New Conference Center Downtown

Rendering from City of Mesa

Save the Family to Build Conference Center

By Roland Murphy for Arizona Builder’s Exchange September 22, 2015
Save the Family Foundation of Arizona will use a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to build a 2,400SF conference center at its University Drive and Pasadena administrative headquarters in Mesa.
The space, to be built on vacant land between the Save the Family offices and Mesa United Way building, will be available to any 501 (c) (3) charity in the East Valley in need of meeting space.

Neither Save the Family nor Unity Way currently have adequate space to handle large meetings . . .  GC bids will be solicited in the Fall. Construction is planned to begin around the first of the year.
Read more >>  http://azbex.com/save-the-family-to-build-2400sf-conference-center/?inf_contact_key=1245738e00f7bd0b400da2bf24b1af42e306e88e21eb6b312e21be8ae6519d14

 

 

 

Reality Check > Data-Driven or Cheerleading?



MesaZona blog sometimes aggregates the news to compare and contrast what's published in different media to reflect viewpoints of the sources providing a narrative and a context for what message the source wants to put into the discourse of the public domain.
Mike Sunnucks reporting in the Phoenix Business Journal on Thursday, September 24, 2015 @ 1:22 p.m. MST wrote this:
" . . . Phoenix’s regional GDP grew by 1.8 percent last year, according to new data from the U.S. Commerce Department.
That is 148th among U.S. metros . . . "
Readers of this blog might want to note a post here from September 13 where the site Wallet Hub ranked Metro Phoenix #143 out of 150 for recovery from The Great Recession according to their analytics.
Mike goes on: ". . . It has to raise a little concern that the Phoenix region can’t muster more economic gains . . . especially as we remain a growth-oriented economy. . . The lackluster growth also shows why we continue to have some soft numbers and the highest office vacancy rate among major U.S. markets. . .
All the political, economic development and other cheerleading can't change that."
Read more from article >> http://m.bizjournals.com/phoenix/blog/business/2015/09/reality-check-phoenix-s-economic-growth-148th.html

Some good data from the U.S Department of Labor for June 2015 came out last month
Changing Compensation Costs in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area – June 2015
Total compensation costs for private industry workers increased 2.3 percent in the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, Ariz. metropolitan area for the year ended June 2015, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Regional Commissioner Richard J. Holden noted that one year ago, Phoenix experienced an annual gain of 1.1 percent in compensation costs. Locally, wages and salaries, the largest component of compensation costs, advanced at a 2.3-percent pace for the 12-month period ended June 2015. Nationwide, total compensation costs increased 1.9 percent and wages and salaries rose 2.2 percent from June 2014 to June 2015.
The Employment Cost Index for September 2015 is scheduled to be released on Friday, October 30, 2015, at 8:30 a.m. (EDT).
Here's a link to the ECI report >> http://www.bls.gov/regions/west/news-release/employmentcostindex_phoenix.htm

More good data from U.S Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis from a news release on Friday, September 25, 2015

EMBARGOED UNTIL RELEASE AT 8:30 A.M. EDT, Friday, September 25, 2015 BEA 15—45

National Income and Product Accounts
Gross Domestic Product: Second Quarter 2015 (Third Estimate)
Corporate Profits: Second Quarter 2015 (Revised Estimate)

Real gross domestic product -- the value of the goods and services produced by the nation’s economy less the value of the goods and services used up in production, adjusted for price changes -- increased at an annual rate of 3.9 percent in the second quarter of 2015, according to the "third" estimate released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis. In the first quarter, real GDP increased 0.6 percent.
See whole press release >> http://www.bea.gov/newsreleases/national/gdp/2015/gdp2q15_3rd.htm

ViewPoints: Arizona Going Global + TransNational > It's All Good

Viewpoints: Arizona is reaching far beyond its borders, sending a clear message that the state is open for business.

http://www.azcentral.com/story/opinion/op-ed/2015/09/25/arizona-international-trade/72648130/

It begins like this: 

Arizona is well positioned to further develop economic advantages, cultural exchanges and a foundation for economic growth. Unlike other states that have missed the mark on the development of true public and private partnerships, Arizona is a model of innovative and progressive ideas shaping a bright future and causing global opportunists to strategize on how to get involved here.

. . . Arizona’s exports grew to $21 billion last year, an increase of 34 percent over the same period in 2010, according to the ASU Morrison Institute for Public Policy. Furthermore, the Morrison Institute reports that 88 percent of the companies that exported in 2014 were small- and medium-sized companies.

The list of organizations collaborating to achieve these goals and increase Arizona’s positioning on the global stage is also impressive, including the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Greater Phoenix Economic Council, the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, Sun Corridor Inc., MAG, Canada Arizona Business Council and many others.

