Title
Membership Dues to Western Maricopa Coalition (WESTMARC) for Fiscal Years 2020-21 through 2022-23 (Ordinance S-46981)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to pay membership dues to Western Maricopa Coalition (WESTMARC) for Fiscal Years 2020-21 through 2022-23 in the amount of $15,000 annually, for a total not to exceed $45,000. Further request authorization for the City Controller to disburse funds related to this item. Funding is available in the Community and Economic Development Department budget.
Report
Summary
WESTMARC was formed in 1990 to address important issues facing the West Valley's economic prosperity. WESTMARC, a public-private partnership, actively promotes the West Valley region of Greater Phoenix (area west of I-17) and represents 15 cities, the West Valley business community and education sector. In partnership with the Community and Economic Development Department (CEDD), WESTMARC gives specific focus to the Maryvale, Estrella and Laveen villages.
CEDD participates on WESTMARC's Economic Development Committee and other strategic initiatives, such as a recent workforce study which highlighted the size of the labor pool and diverse skill sets of West Valley workers. CEDD has promoted West Phoenix Opportunity Zones and featured sites for restaurant and retail development at WESTMARC pitch events. Additionally, the membership provides a table to each of WESTMARC's Signature Events including the Annual Meeting, Governor's State of the State Luncheon and Economic Development Summit.
Membership dues are based on population, and communities with greater than 100,000 residents are asked to contribute $15,000 annually.
Financial Impact
Membership dues are $15,000 annually. The three-year, cumulative amount for Fiscal Years 2020-21 through 2022-23 will not exceed $45,000. Funding is available in the CEDD budget.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
This item was recommended for approval by the Workforce and Economic Development Subcommittee at the Sept. 23, 2020, meeting by a vote of 3-1.
Location
Council Districts: 1, 4, 5, 7 and 8.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Jeff Barton and the Community and Economic Development Department.