As our HCLA cohort dove into the complex world of infrastructure and planning this month, it became clear that while buildings and highways may grab headlines, it’s the strategy and collaboration behind the scenes that truly shape Hamilton County’s future. From stewards of the land to stewards of the electric grid, we explored the intricate dance of growth, sustainability, and community identity.
Corby Thompson, owner of Boomerang Development, kicked off the day with an urgent reminder that thoughtful planning today paves the way for thriving communities tomorrow. He painted a vivid picture of how the cost of developing land over the last 20 years has skyrocketed—$35K to $125K for a lot—and challenged us to embrace sustainable solutions and open spaces. Corby’s passion for Hamilton County was infectious: “Get passionate. Get involved. The community needs it.” It was a call to action that resonated deeply, especially when paired with the sobering realization that modern planning is riddled with complexities and barriers.
Next up, Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt emphasized the art of collaboration. As the county commissioner put it, success in leadership hinges on great communication and a unified plan. He inspired us to see ourselves as active contributors, noting, “What you do and what you say can make an impact on someone’s life.” Mark’s insights left us pondering how we, too, could step into roles that influence our community—perhaps even one of those coveted board seats he mentioned.
Post lunch, Henry Mestetsky, executive director of the Carmel Redevelopment Commission, provided insights into Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and its role in Carmel’s growth. He explained how TIF has been leveraged to create a vibrant, walkable community while maintaining low taxes for the long term. His presentation highlighted the importance of urban planning in shaping a city’s identity, emphasizing that “If you build cool, people will move in.” The assessed value map and development strategies underscored Carmel’s commitment to sustainable growth and innovation.
Later, the executive director of HAND, Andrea Davis, hit us with hard truths about housing. With less than 2% of Hamilton County’s housing considered affordable, she posed a poignant question: “Should communities be so exclusive that residents need to ‘earn’ their way in?” Whether the obstacles are financial or cultural—like NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) or BANANA (Build Absolutely Nothing Anywhere Near Anything)—Andrea encouraged us to rethink what inclusive growth truly means. Her compassion was evident, as was her challenge to take a closer look at the disparities hiding in plain sight.
The day ended with a mind-boggling visit to MISO (Midcontinent Independent System Operator). Think of them as the air traffic controllers of our electric grid. They balance power across 15 states and parts of Canada for 45 million people—a task so critical that even a minor hiccup could lead to a blackout like the one in 2003. Touring their control room, we marveled at the immense responsibility they carry and the meticulous planning required to keep the lights (and everything else) on.
As the sun set on our Planning & Infrastructure Day, one thing became clear: Hamilton County’s future doesn’t happen by accident. It’s shaped by the dedication of planners, leaders, and visionaries who blend data with dreams, strategy with heart. Now it’s our turn to get passionate, get involved, and ensure the community we love continues to thrive.