HomeMy WebLinkAbout1_City of Orlando _ Mayor Buddy Dyer
August 6, 2019
To Whom It May Concern:
Shanon Larimer has been a great partner in helping to foster long-term public-private partnerships within
creative industries to stimulate innovation, strengthen Orlando’s competitiveness in the global
marketplace, and play an important role in building and sustaining economic vibrancy for the City of
Orlando.
Shanon is currently the founding principal of Larimer & Co. Branding Studios where he unites strategy
and creative to drive positive change for the people and brands he and his team represents. He managed
our City’s Arts and Cultural District as the organization’s Executive Director from 2008-2011 and served
as the Chairman of the Board from 2014-2018. During his tenure, he guided the nonprofit arts
organization through a significant period in its then 10-year history by eliminating a six-figure deficit and
achieving a balanced financial position despite the financial recession.
In addition, he directed the rebranding and renovation of the historic CityArts Factory landmark building
– a 20,000 square-foot center for contemporary arts. The re-brand, which included market research and
engagement by government officials, residents, community leaders, board, staff, and volunteers, resulted
in increased visibility, visitation, and program participation by more than 80 percent within a 12-month
period.
An advocate for community development, Shanon leverages the power of the arts, culture, and creativity
to serve the community’s interest while driving change, growth, and transformation in a way that builds
character and quality of place. He has participated on three occasions as a speaker for the city on creative
industries and placemaking within urban environments and is currently on the project team for Creative
Village, a $1.5-billion, 68-acre mixed-use, transit-oriented, urban infill neighborhood in our downtown.
Most recently, I have appointed Shanon to serve on the city’s Historic Preservation Board where he helps
to promote the welfare of our city though the preservation and protection of historic structures, sites,
monuments, and designation of historic landmarks. On this board, Shanon participates in monthly public
hearings, evaluating the architectural significance of historic buildings.
Shanon is a good steward for the economic development of our city and is a key player in supporting
Orlando’s arts and cultural heritage in an inclusive manner.
Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor