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The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and possibly take action on ratifying a letter by Mayor Price supporting the Greater Phoenix Economic Council and Arizona State University's proposal to the U.S. Economic Development Administration to designate the Greater Phoenix region as a "Manufacturing Community" through the Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership. Discussion and Action.
AGENDA ITEM DESCRIPTION
The Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) and Arizona State University (ASU) have submitted a proposal to the U.S. Economic Development Administration requesting that the Greater Phoenix region be designated as a "Manufacturing Community" through the Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership (ICMP). This competitive federal program will designate up to 12 communities/regions in the United States as Manufacturing Communities. Through the designation, Manufacturing Communities will receive preference for future grant opportunities with participating federal agencies.
GPEC requested that the City of Maricopa participate as a partner in the proposal. By being listed as a partner, the City of Maricopa will receive the above benefits if Greater Phoenix is selected for designation as a Manufacturing Community. In consideration of the significant potential benefits to both the City of Maricopa and Greater Phoenix region as a whole, Mayor Price was honored to draft and sign a letter of support for the proposal.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends Council ratify this letter of support for GPEC and ASU's proposal to have the Greater Phoenix region designated as a Manufacturing Community through the Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership.