops?
29:16 - Putting odds on the State of Texas taking a role in growth boundaries
35:52 - Obligatory CFB talk

Links

]]> This week's episode centers on a Texas Monthly piece titled "Why does Texas have so little public land?" Pat and Chad talk about the article and discuss whether cities can improve their development patterns and fiscal health by emphasizing the acquisition of more public space.

Topics
00:52 - Why does Texas have so little public land?
04:28 - Patrick proposes using public land acquisition to combat fiscally unproductive sprawl
07:54 - Distinguishing local parks and green space from urban growth boundaries
08:20 - Why do cities cede the public realm of our neighborhoods to the developer?
11:07 - Why is public space in single family neighborhoods often so non-functional?
13:25 - Life, then spaces, then buildings
14:34 - We've moved public amenities to the private realm
17:01 - To each his own, sans subsidy
17:32 - Should federal land be used for housing?
18:47 - Time to debate urban growth boundaries
25:08 - What causes us to ignore the pain points in our feedback loops?
29:16 - Putting odds on the State of Texas taking a role in growth boundaries
35:52 - Obligatory CFB talk

Links

]]> Tue, 08 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2893 This week's episode centers on a Texas Monthly piece titled "Why does Texas have so little public land?" Pat and Chad talk about the article and discuss whether cities can improve their development patterns and fiscal health by emphasizing the acquisition of more public space.

Topics
00:52 - Why does Texas have so little public land?
04:28 - Patrick proposes using public land acquisition to combat fiscally unproductive sprawl
07:54 - Distinguishing local parks and green space from urban growth boundaries
08:20 - Why do cities cede the public realm of our neighborhoods to the developer?
11:07 - Why is public space in single family neighborhoods often so non-functional?
13:25 - Life, then spaces, then buildings
14:34 - We've moved public amenities to the private realm
17:01 - To each his own, sans subsidy
17:32 - Should federal land be used for housing?
18:47 - Time to debate urban growth boundaries
25:08 - What causes us to ignore the pain points in our feedback loops?
29:16 - Putting odds on the State of Texas taking a role in growth boundaries
35:52 - Obligatory CFB talk

Links

]]> local government, technology No Chad Janicek Patrick Lawler The housing trap with Chuck Marohn The housing trap with Chuck Marohn full b37425ba-f235-4ca9-9fce-1d781285d615 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b4194ec0 On this epic episode, we welcome Chuck Marohn, founder and president of Strong Towns. Chuck's bestselling new book, Escaping the Housing Trap, kicks off the conversation, which winds its way through a variety of important issues facing cities today.

Topics
02:33 - What is the housing trap?
04:05 - Pre-Depression era housing finance
08:00 - Government response to Depression vs the 2008 Housing Crisis
13:15 - Supply and Demand vs Finance as causes of the housing crisis
16:04 - Did we get here via High Modernism or hot fixes? 
23:16 - When did we cross the Housing Trap Rubicon?
26:36 - What role does the finance market play in the housing shortage?
33:15 - Why doesn't the housing market doesn't respond to consumer needs like other markets?
35:37 - What's wrong with demand side approaches to affordability?
38:55 - The Strong Towns approach to addressing the housing trap
45:21 - How do we sell the Strong Towns approach to our community?
1:01:56 - Budgetary forests and trees
1:04:19 - Chuck's has beef with sales tax
1:18:17 - Why sales tax creates a higher burden for understanding your city's finance
1:24:38 - What role should state government's play to help city's improve their fiscal health?

Links and Notes


]]> On this epic episode, we welcome Chuck Marohn, founder and president of Strong Towns. Chuck's bestselling new book, Escaping the Housing Trap, kicks off the conversation, which winds its way through a variety of important issues facing cities today.

Topics
02:33 - What is the housing trap?
04:05 - Pre-Depression era housing finance
08:00 - Government response to Depression vs the 2008 Housing Crisis
13:15 - Supply and Demand vs Finance as causes of the housing crisis
16:04 - Did we get here via High Modernism or hot fixes? 
23:16 - When did we cross the Housing Trap Rubicon?
26:36 - What role does the finance market play in the housing shortage?
33:15 - Why doesn't the housing market doesn't respond to consumer needs like other markets?
35:37 - What's wrong with demand side approaches to affordability?
38:55 - The Strong Towns approach to addressing the housing trap
45:21 - How do we sell the Strong Towns approach to our community?
1:01:56 - Budgetary forests and trees
1:04:19 - Chuck's has beef with sales tax
1:18:17 - Why sales tax creates a higher burden for understanding your city's finance
1:24:38 - What role should state government's play to help city's improve their fiscal health?

Links and Notes


]]> Thu, 26 Sep 2024 15:25:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 5789 On this epic episode, we welcome Chuck Marohn, founder and president of Strong Towns. Chuck's bestselling new book, Escaping the Housing Trap, kicks off the conversation, which winds its way through a variety of important issues facing cities today.

Topics
02:33 - What is the housing trap?
04:05 - Pre-Depression era housing finance
08:00 - Government response to Depression vs the 2008 Housing Crisis
13:15 - Supply and Demand vs Finance as causes of the housing crisis
16:04 - Did we get here via High Modernism or hot fixes? 
23:16 - When did we cross the Housing Trap Rubicon?
26:36 - What role does the finance market play in the housing shortage?
33:15 - Why doesn't the housing market doesn't respond to consumer needs like other markets?
35:37 - What's wrong with demand side approaches to affordability?
38:55 - The Strong Towns approach to addressing the housing trap
45:21 - How do we sell the Strong Towns approach to our community?
1:01:56 - Budgetary forests and trees
1:04:19 - Chuck's has beef with sales tax
1:18:17 - Why sales tax creates a higher burden for understanding your city's finance
1:24:38 - What role should state government's play to help city's improve their fiscal health?

Links and Notes


]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek Charles Marohn The tizzy The tizzy full 8e6c1952-703b-467c-85ac-98b9c3ad25a8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fa530e90 On this somewhat feisty episode of ZacCast, Patrick and Chad discuss the built-in assumptions behind our development patterns, compare development in DFW and Houston, talk traffic planning, and talk about the problems with the electricity rate-making process in Texas. Stay tuned for a semi-lighting round at the end.

03:58 - Do we have some built-in assumptions about how cities grow?

21:39 - DFW vs Houston: development showdown
26:55 - Pre-approved development plans, yea or nay?
28:59 - RE: thoroughfare planning
34:40 - Electric rate-making woes
58:53 - Lightning round begins!
58:59 - Calling your shot on interest rate cuts
60:01 - Will the #1 ranked Texas Longhorns go undefeated?

Links

]]> On this somewhat feisty episode of ZacCast, Patrick and Chad discuss the built-in assumptions behind our development patterns, compare development in DFW and Houston, talk traffic planning, and talk about the problems with the electricity rate-making process in Texas. Stay tuned for a semi-lighting round at the end.

03:58 - Do we have some built-in assumptions about how cities grow?

21:39 - DFW vs Houston: development showdown
26:55 - Pre-approved development plans, yea or nay?
28:59 - RE: thoroughfare planning
34:40 - Electric rate-making woes
58:53 - Lightning round begins!
58:59 - Calling your shot on interest rate cuts
60:01 - Will the #1 ranked Texas Longhorns go undefeated?

Links

]]> Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:30:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 4225 On this somewhat feisty episode of ZacCast, Patrick and Chad discuss the built-in assumptions behind our development patterns, compare development in DFW and Houston, talk traffic planning, and talk about the problems with the electricity rate-making process in Texas. Stay tuned for a semi-lighting round at the end.

03:58 - Do we have some built-in assumptions about how cities grow?

21:39 - DFW vs Houston: development showdown
26:55 - Pre-approved development plans, yea or nay?
28:59 - RE: thoroughfare planning
34:40 - Electric rate-making woes
58:53 - Lightning round begins!
58:59 - Calling your shot on interest rate cuts
60:01 - Will the #1 ranked Texas Longhorns go undefeated?

Links

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The appraisal district drama The appraisal district drama full b1688755-d4d1-4e92-b0cd-aa38057adf40 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3a77917c In this episode, Patrick and Chad drop some hot takes on the appraisal changes recently approved by the Tarrant Appraisal District. We talk about addressing the symptoms of the property tax system in Texas versus addressing the illness. We discuss the upcoming September sales tax allocation. And college football is back, so we spend some time talking about week 1 to wrap up the episode.

01:15 - Tarrant Appraisal District goes its own way
26:28 - Are split tax rates a way to address the illness of the Texas property tax system?
32:50 - Is building enough housing a way to address the illness? 
38:04 - Sales tax update
41:45 - What to expect if you see Patrick at a restaurant bar
52:30 - Come see us at a conference near you!
53:44 - College football is back!

]]> In this episode, Patrick and Chad drop some hot takes on the appraisal changes recently approved by the Tarrant Appraisal District. We talk about addressing the symptoms of the property tax system in Texas versus addressing the illness. We discuss the upcoming September sales tax allocation. And college football is back, so we spend some time talking about week 1 to wrap up the episode.

01:15 - Tarrant Appraisal District goes its own way
26:28 - Are split tax rates a way to address the illness of the Texas property tax system?
32:50 - Is building enough housing a way to address the illness? 
38:04 - Sales tax update
41:45 - What to expect if you see Patrick at a restaurant bar
52:30 - Come see us at a conference near you!
53:44 - College football is back!

]]> Thu, 05 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3650 In this episode, Patrick and Chad drop some hot takes on the appraisal changes recently approved by the Tarrant Appraisal District. We talk about addressing the symptoms of the property tax system in Texas versus addressing the illness. We discuss the upcoming September sales tax allocation. And college football is back, so we spend some time talking about week 1 to wrap up the episode.

01:15 - Tarrant Appraisal District goes its own way
26:28 - Are split tax rates a way to address the illness of the Texas property tax system?
32:50 - Is building enough housing a way to address the illness? 
38:04 - Sales tax update
41:45 - What to expect if you see Patrick at a restaurant bar
52:30 - Come see us at a conference near you!
53:44 - College football is back!

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek What's the deal with the economy? What's the deal with the economy? full af7165d7-840c-47b1-9cb8-9e19e120c8cd https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7ff1e9b Summer break is over and ZacCast is back at full strength. Today's episode is all about the economy. From macro to micro, how can cities prepare for what's next?

01:04 - Dr Evil and Mini-me
07:00 - What's the deal with the economy?
08:02 - The Sahm Rule: triggered
11:02 - August inflation numbers
14:40 - Real estate and interest rates
17:14 - Have cities already been in recession mode?
20:28 - Retail's struggles
27:58 - Electricity and insurance increases putting pressure on household budgets
34:45 - Where do we go from here?
42:20 - Has The Great Recession prepared current city managers for future downturns?
44:21 - Texas vs A&M: rekindled

]]> Summer break is over and ZacCast is back at full strength. Today's episode is all about the economy. From macro to micro, how can cities prepare for what's next?

01:04 - Dr Evil and Mini-me
07:00 - What's the deal with the economy?
08:02 - The Sahm Rule: triggered
11:02 - August inflation numbers
14:40 - Real estate and interest rates
17:14 - Have cities already been in recession mode?
20:28 - Retail's struggles
27:58 - Electricity and insurance increases putting pressure on household budgets
34:45 - Where do we go from here?
42:20 - Has The Great Recession prepared current city managers for future downturns?
44:21 - Texas vs A&M: rekindled

]]> Wed, 14 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3830 Summer break is over and ZacCast is back at full strength. Today's episode is all about the economy. From macro to micro, how can cities prepare for what's next?

01:04 - Dr Evil and Mini-me
07:00 - What's the deal with the economy?
08:02 - The Sahm Rule: triggered
11:02 - August inflation numbers
14:40 - Real estate and interest rates
17:14 - Have cities already been in recession mode?
20:28 - Retail's struggles
27:58 - Electricity and insurance increases putting pressure on household budgets
34:45 - Where do we go from here?
42:20 - Has The Great Recession prepared current city managers for future downturns?
44:21 - Texas vs A&M: rekindled

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The Vacation Episode The Vacation Episode full 31c01f04-8578-41f8-8c33-69e32c98b2e0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d05347db Join us as we catch up and chat about life and cities in this grab bag episode:

00:10 - Patrick's waterpark excursions

02:53 - Patrick reviews Kalahari

01:40 - Is Schlitterbahn slipping?

12:09 - Kalahari vs Great Wolf Lodge

13:48 - Patrick reviews Schlitterbahn

20:41 - Fast Pass, yea or nay?

