We've got a dirty secret. Quite a few actually, and you will only hear them on our new podcast called Dirt to Development. We give you a behind-the-scenes look at key development projects and the insane stories surrounding them. Stay tuned to listen to all the dirt on land use, development, and the inside politics of Arizona!
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June 1, 202636 min
Ep. 76 - The ROAD Less Traveled: What Congress' Housing Bill Means for BTR with Steve LaTerra
Congress is close to delivering the most significant housing legislation in decades - but not without sparking a fierce debate over build-to-rent communities and institutional investment. In this episode we speak with Steve Laterra (Terra Lane Development) to break down the latest version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, the controversial provisions that nearly upended the BTR industry, and the House amendments that changed the game.
May 21, 202611 min
Ep. 75 - Build-to-Rent Meets the Federal Speed Bump
In this episode of Dirt to Development, Adam Baugh breaks down the proposed federal “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act” and explores how it could reshape housing development, zoning, and institutional investment across Arizona. From build-to-rent uncertainty to the unintended consequences for housing supply, this episode examines whether the legislation is truly paving the road to affordability — or creating new roadblocks for development.
April 7, 202621 min
Ep. 74 - Watt’s the Deal with Data Center Zoning?
Data centers may be the backbone of the digital economy, but getting them approved on the ground is anything but seamless. In this episode, we unpack the growing tension between surging demand for data infrastructure and the realities of local zoning and land use regulation—where megawatts meet municipal code.From intensive utility demands and transmission constraints to water usage concerns, noise, and community skepticism, data center projects often face a uniquely complex entitlement path. We explore why jurisdictions are grappling with how to classify and regulate these facilities, and how outdated zoning frameworks struggle to keep pace with hyperscale development.We also dig into the politics: why neighbors push back, how elected officials respond, and what it takes to position a project as compatible—even beneficial—to the surrounding community. Along the way, we break down practical strategies for navigating rezoning, securing use permits, and building a defensible record that can withstand scrutiny.Whether you’re a developer, land use attorney, planner, or policymaker, this episode offers a candid look at the friction points—and opportunities—shaping the future of data center siting.
March 25, 202642 min
Ep. 73 - Razing the Bar: An Adaptive Reuse Love Story
The pursuit of land use entitlements comes with risk. For partners Adam Baugh and Jason Morris, the risk was worth the reward as they converted a local bar into a swanky law office complete with a putting green and a speakeasy. The redevelopment of this 40-year-old building is a masterclass in adaptive reuse execution. Said best, "I'm sure the sports bar served better wings, but we dispense way better advice.” Join us in the journey of this office flip.
March 18, 202615 min
Ep. 72 - Proportionately Yours
In this episode, we break down the concept of proportionality appeals in the land use context and why they have become an increasingly important tool for developers and property owners. When cities and towns impose conditions on development approvals—whether through exactions, infrastructure requirements, or other mitigation measures—the law requires those conditions to remain proportional to the impacts of the project. Drawing on the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decisions in Nollan v. California Coastal Commission and Dolan v. City of Tigard, we explore the constitutional limits on government exactions and how the principles of “essential nexus” and “rough proportionality” shape local land use decisions. We also discuss how those standards apply when challenging permit conditions and what developers should consider before filing a proportionality appeal. Whether you are a developer, planner, municipal official, or land use attorney, this episode offers practical insights into when a condition crosses the line—and how proportionality appeals can help restore balance between legitimate public interests and private property rights. Tune in as we unpack the legal framework, real-world implications, and strategic considerations behind one of the most important doctrines in modern land use law.
January 29, 202639 min
Ep. 71 - Community Outreach 101...with Tom Bilsten
Changing the status quo can be hard for neighbors to accept, and it often drives NIMBY reaction to new development. Smart developers know the value of hiring a Neighborhood Outreach Specialist. Hear how Tom Bilsten navigates community outreach and makes it an early step for development success.
November 18, 202539 min
Ep. 70 - The Toy Barn - A grown ass mancave...with Jason Phillips
Boys love their adult toys...but where can you put them? Jason Phillips at Wesley Development cracked the code in the development of the Toy Barn, a luxury storage condo project meant for all your biggest toys.
October 27, 202553 min
Ep. 69 - Shouting Loudly: Is Civic Discourse a Lost Art?
Recent shootings and other public discord has affected us all. Is there a way to disagree better? County Supervisor Mark Stewart and former Councilwoman Kathy Tilque still have hope.
September 16, 202550 min
Ep. 68 - Golf Course Conversions: Pulling off the impossible
Turning dirt to development is hard enough, but try converting a golf course into a new subdivision and the whole world loses their mind. Against all odds, the impossible became possible over a 3 year slog. As the saying goes, where there is a will, there is a way.
September 9, 202540 min
Ep. 67 - Friends in the right places...with Steve Bowser
Land development is not for the faint of heart, but it certainly helps to have friends on the zoning commission. Even better when they are a professional civil engineer. It doesn't always mean a yes, but at least you know they understand the facts.
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