August 13, 2026 Study Session

City of Mesa — City Council (2026-09-14)

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OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK             
 
 
COUNCIL MINUTES 
 
August 13, 2026 
 
The City Council of the City of Mesa met in the Study Session room at City Hall, 20 East Main Street, on 
August 13, 2026, at 7:30 a.m. 
 
COUNCIL PRESENT 
 
COUNCIL ABSENT 
OFFICERS PRESENT 
Scott Somers 
Rich Adams 
Jennifer Duff 
Alicia Goforth 
Francisco Heredia* 
Dorean Taylor 
 
  Mark Freeman 
   
 
Scott Butler 
Holly Moseley 
Jim Smith 
 
 
 
(*Participated in the meeting through the use of video conference equipment.) 
 
Vice Mayor Somers conducted a roll call. 
 
Vice Mayor Somers excused Mayor Freeman from the entire meeting. 
 
Vice Mayor Somers excused Councilmember Heredia from the beginning of the meeting; he 
arrived at 7:33 a.m. 
 
1. 
Review and discuss items on the agenda for the August 17, 2026, regular Council meeting. 
 
All of the items on the agenda were reviewed among Council and the following was noted: 
 
Conflict of interest: None 
 
Items removed from the consent agenda: None 
 
In response to a request from City Manager Scott Butler regarding agenda Item 5-a, (A resolution 
approving and authorizing the City Manager to enter into an Agreement for Management 
and Operations Services with Legends Global Convention Center Management LLC to 
manage, operate, and market the Mesa Convention Center and Mesa Amphitheater. 
(District 4)), on the Regular Council meeting agenda, Deputy City Manager Candace Cannistraro 
introduced Brad Gessner, Consultant; Harry Cann, Senior Vice President of Business 
Development with Legends Global; and Tyler Othen, Executive Director with CSL International, 
and displayed a PowerPoint presentation. (See Attachment 1)

Study Session 
August 13, 2026 
Page 2 
 
 
Ms. Cannistraro recalled that CSL International conducted a feasibility study in March 2025 to 
identify recommended improvements needed to modernize the Convention Center and 
Amphitheater. She reviewed the project timeline and identified Legends Global as the top-ranked 
proposal being selected for a contract. She confirmed that the City would retain ownership of the 
facilities, continue to fund operations, and highlighted the benefits and services that would be 
provided by Legends Global. (See Pages 2 through 4 of Attachment 1) 
 
Ms. Cannistraro confirmed that the City would continue to fund day-to-day venue operations, while 
Legends Global would manage the facilities and operations on the City’s behalf for a $14,000 
monthly management fee and a performance-based incentive of up to 20% of the annual 
management fee for exceeding City-approved goals. She added that Legends Global would 
provide a one-time $500,000 capital contribution for campus improvements, contribute $10,000 
annually to nonprofit or community-based organizations during the five-year term, and cover 
transition costs, including system setup. (See Pages 5 and 6 of Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Cann highlighted the comprehensive venue management model and regional presence of 
Legends Global, noting that its national and Arizona-based network would provide specialized 
expertise, operational support, industry knowledge, event staffing, revenue-generation 
opportunities, and expanded programming to enhance the overall performance and value of the 
Mesa Convention Center and Amphitheatre. (See Pages 7 through 9 of Attachment 1) 
 
Mr. Othen provided an overview of the CSL Facility Improvement Study and the data considered. 
He stated that the findings identified opportunities to modernize the Convention Center and 
Amphitheater, respond to increasing competition, address facility and hotel-related constraints, 
improve connections with Downtown Mesa, and enhance the overall experience for event 
organizers, performers, and attendees. He advised that Legends Global brings its network 
relationships and creative ideas to maximize the use of the buildings. (See Pages 10 through 12 
of Attachment 1)  
 
Mr. Othen discussed continued planning efforts to guide future improvements to the venues, 
including evaluating market conditions, financial impacts, funding options, and long-term 
investment priorities. He also noted that evolving trends in the convention and live entertainment 
industries are creating opportunities to broaden event offerings, enhance visitor amenities, and 
improve the overall guest experience. (See Page 13 of Attachment 1) 
 
Ms. Cannistraro explained that the City of Mesa (COM) and Legends Global would jointly develop 
priorities for future facility improvements, with an emphasis on strengthening the long-term use, 
appeal, and financial performance of the venues. She noted that Legends Global would bring 
technical and industry expertise to help evaluate potential investments and guide future 
development and construction-related decisions. (See Page 14 of Attachment 1) 
 
Ms. Cannistraro reviewed the proposed contract structure, explaining that the initial 62-month 
term would include a two-month transition beginning September 1, 2026, with Legends Global 
assuming full management of the venues on November 1, 2026. She noted that employees would 
be given the opportunity to join Legends Global or remain with the COM in other positions, with 
no anticipated layoffs. She added that the COM and Legends Global would continue to work 
closely on venue operations, financial oversight, bookings, events, customer feedback, and 
overall performance. (See Page 15 of Attachment 1) 
 
In response to a question from Councilmember Adams, Mr. Othen identified the current facility 
limitations and opportunities for future growth.

Study Session 
August 13, 2026 
Page 3 
 
 
 
Mr. Cann highlighted opportunities to enhance the Amphitheater, improve guest experience, and 
increase revenue through the venue management expertise, industry relationships, and data 
resources offered through Legends Global. He added that the company currently manages 20 
government-owned amphitheaters and would tailor its approach to support the City’s financial and 
economic development goals. 
 
Responding to a question from Councilmember Duff, Ms. Cannistraro explained that the proposed 
partnership is the next step following the feasibility study and is intended to maximize campus 
revenues and reinvest those funds into future improvements, reducing reliance on the General 
Fund. 
 
Mr. Butler expressed support for the partnership, citing its potential to increase venue revenues, 
fund future improvements without additional General Fund support, and generate broader 
economic benefits for Downtown Mesa. 
 
In response to a question from Councilmember Duff, Ms. Cannistraro clarified that the City would 
retain ownership of the venues, continue funding operations, and retain venue revenues, with 
Legends Global compensated according to the contract terms. She confirmed that existing 
contracts and Downtown Mesa planning efforts would remain in place and that the partnership 
would add expertise to support future campus development and connectivity with Main Street. 
She added that the transition is intended to be seamless for existing customers and bookings, 
while providing opportunities to enhance services, including food and beverage offerings and 
potential use of local vendors. 
 
Mr. Cann pointed out that the Convention Center and Amphitheater are key community assets 
that can strengthen Mesa’s image, economic vitality, and Downtown activity. He noted that 
effective venue management, strong programming, and coordinated partnerships could enhance 
the visitor experience, encourage longer stays and repeat visits, and support the broader 
Downtown destination. 
 
Mr. Othen noted that event planners and promoters are increasingly seeking unique, experience-
driven venues and stated that the Convention Center and Amphitheater could serve as key 
anchors for Downtown Mesa. He emphasized aligning future improvements with economic 
development efforts, ASU’s presence, and immersive technologies, with phased planning guided 
by ongoing data and market trends. 
 
Discussion ensued regarding the current volume of bookings at the Convention Center and the 
nearby Delta Hotel. 
 
In response to a question from Vice Mayor Somers, Ms. Cannistraro stated that staff would 
explore sponsorship, advertising, and other revenue-generating opportunities for the campus. 
She clarified that any naming rights proposal would be subject to the COM’s existing policy and 
require Council approval. 
 
Additional discussion ensued regarding the proposed contract terms.  
 
Responding to a question from Councilmember Taylor, Mr. Cann stated that Legends Global 
would tailor its approach to Mesa’s goals and use its industry network and experience in 
comparable markets to increase bookings, generate new business opportunities, and maximize 
venue utilization. He discussed opportunities to expand amphitheater programming and attract

Study Session 
August 13, 2026 
Page 4 
 
 
higher-profile events through industry relationships and an open-promoter approach. He noted 
that future phased improvements, including increased capacity and enhanced guest and 
production amenities, could strengthen the venue’s competitiveness and support greater use of 
the overall campus. 
 
In response to a question from Councilmember Taylor, Ms. Cannistraro confirmed that the 
agreement includes provisions allowing the COM to terminate the partnership with appropriate 
notice if the expectations set forth in the agreement are not being met. 
 
Responding to a question from Councilmember Taylor, Mr. Cann verified that Legends Global 
has dedicated DEI specialists and emphasized employee development through extensive training 
and professional development programs. He added that transitioning employees would have 
access to additional tools and resources to support their success. 
 
Vice Mayor Somers thanked staff for the presentation.  
 
In response to a request from Mr. Butler regarding agenda Item 5-b, (Adopting a notice of intent 
to enter into a retail development tax incentive agreement pursuant to A.R.S. § 9-500.11 
related to the development known as the “Cannon Beach Hotel,” generally located at the 
southeast corner of Power Road and Warner Road. (District 6)), on the Regular Council 
meeting agenda, Economic Development Director Jaye O’Donnell introduced Assistant City 
Attorney III Sarah Steadman, Deputy Economic Development Director Ben Snow, and displayed 
a PowerPoint presentation. (See Attachment 2) 
 
Ms. O’Donnell presented the proposed Cannon Beach Hotel project, an upscale hotel of at least 
130 rooms with associated event, dining, and outdoor amenities, located within the larger Cannon 
Beach development. She explained that the proposed development agreement would reimburse 
up to $950,000 in eligible public infrastructure costs using project-generated construction sales 
tax and a portion of retail sales tax from the hotel and restaurant. She confirmed that the 
reimbursement would be contingent upon meeting specified permitting and construction 
deadlines, dedicating required public infrastructure and right-of-way to the City, and completing 
and opening the hotel within 36 months of the agreement’s effective date. (See Pages 2 through 
6 of Attachment 2)  
 
Ms. Steadman clarified that reimbursement for required public improvements along Warner Road 
would be capped at the lesser of $950,000 or the actual construction cost. She stated that 
reimbursement would be funded solely from project-generated, non-dedicated transaction 
privilege tax revenues, beginning with eligible construction sales tax and followed by 50% of 
eligible retail sales tax revenues. She added that payments would occur after completion and 
COM acceptance of the improvements and continue over the 10-year agreement term, with the 
reimbursement cap anticipated to be reached within approximately eight years. (See Pages 7 and 
8 of Attachment 2)  
 
Mr. Snow reviewed the statutory requirements for the proposed sales tax incentive, including 
findings that the project would generate revenues exceeding the incentive and would not proceed 
at the same time, place, or manner without the incentive, as well as an independent third-party 
review and reimbursement limited to eligible public infrastructure. He reported that the economic 
analysis projects COM revenues at approximately 10 times the proposed reimbursement over 10 
years. He explained that the next steps include consideration of a Notice of Intent resolution, 
followed by the development agreement and required Council approval. (See Pages 9 through 11 
of Attachment 2)

Study Session 
August 13, 2026 
Page 5 
 
 
 
Mr. Butler pointed out that the proposed project reflects the type of high-quality hospitality 
development sought by the COM. He highlighted the projected return on investment, with the 
project expected to generate more than 10 times the amount of the proposed tax reimbursement 
over the agreement term. 
 
Discussion ensued regarding the growth of quality dining and entertainment options in the area. 
 
Mr. Snow reported that the Cannon Beach campus had received nearly one million visits since 
opening approximately 20 months ago and highlighted the growing demand for additional hotel 
accommodations in the area. 
 
Vice Mayor Somers thanked staff for the presentation.  
 
2-a. 
Appointments to various boards and committees.  
 
