Civil Municipal Magazine - Nov 2023

119 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11 PRESCOT T VALLEY TOWN, ARI ZONA aimed at bolstering its commercial landscape. He starts by recalling the town’s humble beginnings, with small local shops lining the major highway. “Prescott Valley started off as a really small town with small local businesses,” he says. These businesses, he notes, have largely thrived, with the town boasting a high occupancy rate for retail spaces. “Our occupancy rate for commercial business is very good, and we need more space to fit the new businesses coming into the area,” he mentions, highlighting the town’s efforts to work with developers to increase commercial inventory. He also emphasizes the town’s collaboration with educational institutions to bolster workforce development. “Our two largest employers are in education and health services,” he states. The town’s partnership with Yavapai College and a nearby university aims to retain graduates in the area, particularly those from aviation programs. Addressing potential areas for growth, Chamberlain speaks of several shovel-ready sites in Prescott Valley, both in the central part of town and industrial areas. “We have tons of commercial space right in the central part of town,” he says, noting the town’s collaboration with the Arizona Commerce Authority to promote these sites to potential businesses. On the topic of incentives for businesses, Chamberlain reveals that the town has recently introduced two new incentives. “One is a job creation incentive,” he says, explaining that businesses bringing a certain amount of development dollars and creating at least ten new jobs paying within the median household income range can benefit. These businesses can potentially have their construction sales tax rebated back to them, which can be used for various purposes, including infrastructure, sustainable development and job training. Strengthening Community Ties: Collaborations and Sustainability On Prescott Valley’s commitment to promoting a sense of community and ensuring a sustainable future, Mayor Palguta sheds light on the town’s partnerships that play a pivotal role in its growth and development.