26:05 - The value of good customer service, and lessons for cities

33:48 - Good customer service -> good user experience

35:25 - What kind of city do we want to retire in?

37:03 - Pat's Poli Sci Corner

53:40 - Highway spending and decision making locus

1:01:17 - Quick July sales tax update

Links

]]> Join us as we catch up and chat about life and cities in this grab bag episode:

00:10 - Patrick's waterpark excursions

02:53 - Patrick reviews Kalahari

01:40 - Is Schlitterbahn slipping?

12:09 - Kalahari vs Great Wolf Lodge

13:48 - Patrick reviews Schlitterbahn

20:41 - Fast Pass, yea or nay?

26:05 - The value of good customer service, and lessons for cities

33:48 - Good customer service -> good user experience

35:25 - What kind of city do we want to retire in?

37:03 - Pat's Poli Sci Corner

53:40 - Highway spending and decision making locus

1:01:17 - Quick July sales tax update

Links

]]> Fri, 12 Jul 2024 09:15:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3830 Join us as we catch up and chat about life and cities in this grab bag episode:

00:10 - Patrick's waterpark excursions

02:53 - Patrick reviews Kalahari

01:40 - Is Schlitterbahn slipping?

12:09 - Kalahari vs Great Wolf Lodge

13:48 - Patrick reviews Schlitterbahn

20:41 - Fast Pass, yea or nay?

26:05 - The value of good customer service, and lessons for cities

33:48 - Good customer service -> good user experience

35:25 - What kind of city do we want to retire in?

37:03 - Pat's Poli Sci Corner

53:40 - Highway spending and decision making locus

1:01:17 - Quick July sales tax update

Links

]]> local government, technology Yes Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The kind of problem a city is The kind of problem a city is full 13f8a2b8-9dc5-40ad-a286-34e47998a1df https://share.transistor.fm/s/23b34111 In this episode, Patrick and Chad look at the Scottie Scheffler arrest and subsequent dismissal of charges from the perspective of a city manager. What went wrong and how can you do better? Then we consider the legacy of the Progressive Movement's impact on city management and discuss whether the paradigm it ushered in has us thinking about cities the wrong way.

05:47 - The Scottie Scheffler mishap from a city manager's perspective
27:24 - Does our MPA train us to look at cities the wrong way?

]]> In this episode, Patrick and Chad look at the Scottie Scheffler arrest and subsequent dismissal of charges from the perspective of a city manager. What went wrong and how can you do better? Then we consider the legacy of the Progressive Movement's impact on city management and discuss whether the paradigm it ushered in has us thinking about cities the wrong way.

05:47 - The Scottie Scheffler mishap from a city manager's perspective
27:24 - Does our MPA train us to look at cities the wrong way?

]]> Thu, 30 May 2024 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3438 In this episode, Patrick and Chad look at the Scottie Scheffler arrest and subsequent dismissal of charges from the perspective of a city manager. What went wrong and how can you do better? Then we consider the legacy of the Progressive Movement's impact on city management and discuss whether the paradigm it ushered in has us thinking about cities the wrong way.

05:47 - The Scottie Scheffler mishap from a city manager's perspective
27:24 - Does our MPA train us to look at cities the wrong way?

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek Liability Lane Liability Lane full 30e8d6ec-92cb-4c8d-950e-4901fc69f955 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f19f4788 In this episode, Pat and Chad talk about inflation remaining stubborn and how cities can/should better report their infrastructure liabilities.

00:00 - on pets
01:55 - on inflation
16:10 - on assets and liabilities

]]> In this episode, Pat and Chad talk about inflation remaining stubborn and how cities can/should better report their infrastructure liabilities.

00:00 - on pets
01:55 - on inflation
16:10 - on assets and liabilities

]]> Fri, 17 May 2024 12:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2466 In this episode, Pat and Chad talk about inflation remaining stubborn and how cities can/should better report their infrastructure liabilities.

00:00 - on pets
01:55 - on inflation
16:10 - on assets and liabilities

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The world's most expensive bathroom The world's most expensive bathroom full 8bc14737-5400-4d15-badb-6d6ff2f92048 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c04f2f06 On this episode, we talk about:

  • The world's most expensive bathroom, the regulations that led to it, and how can we be better in our own cities?
  • Houston is broke, but why? 
  • McKinsey suggests automated vehicles will induce continued population expansion into outer ring neighborhoods and rural areas

Timestamps
00:22 - New TeamZac member
01:32 - Setting hiring policy on the podcast
02:55 - Generations Z and Alpha
03:51 - The difference between Pat and Chad
06:09 - The most expensive public restroom
14:31 - Can we incorporate staff accountability for getting a project done?
16:18 - The Purple Slip
19:38 - Can we just empower employees?
28:16 - Houston is broke
39:36 - On urban highway expansion
48:03 - McKinsey on the benefits of autonomous vehicles
57:47 - Could AVs eliminate the need for parking?
60:15  - AV cabs as public transportation: worst of both worlds?
62:04 - Special announcement time

Notes

]]> On this episode, we talk about:

  • The world's most expensive bathroom, the regulations that led to it, and how can we be better in our own cities?
  • Houston is broke, but why? 
  • McKinsey suggests automated vehicles will induce continued population expansion into outer ring neighborhoods and rural areas

Timestamps
00:22 - New TeamZac member
01:32 - Setting hiring policy on the podcast
02:55 - Generations Z and Alpha
03:51 - The difference between Pat and Chad
06:09 - The most expensive public restroom
14:31 - Can we incorporate staff accountability for getting a project done?
16:18 - The Purple Slip
19:38 - Can we just empower employees?
28:16 - Houston is broke
39:36 - On urban highway expansion
48:03 - McKinsey on the benefits of autonomous vehicles
57:47 - Could AVs eliminate the need for parking?
60:15  - AV cabs as public transportation: worst of both worlds?
62:04 - Special announcement time

Notes

]]> Wed, 01 May 2024 16:30:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3876 On this episode, we talk about:

  • The world's most expensive bathroom, the regulations that led to it, and how can we be better in our own cities?
  • Houston is broke, but why? 
  • McKinsey suggests automated vehicles will induce continued population expansion into outer ring neighborhoods and rural areas

Timestamps
00:22 - New TeamZac member
01:32 - Setting hiring policy on the podcast
02:55 - Generations Z and Alpha
03:51 - The difference between Pat and Chad
06:09 - The most expensive public restroom
14:31 - Can we incorporate staff accountability for getting a project done?
16:18 - The Purple Slip
19:38 - Can we just empower employees?
28:16 - Houston is broke
39:36 - On urban highway expansion
48:03 - McKinsey on the benefits of autonomous vehicles
57:47 - Could AVs eliminate the need for parking?
60:15  - AV cabs as public transportation: worst of both worlds?
62:04 - Special announcement time

Notes

]]> local government, technology Yes Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The Doom Loop The Doom Loop full 3517bed5-628e-4f96-b626-30e96c268cb3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f0528564 In this episode, Chad and Pat debrief from the Utah City Managers Association conference and talk about differences in management cultures among these United States. We talk about the growing concern of a doom loop cycle in urban commercial real estate, what is a doom loop, why do they happen, and how can cities mitigate their impacts or avoid them altogether. We follow up with a conversation about how to compare and evaluate the quality of your downtowns. Finally, we chat about a recent think piece on fire departments.

00:20 - Debrief from the Utah City Managers Association Conference and differences in management culture among states
19:26 - The Urban CRE Doom Loop: What is it and how to avoid it
34:04 - How should we compare and evaluate downtowns?
35:45 - Vibe-Oriented Development
43:51 - On Fire Departments

Links

]]> In this episode, Chad and Pat debrief from the Utah City Managers Association conference and talk about differences in management cultures among these United States. We talk about the growing concern of a doom loop cycle in urban commercial real estate, what is a doom loop, why do they happen, and how can cities mitigate their impacts or avoid them altogether. We follow up with a conversation about how to compare and evaluate the quality of your downtowns. Finally, we chat about a recent think piece on fire departments.

00:20 - Debrief from the Utah City Managers Association Conference and differences in management culture among states
19:26 - The Urban CRE Doom Loop: What is it and how to avoid it
34:04 - How should we compare and evaluate downtowns?
35:45 - Vibe-Oriented Development
43:51 - On Fire Departments

Links

]]> Tue, 23 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3831 In this episode, Chad and Pat debrief from the Utah City Managers Association conference and talk about differences in management cultures among these United States. We talk about the growing concern of a doom loop cycle in urban commercial real estate, what is a doom loop, why do they happen, and how can cities mitigate their impacts or avoid them altogether. We follow up with a conversation about how to compare and evaluate the quality of your downtowns. Finally, we chat about a recent think piece on fire departments.

00:20 - Debrief from the Utah City Managers Association Conference and differences in management culture among states
19:26 - The Urban CRE Doom Loop: What is it and how to avoid it
34:04 - How should we compare and evaluate downtowns?
35:45 - Vibe-Oriented Development
43:51 - On Fire Departments

Links

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek Amazon lockers, appraisal boards, and zoning reform Amazon lockers, appraisal boards, and zoning reform full 2584481d-67ab-4b79-8c19-d3ae826e2ac1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/471dfc11 In this episode, we talk about:

  • The sales tax implications of Amazon lockers and whether remote taxpayers should be subjected to detailed audits to verify that their tax payments are accurate;
  • Recent changes to Appraisal Board composition and various other property tax topics a recent Y'allitics episode stirred up; and
  • Zoning reform measures likely headed to Texas in the next legislative session.

00:30 - April Fool's Day Recap
04:30 - No Soap Radio
08:45 - Amazon Lockers and auditing remote sales taxpayers
25:19 - Changes to Appraisal District board composition
46:18 - Zoning reform is coming to Texas

Links

]]> In this episode, we talk about:

  • The sales tax implications of Amazon lockers and whether remote taxpayers should be subjected to detailed audits to verify that their tax payments are accurate;
  • Recent changes to Appraisal Board composition and various other property tax topics a recent Y'allitics episode stirred up; and
  • Zoning reform measures likely headed to Texas in the next legislative session.

00:30 - April Fool's Day Recap
04:30 - No Soap Radio
08:45 - Amazon Lockers and auditing remote sales taxpayers
25:19 - Changes to Appraisal District board composition
46:18 - Zoning reform is coming to Texas

Links

]]> Thu, 04 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3909 In this episode, we talk about:

  • The sales tax implications of Amazon lockers and whether remote taxpayers should be subjected to detailed audits to verify that their tax payments are accurate;
  • Recent changes to Appraisal Board composition and various other property tax topics a recent Y'allitics episode stirred up; and
  • Zoning reform measures likely headed to Texas in the next legislative session.

00:30 - April Fool's Day Recap
04:30 - No Soap Radio
08:45 - Amazon Lockers and auditing remote sales taxpayers
25:19 - Changes to Appraisal District board composition
46:18 - Zoning reform is coming to Texas

Links

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The episode about nothing The episode about nothing full 2eb8cc92-5010-4423-8f5c-2e9c582c5b8c https://share.transistor.fm/s/c9e60e63 Fresh off of Spring Break and without a lot of hard hitting topics to discuss, Pat and Chad bounce between friendly and city topics.

00:12 - Intro
00:42 - Spring Break activities
03:09 - Paw Patrol Live (and other such shows)
05:25 - Kids YouTube
08:00 - Bozo The Clown, Homie the Clown, and Dougie the Whale
10:45 - Paw Patrol revisited
13:20 - Disney plot holes
14:56 - What are we watching?
16:34 - Rents are falling in Austin
19:08 - Population surge in the Texas Triangle
21:52 - Moneyball for cities: yea or nay?
30:00 - Baseball's back
35:33 - College vs Pro Sports in the DFW region
37:19 - Mowing szn
38:20 - Signing off

]]> Fresh off of Spring Break and without a lot of hard hitting topics to discuss, Pat and Chad bounce between friendly and city topics.

00:12 - Intro
00:42 - Spring Break activities
03:09 - Paw Patrol Live (and other such shows)
05:25 - Kids YouTube
08:00 - Bozo The Clown, Homie the Clown, and Dougie the Whale
10:45 - Paw Patrol revisited
13:20 - Disney plot holes
14:56 - What are we watching?
16:34 - Rents are falling in Austin
19:08 - Population surge in the Texas Triangle
21:52 - Moneyball for cities: yea or nay?
30:00 - Baseball's back
35:33 - College vs Pro Sports in the DFW region
37:19 - Mowing szn
38:20 - Signing off

]]> Fri, 22 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2360 Fresh off of Spring Break and without a lot of hard hitting topics to discuss, Pat and Chad bounce between friendly and city topics.

