Mesa gets second chance with Gaylord Center

It is not often that I disagree with the Goldwater Institute and agree with the East Valley Tribune, but today is one of those days. Mesa has a great opportunity to make it the go to location in the Southwest for conventions if it lands the proposed Gaylord Resort. The proposed location for the resort is out at the old GM Proving Grounds in East Mesa. The project could help build up not only East Mesa, but also Queen Creek and Gilbert. 

In March voters will go to the polls and vote on Proposition 300 which would allow the Gaylord project to keep up to $51 million in hotel bed taxes for tourism marketing, rather than sending the money to the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Mesa would also abate up to $90 million in property taxes for the resort and conference center. 

Mesa needs to think long term here. If you have been to a Gaylord Resort (I have stayed at two) you realize what a great opportunity they are for the local economy. Not only do they help the existing businesses, but they spring up dozens, if not hundreds of other businesses in the surrounding area to help support the visitors.

Mesa had an opportunity to bring the Cardinals to their City. They passed up on the opportunity, and we have all seen how that has benefited Glendale. I am sure if voters knew then, what they know now looking at the Glendale complexes, it would have been approved. Mesa cannot afford to lose another opportunity like they have now. They do not come around very often. 

Some argue the proposed deal is unconstitutional because the tax breaks are aimed to help one business. I completely disagree. The tax breaks are offered now to help bring in a business that will help the whole community. A break in taxes now will lead to many more millions in revenue in the future. If you are unsure go to the resorts outside of Dallas and outside of Nashville and look at the malls, restaurants and other businesses that are benefiting from the Gaylord resorts there.