Special Districts for Special Places with Sam Sharp
Dot Dot Dot: The NINE dot ARTS Podcast
Episode 38
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In this insightful podcast episode, public finance expert Sam Sharp describes innovative financial models used to fund long-term public infrastructure projects that lead to art and cultural amenities, workforce development, and more vibrant places to live, work, and play. As Head of Special District Group at Piper Sandler, Sam’s influence starts early in a project lifecycle when meeting with the landowner or developer to understand the vision for the site and the project’s estimated budget. Such plans are then put through an internal underwriting process that evaluates risks and issues the appropriate bonds to pay for public infrastructure. When discussing the social impact of special district financing, Sam notes benefits such as more fruitful public/private partnerships, an increase in affordable housing, and integration of art and cultural programs, which he comments “can attract tax payers and ultimately pay back the bonds that are issued to create the places where people want to be.”
Discussed in the Episode:
Piper Sandler
Lincoln Yards
Denver Urban Renewal Authority
Jordanelle Ridge
Park Hill Golf Course to include 303 ArtWay Heritage Trail
Loretto Heights
Metro District Education Coalition
River North Arts District (RiNo)
Artist Patrick Kane McGregor
Esoteric Art Father and Son Muralist Company
The Jacquard Hotel
Sam Sharp on LinkedIn
About Sam Sharp:
Sam Sharp leads the special district group at Piper Sandler, which focuses on special district finance primarily in Colorado. Sharp has experience underwriting bonds for a broad range of development types and in turbulent credit environments. His expertise is often called upon early in the lifecycle of projects to assist clients in long-range public finance planning and in negotiating the terms of public/private partnerships with local municipalities.
Prior to joining Piper Sandler, Sharp served as the head of the special district group at D.A. Davidson. He also served on the Colorado Municipal Bond Supervision Advisory Board and the Colorado Municipal Bond Dealers Association Board of Directors – the latter of which he served one year terms as treasurer and as president. Sharp attended Columbia University in New York City, earning a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree with a concentration in public finance. He also holds a bachelor’s degree from Occidental College in Los Angeles.
About Dot Dot Dot: The NINE dot ARTS Podcast
Dot Dot Dot is the continuing conversation around art and placemaking in the built environment. Hosted by NINE dot ARTS CEO Martha Weidmann, episodes explore art, culture, community, and more with a range of reputable business leaders. Tune in biweekly to learn how an original art experience can boost your business and make a social impact. Episodes are available wherever you get your podcasts!