00:12 - Intro
00:42 - Spring Break activities
03:09 - Paw Patrol Live (and other such shows)
05:25 - Kids YouTube
08:00 - Bozo The Clown, Homie the Clown, and Dougie the Whale
10:45 - Paw Patrol revisited
13:20 - Disney plot holes
14:56 - What are we watching?
16:34 - Rents are falling in Austin
19:08 - Population surge in the Texas Triangle
21:52 - Moneyball for cities: yea or nay?
30:00 - Baseball's back
35:33 - College vs Pro Sports in the DFW region
37:19 - Mowing szn
38:20 - Signing off

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The Great Reversals The Great Reversals full 31ba1831-1785-4078-9742-26e8bf35ce08 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c5b7c04e In this episode, Pat and Chad talk about a couple of big reversals. First, March sales tax allocations in Texas appear to have unwound all of the audit adjustments from last month. Pat and Chad talk about the impacts and how we can put Humpty Dumpty back together moving forward. 

Then, in the wake of Tuesday's primary elections, we discuss what "local control" means and if our conventional view of the concept might need its own reversal. When should cities have autonomy? Are there first principles we can lean on to identify when a problem should be addressed at a regional or state level instead? A difficult devil's advocate conversation ensues, and we'd love to keep the conversation going with you!

]]> In this episode, Pat and Chad talk about a couple of big reversals. First, March sales tax allocations in Texas appear to have unwound all of the audit adjustments from last month. Pat and Chad talk about the impacts and how we can put Humpty Dumpty back together moving forward. 

Then, in the wake of Tuesday's primary elections, we discuss what "local control" means and if our conventional view of the concept might need its own reversal. When should cities have autonomy? Are there first principles we can lean on to identify when a problem should be addressed at a regional or state level instead? A difficult devil's advocate conversation ensues, and we'd love to keep the conversation going with you!

]]> Thu, 07 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2587 In this episode, Pat and Chad talk about a couple of big reversals. First, March sales tax allocations in Texas appear to have unwound all of the audit adjustments from last month. Pat and Chad talk about the impacts and how we can put Humpty Dumpty back together moving forward. 

Then, in the wake of Tuesday's primary elections, we discuss what "local control" means and if our conventional view of the concept might need its own reversal. When should cities have autonomy? Are there first principles we can lean on to identify when a problem should be addressed at a regional or state level instead? A difficult devil's advocate conversation ensues, and we'd love to keep the conversation going with you!

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The (audit) adjustment bureau The (audit) adjustment bureau full ec1dba57-0d5d-41ac-abd5-ab5b7ccfde6d https://share.transistor.fm/s/ea75fe27 A major sales tax audit adjustment hit cities across the state of Texas in February. Chad and Patrick talk about the adjustment and some issues it highlighted. We follow up with a discussion on the recent performance of downtowns versus power centers, and the under-appreciated role that downtowns play in differentiating your city.

]]> A major sales tax audit adjustment hit cities across the state of Texas in February. Chad and Patrick talk about the adjustment and some issues it highlighted. We follow up with a discussion on the recent performance of downtowns versus power centers, and the under-appreciated role that downtowns play in differentiating your city.

]]> Thu, 22 Feb 2024 16:30:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 3459 A major sales tax audit adjustment hit cities across the state of Texas in February. Chad and Patrick talk about the adjustment and some issues it highlighted. We follow up with a discussion on the recent performance of downtowns versus power centers, and the under-appreciated role that downtowns play in differentiating your city.

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The mo is slow The mo is slow full d4a4dab7-469e-4832-94d3-089c6bdd2fa0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8c44bdc3 In this episode:

(01:20) Sales tax momentum has been slowing for some time now. We dig in to the numbers and issue a red flag warning as cities head into mid-year budget amendments and next year's budget cycle.

(10:10) An episode of WSJ's The Journal podcast piqued Patrick's interest, so we discuss the UK post office scandal and lessons to be learned for city managers.

(29:30) We wrap up with an unplanned chat about the need for a city working group to define software interoperability standards so that cities can wrest power back from ERP and other software vendors.

]]> In this episode:

(01:20) Sales tax momentum has been slowing for some time now. We dig in to the numbers and issue a red flag warning as cities head into mid-year budget amendments and next year's budget cycle.

(10:10) An episode of WSJ's The Journal podcast piqued Patrick's interest, so we discuss the UK post office scandal and lessons to be learned for city managers.

(29:30) We wrap up with an unplanned chat about the need for a city working group to define software interoperability standards so that cities can wrest power back from ERP and other software vendors.

]]> Thu, 25 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2515 In this episode:

(01:20) Sales tax momentum has been slowing for some time now. We dig in to the numbers and issue a red flag warning as cities head into mid-year budget amendments and next year's budget cycle.

(10:10) An episode of WSJ's The Journal podcast piqued Patrick's interest, so we discuss the UK post office scandal and lessons to be learned for city managers.

(29:30) We wrap up with an unplanned chat about the need for a city working group to define software interoperability standards so that cities can wrest power back from ERP and other software vendors.

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The Gourmet Underwear The Gourmet Underwear full 3dfe451f-5fe4-4c8a-b600-3cb8599d5399 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8deb0960 Pat and Chad are back for the first episode of 2024. After some throat-clearing chit chat, we discuss:

  • What do you do when a local news report or social media post gains traction, but you know the meat of the story isn't true? And how can cities be proactive in their communities to avoid such things in the first place?
  • What's going on in the Texas legislature on school funding, and what's the impact on cities?

Although the title might suggest it, there is no explicit content in this episode!

]]> Pat and Chad are back for the first episode of 2024. After some throat-clearing chit chat, we discuss:

  • What do you do when a local news report or social media post gains traction, but you know the meat of the story isn't true? And how can cities be proactive in their communities to avoid such things in the first place?
  • What's going on in the Texas legislature on school funding, and what's the impact on cities?

Although the title might suggest it, there is no explicit content in this episode!

]]> Tue, 16 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 3318 Pat and Chad are back for the first episode of 2024. After some throat-clearing chit chat, we discuss:

  • What do you do when a local news report or social media post gains traction, but you know the meat of the story isn't true? And how can cities be proactive in their communities to avoid such things in the first place?
  • What's going on in the Texas legislature on school funding, and what's the impact on cities?

Although the title might suggest it, there is no explicit content in this episode!

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek Retail sales and leases Retail sales and leases full 807bf095-a3e5-466d-bfcf-f666f7dcf143 https://share.transistor.fm/s/028649b7 In this episode, Patrick and Chad talk about softening retail sales figures and changes to the retail real estate landscape. We finish with a March Madness style Christmas movie showdown.

]]> In this episode, Patrick and Chad talk about softening retail sales figures and changes to the retail real estate landscape. We finish with a March Madness style Christmas movie showdown.

]]> Thu, 14 Dec 2023 16:30:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 3640 In this episode, Patrick and Chad talk about softening retail sales figures and changes to the retail real estate landscape. We finish with a March Madness style Christmas movie showdown.

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The Holiday Episode The Holiday Episode full ad983aab-9e63-4555-9c82-dc7cd2e8eff1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/dcef986a On today's episode, Pat and Chad talk about the holidays, from retail sales forecasts to planning holiday events to the appropriate time to start decorating. And because we can never seem to get through a fall episode without it, stick around for a spirited college football discussion.

Timestamps
00:32 - Holiday retail sales forecasts
13:12 - The joys of public events at the holidays
23:23 - Are we cool with decorating before Thanksgiving?
33:48 - Gratuitous college football razzing

]]> On today's episode, Pat and Chad talk about the holidays, from retail sales forecasts to planning holiday events to the appropriate time to start decorating. And because we can never seem to get through a fall episode without it, stick around for a spirited college football discussion.

Timestamps
00:32 - Holiday retail sales forecasts
13:12 - The joys of public events at the holidays
23:23 - Are we cool with decorating before Thanksgiving?
33:48 - Gratuitous college football razzing

]]> Thu, 30 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2926 On today's episode, Pat and Chad talk about the holidays, from retail sales forecasts to planning holiday events to the appropriate time to start decorating. And because we can never seem to get through a fall episode without it, stick around for a spirited college football discussion.

Timestamps
00:32 - Holiday retail sales forecasts
13:12 - The joys of public events at the holidays
23:23 - Are we cool with decorating before Thanksgiving?
33:48 - Gratuitous college football razzing

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The Drive-Through The Drive-Through full 83400231-a6bf-460f-b877-383e7eb5389a https://share.transistor.fm/s/c042bf28 Newest TeamZac member Maria Skrut joins the show as we talk about a recent NY Times article on the future of drive-throughs. Where does the drive-through rank on the hierarchy of good urban design? Is the rise of the drive-through a result of growing anti-social behavior, as the article suggests? And what is the drive-through's impact on walkability, community development, and social capital?

]]> Newest TeamZac member Maria Skrut joins the show as we talk about a recent NY Times article on the future of drive-throughs. Where does the drive-through rank on the hierarchy of good urban design? Is the rise of the drive-through a result of growing anti-social behavior, as the article suggests? And what is the drive-through's impact on walkability, community development, and social capital?

]]> Thu, 16 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 3033 Newest TeamZac member Maria Skrut joins the show as we talk about a recent NY Times article on the future of drive-throughs. Where does the drive-through rank on the hierarchy of good urban design? Is the rise of the drive-through a result of growing anti-social behavior, as the article suggests? And what is the drive-through's impact on walkability, community development, and social capital?

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek Maria Skrut The shrinking savings The shrinking savings full d84b38d8-0398-4d5d-b1d4-12a667f17b3a https://share.transistor.fm/s/41300ecd Household savings skyrocketed during the pandemic. Now that they're falling back to Earth, will retail sales come down with them? What other headwinds might stand in the way of the significant growth we've seen since 2020? Also, is Trunk-or-Treat a harmless Halloween innovation or a sign that we have given up on creating safe, walkable neighborhoods?

Timelines
00:00 - Throat clearing
05:15 - What's up in retail?
14:18 - Headwinds for 2024-2025?
23:45 - Is Trunk-or-Treat a symptom of bad walkability?
42:30 - College football and third places

Links

]]> Household savings skyrocketed during the pandemic. Now that they're falling back to Earth, will retail sales come down with them? What other headwinds might stand in the way of the significant growth we've seen since 2020? Also, is Trunk-or-Treat a harmless Halloween innovation or a sign that we have given up on creating safe, walkable neighborhoods?

Timelines
00:00 - Throat clearing
05:15 - What's up in retail?
14:18 - Headwinds for 2024-2025?
23:45 - Is Trunk-or-Treat a symptom of bad walkability?
42:30 - College football and third places

Links

]]> Wed, 01 Nov 2023 16:30:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3556 Household savings skyrocketed during the pandemic. Now that they're falling back to Earth, will retail sales come down with them? What other headwinds might stand in the way of the significant growth we've seen since 2020? Also, is Trunk-or-Treat a harmless Halloween innovation or a sign that we have given up on creating safe, walkable neighborhoods?

Timelines
00:00 - Throat clearing
05:15 - What's up in retail?
14:18 - Headwinds for 2024-2025?
23:45 - Is Trunk-or-Treat a symptom of bad walkability?
42:30 - College football and third places

Links

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The Segue The Segue full 837154f4-abeb-4e42-ab8a-9bceb48d56e1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e1931fa4 Come for the best natural segue Patrick has ever managed... stick around for a discussion about the Texas Legislature's current struggles with property tax reform and how it may impact cities.

]]> Come for the best natural segue Patrick has ever managed... stick around for a discussion about the Texas Legislature's current struggles with property tax reform and how it may impact cities.

]]> Fri, 07 Jul 2023 17:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2936 Come for the best natural segue Patrick has ever managed... stick around for a discussion about the Texas Legislature's current struggles with property tax reform and how it may impact cities.

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The formerly home-ruled 15-minute city The formerly home-ruled 15-minute city full 412c2bf0-7a1d-4f35-9f53-39d52ff8e288 https://share.transistor.fm/s/74f683e5 A bill in the Texas Legislature could have a chilling effect on the home-rule status of Texas cities; SB2's property tax reforms could have significant implications for certain economic development mechanisms; and our thoughts on the 15-minute city and the brewing controversy around the topic.

Links

]]> A bill in the Texas Legislature could have a chilling effect on the home-rule status of Texas cities; SB2's property tax reforms could have significant implications for certain economic development mechanisms; and our thoughts on the 15-minute city and the brewing controversy around the topic.

