About half of Buckeye's economic development leads come from its partnership with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. So, renewing the agreement at the June 17 regular city council meeting was an easy yes.
According to its website, the GPEC is "committed to advocating for emerging and established companies and industries, empowering them to strategically adapt, thrive and grow in an ever-evolving marketplace." It provides developers with services including operational cost comparison, regional labor market data and site selection assistance.
Those sites include partner cities like Buckeye to which GPEC will connect businesses that appear to be a good fit. Membership with the GPEC also provides resources to cities including trade show opportunities, legislative opportunities, consults with GPEC experts, regional marketing efforts, economic development research and networking opportunities with other regional cities.
"GPEC proposes new and advocates for existing economic development programs at the state level to increase the area and state's competitiveness," according to city documents. "GPEC advocates on the city's behalf with clients/prospects."
The GPEC bases membership rate amounts on the city's population. Buckeye's population is estimated to be 113,349. At a per-capita rate of nearly half a cent, the membership renewal will cost $55,507 for FY2026, a slight increase.
The agreement was approved in the June 17 consent agenda.
