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City of Mesa News
City of Mesa News
The City of Mesa's Office of Economic Development (OED) has released the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Annual Report, detailing the City's significant accomplishments from the past year while reaffirming its long-term commitment to the City Council's vision and economic development goals. Mesa EOD's year in review theme is "The View from Here." Economic Development Director Jaye O'Donnell reflects on Mesa's strategic vision and forward momentum in an accompanying video message, a valuable resource for understanding Mesa's economic development, available now on SelectMesa.com.
The many impressive highlights in the 2024-2025 Annual Report include:
OED had a banner year in FY 24-25 with 47 company relocation and expansion projects completed, totaling over five million square feet and creating 3,370 jobs at an average salary greater than $65,000 annually
The first year of Mesa's Retail Attraction Strategy was a great success as the department ramped up marketing efforts with a regional campaign to promote the best retail options that exist in Mesa and highlight new opportunities for growth. Overall, OED's efforts generated more than 30 new prospects, the successful location of six retailers and several new retail-focused development projects
Medina Station and its restaurant row began construction, Cannon Beach and Revel Surf Park opened and the first Tempo by Hilton hotel in Arizona broke ground at Gallery Park
The 80-acre site that once housed Fiesta Mall in the Fiesta District is now being transformed from a dated indoor mall into a vibrant, walking, mixed-use urban space
OED completed 137 in-depth business visits. The high-quality conversations with companies representing more than 15,750 jobs with average wages of $68,000 annually underscores the City's commitment to supporting high-quality jobs
The Mesa Business Builder Small Business Assistance Program awarded 151 businesses with nearly 2,680 hours of customized, professional, one-on-one consulting services valued at more than $278,000
Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios opened its doors to more than 5,400 attendees and visitors in its first year. OED staff conducted more than 150 tours, hosted 64 small business workshops and events, and facilitated more than 380 other bookings for small business owners
"Mesa's continued economic momentum is no accident-it's the result of strategic investments, strong partnerships and the clear vision set by our City Council," said City Manager Scott Butler. "Mesa is attracting high-wage employers, fostering innovation and maintaining the competitive advantages setting our community apart. Our focus is not just on smart growth, but on building a resilient, future-oriented economy that creates opportunity for our residents today and for generations to come."
The Annual Report captures Mesa's progress in strengthening its business ecosystem, attracting new employers and supporting innovative industries, as well as showcasing the projects, programs and people that drive this success. From transformative developments and targeted industry growth to workforce initiatives and small business support, the report shows how Mesa continues to position itself as a premier destination for investment, talent, and opportunity.
"This annual report provides an important opportunity to highlight and celebrate the dedication of our team over the past year," said Jaye O'Donnell. "Their commitment has advanced growth, supported our workforce and strengthened the foundation for Mesa's economic future."
Through our projects, readers can see the impact of new business attraction, redevelopment, and retail expansion. Our programs showcase business retention, workforce development and entrepreneurial support. And our people underscore the leadership and dedication of Mesa's City Council, Economic Development Advisory Board and OED staff whose vision and commitment make this progress possible.
Director's Message https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZDzUERFHRc
FY 2024-2025 Annual Report https://www.selectmesa.com/about/newsroom/fy-2025-annual-report