Hundreds of local residents in an almost packed hall heard local leaders, including Prescott Mayor Phil Goode, emphasize that economic growth in the greater community seems solid for the coming year.
Goode made his comments during the “State of the City” address at the Prescott Chamber of Commerce annual meeting March 1 at the Prescott Resort.
Goode was introduced following opening remarks by Master of Ceremonies Sanford Cohen. Cohen first introduced outgoing chamber board chair Danielle Rickets, manager at Sir Speedy, and incoming 2022-23 board chair Mackenzie Rodgers, an APS executive.
Rodgers said that despite the challenges of the past two years, the chamber had taken the lead, adapted, grown and found new and innovative ways to serve the business community. She pledged she would continue to support events, networking, partnerships and collaboration during her term.
Goode used a PowerPoint presentation to emphasize what he viewed as key activities for the City Council and its staff. Among those:
• Filling the 27 boards and commissions that advise the Council.
• Developing critical initiatives to guide water policy and water use for the City.
• Providing more support and enhancement of Prescott Regional Airport services and facilities, including an extended runway for larger commercial planes.
• Completing relocation of current city offices and staff into the new City Hall on Montezuma and Sheldon streets.
• Filling vacancies in City staff caused by retirements and relocations.
• Reviewing and upgrading fire services provided by the City.
• Completing and initiating final steps in the Granite Creek Corridor upgrade and renovation.
Goode also emphasized that bed taxes are up considerably, which is permitting rapid reduction of the City’s Public Safety Personnel Retirement System indebtedness.
“The State of the City is incredibly strong, and an exciting future is ahead of us,” he said.
The annual breakfast meeting was organized by chamber president Sheri Heiney, her staff and the board of directors.
Photo by Ray Newton.
