Florence council backs hiring economic development director, proposes later commission

Councilors pressed for a sustained economic development effort at a Jan. 13 work session, with members agreeing that the town needs a dedicated director to lead strategic planning and outside outreach before forming an advisory commission.

Council member Tony summarized research into the Queen Creek model and regional partnerships and said Florence has been insufficiently visible to state and regional economic development organizations. “We have put economic development on the back burner for so many years in this town. It's time to get it front,” Tony said, urging a commission that reports directly to council and close cooperation with regional groups such as the Greater Phoenix Economic Council.

Town Manager Walz and other council members urged hiring a director first so that person can assess infrastructure constraints, build relationships with developers and regional partners, and draft a strategic plan that would guide future commissions and investments. Manager Walz said the job posting has been released and staff had received several applications to date; he recommended the new director be economic-development certified or able to obtain certification within a year.

Vice Mayor Adams and others emphasized the need to arm any incoming director with a clear strategic plan and with the money to execute priority early actions. Council members agreed that the director should not be saddled with unrelated duties, and they discussed including outside bankers, developers and utility experts on any future advisory body to provide needed sector expertise.

Council did not create a commission or hire staff during the meeting but directed staff to proceed with the hiring process and to return with recommendations and budget details.