In a recent government meeting, officials announced a significant partnership aimed at bolstering the Mesa College Promise Program, which provides educational opportunities for local students. The agreement, involving the city, the school district, and a local foundation, will generate substantial revenue through billboard advertising, estimated to bring in between $350,000 and $400,000 annually for the first decade, with potential for growth thereafter.

This revenue will be directed towards operational costs and student support for the Mesa College Promise Program, effectively acting as a $10 million endowment to enhance educational access for students in the area. The agreement includes a 99-year term, ensuring long-term funding stability, and will be complemented by a programmatic agreement that outlines operational details and funding priorities.

The initiative aims to address workforce development needs in Mesa, with city officials emphasizing the importance of a skilled workforce to attract businesses. The mayor and council members expressed their commitment to ensuring that every high school graduate in Mesa has the opportunity to pursue higher education, regardless of their financial situation.

Additionally, the partnership will support a separate endowment for Native American students at Mesa Community College, further expanding the program's reach and impact. Council members highlighted the transformative potential of the Mesa College Promise Program, noting its ability to change lives and improve community outcomes.

As the meeting progressed, discussions also touched on the broader implications of the Maricopa County Promise initiative, which seeks to create a collaborative funding model across the region to support community college students. The Mesa College Promise Program is seen as a critical step in improving post-secondary educational attainment in the area, with officials expressing hope that it will serve as a model for similar efforts in other cities.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and collaboration among local stakeholders to ensure the success of these educational initiatives, which are viewed as essential for the economic development and future prosperity of the Mesa community.