Links

]]> Fri, 10 Mar 2023 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 3881 A bill in the Texas Legislature could have a chilling effect on the home-rule status of Texas cities; SB2's property tax reforms could have significant implications for certain economic development mechanisms; and our thoughts on the 15-minute city and the brewing controversy around the topic.

Links

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The Urban Vitality of Costco The Urban Vitality of Costco full 80db0dea-d1f2-4dd2-9933-c864c7e7ab92 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1e6c96f7 Patrick and Chad discuss a proposed Costco/apartment complex in South LA, how multi-family can be better integrated into suburban areas, and give an update on the 2023 Texas Legislative Session.

]]> Patrick and Chad discuss a proposed Costco/apartment complex in South LA, how multi-family can be better integrated into suburban areas, and give an update on the 2023 Texas Legislative Session.

]]> Thu, 02 Mar 2023 18:51:28 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 3118 Patrick and Chad discuss a proposed Costco/apartment complex in South LA, how multi-family can be better integrated into suburban areas, and give an update on the 2023 Texas Legislative Session.

]]> local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek The neighborly, the cloudy, the nice, and the naughty The neighborly, the cloudy, the nice, and the naughty full abd858bc-6b6e-412e-be18-1af6c6d3d6e3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8f0f97de
  • Not a Stranger, Not a Friend (Strong Towns)
  • Internet of S*** (Twitter account)
  • ChatGPT
    • ]]>
  • Not a Stranger, Not a Friend (Strong Towns)
  • Internet of S*** (Twitter account)
  • ChatGPT
    • ]]>     Mon, 19 Dec 2022 15:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 3343 Pat and Chad talk about the missing second-ring relationship, whether computers are taking over too much, and which city functions deserve to get a lump of coal in their stocking Pat and Chad talk about the missing second-ring relationship, whether computers are taking over too much, and which city functions deserve to get a lump of coal in their stocking local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The Bicycle The Bicycle full 588ec786-8d23-4666-bff4-cdabd4e198a7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/610665c5
  • First Errands (99% Invisible)
  • This Way and That Way
    • ]]>
  • First Errands (99% Invisible)
  • This Way and That Way
    • ]]>     Fri, 11 Nov 2022 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 4065 Pat and Chad are joined by Milford John-Williams for a wide ranging discussion about bicycle infrastructure (or in some cases, the lack thereof) and the many, many elements of city design that it touches. Stick around for a quick sales tax update at the end. Pat and Chad are joined by Milford John-Williams for a wide ranging discussion about bicycle infrastructure (or in some cases, the lack thereof) and the many, many elements of city design that it touches. Stick around for a quick sales tax update at the e local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The "Why" (with bonus content!) The "Why" (with bonus content!) full 9fb02bf5-0982-4c10-a895-b40b1d07e185 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1ddd9cab 3:00 - Local control and California's housing programs

    27:25 - Strong Towns podcast on customer service

    46:20 - Quick return to California 

    4630 - reels clip

    57:40 - Cities preparing for recession

    ]]>     3:00 - Local control and California's housing programs

    27:25 - Strong Towns podcast on customer service

    46:20 - Quick return to California 

    4630 - reels clip

    57:40 - Cities preparing for recession

    ]]>     Tue, 25 Oct 2022 15:30:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 4746 Chad and Patrick talk about California's recent spree of housing legislation and how (or if) it fits into the topic of local control; a recent Strong Towns podcast about customer service, and; how cities are preparing for a potential recession. Chad and Patrick talk about California's recent spree of housing legislation and how (or if) it fits into the topic of local control; a recent Strong Towns podcast about customer service, and; how cities are preparing for a potential recession. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The staff meeting The staff meeting full bd1542c8-d05c-45bd-b370-d67968e5074e https://share.transistor.fm/s/95c68c18
  • Creed's Thanksgiving Day performance, November 2001
  • The Four Chords of Pop Music
  • NYT Daily - The Rise of the Single Family Home
  • Strong Towns Podcast - What Customer Service Should Mean for a City
    • ]]>
  • Creed's Thanksgiving Day performance, November 2001
  • The Four Chords of Pop Music
  • NYT Daily - The Rise of the Single Family Home
  • Strong Towns Podcast - What Customer Service Should Mean for a City
    • ]]>     Wed, 12 Oct 2022 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3390 Join us for a virtual TeamZac staff meeting as Chad and Patrick debate options for allocating sales tax revenue in our recently released neighborhood profitability calculator, plus some random musings and (because it's the fall) some college football. Stick around until the end for a special message from Patrick. Join us for a virtual TeamZac staff meeting as Chad and Patrick debate options for allocating sales tax revenue in our recently released neighborhood profitability calculator, plus some random musings and (because it's the fall) some college football. Sti local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The profitable city The profitable city full 13a9ae62-cfa9-4c21-a13b-0eeb9f15c4ed https://share.transistor.fm/s/610a071a Fri, 23 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3304 Pat and Chad talk about what it means for cities to be profitable, and why it matters. Pat and Chad talk about what it means for cities to be profitable, and why it matters. local government, technology No Chad Janicek Patrick Lawler I'm your density... I mean, your destiny I'm your density... I mean, your destiny full 3fe4cadf-c894-4a6f-a3c3-461a1563cb5d https://share.transistor.fm/s/fe5781d0
  • RIP Queen Elizabeth II
  • Tennis serves vs Baseball pitches
  • Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley's recent interview
  • "How Dense is Too Dense" in Fort Worth's Crockett Row?
  • Fifth Circuit strikes down restrictive short-term rental rules
    • ]]>
  • RIP Queen Elizabeth II
  • Tennis serves vs Baseball pitches
  • Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley's recent interview
  • "How Dense is Too Dense" in Fort Worth's Crockett Row?
  • Fifth Circuit strikes down restrictive short-term rental rules
    • ]]>     Fri, 09 Sep 2022 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2914 It's Patrick's episode today. He has 100% control over the content and deserves 100% of the blame for any concerns you may have. It's Patrick's episode today. He has 100% control over the content and deserves 100% of the blame for any concerns you may have. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Meddlers of the world, unite (then cut it out, please) Meddlers of the world, unite (then cut it out, please) full 9a8d47f3-24ee-4cd1-9045-0c695183b89b https://share.transistor.fm/s/151ff43d
  • The Rise of the Worker Productivity Score (NYTimes article)
  • The Rise of Workplace Surveillance (The Daily podcast by NYT about the article we discuss)
    • ]]>
  • The Rise of the Worker Productivity Score (NYTimes article)
  • The Rise of Workplace Surveillance (The Daily podcast by NYT about the article we discuss)
    • ]]>     Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:56:20 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2823 Pat and Chad return from summer holiday with an action packed discussion of meddling: from sales tax rule changes to property tax rule changes to employee tracking. Pat and Chad return from summer holiday with an action packed discussion of meddling: from sales tax rule changes to property tax rule changes to employee tracking. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Isn't budgeting so much fun these days? Isn't budgeting so much fun these days? full 38bc52a3-80ab-46a1-b50e-ef5ae1b4bf5c https://share.transistor.fm/s/9dd43b51
  • Analysis: Property tax relief that doesn’t lower your tax bill
    • ]]>
  • Analysis: Property tax relief that doesn’t lower your tax bill
    • ]]>     Fri, 22 Apr 2022 16:30:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2731 Kyle Lester, finance director for Colleyville, Texas, joins us again. Two years ago, he was on the pod to talk about building a budget under the looming cloud of Covid-19, something that we all knew next to nothing about back then. Now, Covid is taking a back seat to inflation, rapidly rising property values, and other things that keep budget managers up at night. Kyle Lester, finance director for Colleyville, Texas, joins us again. Two years ago, he was on the pod to talk about building a budget under the looming cloud of Covid-19, something that we all knew next to nothing about back then. Now, Covid is taking a local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Open Mic Morning Open Mic Morning full 9c4b49d7-50e8-4004-8b7a-9c51c2fc563e https://share.transistor.fm/s/1b4b20c9
  • American Consumers Are Starting to Hit Their Breaking Point
  • Bachelor Tax
  • Why Doesn’t California Solve Its Housing Crisis By Building Some New Cities?
  • Grapevine council grills manager over ex-staff’s spending abuses: ‘We have to know more’
  • Plano City Council Rap
    • ]]>
  • American Consumers Are Starting to Hit Their Breaking Point
  • Bachelor Tax
  • Why Doesn’t California Solve Its Housing Crisis By Building Some New Cities?
  • Grapevine council grills manager over ex-staff’s spending abuses: ‘We have to know more’
  • Plano City Council Rap
    • ]]>     Thu, 31 Mar 2022 17:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2505 It's another free-wheeling roundtable discussion, covering the economy, pro-family policymaking, housing, building new cities, internal audits, and much more. It's another free-wheeling roundtable discussion, covering the economy, pro-family policymaking, housing, building new cities, internal audits, and much more. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Local impacts of Ukraine and the 2020 Census changes Local impacts of Ukraine and the 2020 Census changes full c3c66ff1-0d58-4040-8662-a8f4891311fc https://share.transistor.fm/s/6a078e14 Pat and Chad talk about local impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the anonymity changes to the 2020 Census

    ]]>     Pat and Chad talk about local impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the anonymity changes to the 2020 Census

    ]]>     Thu, 10 Mar 2022 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2890 Pat and Chad talk about local impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the anonymity changes to the 2020 Census Pat and Chad talk about local impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the anonymity changes to the 2020 Census local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Software subscriptions and a stock market for cities Software subscriptions and a stock market for cities full 1b0e41fc-a12a-468e-9d58-c973289aa5a8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/416356f0
  • GASB 96


    • ]]>
  • GASB 96


    • ]]>     Tue, 16 Nov 2021 16:30:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 3345 We welcome Doug Martella of GoVirtual CFO to chat about GASB 96, a new statement covering software subscription accounting, and to pontificate on the half-baked idea of a municipal stock market. We welcome Doug Martella of GoVirtual CFO to chat about GASB 96, a new statement covering software subscription accounting, and to pontificate on the half-baked idea of a municipal stock market. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     A stemwinder on sales tax, staffing, supply chains, speed bumps, and scooters A stemwinder on sales tax, staffing, supply chains, speed bumps, and scooters full 697a72f6-fcda-4a0e-9886-a41d42dd5b5e https://share.transistor.fm/s/e133dbf6 Chad and Pat are back with a wide ranging discussion, including upcoming sales tax numbers, inflation's impact on pay, Austin's minimum PD staffing proposition, zoning's impact on our supply chain problems, guerrilla speed bump installations, and the urban scooter movement.

    ]]>     Chad and Pat are back with a wide ranging discussion, including upcoming sales tax numbers, inflation's impact on pay, Austin's minimum PD staffing proposition, zoning's impact on our supply chain problems, guerrilla speed bump installations, and the urban scooter movement.

    ]]>     Wed, 03 Nov 2021 16:35:22 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2912 Chad and Pat are back with a wide ranging discussion, including upcoming sales tax numbers, inflation's impact on pay, Austin's minimum PD staffing proposition, zoning's impact on our supply chain problems, guerrilla speed bump installations, and the urban scooter movement. Chad and Pat are back with a wide ranging discussion, including upcoming sales tax numbers, inflation's impact on pay, Austin's minimum PD staffing proposition, zoning's impact on our supply chain problems, guerrilla speed bump installations, and the urba local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     What to expect when expecting to be a city manager What to expect when expecting to be a city manager full b8f34aea-3abb-4c18-a4ab-8685dd052e82 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5d898b09
  • UMANT Strong Towns event (Sep 24, 2021)
  • TML Conference Houston (Oct 6-8, 2021)
    • ]]>
  • UMANT Strong Towns event (Sep 24, 2021)
  • TML Conference Houston (Oct 6-8, 2021)
    • ]]>     Wed, 18 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3073 We turn away from current events and offer some advice for first time city manager job seekers. From understanding your own comfort level and skill set, to doing your due diligence, to the world of head-hunting, there's something for every up and coming local manager. We turn away from current events and offer some advice for first time city manager job seekers. From understanding your own comfort level and skill set, to doing your due diligence, to the world of head-hunting, there's something for every up and coming l local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Don't buy AirPods at the airport Don't buy AirPods at the airport full f36c531c-a5a4-430f-bcde-d65906b5c101 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6d8f5403 In this episode, we assess the state of post-Covid sales tax recovery in Texas, talk about proposals to replace property taxes with a value added tax, and wrap up with a discussion about designing public spaces to delight.

