Explanation
Title
To congratulate James Schimmer, for his dedication to downtown development and his commitment to the Columbus Community.
Body
WHEREAS, Jim Schimmer, a geographer by academic training, has amassed over 20 years of urban development experience in a variety of cities across the United States. Born and raised in Tonawanda, New York, Jim graduated from Kenmore West High School in 1976 and received a Bachelor's degree in Geography from Slippery Rock State College in 1980. Jim holds a Master's degree (1986) from the University of North Dakota in the same field; and
WHEREAS, in 1993, Jim became the City of Columbus' Downtown Development Manager. In this position for seven years, Jim helped facilitate on behalf of the City, over $1.2 billion worth of downtown development projects including: the $150 million Miranova Condo/Office project, the $20 million Adam's Mark Hotel, the $100 million Brewery District Project, the $18 million renovation of the Smith Brothers Hardware Building, the $10 million restoration of the Columbus Masonic Temple, the $22 million construction of the 21 East State Street Office Building, the $8 million renovation of the Southern Theater, the $90 million Center for Ohio Science and Industry, and the $500 million Nationwide Arena District development.; and
WHEREAS, in early 2000, Jim was recruited to lead the efforts of the Little Rock Downtown Partnership and the community's planning for the $120 million dollar William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Park. While in Little Rock, he worked on a major riverfront development plan for the urban reach of the Arkansas River, the site location for a new minor league baseball stadium and managed a 44 square block Special Improvement District; and
WHEREAS, Jim Schimmer's love for Columbus drew him back again in February 2002 when he joined Mayor Michael B. Coleman's administration and Development Director Mark Barbash's senior management staff. During Jim's first year on the job, his team was able to directly create 941 jobs and over $77 million in private investment; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby recognize the accomplishments of Jim Schimmer. Your devotion to improving Columbus' physical and economic landscapes is appreciated.