May 7, 2026 Study Session

OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK             
 
 
COUNCIL MINUTES 
 
May 7, 2026 
 
The City Council of the City of Mesa met in the Study Session room at City Hall, 20 East Main Street, on 
May 7, 2026, at 7:35 a.m. 
 
COUNCIL PRESENT 
 
COUNCIL ABSENT 
OFFICERS PRESENT 
Mark Freeman 
Scott Somers 
Rich Adams 
Alicia Goforth 
Dorean Taylor* 
Jennifer Duff 
Francisco Heredia 
Scott Butler 
Holly Moseley 
Jim Smith 
 
(*Participated in the meeting through the use of video conference equipment.) 
 
Mayor Freeman conducted a roll call. 
 
Mayor Freeman excused Councilmembers Duff and Heredia from the entire meeting. 
 
1-a. 
Hear a presentation, discuss, and provide direction on the Arizona Museum of Natural History 
(AZMNH) Economic Redevelopment Project, including the design concept, community 
engagement, economic impact, and funding strategy. 
 
Arts and Culture Director Luis Ruiz introduced Museum Administrator Simon Adlam and displayed 
a PowerPoint presentation. (See Attachment 1)  
 
Mr. Ruiz provided an overview of the proposed project and reviewed the purpose and importance 
of the AZMNH. He described the museum as a place of learning, discovery, and community 
identity with significant potential. He pointed out that the museum is part of the larger vision for 
Downtown Mesa and the Arts and Innovation District, with the opportunity to help anchor the 
district, connect residents and visitors to downtown, support surrounding businesses and public 
spaces, and strengthen the City of Mesa’s (COM) sense of place. (See Pages 2 through 4 of 
Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Adlam explained that the vision for AZMNH is to be a uniquely Mesa, distinctly Arizonan, and 
globally significant institution. He described the museum as a hub for discovery, education, 
stewardship, economic development, and community connection, functioning as a high-
performing City-owned asset. He highlighted the museum’s recent growth and operational 
performance, noting increased attendance, expanded budget support, contributed and earned 
income through the AZMNH Foundation, and a cost recovery rate of approximately 70 to 80%.   
He expressed the unique opportunities the COM has with its municipally-owned natural history 
museum and noted that the vision reflects the COM’s legacy, stewardship, and civic pride, while

Study Session 
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Page 2 
 
 
ensuring the museum remains a lasting institution for future generations. (See Pages 5 and 6 of 
Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Ruiz acknowledged the collaborative team involved in advancing the project, including the 
consulting partners who provided specialized expertise throughout the planning process. He 
highlighted Gallagher & Associates (G&A), an internationally recognized design firm specializing 
in story-driven visitor environments that integrate physical and digital media. He introduced Clare 
Brown, Creative Director, and Spencer Downey, Senior Financial Analyst at G&A; Brian Farling, 
Principal and Co-Owner of Jones Studio, Inc. and Laura McDonald, Founder of the Benefactor 
Group, philanthropic leader, and certified fundraising executive. (See Page 8 of Attachment 1) 
 
Ms. Brown provided an overview of the work completed to date, noting that G&A and Jones Studio 
began supporting the museum’s development following completion of the strategic plan. She 
explained that the master planning process established the project’s long-term vision and 
direction, while community engagement, audience research, market analysis, and demand 
projections confirmed strong community support and the potential for a distinctive, world-class 
museum concept. She stated that visitor experience planning and the interpretive framework 
helped shape the museum’s storytelling approach, which will be implemented in phases 
consistent with the funding strategy. She added that the current phase includes architectural 
programming, continued community engagement, 50% design work, and visitor experience 
planning, resulting in a comprehensive concept for moving the project forward. (See Pages 9 
through 13 of Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Downey discussed the project’s goal of maximizing both return on investment and community 
impact. He noted that while the AZMNH has strong brand potential, community support, and 
market opportunity, the current facility and revenue model limit the museum’s ability to increase 
visitation, revenue, and overall impact. He commented that a new, purpose-built facility would 
allow the museum to better serve residents and visitors while adding needed revenue-generating 
spaces, such as event space, food and beverage amenities, retail, classrooms, program areas, 
and support spaces. He stated that the proposed 118,000-square-foot museum would be the 
appropriate size for the project and could be further strengthened through a larger mixed-use 
development that includes hotel, retail, restaurant, commercial, and outdoor spaces. (See Pages 
14 through 19 of Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Downey commented that the museum could serve as a cultural and economic anchor for 
downtown Mesa by increasing visitation, supporting surrounding businesses, attracting private 
investment, improving cost recovery, and expanding the COM’s cultural and economic impact. 
He emphasized the project’s potential to enhance quality of life, support tourism, strengthen the 
COM’s identity, and create educational and workforce connections related to the region’s growing 
science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) economy. (See Pages 20 through 23 
of Attachment 1) 
 
In response to a question from Councilmember Goforth, Mr. Downey stated that examples of 
entertainment-related visitor spending might include activities such as performances, concerts, 
and similar venues or attractions where visitors choose to spend their time. 
 
Mr. Downey highlighted the museum’s potential to support the COM’s growing STEM economy 
by serving as a connector between the COM, private sector partners, and the museum to create 
workforce development opportunities, industry partnerships, and broader economic outcomes. 
He stated that successful natural history museums in other communities have leveraged similar 
partnerships and philanthropic support to expand impact and diversify revenue. He explained that

Study Session 
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Page 3 
 
 
increasing contributed income, in addition to earned revenue, will be an important part of the 
museum’s future business model. He stressed that the project is intended to serve as an 
economic activator, investment catalyst, and tourism multiplier by attracting visitors to the 
museum and encouraging them to visit downtown businesses and other Mesa destinations. He 
declared that maximizing the project’s return on investment and community impact will depend 
on delivering a world-class experience that aligns with the needs and interests of Mesa residents. 
(See Pages 24 through 27 of Attachment 1) 
 
Responding to a question from Mayor Freeman, Mr. Downey clarified the existing museum’s 
ranking of 25th out of 30 peer institutions and explained the criteria used to determine the ranking. 
He stated that the AZMNH has strong brand, market, and audience potential; however, the 
existing building lacks the amenities and revenue-generating spaces expected in today’s cultural 
and experiential market. 
 
In response to a question from Councilmember Goforth, Mr. Downey explained that the museum’s 
existing municipal operating model had historically relied primarily on earned revenue, such as 
admissions, supplemented by City funding, rather than contributed revenue. He noted that while 
the Foundation currently provides contributed support, that revenue is not a significant part of the 
museum’s operating budget. He commented that as the museum expands and transforms, the 
Foundation is positioned to grow its capacity and play a larger role in generating contributed 
revenue as part of a more diversified operating model. 
 
