Title
WESTMARC Membership Dues for Fiscal Year 2019-20 (Ordinance S-46113)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to authorize membership dues to Western Maricopa Coalition (WESTMARC) for Fiscal Year 2019-20 in the amount of $15,000. Further request authorization for the City Controller to disburse funds related to this item.
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 educational sector. In partnership with Community and Economic Development Department (CEDD), WESTMARC gives specific focus to the Maryvale, Estrella and Laveen villages.
Membership fees are based on population, and communities with greater than 100,000 residents are asked to contribute $15,000. 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 also promoted West Phoenix Opportunity Zones and feature sites for restaurant and retail development at pitch events. Additionally, the membership provides a table of 10 to each of the WESTMARC Signature Events including the Annual Meeting, Governor's State of the State Luncheon and Economic Development Summit.
In previous years, the WESTMARC membership request was managed via the City’s Government Relations Office, however CEDD finds great value in the membership and can participate in a variety of capacities.
Financial Impact
Memberships dues for July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020 are $15,000. Funding is available in the Community and Economic Development Department budget.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
This item was recommended for approval at the Workforce and Economic Development Subcommittee meeting on Sept. 25, 2019, by a vote of 4-0.
Location
West Phoenix
Council District(s): 1, 4, 5, 7, 8
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Deanna Jonovich and the Community and Economic Development Department.