Council presses for a results-driven economic strategy; discusses Costco interest and performing-arts impacts

At the Jan. 21 study session, council members pushed for a more results-oriented economic-development strategy and discussed specific recruitment targets such as Costco and other large retailers, while also raising regional cultural concerns tied to the Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind.

Several council members said they want the strategic plan’s economic-vitality elements reframed toward measurable outcomes: primary-employer recruitment, retail commitments and near-term targets rather than networking events. One councilor said private outreach with big-box retailers should be proactive: “Let’s make it open and talk to them so developers know we want you here,” a council member said, urging early engagement with potential tenants.

Staff said they are tracking retail activity through site-selection tools and Placer AI and will prepare a prioritized package for council review. Economic development staff also flagged opportunities tied to federal reshoring and manufacturing incentives that could be relevant as the town updates its strategy.

Council members also raised the possible closure or relocation of the Berger Performing Arts Center if the Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind moves operations. Several councilors asked staff to engage the nonprofit conducting a feasibility study and to pursue state-level advocacy to preserve regional performing-arts capacity. Staff said they were in contact with the nonprofit and will invite the consultant to present findings when available.

What happens next: staff will prepare a refreshed economic-vitality briefing (retail recruitment, Placer AI summaries and manufacturing leads) for the council and will request the nonprofit’s feasibility report and a presentation on the Berger theater situation.