Ms. Brown discussed the community engagement completed during the past six months and 
confirmed that approximately 650 people participated through surveys and an in-person event. 
She stated that the feedback confirmed strong community support and loyalty for the AZMNH and 
identified interest in more multigenerational programming. She reported that participants 
expressed a strong desire to preserve the museum’s unique and beloved features, particularly its 
dinosaur exhibits, while also supporting a new facility that reflects Arizona’s regional character, 
local Indigenous histories, and immersive, multisensory visitor experiences. She stated that the 
feedback reinforced the importance of creating a forward-thinking institution that remains uniquely 
Mesa and reflects the community’s identity. (See Pages 28 through 32 of Attachment 1) 
 
Ms. Brown introduced the proposed building and experience design, explaining that the project is 
intended to create a unique institution rather than follow a traditional museum model. She 
explained that the guiding principle for the design is “Journeys of Discovery,” which is intended to 
allow visitors to move through the museum in a self-directed manner, similar to choosing their 
own path of exploration. She stated that visitors would experience the past, present, and future 
of Arizona and the planet through a design rooted in Arizona’s landscape, history, and sense of 
place. She added that the storytelling approach is organized around the concept of “Braided 
Rivers,” with four interconnected themes: cosmos, earth, life, and people. She stated that this 
approach moves beyond traditional museum storytelling that separates subjects such as geology 
or paleontology, instead showing how natural history, human culture, and the environment are 
deeply connected. She noted that the goal is to make complex topics more accessible, engaging, 
and meaningful for visitors. (See Pages 33 through 38 of Attachment 1) 
  
Mr. Farling discussed the project’s place-based architectural approach, explaining that the design 
is inspired by Mesa and Arizona’s natural history, landscape, climate, and cultural heritage. He 
stated that the AZMNH is well suited for architecture that reflects its location and sense of place 
with regional features such as Red Mountain, Arizona’s geologic strata, historic canal systems, 
earthen structures, native materials, and desert landscapes. He emphasized the importance of 
recognizing the history and wisdom of those who have lived in the region for centuries, particularly

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Page 4 
 
 
in relation to water use and the canal system that helped shape life in the Valley. (See Pages 39 
and 40 of Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Farling stated that the proposed building architecture would not only conserve water but also 
highlight and celebrate water as a precious resource. He explained that the landscape, ground 
plane, terraces, and rooftop areas could serve as educational opportunities to demonstrate 
responsible water use and the importance of native plants. He discussed the need for the building 
to respond to the desert climate through shaded areas, indoor-outdoor spaces, protection from 
heat and sun, and design elements that support visitor movement through a multi-story building. 
He pointed out that the proposed museum is intended to build upon the COM’s downtown vitality 
and create a meaningful, powerful architectural experience inspired by the natural history and 
unique qualities of the region. (See Pages 41 through 45 of Attachment 1)  
 
Mr. Farling reviewed the proposed concept for the ground plan that includes public-facing spaces 
such as a lobby, café, retail area, educational spaces, event space, restaurant, and back-of-house 
areas. He identified the central “canyon” as the heart of the building and explained that the ground 
plan is intended to be open, accessible, and welcoming, with shaded public spaces and multiple 
points of entry. He stated that the building design responds to the desert climate through a thermal 
barrier that helps protect visitors and exhibits from direct sun while supporting manageable utility 
costs. He explained that glass would be concentrated along the canyon area to bring carefully 
controlled, diffused daylight into the building. He added that the entry experience would provide 
a shaded respite and retain the museum’s beloved dinosaur presence while enhancing the overall 
visitor experience. (See Pages 46 through 50 of Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Farling displayed the concept of the building exterior and explained that it is inspired by the 
qualities of Red Mountain, including its texture, movement, and the way sunlight changes its 
appearance throughout the day. He noted that the upper levels are envisioned to include a roof 
terrace, restaurant and retail area, referred to as the commons, and hotel spaces. He described 
the north side of the building as an arrival area for visitors, including school field trips, and 
explained that rainwater would be directed from the roof into garden areas to passively irrigate 
the landscape and highlight responsible water use. He further described the canyon as a shaded 
interior space extending upward through the building, with patterned glass inspired by geologic 
strata, solar panels providing shade, indoor-outdoor connections, and a flexible digital display that 
could support events and community programming. (See Pages 51 through 53 of Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Farling described the lobby as an indoor-outdoor space that uses diffused light from the 
canyon and serves as the first step in the visitor’s “Journey of Discovery.” He noted that the design 
includes double-height spaces to help guide movement through the building and create visual 
connections between levels. He also discussed the potential use of rammed earth and thermally 
efficient walls at the ground level to reflect regional building traditions while helping keep heat out 
and cool air in. He added that the building is organized into three primary functional areas: the 
museum; the commons level with restaurant, retail, and outdoor terraces; and upper-level hotel 
and observation spaces. He stated that the museum portion is planned across four floors, 
connected by a series of double-height spaces intended to create a flexible, self-directed visitor 
experience that can vary with each visit. (See Pages 54 through 59 of Attachment 1) 
 
Ms. Brown explained that the visitor experience is designed to move upward through the building 
while also moving through time and space, telling the story of approximately 4.5 billion years of 
Earth’s history. She stated that the museum floors would be organized around interconnected 
themes and time periods, beginning with the origins of Earth and life, moving through the 
Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras, continuing into human history and living memory, and culminating

Study Session 
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Page 5 
 
 
at a rooftop observatory. She described the experience as immersive and self-directed to help 
visitors understand each new time period. She noted that water would be an important recurring 
theme, both symbolically and physically, reflecting its central role in the story of life on Earth. She 
discussed the use of double-height spaces to support large-scale collections and dramatic 
exhibits, including expanded dinosaur experiences that build upon the museum’s existing Dino 
Mountain. She added that each floor is envisioned to include education lab spaces where visitors 
can engage with hands-on science, technology, and potential STEM partnerships, helping 
connect young people to future career pathways. (See Pages 60 through 64 of Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Farling described exterior views of the proposed project and stated that the project is intended 
to build on and enhance the existing vitality of downtown Mesa. (See Pages 65 and 66 of 
Attachment 1) 
  
Discussion ensued regarding the placement of the lookout area in the building. 
 
