My top goal as Mesa’s mayor would be to maintain our city’s positive momentum.
John Giles
Mesa has its share of challenges, but I like the direction we are headed. Job creation and redevelopment throughout the city are two issues interconnected, and will be among my main priorities. Vacant strip malls and blighted neighborhoods remain too easy to spot, reflecting the reality that we continue to feel the effects of the economic downturn.
“It’s about the economy, stupid,” has never been truer. Many of Mesa’s challenges will be solved with increased employment opportunities. Jobs bring stability to families and increased economic activity, while, at the same time, lower crime and reduce blight. Positive social and cosmetic changes in Mesa will result from a stronger local economy.
Mesa includes several locations with great potential for new, high-paying jobs. The Gateway Airport region is among the best positioned areas in the world to locate a business. In addition to the airport, the area is home to universities, freeways and ample utility service, as well as beautiful new housing. Mesa’s challenge will be to keep up with that area’s infrastructure needs, and protect the airport and other community assets, which make the region so attractive to new employers. Much of the same can be said for the Falcon Field area.
The new Chicago Cubs Spring Training facility, with the adjacent retail and park development, has brought a new intensity to the Riverview area, and will be a boon to the city’s sale tax revenues. Light rail’s progress through the Main Street corridor has dramatically increased property values, and has brought new private development where it is badly needed.
Downtown Mesa has great character. The retail, arts, education and entertainment options in the area make it a unique destination. The Fiesta Mall region presents a great opportunity to recreate what once was, and can again be, the economic center of Mesa. I like the phrase, Live, Work and Play in Mesa. Our quality of life and economy will improve if we don’t have to commute to neighboring cities for jobs and the things we need and want.
I have enjoyed serving in a variety of capacities in the community. As a result, I have a well-rounded perspective, and have the ability and experience to serve as mayor. I would be honored to have your vote.