Carefree Truth

Issue #427, September 21, 2015

 

 

 

Mayor Les Peterson said Carefree is considering entering into a contract with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) "to improve the Town's competitiveness and market readiness to support the growth and expansion of targeted industries, to be determined by the Town."  Councilman Glenn Miller asked who put this together and who could answer his questions.  Mayor Peterson directed Mr. Miller to Gary Neiss and Councilman Mike Farrar.

 

 

 

Mr. Miller read from the information provided in the packet, under Responsibility of the Town.  "The Town shall provide appropriate local hospitality tours and briefings for prospects visiting sites in the Town."  He asked if there would be  associated expenses, such as meals.  Mr. Farrar said possibly, but the frequency and amounts would be approved. These would be like the meetings now held with landlords and concierge.  

 

 

 

Mr. Miller read, "The Town shall provide an official economic development representative to represent the Town...", and asked who would represent Carefree.  Mayor Peterson suggested it be Mr. Farrar.  Mr. Miller continued reading, "The Town shall use an economic development professional representing the Town to attend all marketing events and other functions to which the Town has committed", and asked who this would be.  Mr. Farrar responded that it could be either he or any one of the consultants hired by the Town.  For  cost/benefit purposes, Steven Betts had recommended that Mr. Farrar act as the representative and report back to the Council.  Mr. Farrar's qualifications include a MBA in International Business and Global Management, and a MBA in International Finance and Business Management.  He sits on the Board of the Regional Council for Economic Development of the Maricopa Association of Governments, and is a member of Carefree's Economic Development Committee.

 

 

 

Mr. Miller asked what type of marketing events take place.  Mr. Farrar explained that GPEC is one of the leading organizations in the Greater Phoenix area for bringing  businesses into cities and towns.  Carefree consultant Steven Betts sits on the Executive Board.  He recommended  Carefree's participation, saying GPEC provides "off the charts" benefits that far outweigh the $1500 a year cost for a seat at the table.  As CEOs move companies into the Valley and are looking for locations, GPEC would be that voice for Carefree.   Currently, there is a 30-40% vacancy rate.  The Town is trying to drive new businesses and help current businesses by attracting people who would spend money in Carefree's retail and restaurants.  Mr. Farrar strongly supports Mr. Betts' recommendation to participate.

 

 

 

Mr. Miller read that GPEC would provide technical assistance and support to the Town's economic development staff for business locations.  He asked who are considered "economic development staff".  Mr. Farrar replied that Town Administrator Gary Neiss, Marketing Director Gina Kaegi, and Planning Director Stacey Bridge-Denzak would all qualify.  Mayor Peterson said he and Mr. Farrar would act as a back-up.  The Mayor called all of Mr. Miller's questions "excellent."  Mr. Miller moved to approve entering into a contract with GPEC.  The Council unanimously voted approval.

 

https://vimeo.com/user18676056/review/138366567/18438863c7

Lyn Hitchon

 

 

 

Prepared by Carefree Truth

Visit our website at www.carefreetruth.com   If you know anyone who would like to be added to the Carefree Truth email list, please have them contact me.  Feel free to share Carefree Truth with others on your list. Visit www.carefreeazbusinesses.com to see more info about businesses in Carefree.  Please support our merchants.