Ms. McDonald discussed potential funding strategies for the proposed museum project using a 
hypothetical $300 million project scenario. She explained that funding could come from three 
primary sources: public investment, private commercial investment, and philanthropy, with the 
potential to leverage public dollars to attract additional private investment. She highlighted 
philanthropy as a significant funding source, noting that major campaigns are primarily supported 
by high-net-worth individuals, along with foundations and national funders. She explained that the 
museum aligns priorities such as scientific discovery, education, workforce development, public 
engagement, and community benefit, making it well-positioned for philanthropic support. She 
emphasized that successful fundraising would require dedicated staff, donor cultivation, and long-
term relationship building to secure major gifts. (See Pages 67 through 74 of Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Downey presented case studies of comparable museum projects, including the Natural 
History Museum of Utah and the Milwaukee Public Museum, noting that both involved constrained 
facilities, transformational new buildings, and hybrid funding models using public and private 
investment. He explained that the examples demonstrate that major museum projects can be 
successfully advanced through different partnership and funding structures when the facility, 
location, visitor experience, and revenue opportunities are aligned. (See Pages 75 and 76 of 
Attachment 1) 
 
Ms. McDonald commented that the proposed museum represents an opportunity for Mesa to 
create a world-class natural history institution that is authentic to the community, supports 
education and scientific discovery, generates public and private revenue, encourages career 
pathways, and provides long-term cultural and civic value beyond economic impact alone. (See 
Page 77 of Attachment 1) 
 
Assistant City Manager Candace Cannistraro summarized the proposed next steps for the project. 
She stated that the next phase would occur over a two-year period, with annual updates provided 
to Council each May. She explained that the next phase as a full economic impact study, that 
would provide a more detailed understanding of the project’s return on investment and community 
impact. She stated the next two years would include further analysis of the site, including 
community input and design feasibility to ensure the proposed concept can be successfully 
implemented. She confirmed that fundraising would begin in the first year, including establishing 
the necessary staffing, systems, processes, and technology to support a future philanthropic 
campaign. She said that in the second year, staff would focus on developing donor and partner 
relationships in advance of any public funding discussion. She emphasized that the AZMNH 
represents Mesa, Arizona, and the broader Southwest region, and concluded that the goal is to

Study Session 
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Page 6 
 
 
return to Council with a validated project concept, economic and social impact information, and 
potential partners prepared to invest in the COM and the museum. (See Pages 78 and 79 of 
Attachment 1)  
 
Responding to a question from Mayor Freeman, Ms. Cannistraro voiced that staff had been 
working with the City Manager’s Office and Office of Management and Budget to identify funding 
for the next phase of the project. She reported that approximately $6 million in one-time costs has 
been identified over a two-year period to continue the project, clarifying that the funding would 
come from one-time revenues and would not impact the ongoing forecast previously presented 
to Council. 
 
In response to a question from Mayor Freeman, Mr. Adlam discussed the AZMNH Foundation’s 
critical role as a strategic partner in the museum redevelopment project. He stated that over the 
past two years, the Foundation has committed more than $760,000 to support planning and 
redevelopment efforts in partnership with the COM and he expressed confidence in the 
Foundation’s ability to support the project moving forward and acknowledged Foundation 
representatives in attendance.  
 
Mr. Ruiz added that similar projects have used a capital campaign cabinet to support major 
fundraising efforts beyond local sources. He stated that because the project may attract interest 
from regional, national, and potentially global donors, a campaign cabinet could include high-level 
leaders from across industries to supplement the Foundation’s ongoing work. He advised that this 
hybrid model would allow the Foundation to remain a key partner without carrying the full 
fundraising responsibility alone. 
 
Responding to a question from Councilmember Taylor, Mr. Ruiz replied that private equity is not 
currently part of the museum’s funding model, which primarily consists of earned revenue, City 
support, and Foundation support. 
 
Ms. McDonald explained that, depending on how private equity is defined, future opportunities 
could include private investment in hospitality or other commercial components of the project. She 
noted that the funding model presented was conceptual and could include private investment, 
impact investment, and private philanthropy. She added that some philanthropic donors may have 
generated wealth through private equity and may choose to support the project through charitable 
giving. 
 
Additional discussion ensued regarding the potential funding sources for the proposed project.  
 
In response to a question from Councilmember Taylor, Ms. Cannistraro clarified that while the 
museum receives earned revenue and City support, major capital improvements are typically 
funded through bond programs, like the current i.d.e.a. Museum renovation and expansion. She 
emphasized that the AZMNH is a working museum and research center, not solely an exhibit-
based facility and that City scientists conduct research, publish findings, receive grants, 
participate in dig sites, and support ongoing collections work. She pointed out that the proposed 
lab spaces are a vital part of the future museum concept and could create opportunities for 
partnerships with universities, research institutions, and private entities. She further stated that 
potential partnerships could include impact investment, where outside partners help fund lab 
spaces and conduct research alongside museum staff, noting potential partnerships with colleges 
that have expressed interest in the museum’s expertise.

Study Session 
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Page 7 
 
 
Responding to a question from Councilmember Adams, Mr. Adlam advised that the project team 
has identified potential approaches to funding large civic projects intended to serve the community 
for the next 50 to 75 years. He noted that the storytelling, exhibit design, visitor experience, and 
architecture have been developed together from the beginning and that this integrated approach 
is intended to ensure the building can adapt over time as visitor expectations and museum 
experiences evolve, without requiring major renovations to the facility. 
 
Additional discussion ensued regarding the potential operating costs and funding sources for the 
proposed project.  
 
(At 9:42 a.m., Mayor Freeman excused Councilmember Adams from the remainder of the 
meeting.) 
 
In response to questions from Councilmember Goforth, Ms. Cannistraro stated that the proposed 
two-year next phase would allow the COM to fully develop the funding strategy, partnerships, 
project details, and public case before moving forward. She emphasized the importance of taking 
the time necessary to get the project right for Mesa residents, the region, and the state, rather 
than rushing into a major civic investment. She explained that the goal is not simply to construct 
a building and fill it with exhibits, but to create a facility grounded in the museum’s mission, 
education, research, visitor experience, and long-term adaptability. She pointed out that 
fundraising will require additional expertise and capacity to guide the COM and the Foundation 
through the process and position the project for success. 
 
 
Additional discussion ensued regarding existing and potential partnerships.  
 
Vice Mayor Somers emphasized the importance of considering the historic value of the existing 
building as future planning continues, including how the project is placed on the site and how the 
architect may be able to integrate the historic structure into the overall design. 
 
Mayor Freeman read a letter submitted by Councilmember Duff that supported moving forward 
with the proposed AZMNH project.  
 
Mayor Freeman noted Councilmember Heredia had expressed his support for the project also.  
 
Mayor Freeman declared that it was the consensus of the Council to proceed with the next steps 
as discussed.  
 
2. 
Current events summary including meetings and conferences attended. 
 
Mayor Freeman and Councilmembers highlighted the events, meetings, and conferences recently 
attended. 
 
3. 
Scheduling of meetings. 
 
City Manager Scott Butler stated that the schedule of meetings is as follows: 
 
Thursday, May 14, 2026, 7:30 a.m. – Study Session 
 
4. 
Convene an Executive Session.

Study Session 
May 7, 2026 
Page 8 
 
 
It was moved by Vice Mayor Somers, seconded by Councilmember Goforth, that the Council 
adjourn the Study Session at 10:13 a.m. and enter into an Executive Session.  
 
