D6 Presentation

City of Mesa — City Council Strategic Planning Session (2026-02-19)

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Mesa District 6
Strategic Priorities 2026
Presented by Vice Mayor Somers

The 30,000-Foot View
Success Defined: In the next 12 months I would like to have 
agreements in place for generational projects like Legacy Park and 
ASU Polytechnic Innovation Zone.
Vision Statement: Southeast Mesa will emerge as a center of regional 
importance by leveraging strategic partnerships to anchor a resilient 
local economy that supports strong neighbor entertainment 
destinations.

Priority 1: The Economy
Attract sectors that bring more high-value jobs per acre (goal is 
100,000 new jobs).
Desired Outcome: Attract more investment from businesses in 
aerospace, advanced manufacturing, semiconductor production 
(not just logistics), healthcare (providers, research, 
pharmaceuticals) and tourism. Motivate ASU to move forward on 
Innovation Zone. Incentivize accelerated redevelopment of 
declining areas like Superstition Mall.

Priority 2: The Land 
Improve synergy of development.
Desired Outcome: Create thoughtful transitions between 
residential and industrial areas. Optimize remaining land near 
Gateway Airport for greater job growth and economic impact. 
Pursue a more cohesive live, work, play, learn environment by 
incorporating elements of the Mesa Gateway Strategic 
Development Plan.

Priority 3: The People 
Reinforce focus on Quality Retail Initiatives with measures. 
(build on the program)
Desired Outcome: Vigorously pursue new retail, 
entertainment, and dining options. Develop enhanced 
strategies to demonstrate demand for these types of 
investments. Set higher expectations and sense of urgency on 
Legacy Park development.

Partnerships & Resources
Collaboration
●
ASU Polytechnic - Innovation District can be a significant launch point for advanced manufacturing.
●
Vestar has a vision for updated retail and full-service hospitality (a once in a lifetime opportunity).
●
Development Services, City Attorney, and City Manager’s Office are the key internal actors needed 
to get this done.
●
SRP for both water and power resources.
Barriers
●
The long-term vision has too often given way to short-term gain.
●
Resources: We are managing the water challenges well and investing in our long-term portfolio, but 
this will remain an ongoing issue.
●
Power: Capacity for advanced manufacturing attraction and expansion is dwindling. SRP is key here. 
Mesa needs safe, long-term generating solutions or innovation from key partners.

In District 6 we Elevate Mesa by…
●Jobs and economic growth support citywide services, 
infrastructure, and public safety.
●Smart development maintains the strength of communities and 
quality of life that constituents want.
●Raising the bar for development in District 6 sets an expectation 
for the types of infill and redevelopment we want to see across 
the city.

Clarifying Questions & Comments