    ]]>     In this episode, we assess the state of post-Covid sales tax recovery in Texas, talk about proposals to replace property taxes with a value added tax, and wrap up with a discussion about designing public spaces to delight.

    ]]>     Wed, 14 Jul 2021 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2434 In this episode, we assess the state of post-Covid sales tax recovery in Texas, talk about proposals to replace property taxes with a value added tax, and wrap up with a discussion about designing public spaces to delight. In this episode, we assess the state of post-Covid sales tax recovery in Texas, talk about proposals to replace property taxes with a value added tax, and wrap up with a discussion about designing public spaces to delight. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The sky probably isn't falling, and why a national infrastructure bank isn't helpful The sky probably isn't falling, and why a national infrastructure bank isn't helpful full b5f9e0ee-cf6f-4efe-afe4-4ce97f473c9b https://share.transistor.fm/s/aadfaed6 After a brief hiatus, we're back talking about a proposal for a National Infrastructure Bank, and we revisit the recommendations GFOA made to help cities weather the fiscal storm of Covid-19.

    ]]>     After a brief hiatus, we're back talking about a proposal for a National Infrastructure Bank, and we revisit the recommendations GFOA made to help cities weather the fiscal storm of Covid-19.

    ]]>     Sat, 12 Jun 2021 13:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2978 After a brief hiatus, we're back talking about a proposal for a National Infrastructure Bank, and we revisit the recommendations GFOA made to help cities weather the fiscal storm of Covid-19. After a brief hiatus, we're back talking about a proposal for a National Infrastructure Bank, and we revisit the recommendations GFOA made to help cities weather the fiscal storm of Covid-19. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Sales Taxes and Covid Vaxxes Sales Taxes and Covid Vaxxes full 1794b34b-6255-416c-af98-4241c2e3497d https://share.transistor.fm/s/bb2c2af2
  • Beer? Money? States and cities offer incentives to get vaccinated (NYT)
  • HB 4072 in-depth (ZacCast)
  • HB 4072 Committee Version
  • State sales tax revenue update for April 2021
    • ]]>
  • Beer? Money? States and cities offer incentives to get vaccinated (NYT)
  • HB 4072 in-depth (ZacCast)
  • HB 4072 Committee Version
  • State sales tax revenue update for April 2021
    • ]]>     Tue, 04 May 2021 16:47:27 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2376 We debate the merits of Covid vaccine incentives; the Comptroller releases top-line sales tax numbers for March sales; an update on HB 4072; and some half-baked ideas for improving transportation. We debate the merits of Covid vaccine incentives; the Comptroller releases top-line sales tax numbers for March sales; an update on HB 4072; and some half-baked ideas for improving transportation. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     HB 4072 (and all-time great baseball movies) HB 4072 (and all-time great baseball movies) full 8c8c7440-e237-4c00-85e3-4b3704efec53 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a83eaf03
  • HB 4072 (and the totally worthless/misleading fiscal note)
  • Is it worth the time? - XKCD
  • The Bonnen Tapes episode - ZacCast
    • ]]>
  • HB 4072 (and the totally worthless/misleading fiscal note)
  • Is it worth the time? - XKCD
  • The Bonnen Tapes episode - ZacCast
    • ]]>     Fri, 09 Apr 2021 12:30:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3125 We talk about HB 4072, a bill being considered in the Texas Legislature that would fundamentally alter the way sales taxes are allocated to local governments. Along the way, we hit on the three-legged-stool of tax policy and all-time great baseball movies. We talk about HB 4072, a bill being considered in the Texas Legislature that would fundamentally alter the way sales taxes are allocated to local governments. Along the way, we hit on the three-legged-stool of tax policy and all-time great baseball movies local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Dark Stores and Coachless Teams Dark Stores and Coachless Teams full a8c7298b-8eb9-4ca8-b4b5-8b5ab6f06023 https://share.transistor.fm/s/30bef666
  • Comparing apples and printers (March 2021 ZacTax Roundup)
  • Signup for the ZacTax Roundup

    • Editor's note: I'm very sorry that Patrick has subjected you, our dear listener, to another forced attempt at ridiculing the University of Texas on what is otherwise an extremely valuable podcast for local public managers. While I did my best to keep the discussion geared toward local government issues, if you don't wish to hear our friendly bickering about Texas vs Texas A&M, you are welcome to skip from minute 37:30 until about the last 30 seconds of the episode. - Chad

    ]]>
  • Comparing apples and printers (March 2021 ZacTax Roundup)
  • Signup for the ZacTax Roundup

    • Editor's note: I'm very sorry that Patrick has subjected you, our dear listener, to another forced attempt at ridiculing the University of Texas on what is otherwise an extremely valuable podcast for local public managers. While I did my best to keep the discussion geared toward local government issues, if you don't wish to hear our friendly bickering about Texas vs Texas A&M, you are welcome to skip from minute 37:30 until about the last 30 seconds of the episode. - Chad

    ]]>     Thu, 01 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3238 On this supersized episode, more on the Dark Store appraisal theory, why we don't like property taxes, and is your organizational culture preventing you from hiring the best and brightest (using the University of Texas Athletic program as a proxy). On this supersized episode, more on the Dark Store appraisal theory, why we don't like property taxes, and is your organizational culture preventing you from hiring the best and brightest (using the University of Texas Athletic program as a proxy). local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Fighting the wrong fight on property tax reform Fighting the wrong fight on property tax reform full 2a43f878-cf02-4fb9-aa2c-86bb14289550 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a3550e53 Texas cities have been fighting the state legislature over property tax revenue caps for years, but what if they've just been a symptom of the underlying problem? In this episode, we dig further into the problem with the commercial appraisal mechanisms, how they've shifted the tax burden to residential homeowners, and how the legislative response to that phenomenon continues to make the situation worse.

    ]]>     Texas cities have been fighting the state legislature over property tax revenue caps for years, but what if they've just been a symptom of the underlying problem? In this episode, we dig further into the problem with the commercial appraisal mechanisms, how they've shifted the tax burden to residential homeowners, and how the legislative response to that phenomenon continues to make the situation worse.

    ]]>     Wed, 17 Mar 2021 11:04:04 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 1961 Texas cities have been fighting the state legislature over property tax revenue caps for years, but what if they've just been a symptom of the underlying problem? In this episode, we dig further into the problem with the commercial appraisal mechanisms, how they've shifted the tax burden to residential homeowners, and how the legislative response to that phenomenon continues to make the situation worse. Texas cities have been fighting the state legislature over property tax revenue caps for years, but what if they've just been a symptom of the underlying problem? In this episode, we dig further into the problem with the commercial appraisal mechanisms, h local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The one Patrick expects a lot of feedback on The one Patrick expects a lot of feedback on full 69185d10-e5da-4eaa-9e62-31c9a5179830 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6c98e2fd In this grab bag episode: parking violation snitching, poo in the river, endangered affordable housing, Texas' convoluted property tax system, the City of Denton sues Ercot, Walmart/Target, and how to properly bag groceries.

    ]]>     In this grab bag episode: parking violation snitching, poo in the river, endangered affordable housing, Texas' convoluted property tax system, the City of Denton sues Ercot, Walmart/Target, and how to properly bag groceries.

    ]]>     Fri, 12 Mar 2021 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2912 In this grab bag episode: parking violation snitching, poo in the river, endangered affordable housing, Texas' convoluted property tax system, the City of Denton sues Ercot, Walmart/Target, and how to properly bag groceries. In this grab bag episode: parking violation snitching, poo in the river, endangered affordable housing, Texas' convoluted property tax system, the City of Denton sues Ercot, Walmart/Target, and how to properly bag groceries. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Happy Texas Independence (from masks) Day! Happy Texas Independence (from masks) Day! full a4e94991-504b-41b4-99b3-55e0dc0c23cc https://share.transistor.fm/s/9b5b2838 On Tuesday, March 2, Texas Governor Abbott has declared an end to state mask mandates and a near-complete reopening of Texas business. We discuss whether this makes sense at this time, and the impact it might have on local governments.

    ]]>     On Tuesday, March 2, Texas Governor Abbott has declared an end to state mask mandates and a near-complete reopening of Texas business. We discuss whether this makes sense at this time, and the impact it might have on local governments.

    ]]>     Wed, 03 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2095 On Tuesday, March 2, Texas Governor Abbott has declared an end to state mask mandates and a near-complete reopening of Texas business. We discuss whether this makes sense at this time, and the impact it might have on local governments. On Tuesday, March 2, Texas Governor Abbott has declared an end to state mask mandates and a near-complete reopening of Texas business. We discuss whether this makes sense at this time, and the impact it might have on local governments. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Back in the saddle Back in the saddle full 0e67667d-054a-43f8-9f27-8f9bf81a187c https://share.transistor.fm/s/6c67e28b After a brief podcasting break, Patrick and Chad return for a semi-random discussion about whatever was on our mind. Topics include property tax analytics, the upcoming legislative session, lawsuits about the Oxford comma, daily news podcasts, Ted Lasso, and Pokemon cards.

    ]]>     After a brief podcasting break, Patrick and Chad return for a semi-random discussion about whatever was on our mind. Topics include property tax analytics, the upcoming legislative session, lawsuits about the Oxford comma, daily news podcasts, Ted Lasso, and Pokemon cards.

    ]]>     Fri, 12 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2192 After a brief podcasting break, Patrick and Chad return for a semi-random discussion about whatever was on our mind. Topics include property tax analytics, the upcoming legislative session, lawsuits about the Oxford comma, daily news podcasts, Ted Lasso, and Pokemon cards. After a brief podcasting break, Patrick and Chad return for a semi-random discussion about whatever was on our mind. Topics include property tax analytics, the upcoming legislative session, lawsuits about the Oxford comma, daily news podcasts, Ted Lasso, local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Sales Tax (Post) Gameday - February 2021 Sales Tax (Post) Gameday - February 2021 full c12de882-71b6-4035-94ef-4f0dbe969d15 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8bd8c6ce After a brief hiatus, we're back with a somewhat meandering sales tax gameday. Join us as we dig into February sales tax allocations across the state of Texas and a whole lot more.

    Time Codes
    01:47 Statewide overview
    07:25 DFW area
    08:45 Houston area
    10:42 San Antonio area
    12:22 Mcallen area
    13:25 Midland/Odessa
    17:30 Corpus Christi area
    18:10 El Paso area
    18:48 Amarillo area
    19:47 Lubbock area
    22:20 Brownsville
    23:00 Kerrville/Fredericksburg
    23:35 Austin/Round Rock
    24:45 Killeen/Temple
    25:25 Bryan/College Station
    25:52 Abilene
    26:49 San Angelo
    26:52 Waco
    27:18 Brenham 
    27:30 Wrap up

    Valeri Williams freezes during weather forecast

    ]]>     After a brief hiatus, we're back with a somewhat meandering sales tax gameday. Join us as we dig into February sales tax allocations across the state of Texas and a whole lot more.

    Time Codes
    01:47 Statewide overview
    07:25 DFW area
    08:45 Houston area
    10:42 San Antonio area
    12:22 Mcallen area
    13:25 Midland/Odessa
    17:30 Corpus Christi area
    18:10 El Paso area
    18:48 Amarillo area
    19:47 Lubbock area
    22:20 Brownsville
    23:00 Kerrville/Fredericksburg
    23:35 Austin/Round Rock
    24:45 Killeen/Temple
    25:25 Bryan/College Station
    25:52 Abilene
    26:49 San Angelo
    26:52 Waco
    27:18 Brenham 
    27:30 Wrap up

    Valeri Williams freezes during weather forecast

    ]]>     Thu, 11 Feb 2021 16:30:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2358 After a brief hiatus, we're back with a somewhat meandering sales tax gameday. Join us as we dig into February sales tax allocations across the state of Texas and a whole lot more. After a brief hiatus, we're back with a somewhat meandering sales tax gameday. Join us as we dig into February sales tax allocations across the state of Texas and a whole lot more. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Greg Abbott: City Manager Greg Abbott: City Manager full 9d37d953-7fd6-4f22-af31-b8b9e0f699f5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/698ac1cc Texas Governor Greg Abbott wants to take over policing of downtown Austin. We talk about Texas' continuing shift away from limited government/local control and what it means for Texas cities. Plus an extended Christmas discussion, including Hallmark movies, home video, and we revisit Elf on the Shelf.

    ]]>     Texas Governor Greg Abbott wants to take over policing of downtown Austin. We talk about Texas' continuing shift away from limited government/local control and what it means for Texas cities. Plus an extended Christmas discussion, including Hallmark movies, home video, and we revisit Elf on the Shelf.