Upon tabulation of votes, it showed:  
 
AYES – Freeman–Somers–Goforth–Taylor 
NAYS – None 
ABSENT – Adams–Duff–Heredia 
 
Mayor Freeman declared the motion carried unanimously by those present.  
 
4-a. 
Discussion or consideration of employment, assignment, appointment, promotion, salaries 
of a public officer, appointee, or employee of the City Council. (A.R.S. 38-431.03(A)(1)); 
and discussion or consultation for legal advice with the City Attorney. (A.R.S. §38-
431.03(A)(3)).  
 
Interview of the following City Magistrate candidates:  
 
a) Kevin Breger  
b) Jacob Brown  
c) Joan Sinclair 
 
 
At 11:24 a.m. the Executive Session adjourned, and the Study Session reconvened. 
 
5. 
Resume the public meeting, discuss, and provide direction on the nomination for the position of 
City Magistrate. 
 
Mayor Freeman announced that the consensus of Council was to recommend Jacob Brown for 
appointment as City Magistrate, with confirmation to be considered at the June 1, 2026, City 
Council meeting. 
 
It was moved by Councilmember Goforth, seconded by Vice Mayor Somers, to recommend Jacob 
Brown for appointment as City Magistrate. 
 
Upon tabulation of votes, it showed:  
 
AYES – Freeman–Somers–Goforth–Taylor 
NAYS – None 
ABSENT – Adams–Duff–Heredia 
 
Mayor Freeman declared the motion carried unanimously by those present. 
 
6. 
Adjournment. 
 
Without objection, the Study Session adjourned at 11:25 a.m.

Study Session 
May 7, 2026 
Page 9 
 
 
    ____________________________________ 
MARK FREEMAN, MAYOR 
 
ATTEST: 
 
 
 
_______________________________ 
HOLLY MOSELEY, CITY CLERK 
 
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Study Session 
of the City Council of Mesa, Arizona, held on the 7th day of May 2026. I further certify that the meeting 
was duly called and held and that a quorum was present. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_______________________________ 
    HOLLY MOSELEY, CITY CLERK 
 
sr 
(Attachments –1)

AZMNH
Arizona Museum of Natural History
Mesa City Council Presentation
May 7, 2026
Study Session 
May 7, 2026 
Attachment 1 
Page 1 of 80

2
AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
Agenda
Executive Summary 
Introduction and Project 
Overview 
1
AZMNH COUNCIL PRESENTATION
Return on 
Investment & Impact 
Why invest in a world-class natural 
history museum in Mesa, Arizona?
2
Community Engagement 
How do we understand community 
needs and motivations?
3
Architecture & 
Experience Design 
What is possible for the Arizona 
Museum of Natural History?  
4
Funding Models
How will the Arizona Museum of 
Natural History realize its vision?  
5
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3
AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
AZMNH COUNCIL PRESENTATION
1
Executive Summary
Introduction and 
Project Overview 
Study Session 
May 7, 2026 
Attachment 1 
Page 3 of 80

4
AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Study Session 
May 7, 2026 
Attachment 1 
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5
AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Project Vision
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Attachment 1 
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6
AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
Arizona’s history is world history. 
Right here in Mesa, we stand in a place of continuous human presence, 
and that matters. In a 21st century economy, cities compete for talent, 
investment, and corporate headquarters. The AZMNH redevelopment 
turns that reality into an advantage, creating a global destination that 
delivers exponential return on the city’s investment. 
This is not a typical museum. 
It is the first model of its kind anywhere, a self-sustaining cultural and 
economic engine. It will serve our residents, inspire future generations, 
and drive visitation, private investment, and job creation. It strengthens 
downtown, builds civic identity, and puts Mesa firmly on the map as a city 
that leads, competes, and wins. 
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Study Session 
May 7, 2026 
Attachment 1 
Page 6 of 80