It was moved by Councilmember Duff, seconded by Councilmember Adams, that the Council 
concur with the Mayor’s recommendations and the appointments be confirmed. (See Attachment 
3) 
 
Upon tabulation of votes, it showed:  
 
 
AYES – Somers–Adams–Duff–Goforth–Heredia–Taylor 
NAYS – None 
ABSENT – Freeman 
 
Vice Mayor Somers declared the motion carried unanimously by those present.  
 
3. 
Acknowledge receipt of minutes of various boards and committees.  
 
3-a. 
Economic Development Committee meeting held on June 8, 2026. 
 
It was moved by Councilmember Adams, seconded by Councilmember Duff, that receipt of the 
above-listed minutes be acknowledged. 
 
Upon tabulation of votes, it showed:  
 
AYES – Somers–Adams–Duff–Goforth–Heredia–Taylor 
NAYS – None 
ABSENT – Freeman 
 
Vice Mayor Somers declared the motion carried unanimously by those present.  
 
4. 
Convene an Executive Session. 
 
It was moved by Councilmember Goforth, seconded by Councilmember Taylor, that the Council 
adjourn the Study Session at 9:06 a.m. and enter into an Executive Session.  
 
Upon tabulation of votes, it showed:  
 
AYES – Somers–Adams–Duff–Goforth–Heredia–Taylor

Study Session 
August 13, 2026 
Page 6 
 
 
NAYS – None 
ABSENT – Freeman 
 
Vice Mayor Somers declared the motion carried unanimously by those present.  
 
4-a. 
Discussion or consultation for legal advice with the City Attorney. [A.R.S. § 38-
431.03(A)(3)] Discussion or consultation with the City Attorney in order to consider the 
City’s position and instruct the City Attorney regarding the City’s position regarding 
contemplated litigation against fire apparatus manufacturers relating to antitrust and 
anticompetition claims. [A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(3) and (4)].  
 
(At 9:06 a.m., Vice Mayor Somers excused Councilmember Heredia from the remainder of the 
meeting.) 
 
At 9:29 a.m., the Executive Session adjourned, and the Study Session reconvened. 
 
5. 
Reconvene the Public Meeting. 
 
5-a. 
Discuss and consider whether to direct the City Attorney to pursue litigation on behalf of 
the City of Mesa against fire apparatus manufacturers relating to antitrust and 
anticompetition claims and to retain legal counsel for that purpose, as discussed in 
executive session. (Citywide) 
 
It was moved by Councilmember Adams, seconded by Councilmember Duff, to direct the City 
Attorney to pursue litigation on behalf of the City of Mesa against fire apparatus manufacturers 
from which the City has purchased equipment, and to retain legal counsel for that purpose.  
 
Upon tabulation of votes, it showed:  
 
AYES – Somers–Adams–Duff–Goforth–Taylor 
NAYS – None 
ABSENT – Freeman–Heredia 
 
Vice Mayor Somers declared the motion carried unanimously by those present.  
 
6. 
Current events summary including meetings and conferences attended. 
 
There were no reports on meetings and/or conferences attended. 
 
7. 
Scheduling of meetings. 
 
City Manager Scott Butler stated that the schedule of meetings is as follows: 
 
Monday, August 17, 2026, 5:15 p.m. – Study Session 
 
Monday, August 17, 2026, 5:45 p.m. – Regular Council meeting 
 
8. 
Adjournment. 
 
Without objection, the Study Session adjourned at 9:30 a.m.