GPEC’s leadership in developing the Velocity business plan and MAG’s BIEN web portal are just some of the collaborative programs enhancing Arizona’s international image. Through such efforts, these non-profit organizations are providing real leadership and communication savvy to global businesses considering expanding in North America and Arizona businesses desiring to conquer foreign markets.

Brett W. Johnson, 3:26 p.m. MST September 25, 2015

(Brett Johnson is vice president of the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations and a partner at Snell & Wilmer.)

October 5, 2015 11th Annual International State of the State Luncheon: A Discussion with Governor Doug Ducey: Steering Arizona's Future in International Waters

The Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations, along with the McCain Institute and the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute, among others, are additional Arizona-based organizations facilitating the dialogue supporting efforts of Arizonans to understand and benefit from international relations.

Due to enhanced technology and integrated economies, an event across the world can have significant impacts in Arizona. Through vibrant discussion and diligent participation, organizations such as PCFR appreciate the benefits of understanding foreign affairs and the desire to shape international opportunities for the benefit of all of Arizona. In addition, PCFR fully understands that many Arizonans need to better understand the various opportunities and programs that are available to them and the importance of encouraging the development of core competencies in foreign relations.

In support of the objective to increase Arizona’s position in foreign relations, PCFR welcomes Governor Ducey as the keynote speaker at its annual International State of the State luncheon on Oct. 5. PCFR looks forward to hearing Governor Ducey’s vision for Arizona as he leads the state and collaborating organizations in developing new cultural and economic opportunities for all Arizonans. See more >> http://www.pcfraz.org/pcfr-events/isos-2015

In a July 2015 article published in the magazine Site Selection 
http://siteselection.com/issues/2015/jul/us-mexico-border-coridor.cfm
by ERIK LEE and CHRISTOPHER WILSON

"Following a difficult diplomatic period beginning in 2010, Arizona has recently redoubled engagement with Mexico, which is linked to a realignment of the state’s economic priorities following the Great Recession and a belief that increased international trade has the potential to create more high-paying jobs for the state’s citizens. Indeed, the state’s Transportation and Trade Corridor Alliance — convened by the Arizona Department of Transportation and comprising public- and private-sector economic stakeholder groups — has recommended that the state should aim to double its trade with Mexico by 2025 to $28 billion in two-way trade. . . . 

Map courtesy AZ Transportation and Trade Corridor Alliance

Toward this end, potential highway and rail projects could bring significant additional commerce through the area and should be prioritized. Stronger efforts are needed to capitalize on potential cross-border synergies in regional industries such as aerospace, agriculture and automobile production."





The US-Mexico Border Economy In Transition
The U.S.-Mexico border — one of the most remarkable stories in the global economy — finds itself in a period of significant transition. In order to continue to enhance the competitive position of the border region, as well as the economic well-being of its inhabitants, policymakers and stakeholders at the local, state, and federal levels will need to better understand and establish policies that help the border region better adapt to global realities and strengthen its role as an engine of growth for the regional economy. In addition, these same actors will need to work together to build more durable regional political coalitions and institutions that can “set the table” for future prosperity.

BIEN: A B2B e-platform [Created by Maricopa Association of Governments]
Building an International Economic Network
“BIEN” means “good” or “right” in Spanish and French. It is also an acronym for “Building an International Economic Network - it is a site is to create a business-to-business e-platform to connect individual businesses across international boundaries. Businesses in Arizona, Mexico and Canada can directly contact each other in order to partner and grow their businesses. By providing information about your products and services, other businesses can see what you offer and find ways to collaborate in mutually-beneficial partnerships.

   https://www.connectbien.com/



Arizona is well positioned to further develop economic advantages, cultural exchanges and a foundation for economic growth. Unlike other states that have missed the mark on the development of true public and private partnerships, Arizona is a model of innovative and progressive ideas shaping a bright future and causing global opportunists to strategize on how to get involved here.

Mission = Informing + Educating The Public

Readers of this blog may wonder what the media and/or press are all about . . .  it's not about getting "spoon-fed" media tip sheets [although they are welcome to see] or playing spin-doctor helper. Whatever is news always has a context; what you see is what you get > or is it?