7
AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Project Partners
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Attachment 1 
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
G&A Strategy + Design
Experience Design
Feasibility and Operational Planning
Community Engagement
Jones Studio
Architectural Programming
Architectural Concept
Benefactor
Philanthropic Planning
Funding Models
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Mesa Arts and Culture
City of Mesa
Study Session 
May 7, 2026 
Attachment 1 
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9
AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Questions We Will 
Address Today
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Questions We Will Address Today
Why invest in a world-class 
natural history museum in 
Mesa, Arizona?
Return on Investment and Impact
How do we understand the potential 
social and economic returns of a 
project like this one? 
Market Research & Community Engagement
What is possible for the Arizona 
Museum of Natural History?
Visualizing the Future
How will the Arizona Museum of 
Natural History realize its vision?
Funding Models
Study Session 
May 7, 2026 
Attachment 1 
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11
AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Work Completed 
To-Date
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
Strategic Plan and 
Master Plan completed
Community engagement and 
audience research completed
Market analysis and demand 
projections completed
Visitor experience and 
interpretive framework defined
Clear long-term vision 
and direction established
Strong participation 
and validated demand
Distinct, world-class 
concept established
Phased approach aligned 
to funding strategy
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Work Done to Date
Study Session 
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Attachment 1 
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY / OVERALL PROJECT WORKFLOW
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
KICKOFF
ARCHITECTURAL 
PROGRAMMING
BUSINESS PLANNING & 
OPERATIONAL FEASIBILITY STUDY
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & 
AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT
ALIGNMENT BRIEF
50% DESIGN
Preliminary Program & 
Concept Design Workshop
75% DESIGN
Progress Program & 
Concept Design Workshop
VISITOR EXPERIENCE PLANNING
INTERPRETIVE PLANNING
100% COUNCIL PRESENTATION
Final Program & 
Concept Design Presentation
DATE
10/21–10/22
11/18
12/19
2/12
5/7 
2025
2026
We Are Here! 
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
AZMNH COUNCIL PRESENTATION
2
Return on Investment 
and Impact
Why invest in a 
world-class natural 
history museum in 
Mesa, Arizona?
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
Return on 
Investment
Return on 
Impact
Build for the greatest impact on our mission, impact, and 
audience while remaining financially sustainable 
ROI2 
Maximizing ROI2 
G&A Strategy’s approach for business 
planning is to maximize the museum’s 
return on impact and return on 
investment.
●
Return on investment has two dimensions: 
the financial returns that sustain the museum 
and the broader economic and community 
impact that justify the investment.
●
As a city-owned museum, Mesa can use AZMNH 
as an asset to deliver a return on investment for 
residents and taxpayers beyond the museum’s 
walls.
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
Annual Visitors
175k
Largest city municipal 
Natural History Museum in 
the country
Capture Rate
0.73%
Ranking  25th of 30 peers in 
attendance capture relative to 
Total Potential Audience
Heavily dependent on 
gate revenue and public 
support
Earned Revenue
$1.8m
Tourists make up just over 10% 
of AZMNH’s audience mix — far 
below the average of a typical 
Natural History Museum
Tourist Mix
~10% 
Key Facts & Figures
AZMNH Today has the brand 
potential, market, and audience 
to be a top Valley attraction.
●
Sits in one of the fastest-growing markets in the U.S. for 
population, tourism, and STEM
●
The only city-owned natural history museum in the country 
carrying the brand potential of an entire state
●
A 63K SF aging facility has capped the museum's ability to 
grow visitation, revenue, and impact
●
Minimal contributed revenues, leaving one of the
 largest income sources in the museum industry untapped
AZMNH’s opportunity is clear, but the 
current building and revenue model prevent 
the museum from meeting it
Study Session 
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
FOR ALL OF MESA
TOURISM MULTIPLIER
ECONOMIC ACTIVATOR
MARKET COMPETITIVE
CATALYST FOR INVESTMENT
AZMNH
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
Maximizing Return on Investment
Maximizing ROI for all of Mesa requires:
●
A revenue strategy fit for the opportunity
●
Driving new visitation from tourists and Valley 
residents to Mesa
●
Turn museum visitors into Main Street customers 
for Mesa's restaurants, shops, and nightlife
●
Catalyze private investment in downtown Mesa
●
Deliver a community asset that serves Mesa 
residents and meets their needs
Maximizing Mesa’s Return on Investment means designing 
a project that delivers beyond its own walls.
Study Session 
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
3,450,000
New AZMNH 
Building Program
Current AZMNH 
Building Program
118,000 Sq Ft
77% Inc
66,640 Sq Ft
39,300 Sq Ft
146% Inc
39,300 Sq Ft
251% Inc
39,376 Sq Ft
16,039 Sq Ft
11,225 Sq Ft
The Future Museum
●
AZMNH already has the necessary exhibit space, but it 
lacks the amenity spaces that are critical for generating 
more earned revenue
●
The new building plan also adds the program and 
classroom spaces that are needed to grow programs, 
student visitation, and serve more of the Mesa 
community’s needs.
39,300 Sq Ft
0% Inc
Last year we showed AZMNH needs more amenity and 
support space to maximize the ROI of the Museum
Exhibit Spaces
Front of House / Amenities
Back of House
Legend
Study Session 
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
AZMNH can meet this opportunity 
by delivering more to Mesa residents 
and Valley tourists.
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
AZMNH’s Mixed-Use Development
●
118K SF museum right-sized for the market and 
competitive with the region's top attractions
●
Boutique hotel adds room nights that strengthen all 
of Mesa's experiential assets
●
Dining and retail amenities designed to compliment 
the rest of the market’s offering
Museum
Boutique Hotel
Retail & F&B Tenants
Mixed-Use Components
Outdoor Space
* Commercial Footprint includes  170k sq ft of indoor space plus 
10k sqft of commercial outdoor public space 
118k  Sq Ft
Total Footprint  288k Sq Ft*
The Future AZMNH
70k Sq Ft
100k Sq Ft
10k Sq Ft
Commercial 
Development
Museum
Development
Study Session 
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
     