Study Session 
August 13, 2026 
Page 7 
 
 
 
    ____________________________________ 
SCOTT SOMERS, VICE MAYOR 
 
ATTEST: 
 
 
 
_______________________________ 
HOLLY MOSELEY, CITY CLERK 
 
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Study Session 
of the City Council of Mesa, Arizona, held on the 13th day of August 2026. I further certify that the meeting 
was duly called and held and that a quorum was present. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_______________________________ 
    HOLLY MOSELEY, CITY CLERK 
 
lr/sr 
(Attachments – 3)

Mesa Amphitheatre and
Mesa Convention Center  
Management Contract Overview
For consideration on August 17, 2026
Candace Cannistraro, Deputy City Manager
Brad Gessner, Consultant
Harry Cann, Senior VP, Business Development, Legends Global
Tyler Othen, Executive Director, CSL
RFP#2026084
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August 13, 2026 
Attachment 1 
Page 1 of 17

Timeline
2
Site view of Mesa Convention Center 
and Mesa Amphitheatre
25 Feb. 2026
RFP released
18 Mar. 2026
Tour of Facilities
5 May 2026
RFP closed
10 June 2026
Presentations 
from top two 
proposals
18 June 2026
Notice of Intent to 
Award
1 Sep. 2026
Proposed 
contract effective 
date
1 Nov. 2026
Proposed 
transition 
completion date
Study Session 
August 13, 2026 
Attachment 1 
Page 2 of 17

Partnership with an experienced public 
assembly facility management company 
capable of providing a full range of 
comprehensive services:
• 
Strategic Management
• 
Daily Operations
• 
Marketing and Advertising
• 
Facility Improvement Expertise
3
Public/Private 
Partnership
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Attachment 1 
Page 3 of 17

Intent of Management Contracted
4
High-quality event experiences and event management
Maximized facility utilization
Modernization and capital improvement planning for the facilities
Strong economic impact for the City of Mesa
Effective communication and collaboration with the City of Mesa, 
Visit Mesa (DMO), local hotels, and the Downtown Mesa Association
Integration with the Downtown Mesa Arts and Innovation District
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Attachment 1 
Page 4 of 17

• Monthly Base Fee: 
 
 
 
$14,000
• Monthly Food & Beverage Fee:  
 
4% Gross Sales & 8% Net Sales
• Annual Performance Incentive Fee: 
 
up to $50,000
•
Based on Key Performance Indicators
• Annual Quantitative Incentive Fee: 
 
20% of AGI over benchmark
•
Benchmark Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) determined during annual budget process 
• Sponsorship Commission: 
 
 
20%
5
City Cost
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Attachment 1 
Page 5 of 17

• Capital Contribution: 
 
 
Upfront one-time payment of $500,000
•
 Amortized over 10 years
• Community Contribution:  
 
$10,000/year for five years
•
Toward not-for-profit or community-based organization
• Transition Cost: 
 
 
 
estimated at $50,000 - $75,000
•
System setup, travel, lodging
6
Contractor Cost/Contribution
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Attachment 1 
Page 6 of 17

7
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Attachment 1 
Page 7 of 17

8
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Attachment 1 
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9
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Attachment 1 
Page 9 of 17

CSL FACILITY IMPROVEMENT STUDY
10
• PROJECT EXPERIENCE:  More than 2,500 previous 
engagements. 
• EXISTING CONDITIONS:  Evaluated 50 competitive 
convention and concert facilities throughout Arizona. 
• COMPARABLE ANALYSIS:  Benchmarking analysis of 21 
comparable facilities and markets throughout the country
• INDUSTRY TRENDS:  Detailed evaluation of macroeconomic 
trends in the convention and concert industries. 
• STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS:  Held more than 20 
stakeholder interview sessions. 
• INITIAL SITE VISIT, INTERVIEWS & OUTREACH:  Completed 65 
surveys of event planners collectively representing more than 
300 annual events. 
Site Visit
Local Stakeholder 
Outreach
Potential User
Interviews
Comparable 
Facility  Analysis
Industry
Trends
Market
Characteristics
Estimated Use & 
Building Program
Recommendations
COST/BENEFIT ANALYSIS
Demographic 
Analysis
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Attachment 1 
Page 10 of 17

CONVENTION CENTER
11
ANALYSIS TAKEAWAYS
Recent Convention 
Growth
Crowded 
Competitive Field
Ballroom + Hotel  
Limitations
Disconnected from 
Downtown
Lack of Familiarity 
Among Planners
Dated Facility
Opportunity to Be a 
Pioneering Facility
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Attachment 1 
Page 11 of 17

