Ep. 19 – Apple Might Not Last 100 Years, But Falcon Heights Will (with Jack Linehan)

What happens when you set your sights on a career at 16—and actually achieve it? In Episode 19 of The Jentry Podcast, Jonathan Mason sits down with Jack Linehan, City Administrator of Falcon Heights, Minnesota, to talk about his journey, the unique identity of his 3-square-mile city, and the balancing act of small-city leadership.

From managing services through contracts, to planning for redevelopment of a 140-acre golf course, to launching a paid parking program during the State Fair, Jack shares how Falcon Heights is building for the future while staying true to its roots.

Major Takeaways
Jack knew at 16 he wanted to be a city administrator and built his career with intention.

Falcon Heights is tiny but mighty—home to the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus and the Minnesota State Fair.

With only 11 staff, the city runs largely on contracts for core services.

Growth is on the horizon with redevelopment plans, housing needs, and community investments like an accessible park.

Partnerships with the university and fair bring both opportunities and challenges.

Jack’s legacy goal: keep Falcon Heights thriving as a small, independent city for the next century.

Chapters
00:36 – Meet Jack Linehan, City Administrator of Falcon Heights

01:35 – Falcon Heights named best place to live in Minnesota

04:32 – Jack’s career journey and early calling

12:48 – From Gurnee, IL to Falcon Heights, MN

18:08 – Strategic planning & golf course redevelopment

25:31 – Partnerships with the University & State Fair

34:47 – Paid parking program to fund services

42:54 – The “magic wand” challenge

45:23 – Legacy and long-term vision for Falcon Heights

Keywords
Falcon Heights, Minnesota, Local Government, City Administrator, Strategic Planning, Housing, Minnesota State Fair, University of Minnesota, Police Reform, Community Engagement, Contracted Services