Using Data to Build Better Cities with Andy Nickerson from Hdl Companies

This episode of the Amazing Cities and Towns Podcast sponsored by Bearing Advisors, Jim Hunt interviews Andy Nickerson, President of Hdl Companies, both attending the ICMA Conference this September.  7 Steps to an Amazing City: Attitude Motivation Attention to Detail Zing Inclusiveness Neighborhood Empowerment Green Awareness Thanks for listening and look forward to having you join us for the next episode. Links Mentions During Show:  https://www.hdlcompanies.com/  ·       www.AmazingCities.org ·       www.AmazingCities.org/podcast to be a guest on the podcast   About Andy Nickerson, President of Hdl Companies:    As President of HdL, Andy has proven instrumental in guiding market expansion and new product development for all three of our affiliated companies. In addition to overseeing the day-to-day management of our sales tax programs and services, he also guides market expansion and new ventures, all while working to ensure quality of service and foster long-term client relationships. Andy has 30 years of experience working with local government agencies, assisting these agencies with programs to enhance sales tax, property tax, RDA increment, and documentary transfer tax revenues. Throughout his career, he has been involved with various municipal organizations including The Institute for Local Government, The International City Manager’s Association, The League of California Cities, California Society of Municipal Finance Officers, State Association of County Auditors, California State Association of Counties, Alliance for Innovation, Texas Municipal League and Government Finance Officers Association. Mr. Nickerson earned a Bachelor of Science degree (Finance & Real Estate Law) from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.   About Your Host, Jim Hunt: Welcome to the “Building Amazing Cities and Towns Podcast” … The podcast for Mayors, Council Members, Managers, Staff and anyone who is interested in building an Amazing City. Your host is Jim Hunt, the author of “Bottom Line Green, How American Cities are Saving the Planet and Money Too” and his latest book, “The Amazing City - 7 Steps to Creating an Amazing City” Jim is also the former President of the National League of Cities, 27 year Mayor, Council Member and 2006 Municipal Leader of the Year by American City and County Magazine. Today, Jim speaks to 1000’s of local government officials each year in the US and abroad. Jim also consults with businesses that are bringing technology and innovation to local government.   Amazing City Resources: Buy Jim’s Popular Books: ·       The Amazing City: 7 Steps to Creating an Amazing City:   https://www.amazingcities.org/product-page/the-amazing-city-7-steps-to-creating-an-amazing-city   ·       Bottom Line Green: How America’s Cities and Saving the Planet (And Money Too)  https://www.amazingcities.org/product-page/bottom-line-green-how-america-s-cities-are-saving-the-planet-and-money-too   FREE White Paper: ·       “10 Steps to Revitalize Your Downtown”  www.AmazingCities.org/10-Steps   Hire Jim to Speak at Your Next Event: ·       Tell us about your event and see if dates are available at www.AmazingCities.org/Speaking   Hire Jim to Consult with Your City or Town: ·       Discover more details at https://www.amazingcities.org/consulting   Discuss Your Business Opportunity/Product to Help Amazing Cities: ·       Complete the form at https://www.amazingcities.org/business-development   A Special Thanks to Bearing Advisors for the support of this podcast:  www.BearingAdvisors.Net    Show Summary: Andy's Journey to Becoming HDL CEO

Andy shared his journey to becoming the CEO of Hdl, starting with an internship in finance that was required for his college graduation. His college roommate's date, who was the daughter of Hdl's founder, Lloyd Dalamas, passed on his resume to her father, leading to his first job offer. Over the years, Andy was given numerous opportunities and eventually became the CEO in 2010. Jim agreed with Andy's path to success, emphasizing the importance of following opportunities and finding one's passion.

HDL Company History and Expansion Discussion

Jim and Andy discussed the history and growth of Hdl, a company founded in 1983 by a former city manager. Initially focused on gathering sales tax data and providing analytics to cities in California, the company expanded under Andy's leadership as CEO since 2010. Hdl now has a national footprint, offering services beyond sales tax to include economic development and having acquired companies in Texas, Colorado, Alabama, North Carolina, and Georgia.

Exploring Public Agency Services and Data Analytics

Andy discussed the services provided by his company to public agencies, emphasizing the administrative, compliance, data analytics, and revenue forecasting aspects. He highlighted the acquisition of data sets from over 750 public agencies, which aids in benchmarking and revenue forecasting for cities recruiting new businesses. Andy also explained the forecasting model used by his team, which combines a top-down and bottom-up approach for accurate predictions. Jim, a former city official, expressed interest in the data analytics aspect, noting its potential value in decision-making and long-term financial planning. Jim also suggested that this data could be a deciding factor in economic development decisions for businesses.

Discussing Business Engagement and Tax Equity

Andy and Jim discussed their engagement with the business community, focusing on education and ensuring tax equity. Andy explained that their teams help businesses understand and correctly fill out tax forms, particularly in states with complex rules. Jim agreed, emphasizing the importance of consistency and professionalism in government dealings. They both acknowledged the potential for tax inequities and the need to level the playing field for businesses.

Discussing Data Management and AI in Local Governments

Jim and Andy discussed the rapid growth of data generation in local governments due to technological advancements. They agreed that cities often lack the capacity to manage this data, necessitating third-party involvement. Andy highlighted the cost and time-consuming nature of data acquisition and software development for local governments, which can be more efficiently handled by companies like theirs. They also touched on the potential of artificial intelligence in interacting with large data sets for forecasting and trend prediction. Andy discussed their tools' effectiveness in increasing productivity and their work on revenue forecasting models that incorporate multiple data sets and macroeconomic trends. Jim agreed with Andy's points, emphasizing the importance of understanding both the advantages and potential dangers of artificial intelligence.

Discussing ICMA Event and Public Sector DNA

Jim and Andy discussed their upcoming attendance at the International City County Managers Association (ICMA) event in Pittsburgh. Andy explained that their firm, Hdl, has a strong public sector DNA due to its founding by two former city managers and the presence of many former public sector employees. He emphasized their passion for serving the public sector and their belief in the importance of local governments in providing services that enrich people's lives. Jim, who works within a city manager form of government, expressed his admiration for the professionalism and adherence to the code of ethics within the city manager profession.

City Management Systems and Pittsburgh Revitalization

Jim and Andy discussed the growth and transition of city management systems in West Virginia, with Jim mentioning a city that recently switched from a strong mayor to a professional city manager. Andy, who is visiting Pittsburgh for the first time, expressed his excitement about the city's revitalization and planned to extend his stay for a bike tour along the rivers. Jim shared his positive impressions of Pittsburgh, emphasizing its impressive cityscape and the convergence of the three rivers.

Understanding Make-a-Wish Foundation and Andy's Involvement

Jim and Andy discussed Andy's involvement with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Andy explained that the organization provides support to families with children facing terminal illnesses, not by providing treatment, but by granting wishes to these children. He emphasized that the organization's work is often misunderstood, as most children go through treatment and recover. Andy shared his journey with the organization, starting with a committee role and eventually joining the board. Jim expressed his appreciation for Andy's work and highlighted the importance of understanding that not all problems can be solved by the government. Andy also mentioned that giving generously is a core value in his organization, which includes supporting local charities and sponsoring events.