For example, like this recent article in the Mesa Independent dated September 15, 2015
More than 1 million pounds of fuel in soil removed with steam at former Williams AFB in Mesa

Fuels in soil? . . .  say what? ya mean there's oil discovered here in the desert at a former Air Force Base?? ... and there's a new extraction process using steam technology? NOT.
WAFB has morphed into Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport - a prime area the City of Mesa is now promoting for economic development  that was a serious hazardous waste site - it's still being "cleaned up"
Read the entire report on the still on-going environmental cleanup >>>

Along The Sun Corridor: Business, Trade + Economic Development

Image from Joint Planning Advisory Council

The State of Arizona shares a border with the United States of Mexico - perhaps people in Maricopa County don't have too many friendly feelings about that, but we are connected by centuries of cultural exchange and economic development.

The new chains that bind us are transnational supply chains for goods and materials going back-and-forth to respond to the growth in consumer markets across North America.

The ASU Morrison Instistute for Public Policty will be hosting a high-level gathering on business, trade and economic development driven by the growth in consumer markets and supply chains in Mexico, Canada and the U.S. Topics include bilateral initiatives to further integrate supply chains in North America and regional strategies to cultivate cross-border ties and bi-national economic development.

https://morrisoninstitute.asu.edu/news/north-america-economic-connectivity-conference

Swift Transportation founder and CEO Jerry Moyes and other high-level executives will share insights on operating in North America and accessing supply chains in a panel moderated by Arizona Commerce Authority CEO Sandra Watson. Federal officials from the U.S., Mexico and Canada, including Tom Guevara from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, will set the stage for greater North American economic connectivity.

An interactive session with business organizations from the Arizona- Sonora region will provide an opportunity for attendees to identify business opportunities and increase cross-border collaboration. 

Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton will address the conference for a welcome followed by Thomas Guevara, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Regional Affairs, Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, Ana Luisa Fajer-Flores, Director General for North America, Mexico Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Glenn Williamson, Honorary Consul for Canada, Arizona

This event will illuminate how business leaders from a diverse group of companies select locations for investment and market development, link businesses, researchers and innovators on both sides of border regions; enable communities to identify potential organizations to partner with to advance regional cluster initiatives, and assist stakeholders, particularly those in cross-border regions, in developing successful regional economic development strategies and support regionally vital businesses.

Here's a link to the panelists in their order of appearance at the conference with biographies:https://morrisoninstitute.asu.edu/content/naecc-participant-bios-order-appearance

Just in from the Newsroom for the City of Mesa:
Office of Economic Development receives state economic development award09-23-2015 at 12:27:12 PM

The City of Mesa’s Office of Economic Development has been honored with a Golden Prospector Award of Merit from the Arizona Association of Economic Development (AAED) for the City of Mesa Technology Brochure. . .

[yes, for a brochure- and 5 days after it happened, but see below]

Read more >>> http://www.mesaaz.gov/Home/Components/News/News/503/

 

 

From OED's webpage: Mesa's Industries of Opportunity
QUESTION: What about Arts/Culture and Creative Place Making? . . . NOT an "industry of opportunity?

Economic Development priorities are guided by Mesa’s industries of opportunity: Healthcare; Education; Aerospace/Aviation/Defense; Tourism/Technology. Building on Mesa’s strengths, quality infrastructure, talented workforce, projected growth and global market trends, the City of Mesa is already realizing significant benefit in each industry space.

See >>> http://www.mesaaz.gov/business/economic-development/key-industries

See Mesa’s Technology Brochure and link to other Industry Profiles at www.tinyurl.com/MesaIndustryProfiles. 
Office of Economic Development
Contact: Kim Lofgreen
Tel. 480-644-3962
kim.lofgreen@mesaaz.gov

About the Arizona Association of Economic Development
AAED serve as Arizona’s unified voice advocating for responsible economic development through an effective program of professional education, public policy, and collaboration. AAED.com

 

Headlines: Flash Floods, Free Sandbags + A Tool Kit ?

Imagesfrom Sept 2014 azcentral.com

On September 16, 2015 the Newsroom for the City of Mesa announced:
Mesa honored for environmental excellence

Post Date:09/16/2015 1:27 PM

http://www.mesaaz.gov/Home/Components/News/News/492/

The City of Mesa’s plan to reduce stormwater runoff and pollution has received one of the top honors at an event known as the “Academy Awards” of the environmental community. Mesa’s Low Impact Development (LID) Toolkit has earned the coveted Crescordia Award for Public Policy/Plans . . .

Readers might wonder what this "toolkit" is - it's a document, a .pdf plan to promote the benefits of Low Impact Development.

The concept and beneficial outcomes of Low Impact Development will get highlighted and encouraged on a future post on this  blog . . . meanwhile, the infrastructure that the City of Mesa brags about has failed - millions of dollars are thrown at cleaning up the problems and damages created by years of bad high impact development for fast growth - the city is not limitless. It's time to recognize that to plan on Smart Growth + Low Impact Development.

Underwater in the Desert Sept 2014