Apache Junction mayor returns from job-recruitment trip to L.A. GPEC delegation met with top executives from software and solar energy firms The Greater Phoenix Economic Council, Apache Junction Mayor John Insalaco and leadership from Avondale returned from a job-recruitment trip to California, having met with companies interested in expanding into the Valley. Source : Greater Phoenix Economic Council The delegation met with executives from two software companies and a solar energy firm. One of the software companies is looking to expand testing in the U.S. and is considering one of two states for their project. "They're looking at Greater Phoenix because of the talent base," said Brad Smidt, vice president of business development at GPEC. "They're attracted to this area because of the close proximity to California where their U.S. anchor company is located, and because of the lower cost of operating." The solar company, too, is interested in expanding into the Phoenix area, particularly because of the Renewable Energy Tax Incentive program passed this summer. The company is looking to expand its manufacturing operation and may be eligible for the tax credit, Smidt said. The delegation traveled to California as part of a joint economic partnership with Tucson, Yuma and Flagstaff. The group, which included Avondale Director of Parks, Recreation and Libraries Dan Davis, made the trip to call on opportunities that will advance the Arizona Sun Corridor. This megapolitan stretch uniting Phoenix and Tucson will be one of 10 U.S. markets expected to see most of the nation's growth in the next 35 years. Insalaco is the eighth mayor to take part in this effort since March. Insalaco said the meetings with the companies went well and he was glad to represent Greater Phoenix during the Sept. 29 trip. He also said he gained valuable insight into his own city. "We still have a ways to go to be truly competitive in terms of facility and building availability," he said. "But having seen the L.A. market and the visual upkeep, or lack thereof, I feel very good about the level of services we are sustaining here in Apache Junction." ### About the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) A true public/private partnership, GPEC is the regional economic development organization for Greater Phoenix. Working with its 18 member communities, Maricopa County and more than 140 private investors, GPEC attracts quality businesses to this dynamic region. By creating a high-performance economy through capital investments and jobs, Greater Phoenix companies enjoy a business climate where they can compete and thrive in today’s global economy. Since 1989, GPEC has worked to achieve an economically sound and sustainable region. For more information, visit www.gpec.org. Technorati Tags: Arizona, Phoenix, Phoenix Arizona, Technology  | 
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