By Anthony “Tony” Smith
For the better part of our state’s first century the discussion, in terms of economic development, seemed to be focused on Phoenix and Tucson. Times are changing. Pinal County is well-positioned to be Arizona’s next economic engine.
To keep an economic engine purring, a 21st century Arizona must diversify its economy. A diverse and healthy economy generally results in a broader tax base and fewer taxes.
We all benefit from that.
It is my hope this is the last time we rely on the home-building industry to keep Arizona growing. Certainly, we need an adequate supply of housing, but I believe we need an aggressive plan to attract core industries such as aerospace, agri-business, energy, and health care. To realize Pinal County’s full growth potential, we must first focus our combined efforts to create the infrastructure that supports job growth.