    ]]>     Wed, 16 Dec 2020 11:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2799 Texas Governor Greg Abbott wants to take over policing of downtown Austin. We talk about Texas' continuing shift away from limited government/local control and what it means for Texas cities. Plus an extended Christmas discussion, including Hallmark movies, home video, and we revisit Elf on the Shelf. Texas Governor Greg Abbott wants to take over policing of downtown Austin. We talk about Texas' continuing shift away from limited government/local control and what it means for Texas cities. Plus an extended Christmas discussion, including Hallmark movie local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Czech yourself before you wreck yourself Czech yourself before you wreck yourself full ca391f0f-e589-45a8-8452-acc90865e35a https://share.transistor.fm/s/540be550 In a special, barely-related-to-city-government episode, Cody Janicek joins us from Prague to talk Covid, living in Europe as an American, growing up with Chad, and college rivalries.

    ]]>     In a special, barely-related-to-city-government episode, Cody Janicek joins us from Prague to talk Covid, living in Europe as an American, growing up with Chad, and college rivalries.

    ]]>     Fri, 27 Nov 2020 14:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 1869 In a special, barely-related-to-city-government episode, Cody Janicek joins us from Prague to talk Covid, living in Europe as an American, growing up with Chad, and college rivalries. In a special, barely-related-to-city-government episode, Cody Janicek joins us from Prague to talk Covid, living in Europe as an American, growing up with Chad, and college rivalries. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The "Chad's Mannerisms" episode The "Chad's Mannerisms" episode full d7a2adba-8340-4235-9272-bd8697ac682f https://share.transistor.fm/s/ae945426 Google announces a "No-Meetings Week", and CityLab discusses the downsides of open floor plans.

    ]]>     Google announces a "No-Meetings Week", and CityLab discusses the downsides of open floor plans.

    ]]>     Wed, 25 Nov 2020 14:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 1851 Google announces a "No-Meetings Week", and CityLab discusses the downsides of open floor plans. Google announces a "No-Meetings Week", and CityLab discusses the downsides of open floor plans. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Sales Tax Gameday - November 2020 Sales Tax Gameday - November 2020 full fb26513b-dd08-4fb3-aec5-de8508975158 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3cd753c2 Be sure to join us at www.salestaxgameday.com for your chance to play and possibly win some swag predicting sales tax collections for December 2020. 

    00:00 - Intro and Sales Tax Gameday winner
    04:25  - DFW
    09:15 - Houston area
    14:10 - San Antonio area
    16:00 - McAllen area
    16:30 - Corpus Christi area
    17:50 - El Paso area
    19:45 - Midland/Odessa area
    21:10 - Amarillo area
    22:05 - Lubbock area
    22:43 - Brownsville area
    27:14 - Tyler/Jacksonville area
    27:58 - Victoria/Port Lavaca area
    28:30 - Kerrville/Fredericksburg area
    29:57 - Austin area
    33:15 - Killeen/Temple area
    33:45 - Waco area
    36:15 - Abilene area
    36:40 - Bryan/College Station
    37:55 - Quick hitters around the rest of the state
    38:50 - Wrap up
    41:45 - Star Baker Award Recipient

    ]]>     Be sure to join us at www.salestaxgameday.com for your chance to play and possibly win some swag predicting sales tax collections for December 2020. 

    00:00 - Intro and Sales Tax Gameday winner
    04:25  - DFW
    09:15 - Houston area
    14:10 - San Antonio area
    16:00 - McAllen area
    16:30 - Corpus Christi area
    17:50 - El Paso area
    19:45 - Midland/Odessa area
    21:10 - Amarillo area
    22:05 - Lubbock area
    22:43 - Brownsville area
    27:14 - Tyler/Jacksonville area
    27:58 - Victoria/Port Lavaca area
    28:30 - Kerrville/Fredericksburg area
    29:57 - Austin area
    33:15 - Killeen/Temple area
    33:45 - Waco area
    36:15 - Abilene area
    36:40 - Bryan/College Station
    37:55 - Quick hitters around the rest of the state
    38:50 - Wrap up
    41:45 - Star Baker Award Recipient

    ]]>     Thu, 12 Nov 2020 14:22:09 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2666 Often imitated, never duplicated. It's the one and only Sales Tax Gameday! We dive into the highs and lows of a bounce back month, announce the first ever Sales Tax Gameday winner, can't seem to let go of a random Great British Baking Show reference. Often imitated, never duplicated. It's the one and only Sales Tax Gameday! We dive into the highs and lows of a bounce back month, announce the first ever Sales Tax Gameday winner, can't seem to let go of a random Great British Baking Show reference. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Covid resurgence, broken ice cream, street grids, and murder hornets Covid resurgence, broken ice cream, street grids, and murder hornets full 506840d3-86f5-4743-908c-2c378484c18b https://share.transistor.fm/s/f3025389 In what might be our nerdiest episode yet, we talk about the recent surges of Covid-19 and street grids, a software engineer who hacked McDonald's to find out which ice cream machines are broken, a French protest via murder hornets, and more.

    ]]>     In what might be our nerdiest episode yet, we talk about the recent surges of Covid-19 and street grids, a software engineer who hacked McDonald's to find out which ice cream machines are broken, a French protest via murder hornets, and more.

    ]]>     Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2010 In what might be our nerdiest episode yet, we talk about the recent surges of Covid-19 and street grids, a software engineer who hacked McDonald's to find out which ice cream machines are broken, a French protest via murder hornets, and more. In what might be our nerdiest episode yet, we talk about the recent surges of Covid-19 and street grids, a software engineer who hacked McDonald's to find out which ice cream machines are broken, a French protest via murder hornets, and more. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Sales Tax Gameday - October 2020 Sales Tax Gameday - October 2020 full cb049482-785d-4590-b284-d5a59724440a https://share.transistor.fm/s/b15a65a6 00:25 - TeamZac Projections
    07:42 - DFW Metroplex
    12:42 - Midland/Odessa
    13:55 - Corpus Christi
    15:35 - Houston Area
    19:20 - San Antonio
    21:14 - Austin
    25:56 - East Texas
    27:08 - Amarillo
    28:20 - El Paso
    29:26 - McAllen/Edinburg
    30:50 - Lubbock
    31:32 - Victoria/Port Lavaca
    32:12 - Brownsville
    34:04 - Kerrville/Fredericksburg
    34:45 - Bryan/College Station
    36:55 - Waco
    37:25 - San Angelo
    38:00 - Sherman/Denison
    38:22 - Nacogdoches
    39:00 - Shining Star & Wrap Up

    ]]>     00:25 - TeamZac Projections
    07:42 - DFW Metroplex
    12:42 - Midland/Odessa
    13:55 - Corpus Christi
    15:35 - Houston Area
    19:20 - San Antonio
    21:14 - Austin
    25:56 - East Texas
    27:08 - Amarillo
    28:20 - El Paso
    29:26 - McAllen/Edinburg
    30:50 - Lubbock
    31:32 - Victoria/Port Lavaca
    32:12 - Brownsville
    34:04 - Kerrville/Fredericksburg
    34:45 - Bryan/College Station
    36:55 - Waco
    37:25 - San Angelo
    38:00 - Sherman/Denison
    38:22 - Nacogdoches
    39:00 - Shining Star & Wrap Up

    ]]>     Wed, 07 Oct 2020 13:44:17 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2936 We recap our TeamZac projections and then dive right in to October 2020's sales tax collections across the state of Texas. Who won? Who lost? Let's find out! We recap our TeamZac projections and then dive right in to October 2020's sales tax collections across the state of Texas. Who won? Who lost? Let's find out! local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Round Robin - From AirBNB to our national treasure, Mike Leach Round Robin - From AirBNB to our national treasure, Mike Leach full b71cc668-1784-4cba-8375-056cbb258e85 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b431c54f Signup for our free monthly newsletter, the ZacTax Roundup

    0:43 - AirBNB pilots a new City Portal


    08:06 - Did cities defund the police in FY21?

    15:06 - Weekly Covid tests for San Antonio schools

    23:18 - More gold from Mike Leach

    ]]>     Signup for our free monthly newsletter, the ZacTax Roundup

    0:43 - AirBNB pilots a new City Portal


    08:06 - Did cities defund the police in FY21?

    15:06 - Weekly Covid tests for San Antonio schools

    23:18 - More gold from Mike Leach

    ]]>     Tue, 29 Sep 2020 13:32:44 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2282 We're scattershooting today! AirBNB is piloting a new City Portal; CityLab analyzes whether cities defunded the police in FY21; a San Antonio billionaire wants to pay for weekly Covid tests at local schools; and our national treasure, Mississippi State coach Mike Leach. We're scattershooting today! AirBNB is piloting a new City Portal; CityLab analyzes whether cities defunded the police in FY21; a San Antonio billionaire wants to pay for weekly Covid tests at local schools; and our national treasure, Mississippi State co local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Sales Tax Gameday - September 2020 Sales Tax Gameday - September 2020 full 76ebf694-4868-4104-9d08-f68db04175d7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d8334606 02:48 - DFW
    06:54 - Houston
    10:45 - San Antonio
    13:26 - McAllen area
    13:35 - Corpus Christi area
    15:13 - Austin Area
    18:06 - Bryan/College Station
    20:52 - Waco
    22:18 - Abilene
    23:16 - San Angelo
    23:25 - Midland/Odessa
    25:52 - Lubbock
    26:40 - Amarillo
    27:35 - El Paso
    28:11 - Brownsville
    29:10 - East Texas
    30:04 - Sherman/Denison
    31:00 - Removal of internet sales tax
    33:30 - Wrap up

    ]]>     02:48 - DFW
    06:54 - Houston
    10:45 - San Antonio
    13:26 - McAllen area
    13:35 - Corpus Christi area
    15:13 - Austin Area
    18:06 - Bryan/College Station
    20:52 - Waco
    22:18 - Abilene
    23:16 - San Angelo
    23:25 - Midland/Odessa
    25:52 - Lubbock
    26:40 - Amarillo
    27:35 - El Paso
    28:11 - Brownsville
    29:10 - East Texas
    30:04 - Sherman/Denison
    31:00 - Removal of internet sales tax
    33:30 - Wrap up

    ]]>     Thu, 10 Sep 2020 16:20:48 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2480 Temperatures drop, and so does sales tax. Patrick and Chad continue the new monthly feature of totally on-the-fly exploratory analysis of city sales tax collections. Come along with us as we dig into September's allocations for the first time to see who's up, who's down, and what can we learn from today's data drop. Temperatures drop, and so does sales tax. Patrick and Chad continue the new monthly feature of totally on-the-fly exploratory analysis of city sales tax collections. Come along with us as we dig into September's allocations for the first time to see who's local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The Last Dance The Last Dance full 62d59750-892a-4c0b-906f-910a558e7e6b https://share.transistor.fm/s/d3b62cd8
  • The Last Dance (Netflix)
  • Drum Corps Endurance Study (YouTube)
  • Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson (Amazon)
  • Nick Saban on team chemistry 
    • ]]>
  • The Last Dance (Netflix)
  • Drum Corps Endurance Study (YouTube)
  • Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson (Amazon)
  • Nick Saban on team chemistry 
    • ]]>     Fri, 04 Sep 2020 12:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2860 In which Patrick and Chad try to apply leadership lessons from the totally unrelated topic of championship-level basketball to city management based on the ESPN documentary "The Last Dance" and Chad unintentionally interrupts Patrick like 12 times. In which Patrick and Chad try to apply leadership lessons from the totally unrelated topic of championship-level basketball to city management based on the ESPN documentary "The Last Dance" and Chad unintentionally interrupts Patrick like 12 times. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Dataviz tips and dad jokes Dataviz tips and dad jokes full 0c6dccb0-853d-4bba-a515-fe1ce377b420 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6035390e
  • Show me the Numbers by Stephen Few
  • Preattentive Visual Properties and How to Use Them in Information Visualization
  • Quick wins for your data visualizations (ZacTax Blog)
  • Design Concepts for Better Power BI Reports - Part 2: Preattentive Attributes (Data Savvy)
    • ]]>
  • Show me the Numbers by Stephen Few
  • Preattentive Visual Properties and How to Use Them in Information Visualization
  • Quick wins for your data visualizations (ZacTax Blog)
  • Design Concepts for Better Power BI Reports - Part 2: Preattentive Attributes (Data Savvy)
    • ]]>     Tue, 18 Aug 2020 14:17:47 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 954 We'll all be building our adopted budget books and sending them off to GFOA soon, so here's a few quick tips to maximize the impact of your data visualizations. We'll all be building our adopted budget books and sending them off to GFOA soon, so here's a few quick tips to maximize the impact of your data visualizations. local government, technology No Chad Janicek     Sales Tax Gameday - August 2020 Sales Tax Gameday - August 2020 full 7f10b00c-e569-48fe-892b-99c5a6e995ee https://share.transistor.fm/s/eae50457
  • Sign up for the ZacTax Newsletter
    • ]]>
  • Sign up for the ZacTax Newsletter
    • ]]>     Wed, 12 Aug 2020 17:18:51 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 1448 It's sales tax day, and since college football is in doubt for 2020, we do our best to provide you with some kind of game day experience. Come along as we look at how cities across the state of Texas performed It's sales tax day, and since college football is in doubt for 2020, we do our best to provide you with some kind of game day experience. Come along as we look at how cities across the state of Texas performed local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Kevin Shepherd on fiscal sustainability, infrastructure gaps, and the future of development Kevin Shepherd on fiscal sustainability, infrastructure gaps, and the future of development full 4a2db8d3-6a43-4068-aeff-f013c065c40e https://share.transistor.fm/s/70ca6ceb Kevin Shepherd, founder and CEO of Verdunity, joins us to talk about the sustainability gap most cities don't even know they have.