Peer Median
Average Peer Resident Pop: 4.4M
Small Market 
High Capture
Small Market 
Low Capture
Big Market
High Capture
Big Market
Low Capture
AZMNH TODAY 
175,000 Visitors
60 Min. Resident Population
Annual Attendance
High Peer Range: 515,000 Visitors
75th Percentile: 635,000 Visitors
AZMNH TOMORROW
Projected Attendance:  285,000 Visitors
Designing for the Valley's future audience positions AZMNH to achieve future attendance 
levels competitive with national peers and with potential for even greater visitation. 
AZMNH TODAY (2025)
Peer Museums
AZMNH TOMORROW
AZMNH Peer Range
LEGEND
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Annual Reports; Form 990s; Various Tourism Reports
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
285,000+
Annual Museum Visitors
Total campus visitation is substantially 
higher with hotel, event, dining, and 
conference guests.
1.5M+
Annual On-Site Visitors
Total on-site visitation across museum, 
hotel, retail, dining, and public events.
3x to 4x
Increase in Economic Impact 
Mesa's arts and culture sector generates $35.3M 
today. AZMNH adds nearly $14M in net new 
annual impact.
The future AZMNH will return new revenue, new visitors, and new private 
investment to downtown Mesa, while delivering greater impact than ever before.
Return on Impact
●
Quality-of-life improvements that come with having a world-class 
cultural amenity 
●
Positions downtown Mesa as active science destination, visible 
to every visitor
●
World-class amenities factor into where companies relocate and 
where talent chooses to live
●
Direct STEM pipeline to Mesa's growing tech and aerospace 
employers
Financial & Operating Return
●
$9.5M in projected Y1 revenue from a diversified earned revenue 
model
●
Increased cost recovery for the City of Mesa
●
Ability to host over 300 private events/year with rentable space 
ranging in capacity from  50 –1,100 guests
●
Experiential retail and F&B creates $400K in revenue annually
Sources: AE6 Americans for the Arts
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
WHAT THEY DO
ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION (Valley  vs U.S. NORM)
Entertainment
64%
Outdoor / Rec.
50%
Cultural
34%
Sporting
28%
Orange Bar = Phoenix Valley Participation 
Green Line = U.S. Norm 
TOP ACTIVITIES (Valley  vs U.S. NORM)
Shopping
Sightseeing
Celebrations / events
Bars / nightclubs
Swimming / beach
Landmarks / historic
Casino / gaming
Museums 
Hiking / backpacking
11%
$170
/day
Lodging
$59
34.5%
Food & Beverage
$45
26.6%
Retail & Shopping
$27
15.8%
Transportation
$24
14.2%
Entertainment
$15
8.9%
27%
19%
17%
16%
14%
14%
The Valley tourist is active, engaged, and spending money on a variety of offerings. 
The future AZMNH is positioned to drive a greater share of this spending to Mesa.
11%
12%
HOW THEY SPEND
3.4 Nights Avg. = 
~$578 per trip
Sources: Arizona Office of Tourism; Longwoods International Travel USA; VisitPhoenix; VisitMesa
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
Mesa
Scottsdale
Gilbert
Phoenix
Glendale
Palo District
Heritage Park
Nox Music Venue
Cactus Surf Park
Legacy Park
McCain Library
VAI Resort
Mattel Adventure Park
10 Minute Radius
20 Minute Radius
Mesa’s downtown is missing the anchor attraction that 
turns pass-through visitors into overnight guests.
●
The future AZMNH will drive new tourism to Mesa while 
keeping existing tourist dollars in Mesa longer.
●
Cultural tourists spend 38% more per day and stay 22% 
longer than average travelers. 
30 Minute Radius
Legend
Over $8B in experience investment is reshaping the Valley, proving 
the demand and ROI of the experiential economy.
Planned Projects
Sources: Phoenix Business Journal
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
The Valley’s STEM Economy
$300B+ 
Announced STEM capital investment since 2020 across 
semiconductor, data center, aerospace, biotech, and advanced 
manufacturing
#1
U.S. metro for semiconductor expansion investment; 35 
manufacturers and 181 suppliers in the Phoenix ecosystem 
(CBRE 2025)
$34B
Projected new STEM-sector jobs across committed projects, at 
an average wage of $95,928 (ACA FY2025)
212k+
New investment committed in FY2025 alone, setting a new 
annual record for the state (Arizona Commerce Authority)
$24.2B 
Mesa's active economic development pipeline alone: 202 
projects, 39,319 jobs across semiconductor, aerospace, 
biotech, and manufacturing
AZMNH sits at the center of the 
fastest-growing STEM economy in 
the country and has barely 
scratched the surface of its 
strategic partnership potential.
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
Leveraging the Valley’s STEM Economy delivers on both 
Return on Investment and Return on Impact.
Sources: Phoenix Business Journal
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
HMNS anchors a museum district where  
cultural investment drives private investment 
into residential, commercial, and hospitality 
developments across the district. 
Project Facts
●
$40M Project Budget | $1,335 per Sq Ft
●
30,000 Sq Ft Exhibit Expansion 
●
Funding from virtually every Houston-based energy company, 35+ in total 
including ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell, and ConocoPhillips
Partnership Outcomes
●
Careers in Energy — sponsored by Simmons & Company; interactive career 
aptitude quiz showing salary, growth, and job availability
●
Corporate programs & industry events — energy companies fund workforce 
development programs, sustainability workshops, and host networking 
events in the hall
●
STEM grants — Kinder Morgan: $100K/yr x 5 years for underserved youth 
education
Case Study — Weiss Energy Hall
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
Average Annual Contributed Income  
Valley Metro Museums and Cultural Attractions
The Phoenix Zoo
Desert Botanical Garden
 Valley Average = $7.8M
$11.8M
$11.5M
$9.8M
$8.7M
$7.0M
$3.8M
$2.1M
AZ Science Center
Phoenix Art Museum
Heard Museum
Children’s Museum
FLW Foundation
AZMNH
$570k
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
AZMNH operates with virtually no philanthropic support, leaving one 
of the largest revenue sources in the museum industry untapped.
Without contributed income, 
AZMNH is overly reliant on 
admissions and city funding, 
suppressing both its financial 
performance and its impact 
potential.
Sources: City of Mesa; Tax Form 990 from FY22, FY23, and FY24
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
A world-class museum is the anchor 
that attracts private investment in 
hotel, retail, and restaurants.
●
Public-private partnerships 
allow the city to promote 
development and enable the 
private sector to flourish 
●
The MAC is a proven case study: 
a public anchor that unlocked 20 
years of surrounding private 
investment
Competitors are actively investing in 
this space — Mesa's advantage is now, 
not later.
●
Cultural and attraction 
investment in the Valley is as 
competitive as it has ever been
●
The Valley cultural tourist is 
active and outgoing, but 
requires delivering a visitor 
experience 
●
Mesa becomes the only Valley 
city synonymous with the 
Sonoran Desert ecosystem
Co-located hotel and conference 
infrastructure extend visits and create 
new overnight stays.
●
Morning: museum → afternoon: 
Main Street dining and shopping 
→ evening: nightlife & hotel stay
●
New hotel makes Mesa a stronger, 
greater sell to larger potential 
conventions and AZMNH provides 
the experience space for off-site 
events and leisure time
●
Allows for multi-day citizen 
science programs and 
conferences the current building 
can't host
Fills gaps in Mesa's market and 
pushes new visitation outward to 
Main Street, dining, and nightlife.
●
500-person wedding releases 
guests onto Main Street 
nightlife at 10pm
●
Private event spaces serving 
50–1,100 — capacities that 
don't currently exist 
downtown 
●
Museum F&B and retail fill 
market gaps, not duplicating 
existing Mesa businesses
COMPETITIVE POSITIONING
ECONOMIC ACTIVATOR
New Demand Pushed 
Outward
Drive new private 
investment for Mesa
Half-Day to Full-Day
to Overnight
Mesa’s Moment
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
CATALYST FOR INVESTMENT
How Investing in AZMNH elevates all of Mesa 
TOURISM MULTIPLIER
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
AZMNH COUNCIL PRESENTATION
3
Community 
Engagement
How do we understand 
community needs and 
motivations?
Study Session 
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Community Engagement
Building on the Master Plan, this 
phase of work engaged 650 people 
through two surveys and one 
in-person event.
Outcomes of these engagements are supported by extensive 
market research and data-informed projections. 
Outcomes reveal:
●
AZMNH is highly valued by a strong, loyal audience.
●
Visitors want more adult-focused programming while 
maintaining appeal for children.
●
There is a strong desire to preserve the museum’s unique, 
