Accomplishments
Played a key role in securing the Mesa Arts Center for the February 22 GOP Presidential Debate by giving CNN producers a personal tour of the state-of-the-art facility.
- Had a significant role in the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) agreement, which allows Mesa to lease the facility and eventually own it while maintaining its highly classified status. The AFRL site is the only such secured facility in Arizona and is one of just a handful in the United States. The facility will build a foundation for a true statewide effort in aerospace research and development, acting as a magnet for collaboration between Arizona's aerospace companies and college programs.
- Was elected as the Second Vice President of the Unitied States Conference of Mayors. He will become the organization's president in 2013. He will be the first Arizona mayor to serve as president of the organization.
- Unveiled iMesa, an exciting initiative designed to invigorate Mesa through transformative community projects. Leveraging technology for civic engagement, iMesa is a grassroots improvement effort where residents submit, vote and comment on ideas that will transform the community.
- Helped seal the deal for First Solar to build a solar module manufacturing plant in Mesa. At full build out, First Solar will bring nearly 5,000 high-wage jobs ranging from accounting and manufacturing to engineering and information technology.
- Hits a grand slam in November 2010 when Mesa voters pass Proposition 420 by a 2-1 margin, allowing the City of Mesa to move forward with building a new Chicago Cubs Spring Training facility. Voters also passed a Bed Tax, Home Rule and Utility Bonds in the election.