AMPHITHEATRE
12
ANALYSIS TAKEAWAYS
Outdoor Concert Growth
Competing with 
Recently Improved 
Venues
Need to Improve 
The Artist 
Experience
Opportunities to 
Improve the Fan 
Experience
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Attachment 1 
Page 12 of 17

ONGOING SERVICES
13
Market-Based Planning
• Market analysis review
• Financial estimates
• Economic impact calculations
• Sensitivity tools for decision-making
• Funding alternatives review
• Capital investment planning
• Roadmap development
Trends in Convention Centers
Trends in Live Music Experience
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Attachment 1 
Page 13 of 17

Facility Improvement Planning
14
• Legends Global and the City will work 
together to identify and prioritize 
improvements to modernize, enhance, and 
monetize the facilities
• Legends Global and its affiliates will provide 
the expertise and services related to capital 
planning, feasibility and finance modeling, 
venue development, real estate consulting 
and construction management
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Attachment 1 
Page 14 of 17

• 2-month transition period
• 5-year management period
62-Month Initial Term
Up to three (3) five-year 
renewal terms
15
Management Transition
Legends Global will take control of all on-site 
operations including; ticketing, food & 
beverage, security, IT, facility maintenance, 
personnel, finances, marketing and sales, etc.

All current personnel will have the option to move 
to Legends Global employment or remain with the 
City in another capacity

The PRCF Director and City Human Resources will 
work with each employee
City staff will work with the General Manager 
and other site employees regarding financial 
reconciliations and City sponsored events
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Attachment 1 
Page 15 of 17

Thank You
16
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Attachment 1 
Page 16 of 17

Facilities
17
Not representative of 
location proximities
All except Delta Hotel 
included in  management 
contract
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Attachment 1 
Page 17 of 17

Cannon Beach 
Hotel.
Jaye O’Donnell, Economic Development Director
Sarah Steadman, Assistant City Attorney
August 13, 2026
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August 13, 2026 
Attachment 2  
Page 1 of 11

SelectMesa.com
2
Purpose.
The proposed Cannon Beach Hotel 
project will consist of an upscale hotel 
with a minimum of 130 rooms and 
various amenities, including a roof top 
deck and event space, ground level pool, 
hot tub, and lawn area, a bar and lounge 
connected to an outdoor terrace 
overlooking the surf pool, and an 
upscale or upscale casual, full-service 
restaurant consisting of a minimum of 
7,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor 
space.
We will be discussing major terms and 
conditions for a proposed development 
agreement to provide developer with a 
retail sales tax incentive for the 
reimbursement of public infrastructure 
along Warner Road.
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Attachment 2  
Page 2 of 11

SelectMesa.com
3
Location.
South of Warner Road and 
on the east side of S. Power 
Road
Total site is approximately 
35.61 acres
Hotel site is approximately 
1.32 acres
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Attachment 2  
Page 3 of 11

SelectMesa.com
4
Cannon Beach Hotel.
PROPOSED DA
DA Project Area = Only (1.32 +/-
acres) for Hotel Development, 
property owned by Cannon Beach 
Hotel LLC
Tax Reimbursement for Public 
Infrastructure for the Hotel and 
Restaurant
N
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Attachment 2  
Page 4 of 11

SelectMesa.com
5
Overview of DA Structure.
Reimbursement of taxes up to $950,000 for dedicated public infrastructure if Developer 
completes all the following conditions precedent:
• 18 months from DA effective date to obtain building permits for public infrastructure
• 36 months from DA effective date to complete public infrastructure which must be designed, 
bid, and built per applicable law, including A.R.S. Title 34
• Dedication of the public infrastructure (City)
• Required dedications of right of way to City prior to dedication of public infrastructure
• Upscale hotel (currently a planned Tapestry by Hilton) must complete construction and be 
open to the public within 36 months of the effective date of the DA 
Reimbursement for public infrastructure using portions of the Construction Sales Tax and Retail 
Sales Tax generated by the Hotel and Restaurant
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Attachment 2  
Page 5 of 11