beloved features: dinosaurs!
●
At the same time, audiences support facility upgrades and 
new amenities.
●
Cost of living concerns highlight the need to shape the 
project to maximize positive economic impact.
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Two Surveys
518 responses indicate a strong and loyal 
audience base for AZMNH, reinforcing 
its reputation as a beloved institution. 
Visitors want to retain its distinctive 
character while recognizing the need 
for change and renewal.
Respondents are avid and enthusiastic museum-goers in a region 
where attendance at cultural institutions is lower than average.
Visitors feel that once they've seen everything the museum has to 
offer, there is little reason to return, supporting the need for 
additional space for temporary exhibitions and the development of 
permanent exhibits designed to reward repeat visitation.
Respondents prioritized the need to appeal to children while also 
expressing desire for programming and experiences targeted to 
adults, something they feel is currently lacking.
Visitors expressed strong interest in preserving AZMNH’s unique 
character (and especially its dinosaurs) and were concerned that 
beloved features would be eliminated. 
At the same time, respondents expressed desire for new amenities 
and upgraded facilities, recognizing the need for renewal. 
Respondents want stronger representation of Arizona's regional 
character and expressed a desire for deeper collaboration with and 
representation of local Indigenous groups.
The survey highlighted the need for targeted outreach to key 
audiences in future phases, specifically children, educators, 
out-of-state visitors, and Hispanic residents.
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
“Activate other 
senses”
“BIG complete 
skeletons”
“I want to be 
in there!”
“Play is for 
adults too”
“Interactive, move 
your body”
“Patterns and 
water texture 
are cool”
In-Person Event
Visitors had clear preferences 
when it came to selecting among 
the images of other museums and 
exhibitions. The most popular 
images involved immersive, 
multisensory, and playful spaces 
involving movement and tactility 
(and, of course, dinosaurs).
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Focus on Future Audiences 
While AZMNH has a strong local following today, 
we're building for tomorrow. The region is growing 
rapidly, museums are evolving, and AZMNH must 
position itself as a forward-thinking institution 
ready to serve the future generations of the region.
Preserve Uniquely Mesa
The museum will draw visitors from around the 
world while maintaining a distinctly local flavor— 
capturing Mesa's character and quirks while 
addressing global questions through a uniquely 
Arizona perspective.
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
AZMNH COUNCIL PRESENTATION
4
Architecture & 
Experience Design
What is possible for 
the Arizona Museum 
of Natural History?
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
This is not a typical museum. 
This project is being shaped by a unique 
partnership between architecture, storytelling 
and exhibition design, generating a one-of-a-kind 
holistic museum experience.  
G&A Strategy + Design
Experience Design
Feasibility and Operational Planning
Community Engagement
Jones Studio 
Architectural Programming
Architectural Concept
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
Fig 01. Journeys Through 
Time And Space
Fig 02. The Journeys we Made 
to Get Here
Fig 03.The Thrill 
of Discovery
Fig 04. Expanding our 
Range of Knowledge
Fig 05. Local Stories, Global 
Understanding
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Architecture + Experience Design + Storytelling
Journeys of Discovery
Past, Present and Future
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Architecture + Experience Design + Storytelling
Inspired by Arizona
Past, Present and Future
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Storytelling
Braided Rivers
Journeys of Discovery 
Along Pathways of Interconnected Themes
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Braided Rivers: Intersecting Themes
The storytelling of the new AZMNH is built 
around four cross-cutting themes that transcend 
traditional disciplinary boundaries. Rather than 
organizing the museum by subject alone, this 
approach makes each topic more accessible and 
approachable, while emphasizing the deep 
connections between them, reflecting the 
fundamental truth that the earth, life, and 
human culture are inextricably intertwined.
Main themes
●
Cosmos: Our place in the universe, and how forces beyond our 
planet have shaped life on Earth
●
Earth: How our planet has transformed over billions of years, 
forging the conditions that made life possible
●
Life: The evolution, behavior, and remarkable adaptability of living 
things across the history of Earth
●
People: The evolution, migration, and diversity of cultures and 
beliefs that define our human story
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Architecture inspired by 
geology and time
Place
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Architecture inspired by 
learning from the wisdom of those who lived here before us
Place
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Architecture inspired by 
stewards of our most precious resource
Place
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Architecture inspired by 
natural building materials and landscape
Place
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Architecture inspired by 
Indoor - outdoor spaces and vertical ascension through time
Place
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Architecture inspired by 
Place
natural respite from the sun - and uniquely mesa
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
At AZMNH, your Journey 
of  Discovery starts HERE …
… at this museum, here in Mesa, within the unique 
ecosystem of the Salt and Gila River watersheds, 
a particular desert river valley which is home to 
a diverse array of life and a long history of human 
habitation.
… in this historical moment of rapid change, shaped 
by the deep geological and ecological history of this 
place, a long and ongoing history of human culture 
and interaction with this environment, and by the 
choices we continue to make every day for our 
shared future.
Your Journey of Discovery 
starts NOW …
Photo credit: Alan Stark
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
GROUND LEVEL PLAN
PEPPER
FIRST 
MACDONALD
BACK OF 
HOUSE
CANYON
EDUCATION
RESTAURANT
EVENT
LOBBY
CAFE
RETAIL
HOTEL
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Desert Landscape
- Retention Gardens
- Shaded Gathering Spaces
BACK OF 
HOUSE
CANYON
EDUCATION
RESTAURANT
EVENT
LOBBY
CAFE
RETAIL
HOTEL
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Desert Landscape
- Retention Gardens
- Shaded Gathering Spaces
Canyon & Public Realm
- Shaded Outdoor Space
- Open to the Public
CANYON
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Embrace & Wander
- Optimizing Daylight
- Thermal Performance
- Journey of Discovery
Desert Landscape
- Retention Gardens
- Shaded Gathering Spaces
Canyon & Public Realm
- Shaded Outdoor Space
- Open to the Public
EMBRACE & WANDER
CANYON
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Views
A
F
C
D
B
Embrace & Wander
- Optimizing Daylight
- Thermal Performance
- Journey of Discovery
Desert Landscape
- Retention Gardens
- Shaded Gathering Spaces
Canyon & Public Realm
- Shaded Outdoor Space
- Open to the Public
E
CANYON
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
A: STREET VIEW AT MACDONALD AND PEPPER
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
B: VIEW FROM FIRST - TOWARD CANYON
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
C: CANYON VIEW - LOOKING SOUTH
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
C: CANYON VIEW - LOOKING SOUTH
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
D: INTERIOR VIEW - GROUND FLOOR LOBBY
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ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
SW BUILDING AXON
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
SW BUILDING AXON
MUSEUM
COMMONS
HOTEL
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
SW BUILDING AXON
Museum Levels
GROUND LEVEL
LEVEL 1
LEVEL 2
LEVEL 3
MUSEUM
COMMONS
HOTEL
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
SW BUILDING AXON
DOUBLE HEIGHT SPACES - THE STORY OF 4.5 BILLION YEARS OF TIME
GROUND LEVEL
LEVEL 1
LEVEL 2
LEVEL 3
MUSEUM
COMMONS
HOTEL
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Thematic Floors
Each floor captures the intersections of Geology, 
Paleontology, and Anthropology according to a cross-section 
of time and place. 
The overall experience of each floor follows the natural flow of 
intersecting stories, interweaving and illuminating how 
landscape shapes life, how ecology influences culture, and how 
all are bound together across time.