    ]]>     Kevin Shepherd, founder and CEO of Verdunity, joins us to talk about the sustainability gap most cities don't even know they have.

    ]]>     Mon, 10 Aug 2020 09:15:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2975 Kevin Shepherd, founder and CEO of Verdunity, joins us to talk about the sustainability gap most cities don't even know they have. Kevin Shepherd, founder and CEO of Verdunity, joins us to talk about the sustainability gap most cities don't even know they have. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     A city used these easy steps to have a productive council meeting and you won't believe what happened next! A city used these easy steps to have a productive council meeting and you won't believe what happened next! full ffe6afc6-51bd-4b30-ae21-1c6c42ec3b02 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fdaadfea OK, so maybe the title is a bit hyperbolic. But everyone's been there: stuck in council chambers, time ticking away, missing your favorite show or maybe even Thursday night football. Meanwhile, nothing productive is happening in your city council meeting. In this episode, Patrick and Chad offer a few tips for fostering productive city council meetings.

    ]]>     OK, so maybe the title is a bit hyperbolic. But everyone's been there: stuck in council chambers, time ticking away, missing your favorite show or maybe even Thursday night football. Meanwhile, nothing productive is happening in your city council meeting. In this episode, Patrick and Chad offer a few tips for fostering productive city council meetings.

    ]]>     Wed, 29 Jul 2020 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 1897 OK, so maybe the title is a bit hyperbolic. But everyone's been there: stuck in council chambers, time ticking away, missing your favorite show or maybe even Thursday night football. Meanwhile, nothing productive is happening in your city council meeting. In this episode, Patrick and Chad offer a few tips for fostering productive city council meetings. OK, so maybe the title is a bit hyperbolic. But everyone's been there: stuck in council chambers, time ticking away, missing your favorite show or maybe even Thursday night football. Meanwhile, nothing productive is happening in your city council meeting. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     What's Proptech, and how has Covid affected sales tax? What's Proptech, and how has Covid affected sales tax? full ab58c572-ad36-44c1-8666-abc3428551dc https://share.transistor.fm/s/a25bab3b In this episode, we talk about Proptech and how the Covid closures have impacted sales tax collections across Texas.

    ]]>     In this episode, we talk about Proptech and how the Covid closures have impacted sales tax collections across Texas.

    ]]>     Sat, 11 Jul 2020 13:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2192 In this episode, we talk about Proptech and how the Covid closures have impacted sales tax collections across Texas. In this episode, we talk about Proptech and how the Covid closures have impacted sales tax collections across Texas. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     VC and ED VC and ED full 3b9dea1a-7d46-4a04-8e94-5d0c5fd6c21d https://share.transistor.fm/s/c99e316d Why can't DoorDash, GrubHub, UberEats, etc, ever seem to make a profit? Or even play nicely with their restaurant partners and drivers? In this episode, we argue that a big reason is the distortionary effects of venture capital. In exchange for rapid growth, VC has subsidized both the product and some very poor business decisions by removing something all functioning markets need: price signals. Could the same be true for our efforts in economic development? Are we subsidizing quick, short-term growth at the expense of long-term fiscal health? How would we focus our ED efforts if we couldn't provide rebates, grants, or incentives? 

    ]]>     Why can't DoorDash, GrubHub, UberEats, etc, ever seem to make a profit? Or even play nicely with their restaurant partners and drivers? In this episode, we argue that a big reason is the distortionary effects of venture capital. In exchange for rapid growth, VC has subsidized both the product and some very poor business decisions by removing something all functioning markets need: price signals. Could the same be true for our efforts in economic development? Are we subsidizing quick, short-term growth at the expense of long-term fiscal health? How would we focus our ED efforts if we couldn't provide rebates, grants, or incentives? 

    ]]>     Tue, 26 May 2020 10:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2491 Why can't DoorDash, GrubHub, UberEats, etc, ever seem to make a profit? Or even play nicely with their restaurant partners and drivers? In this episode, we argue that a big reason is the distortionary effects of venture capital. In exchange for rapid growth, VC has subsidized both the product and some very poor business decisions by removing something all functioning markets need: price signals. Could the same be true for our efforts in economic development? Are we subsidizing quick, short-term growth at the expense of long-term fiscal health? How would we focus our ED efforts if we couldn't provide rebates, grants, or incentives? Why can't DoorDash, GrubHub, UberEats, etc, ever seem to make a profit? Or even play nicely with their restaurant partners and drivers? In this episode, we argue that a big reason is the distortionary effects of venture capital. In exchange for rapid grow local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     #OpenTexas #OpenTexas full 9fe2b091-763c-46bc-8b19-2851be450406 https://share.transistor.fm/s/34b29563 It's May 1st, and Texas is officially reopened. Pat and Chad discuss Governor Abbott's order to reopen the state, whether the general public will jump at the chance to get back to normal, and how localities will be impacted by the enforcement mechanisms of Abbott's plan.

    ]]>     It's May 1st, and Texas is officially reopened. Pat and Chad discuss Governor Abbott's order to reopen the state, whether the general public will jump at the chance to get back to normal, and how localities will be impacted by the enforcement mechanisms of Abbott's plan.

    ]]>     Fri, 01 May 2020 16:15:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2661 It's May 1st, and Texas is officially reopened. Pat and Chad discuss Governor Abbott's order to reopen the state, whether the general public will jump at the chance to get back to normal, and how localities will be impacted by the enforcement mechanisms of Abbott's plan. It's May 1st, and Texas is officially reopened. Pat and Chad discuss Governor Abbott's order to reopen the state, whether the general public will jump at the chance to get back to normal, and how localities will be impacted by the enforcement mechanisms o local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Budgeting under the cloud of COVID-19 with Kyle Lester Budgeting under the cloud of COVID-19 with Kyle Lester full 3664e18d-5883-44f7-b00d-72e2a6bf3cbe https://share.transistor.fm/s/0c83c00d We chat with Kyle Lester, finance director for the City of Colleyville, Texas, about budgeting in uncertain times. How is the COVID-19 response impacting budget plans? How can finance professionals help keep cities moving forward when so much is unknown? And a detailed discussion of how we would handle managing Leslie Knope, the overzealous deputy director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Pawnee, Indiana.

    ]]>     We chat with Kyle Lester, finance director for the City of Colleyville, Texas, about budgeting in uncertain times. How is the COVID-19 response impacting budget plans? How can finance professionals help keep cities moving forward when so much is unknown? And a detailed discussion of how we would handle managing Leslie Knope, the overzealous deputy director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Pawnee, Indiana.

    ]]>     Fri, 27 Mar 2020 15:45:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2960 We chat with Kyle Lester, finance director for the City of Colleyville, Texas, about budgeting in uncertain times. How is the COVID-19 response impacting budget plans? How can finance professionals help keep cities moving forward when so much is unknown? And a detailed discussion of how we would handle managing Leslie Knope, the overzealous deputy director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Pawnee, Indiana. We chat with Kyle Lester, finance director for the City of Colleyville, Texas, about budgeting in uncertain times. How is the COVID-19 response impacting budget plans? How can finance professionals help keep cities moving forward when so much is unknown? local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     SCADA-as-a-service, appraisal mishaps, and time travel SCADA-as-a-service, appraisal mishaps, and time travel full a975eb02-c873-4c2d-9a26-a7d7b2ed6eb7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/053c77e1 We talk about the future of SCADA systems, a very unfortunate error in a Utah appraisal district, and differing movie-time-travel rules. 

    ]]>     We talk about the future of SCADA systems, a very unfortunate error in a Utah appraisal district, and differing movie-time-travel rules. 

    ]]>     Mon, 23 Mar 2020 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2515 We talk about the future of SCADA systems, a very unfortunate error in a Utah appraisal district, and differing movie-time-travel rules. We talk about the future of SCADA systems, a very unfortunate error in a Utah appraisal district, and differing movie-time-travel rules. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     James Earp on the local response to COVID-19 James Earp on the local response to COVID-19 full bffd7f33-fd45-4884-895a-a96297c8a88c https://share.transistor.fm/s/602f8d6f James Earp, assistant city manager for the city of Kyle, Texas, joins us to talk emergency response, continuity of government, and keeping your staff healthy so they can serve the public in the midst of COVID-19.

    ]]>     James Earp, assistant city manager for the city of Kyle, Texas, joins us to talk emergency response, continuity of government, and keeping your staff healthy so they can serve the public in the midst of COVID-19.

    ]]>     Sat, 14 Mar 2020 09:40:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 3166 James Earp, assistant city manager for the city of Kyle, Texas, joins us to talk emergency response, continuity of government, and keeping your staff healthy so they can serve the public in the midst of COVID-19. James Earp, assistant city manager for the city of Kyle, Texas, joins us to talk emergency response, continuity of government, and keeping your staff healthy so they can serve the public in the midst of COVID-19. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Brittney Huff on things you don't learn in grad school (aka TYDLIGS) Brittney Huff on things you don't learn in grad school (aka TYDLIGS) full b8a0c2cf-199c-4970-a7b5-b33a34298abf https://share.transistor.fm/s/8a29554b Brittney Huff, director of operations for the City of Hudson Oaks, joins us to talk about some things you don't learn in grad school. Also introducing a new segment: I Literally Can't Even.

    - What's missing from the academic discussions of economic development? 
    - Wearing multiple hats as an assistant-to-the-city-manager in a small town. 
    - Learning how to make decisions. 
    - How do you handle managing in a field where you don't have a great deal of technical expertise?

    Plus a discussion of things about which we literally can't even.

    ]]>     Brittney Huff, director of operations for the City of Hudson Oaks, joins us to talk about some things you don't learn in grad school. Also introducing a new segment: I Literally Can't Even.

    - What's missing from the academic discussions of economic development? 
    - Wearing multiple hats as an assistant-to-the-city-manager in a small town. 
    - Learning how to make decisions. 
    - How do you handle managing in a field where you don't have a great deal of technical expertise?

    Plus a discussion of things about which we literally can't even.

    ]]>     Wed, 11 Mar 2020 09:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 2029 Brittney Huff, director of operations for the City of Hudson Oaks, joins us to talk about some things you don't learn in grad school. Also introducing a new segment: I Literally Can't Even. - What's missing from the academic discussions of economic development? - Wearing multiple hats as an assistant-to-the-city-manager in a small town. - Learning how to make decisions. - How do you handle managing in a field where you don't have a great deal of technical expertise? Plus a discussion of things about which we literally can't even. Brittney Huff, director of operations for the City of Hudson Oaks, joins us to talk about some things you don't learn in grad school. Also introducing a new segment: I Literally Can't Even. - What's missing from the academic discussions of economic dev local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Lamentations on technology and Disney princesses Lamentations on technology and Disney princesses full c3df790e-e456-456d-9e72-2b1c894e0bed https://share.transistor.fm/s/5f4578cf In this episode, Chad and Patrick talk about attending the Safe-D conference in Galveston, technological miscues at the Iowa Caucus, the end of Internet Explorer, and why Chad's least favorite Disney princess.

    ]]>     In this episode, Chad and Patrick talk about attending the Safe-D conference in Galveston, technological miscues at the Iowa Caucus, the end of Internet Explorer, and why Chad's least favorite Disney princess.

