As our community evolves, the City of Maricopa recognizes the need to adapt and make decisions that best serve our residents. After careful consideration and discussions with the Maricopa Economic Development Alliance (MEDA) Executive Committee, the City Council has decided to cease its participation in MEDA effective July 1, 2024. This decision stems from a thorough evaluation of various factors, including technological advancements, market trends, fiscal responsibilities, and changes in the state and federal political landscape affecting local governance.
“The dedication to the future of Maricopa by MEDA members past and present has allowed our city to become a transformational place for growth and opportunity, and for those efforts, we are forever grateful,” Mayor Nancy Smith shares. “This decision is not taken lightly, and we remain committed to the economic well-being of Maricopa.”
The decision brings substantial cost savings to the city of more than $650,000 annually and the ability to grow a robust Office of Economic Vitality. The city has extended and received acceptance of employment offers from Christian Price, MEDA’s President and CEO, and Rachel Leffall, MEDA’s Economic Director, which will take effect on April 1, 2024. Both share an immense knowledge about our city and the crucial developments needed to ensure our city remains a premier city.
“With Christian and Rachel coming on board, we are creating a collective team that can work towards the same goals together,” Mayor Smith explains. “Their expertise in industrial development will now work toward improving all aspects of development throughout the city.”
Mr. Ron Fleming, President & CEO of Global Water Resources and current Chairman of the MEDA Board of Directors, who has been an active participant in the organization since its inception in 2009, stated, “The goal of MEDA has always been to further enrich the lives of the citizens of Maricopa in many ways, including helping to create jobs by attracting large scale corporations and businesses to locate here.”
“Today, as we further merge our organizations’ processes and expertise with that of the city, we believe these actions will amplify these longstanding efforts,” Fleming said.
