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How Can a Fast-Growing Town Keep Its Identity? | John Stehr, Zionsville Mayor
On today's show I sat down with Zionsville mayor John Stehr, who has prioritized the city's small-town identity despite its population more than doubling since 2010. A former TV journalist of 42 years and longtime WTHR anchor, Stehr was elected as the mayor of Zionsville in 2023 after running on better communication, civility, and responsible growth. He recalls his broadcasting path from Pittsburgh through multiple markets, his view of news, and why he left as media economics and opinion pressures increased. John explains how serving on the parks board revealed communication gaps that motivated his campaign, including knocking on over 5,000 doors and focusing on listening. As mayor, his priorities include improving traffic and emergency access near the Brick Street area with a planned double-roundabout realignment, managing rapid population growth while preserving Zionsville's charming character, supporting housing needs, and backing community projects like parks improvements, a youth advisory council, and a Watch Us Farm initiative for adults with developmental disabilities. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - Door-to-Door Campaigning - Responsibilities of Being a Mayor - The Watch Us Farm Initiative Thank you to our partner: NCW Check out these great clips from the show: 01:19 Guest Introduction: John Stehr, Zionsville Mayor 02:42 Broadcasting Roots and Career Path 03:51 Night Beat and Garfield Story 05:26 CBS to WTHR and Leaving News 07:52 Journalism as Public Service 12:40 Why He Ran for Mayor 15:16 Campaign Trail Door Knocking 17:19 Listening and Being Heard 22:03 First Priorities Traffic Fixes 23:56 Growth and Brick Street Identity 25:44 Downtown Zoning No Chains 28:24 New Developments The Farm and 106th 32:57 My Sugar Pie Surprise 34:06 Favorite Zionsville Eats 35:05 Food Spots and Vibes 36:04 Big Dave's Deli Discovery 37:22 Festivals and Lincoln History 40:27 Mayor Advice on Growth 44:01 Schools and Future Vision 46:09 Responsible Development Plans 47:42 Mayor Life and Public Service 50:43 Road Project and Brick Streets 52:53 Youth Council and Civic Pride 55:37 Floodplain Park Legends 56:43 Why Indiana Feels Like Home 59:09 Traditions and Therapy Dog 01:03:30 Hidden Gems Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
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