    ]]>     Tue, 25 Feb 2020 15:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2494 In this episode, Chad and Patrick talk about attending the Safe-D conference in Galveston, technological miscues at the Iowa Caucus, the end of Internet Explorer, and why Chad's least favorite Disney princess. In this episode, Chad and Patrick talk about attending the Safe-D conference in Galveston, technological miscues at the Iowa Caucus, the end of Internet Explorer, and why Chad's least favorite Disney princess. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The future of ZacTax, software spies, and zipper merges The future of ZacTax, software spies, and zipper merges full ab2566d6-d421-475b-b2f1-38e2474c5a1e https://share.transistor.fm/s/f39253fc In this episode of ZacCast, we talk about the future of ZacTax and our company, Eight20 Consulting. We also talk about software spying and why we wanted to remove third-party tracking software from ZacTax. And we wrap up with a discussion about the ever controversial "zipper merge."


    Links

    ]]>     In this episode of ZacCast, we talk about the future of ZacTax and our company, Eight20 Consulting. We also talk about software spying and why we wanted to remove third-party tracking software from ZacTax. And we wrap up with a discussion about the ever controversial "zipper merge."


    Links

    ]]>     Mon, 10 Feb 2020 09:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 1881 In this episode of ZacCast, we talk about the future of ZacTax and our company, Eight20 Consulting. We also talk about software spying and why we wanted to remove third-party tracking software from ZacTax. And we wrap up with a discussion about the ever controversial "zipper merge." In this episode of ZacCast, we talk about the future of ZacTax and our company, Eight20 Consulting. We also talk about software spying and why we wanted to remove third-party tracking software from ZacTax. And we wrap up with a discussion about the ever c local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Fresh Prince and Strong Towns Fresh Prince and Strong Towns full 6efecaae-0bdf-4fe5-af35-350f271dd53e https://share.transistor.fm/s/ab360121 In this episode of ZacCast, from fresh prince to urban development patterns, it's things that make you reevaluate your entire existence. We dig in to some of the more controversial elements of the Strong Towns movement, including its prescriptions for where we spend the public's money, and how we organize our teams to make the biggest impact.

    Links

    ]]>     In this episode of ZacCast, from fresh prince to urban development patterns, it's things that make you reevaluate your entire existence. We dig in to some of the more controversial elements of the Strong Towns movement, including its prescriptions for where we spend the public's money, and how we organize our teams to make the biggest impact.

    Links

    ]]>     Fri, 10 Jan 2020 15:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 1728 In this episode of ZacCast, from fresh prince to urban development patterns, it's things that make you reevaluate your entire existence. We dig in to some of the more controversial elements of the Strong Towns movement, including its prescriptions for where we spend the public's money, and how we organize our teams to make the biggest impact. In this episode of ZacCast, from fresh prince to urban development patterns, it's things that make you reevaluate your entire existence. We dig in to some of the more controversial elements of the Strong Towns movement, including its prescriptions for whe local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Single Local Taxes, Rule Changes, and Christmas Conspiracies Single Local Taxes, Rule Changes, and Christmas Conspiracies full 419b48a3-f2b2-49e5-a897-d1d98ea38c8f https://share.transistor.fm/s/53de1f3c In this episode of ZacCast, Patrick and Chad discuss the impact of the Single Local Tax Rate on December's sales tax collections; wade into some controversy about alleged rule changes being proposed by the Comptroller; and even make time for some Christmas conspiracy theories.


    Links

    ]]>     In this episode of ZacCast, Patrick and Chad discuss the impact of the Single Local Tax Rate on December's sales tax collections; wade into some controversy about alleged rule changes being proposed by the Comptroller; and even make time for some Christmas conspiracy theories.


    Links

    ]]>     Fri, 20 Dec 2019 09:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 1835 In this episode of ZacCast, Patrick and Chad discuss the impact of the Single Local Tax Rate on December's sales tax collections; wade into some controversy about alleged rule changes being proposed by the Comptroller; and even make time for some Christmas conspiracy theories. In this episode of ZacCast, Patrick and Chad discuss the impact of the Single Local Tax Rate on December's sales tax collections; wade into some controversy about alleged rule changes being proposed by the Comptroller; and even make time for some Christma local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Robert Hanna - Downtown Redevelopment in Abilene Robert Hanna - Downtown Redevelopment in Abilene full 0bdca768-956c-49ec-bd31-2e91bb73a84a https://share.transistor.fm/s/57a4e8bb In this episode of ZacCast, Abilene, Texas, city manager Robert Hanna joins us to talk about his city's downtown hotel/convention center project. We discuss the difficulties inherent in complicated projects, steering large organizations toward a common goal, and gaining community buy-in for potentially controversial projects.

    ]]>     In this episode of ZacCast, Abilene, Texas, city manager Robert Hanna joins us to talk about his city's downtown hotel/convention center project. We discuss the difficulties inherent in complicated projects, steering large organizations toward a common goal, and gaining community buy-in for potentially controversial projects.

    ]]>     Mon, 16 Dec 2019 09:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 1533 In this episode of ZacCast, Abilene, Texas, city manager Robert Hanna joins us to talk about his city's downtown hotel/convention center project. We discuss the difficulties inherent in complicated projects, steering large organizations toward a common goal, and gaining community buy-in for potentially controversial projects. In this episode of ZacCast, Abilene, Texas, city manager Robert Hanna joins us to talk about his city's downtown hotel/convention center project. We discuss the difficulties inherent in complicated projects, steering large organizations toward a common go local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Lifting the auditors' vail Lifting the auditors' vail full 94ee56c2-3820-437c-bf48-75ddae82feab https://share.transistor.fm/s/b27b8aaf Audit week can be one of the most stressful times of the year for city management. In this episode, Doug Martella from GoVirtual CFO returns to talk about his experience auditing cities, and what aspiring city managers should know about the audit process. We'll even sneak in a secret your auditors probably don't want you to know.


    Links

    ]]>     Audit week can be one of the most stressful times of the year for city management. In this episode, Doug Martella from GoVirtual CFO returns to talk about his experience auditing cities, and what aspiring city managers should know about the audit process. We'll even sneak in a secret your auditors probably don't want you to know.


    Links

    ]]>     Mon, 02 Dec 2019 09:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 1493 Audit week can be one of the most stressful times of the year for city management. In this episode, Doug Martella from GoVirtual CFO returns to talk about his experience auditing cities, and what aspiring city managers should know about the audit process. We'll even sneak in a secret your auditors probably don't want you to know. Audit week can be one of the most stressful times of the year for city management. In this episode, Doug Martella from GoVirtual CFO returns to talk about his experience auditing cities, and what aspiring city managers should know about the audit process. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The Single Local Tax Rate Episode The Single Local Tax Rate Episode full 7236818d-0c3e-4375-ba5f-b3048f11c6cc https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7032374 In October 2019, the State of Texas implemented its new Single Local Tax Rate for online and out-of-state sellers. On this episode, we talk to Doug Martella of GoVirtual CFO about the new program and how it will impact sales tax collections in Texas.


    Links

    ]]>     In October 2019, the State of Texas implemented its new Single Local Tax Rate for online and out-of-state sellers. On this episode, we talk to Doug Martella of GoVirtual CFO about the new program and how it will impact sales tax collections in Texas.


    Links

    ]]>     Sun, 17 Nov 2019 17:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 1370 In October 2019, the State of Texas implemented its new Single Local Tax Rate for online and out-of-state sellers. On this episode, we talk to Doug Martella of GoVirtual CFO about the new program and how it will impact sales tax collections in Texas. In October 2019, the State of Texas implemented its new Single Local Tax Rate for online and out-of-state sellers. On this episode, we talk to Doug Martella of GoVirtual CFO about the new program and how it will impact sales tax collections in Texas. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Mr. Miyagi, Facebook, and Christmas Spite Mr. Miyagi, Facebook, and Christmas Spite full 9b8ff09b-956a-47a8-b136-53e852583082 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3013c493 Patrick and Chad shoot the bull on a variety of topics, including our upcoming talk at the UMANT One-Day Conference, the ethical implications of cities continuing to invest in social media, and we geek out a bit on Christmas decorations.


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    ]]>     Patrick and Chad shoot the bull on a variety of topics, including our upcoming talk at the UMANT One-Day Conference, the ethical implications of cities continuing to invest in social media, and we geek out a bit on Christmas decorations.


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    ]]>     Wed, 13 Nov 2019 09:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 2016 Patrick and Chad shoot the bull on a variety of topics, including our upcoming talk at the UMANT One-Day Conference, the ethical implications of cities continuing to invest in social media, and we geek out a bit on Christmas decorations. Patrick and Chad shoot the bull on a variety of topics, including our upcoming talk at the UMANT One-Day Conference, the ethical implications of cities continuing to invest in social media, and we geek out a bit on Christmas decorations. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Rework Rework full bc089fce-5c2f-4203-91b7-df8ba99f632b https://share.transistor.fm/s/5ba4b8ad This episode of ZacCast is all about Rework, a book by the founders of Basecamp. We talk about some of the bigger principles in the book, like embracing constraints, thinking small, productivity killers, and the myth of culture creation. And we offer some ways to apply them to your city.


    Links

    ]]>     This episode of ZacCast is all about Rework, a book by the founders of Basecamp. We talk about some of the bigger principles in the book, like embracing constraints, thinking small, productivity killers, and the myth of culture creation. And we offer some ways to apply them to your city.


    Links

    ]]>     Fri, 08 Nov 2019 16:00:00 -0600 TeamZac TeamZac 1982 This episode of ZacCast is all about Rework, a book by the founders of Basecamp. We talk about some of the bigger principles in the book, like embracing constraints, thinking small, productivity killers, and the myth of culture creation. And we offer some ways to apply them to your city. This episode of ZacCast is all about Rework, a book by the founders of Basecamp. We talk about some of the bigger principles in the book, like embracing constraints, thinking small, productivity killers, and the myth of culture creation. And we offer some local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Haters gonna hate (local control) Haters gonna hate (local control) full 9cdecd59-cb04-488b-a49b-33c87cca75d2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4ec3ab5a In this episode, we discuss the now-notorious Bonnen Tapes, in which the Speaker of the Texas House is caught outlining his desire to make life difficult for local governments across Texas. What does this mean for Texas cities, and does the public admission portend possible improvements to the state/local relationship?


    Links

    Errata

    • College Station is ~107 miles from Austin
    ]]>     In this episode, we discuss the now-notorious Bonnen Tapes, in which the Speaker of the Texas House is caught outlining his desire to make life difficult for local governments across Texas. What does this mean for Texas cities, and does the public admission portend possible improvements to the state/local relationship?


    Links

    Errata

    • College Station is ~107 miles from Austin
    ]]>     Thu, 31 Oct 2019 16:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 1553 We discuss the now-notorious Bonnen Tapes, in which the Speaker of the Texas House is caught outlining his desire to make life difficult for local governments across Texas. What does this mean for Texas cities, and does the public admission portend possible improvements to the state/local relationship? We discuss the now-notorious Bonnen Tapes, in which the Speaker of the Texas House is caught outlining his desire to make life difficult for local governments across Texas. What does this mean for Texas cities, and does the public admission portend possib local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     Origins Origins full ef39cf48-44a0-4dd4-aae9-27012cc2c061 https://share.transistor.fm/s/34fae622 In this episode, Patrick and Chad discuss the origins of ZacTax, including how we met, finally getting to work together, all of our failed business ideas, and finally finding a niche that worked out.

    Links

    ]]>     In this episode, Patrick and Chad discuss the origins of ZacTax, including how we met, finally getting to work together, all of our failed business ideas, and finally finding a niche that worked out.

    Links

    ]]>     Tue, 29 Oct 2019 17:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 1946 On the origins of ZacTax, and the numerous failed side hustles that preceded it. We open up about how we got here and how we applied the lessons learned to our day jobs in city management. On the origins of ZacTax, and the numerous failed side hustles that preceded it. We open up about how we got here and how we applied the lessons learned to our day jobs in city management. local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek     The Trailer The Trailer trailer b60d4589-0170-4470-ab37-5321375b4937 https://share.transistor.fm/s/55532dc7 Mon, 28 Oct 2019 13:00:00 -0500 TeamZac TeamZac 234 Everyone has a podcast now, so we figured we should, too. Join us as we embark on what we hope will be a fun and engaging show about city management, including stories from the front lines about interesting and innovative things happening in the field. In this trailer, we introduce the show and talk about our goals for it. Everyone has a podcast now, so we figured we should, too. Join us as we embark on what we hope will be a fun and engaging show about city management, including stories from the front lines about interesting and innovative things happening in the field. In local government, technology No Patrick Lawler Chad Janicek