Level 1
Origins: 
Earth Comes Alive
Level 2
Mesozoic: 
Reign of the Reptiles
Level 3a
Cenozoic: 
Dawn of the 
Modern World
Level 3b
Living Memory:
Our Recent Past
Roof
Observatory
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ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
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ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
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ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
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ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
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AZMNH | Mesa City Council Presentation | May 7, 2026
ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
E: AERIAL VIEW - LOOKING EAST
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ARCHITECTURE & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
F: FIFTH FLOOR TERRACE - LOOKING WEST
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AZMNH COUNCIL PRESENTATION
5
Funding Models
How will the Arizona 
Museum of Natural 
History realize its 
vision?
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AZMNH
Museum
Budget
$100M
Public Funding
(Mesa GO Bond)
$100M 
Philanthropic 
Funding 
(Private Giving)
Full 
Project
Budget
$100M
Public Funding
(Mesa GO Bond)
$100M 
Philanthropic 
Funding 
(Private Giving)
$100M
Private
Investment
(Commercial Investment)
$200M
$300M
$100M
Private
Investment
(Commercial Investment)
Commercial 
Mixed-use
Budget
$100M
Museum Capital Stack
50% Public Funding
50% Private Funding
Project Sources & Uses of Capital
Funding Sourcs: 33% Public Funding | 33% Philanthropic Funding | 33% Private Investment
Project Funding Strategy
Mesa’s investment unlocks the the 
philanthropic and private investment 
needed to maximize the project ROI’s
●
Every $1 Mesa invests is designed to generate $2 more 
dollars in total project investment
●
PPP structure gives Mesa flexibility to shape the deal that 
works for them 
Public Funding
Philanthropic Funding
Private Investment
Project Funding Sources
FUNDING MODELS
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FUNDING MODELS
Assessing Philanthropic Potential
The 
Philanthropic 
Landscape
1
Charitable 
Giving in the 
Region and State
2
National and 
Global Funding 
Possibilities
3
Capital and 
Operating 
Support
4
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FUNDING MODELS
The Philanthropic Landscape
Source: Giving USA 2025
Arts, Culture,
& Humanities
Environment / Animals
Education
Health
Religion
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FUNDING MODELS
Charitable Giving in the Arizona and the Metro Area 
Arizona (Est.)
 $5-$7 Billion
Annual 
Charitable Giving
Metro Area (Est.)
 $3.6-$6 Billion
~72% of State Total
HNW Households
 120,000
Drive Individual 
Giving
AZ Foundation Assets
 $7.2 Billion
990 Foundations
$4,500
$4,000
$3,500
$3,000
$2,500
$2,000
$1,500
$1,000
$500
$0
Giving by Source: AZ & Metro ($Millions)
$3,960
$2,851
INDIVIDUALS
$1,140
$821
FOUNDATIONS
$420
$302
CORPORATIONS
$480
$346
BEQUESTS
State
Metro
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FUNDING MODELS
Attracting National (and Global) Funders
US foundation giving to aligned causes
40–45%
STEM, informal learning, 
environment, culture
Accessible to museums annually
 $544M-$1.3 Billion
From foundations and corporations
Capital + transformation projects unlock big gifts.
Most $5M+ institutional gifts fund:
Major new buildings or galleries
Digitization or collections initiatives
National education programs
Global research partnerships
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Perot Museum (TX)
Field Museum (Chicago)
Milwaukee Public Museum 
(rebranding to Nature & Culture Museum of Wisconsin)
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
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FUNDING MODELS
How museums raise money
For every
$1
Invested in Funding
Returned Annual Fundraising
$3–$6
At Maturity
Returned in Capital Campaigns
$5–$10
Investment Precedes Returns
People
Front-line staff to 
engage donors
Operations staff to 
manage systems
Processes
Defined activities at 
all giving levels and 
stages
Technology
Donor CRM and 
other tools
Culture
Data-driven and 
donor-centered 
strategies and 
decision making
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FUNDING MODELS
How museums raise money
# of gifts
Gift Range
Total value of gifts at this amount
Tier I
1
$20,000,000 or more
$ 20,000,000
2
$10,000,000 to $19,999,999
$ 20,000,000
3
$5,000,000 to $9,999,999
$ 15,000,000
6
$ 55,000,000
Tier II
6
$2,500,000 to $4,999,999
$ 15,000,000
10
$1,000,000 to $2,499,999
$ 10,000,000
18
$500,000 to $999,999
$ 9,000,000
34
$ 34,000,000
Tier III
22
$250,000 to $499,999
$ 5,500,000
34
$100,000 to $249,999
$ 3,400,000
42
$50,000 to $99,999
$ 2,100,000
98
$ 11,000,000
TOTAL
many @ less than $50,000 to ensure success
138
$ 100,000,000
The path to 100 Million
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Before
After
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
Case Study: Natural History Museum of Utah
Utah's Natural History Museum’s move to a new 
purpose-built facility tripled attendance and  
transformed it from a modest regional institution 
into a top Mountain West attraction.
Project Facts
●
Hybrid partnership structure 
(University/State/Private)
●
Originally located in a space-constrained 
university building not built for purpose
●
 163k sq ft new building, completed 2011
●
$196M total project investment, roughly 
$1,205 per Sq Ft (adjusted to 2026)
●
Capital sources: 57% public | 43% private 
●
Annual attendance growth: 
80K  →  290K | 3.5x sustained increase
Sources: NHMU.UTAH.EDU; US Allegion
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Current Building
Future Building
RETURN ON INVESTMENT & IMPACT
Case Study: Milwaukee Public Museum
Milwaukee Public Museum is relocating from its 
historic Westown site to the higher-traffic 
Haymarket district and rebranding as the Nature 
and Culture Museum of Wisconsin, leveraging a 
more active downtown location while claiming 
the funding and prestige of becoming the state's 
flagship natural history museum.
Project Facts
●
Hybrid partnership structure (County/State/Private)
●
 200k sq ft new building, opens in 2027
●
$255M total project investment, roughly $1,275 per Sq 
Ft (adjusted to 2026)
●
Capital sources: 35% public | 65% private 
●
New build located and built with market in mind, 
adding event spaces, amenities, and experience 
options fit for its opportunity
●
Collection space moved off-site to maximize 
investment in visitor-focused areas of new building
Future Rooftop Exhibit / Event Space
Existing Site Activation
Sources: MPM.edu
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FUNDING MODELS
The case for a world-class natural history 
museum in Mesa is not just about 
paleontology or economic impact.
It is a question of what kind of city Mesa wants to be — and 
what kind of opportunity to create for the half-million people 
who live here and millions more who pass through. 
This will be a museum that tells the 4.5 billion-year story of the 
land under our feet that trains teachers, employs scientists, 
sparks careers, generates private and public revenue, and gives 
every child in the East Valley a reason to wonder about the world 
they inherited. This institution is worth far more than any 
economic multiplier alone can capture.
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Next Steps
NEXT STEPS
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●Conduct Economic Impact Study (G&A)
●Principal Advisory Services (G&A)
○Developer partnerships, research partnerships, 
project governance,  identify hospitality/retail 
partners, public-private partnership coordination, 
sponsorship recruitment, and related activities in 
advancing the project 
●Experience and Storytelling Development (G&A)
○Content Development + Community Engagement 
○Develop Content and Acquisition Collection Plan 
○Experience Visualizations Representing Content 
Development efforts
NEXT STEPS
●Fundraising Capacity Building (Benefactor Group)
○Develop fundraising strategy and plan, identify top 
prospects and conduct donor discovery, strengthen 
development capacity, draft comprehensive case 
for support       
●Fundraising Campaign Preparation (Benefactor Group)
○Continue to build prospect lists, recruit voluntary 
leadership, develop fundraising collateral, engage 
early donors (possible seed-stage gifts) 
●Architecture & Site Design Work (Jones Studio)
○Program Validation & Development
○Conceptual Bridging Design & Documentation
○Conceptual Engineering Validation & Documentation
○Conceptual Cost Estimating
Continued Progress Across The Next 2 Years
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Thank you
Study Session 
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