Globe Mayor’s Report: April 2025

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT: Council heard an updated presentation from Community Development Director, Tony Manfredi. His staff consists of a Permit Technician, Building Inspector, Licensing Administrator, Code Compliance Officer, Plan Review Services, and a third-party staff Zoning Administrator. This department has become a vital part of our city as we continue to experience the current growth now and in the future. Our city did not have this level of professional services and resources six years ago and was not ready or able to handle the growth and activity that we are now experiencing. The statistical numbers speak for themselves this past year as they have seen a tremendous increase in numbers for service. One huge highlight to the city’s process is the implementation of Pre-Development Meetings (PDM) that occur every Friday to review and meet with applicants of permits for upgrades, new builds, and new developments to help them meet their goals. 

It is important to understand that building and fire codes are developed to protect property and for the safety of the public. Zoning codes are designed to protect neighbors and the integrity of neighborhoods. They have always been in our city’s system, but were not always enforced fairly and consistently.

Council continues to follow its vision, goals, and plans to elevate our city to another level, assuring sustainability and growth for the future. At some point, we need to decide that some things are unacceptable and that raising standards and compliance with codes are not anti-business; it is PRO COMMUNITY. It is truly about where we live, we deserve better. 

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ANNUAL UPDATE: Council heard an annual update on March 11 by Economic Development Manager, Melissa Steele. The city continues to invest in Business Engagement & Retention, Business Expansion & New Development, Tourism & Marketing, and Shop Local Initiatives. 

Data from a third-party vendor on tourism and lodging shows overnight visitor volume at 97,500 visitors and direct travel-related spending at 33.4 million dollars, which is a 5% increase from last year. Local tax receipts generated by direct travel-related spending totaled $2 million dollars, which is a 9.6% increase.

Economic growth was also measured in two other categories from 2022 to 2025. Property taxes have not been increased to our residents, but are projected to have a 38.8% growth at the end of 2025 due to new construction and development. Sales tax revenue also shows a projected growth of 57.9% at the end of 2025 from 2022. These numbers are good news for our business community and for the continued expenses for upgrades to our aging infrastructure. 

The continued goals and priorities for the Economic Development Department in 2025 include expansion & strengthening business retention, enhancing digital & tourism marketing, attraction & support of small business, workforce development & entrepreneur support, and the continued tracking of economic growth. 

CONNIES BRIDGE RIBBON CUTTING: A ribbon cutting took place on April 3rd for the new Connies Bridge. We understand the frustration caused by construction taking longer than expected. We have been patient in working through many obstacles and some mediation work to ensure that the final product is what we paid for. The contract was awarded at a certain amount to Meridian and they have been held accountable to make sure that all standards, guidelines, and design specifications were met at no extra cost to the city. I want to thank our staff, especially our engineer, Luis Chavez, for his persistence in ensuring that this bridge met all the standards before being signed off. 

OUTDOOR FITNESS EQUIPMENT: Council approved a contract with Greenfield Outdoor Fitness for the purchase of outdoor fitness equipment in the amount of $89,451.20. Funding for this equipment is provided by BHP Copper and will be installed near the Skate Park Complex.

CHECK DONATION: A check in the amount of $25,000 was presented to the City of Globe by the Arizona Complete Health Organization to be used as part of the funding for construction of a concession stand at the Community Center Pool. 

HILL STREET SCHOOL APARTMENTS AVAILABILITY: The recent report provided to the city by the property manager of the Hill Street School Apartments shows there are three studios and 10 one-bedroom units still available under the affordable senior 55 and older category. For more information, call Debra Espinoza at 928-255-5605. There are also four units available for individuals with disabilities ages 18 and older. You must apply online for these units at dddhousinggeneralinfo@azdes.gov.

COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP EVENT: A Free Dumpster Day and Community Clean-Up event was held April 11-12-13. 

OLD DOMINION DAYS: The 9th Annual Old Dominion Days will be held from April 24 through April 27 to celebrate the legacy of mining and baseball in Globe-Miami. This year’s lineup includes mine tours, walking tours, lunch & learn lectures, new museum exhibits, and more. A new highlight this year will be the First Annual Old Dominion Days Cup as teams will compete for the Capstone Copper Trophy. Tickets are available for individual events or as a package. For full schedules and tickets, go to OldDominionDays.eventbrite.com. 

COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR: Coffee With The Mayor takes place the third Wednesday of each month at Copper Cities Coffee, 1100 N. Broad Street, Suite F. This is an opportunity for residents to attend and ask questions and get the most recent accurate information about any city projects past, present, or pending. This event will continue every third Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m. Thank you again to Copper Cities Coffee for hosting this event.