SelectMesa.com
6
Infrastructure for Reimbursement.
PROPOSED PROPERTY
Requires public infrastructure on 
Warner Road that includes:
• Pavement and Turn Lanes
• Curb and Gutter
• Sidewalks and Landscaping
• Driveways and Streetlights
• Storm Drain, Retention, Retaining 
Wall
• Signing and Striping
• Staking and Testing
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Attachment 2  
Page 6 of 11

SelectMesa.com
7
Construction Tax Incentive.
• Eligible Construction Tax: 100% of the 1.2% non-dedicated general fund sales taxes received 
by City for Construction Contracting for the Hotel and Restaurant
• One-time payment of Eligible Construction Tax collected from the Effective Date of DA 
through the date completion of construction of the Hotel and Restaurant (C of O issued)
• Subject to the maximum reimbursement cap of $950,000
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Attachment 2  
Page 7 of 11

SelectMesa.com
8
Retail Sales Tax Incentive.
• Eligible Sales Tax: 50% of the 1.2% non-dedicated general fund sales taxes 
received by City for taxable activities for the hotel and restaurant 
• Requires Completion of the Conditions Precedent
• Economic Incentive Period: 10-year period beginning on the date of 
completion of construction of the Hotel and Restaurant (C of O issued)
• Sales tax rebate will be made four times per year
• Subject to the maximum reimbursement cap of $950,000 
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Attachment 2  
Page 8 of 11

SelectMesa.com
9
Statutory Requirements: Findings &
Economic Impact Analysis.
•
Per A.R.S. § 9-500.11, Council Must Find:
o The proposed sales tax incentive (project) will raise more revenues than the amount of the incentive 
(reimbursement) during the term of the agreement; and 
o Development would not locate in Mesa in the same time, place or manner in the absence of a tax incentive.
•
Statute requires independent third-party review of the Council findings
•
A.R.S. § 42-6010 requires that construction and sales tax incentives offered to retail businesses be 
provided only as reimbursement for public infrastructure dedicated to, and accepted and controlled upon 
completion of the project by the City.
•
Two Council Meetings Required 
o Notice of Intent Resolution
o Resolutions for approval of the Development Agreement and the Council findings (requires a 2/3 vote of the 
Council)
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Attachment 2  
Page 9 of 11

SelectMesa.com
10
Third Party Economic 
Impact Analysis.
•
Performed by Applied Economics
•
Includes economic analysis and impact summary with projected sales tax, City tax 
revenues, public improvements, total economic impact, job creation, annual labor income, 
and construction activity
•
Revenues to the City: The project would general a significantly greater amount of sales tax 
revenues than the total amount of the rebate
•
Final analysis report will be provided to City Council in conjunction with the resolution 
requiring the City Council findings.
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Attachment 2  
Page 10 of 11

SelectMesa.com
11
Next Steps.
August 17, 2026 City Council Meeting
o Notice of Intent Resolution
September 14, 2026 City Council Meeting
o Development Agreement Resolution
o City Council Findings Resolution
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Attachment 2  
Page 11 of 11

August 13, 2026 
  
TO: 
 
CITY COUNCILMEMBERS 
  
FROM: 
MAYOR MARK FREEMAN 
  
SUBJECT: 
Appointments to Boards and Committees 
  
The following are my recommendations for appointments to the City of Mesa Advisory 
Boards and Committees:  
 
Housing & Community Development Advisory Board – Eleven-member board 
including new appointments. 
 
Emily Barrett, District 3. Ms. Barrett is a program manager at GoDaddy.com and co-owner 
of Cadence Running Company. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from 
Western Kentucky University. Her first term will expire June 30, 2029. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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