September 2024 Member Highlight
Steve North
Economic Development Coordinator, City of Show Low
What brought you to Show Low?
Growing up, my grandparents had a cabin in Lakeside, so I spent a lot of time here hunting, camping, and fishing when I was younger. I was looking for a more rural lifestyle, and the city created an opportunity for me when they split off from a regional economic development group.
How did you come to work in the economic development profession?
After going to school for planning, I took a basic economic development position with the City of Tucson. I really like the diversity and the opportunity to work on all kinds of projects. There was always something different.
Are there any past projects you are particularly proud of?
We just closed on an Amazon last-mile facility. It’s good for our community and will bring in a lot jobs. In total, it will be about a two-year process from when we began communication with them to when they open the doors of the facility.
Are there any exciting current projects?
We are working on a business incubator project that has been on my radar for 15 years. This area is very entrepreneurial. People want to work remotely or create their own opportunities. I felt like we, as a city, need to be more proactive by encouraging the activity. Just recently, we found out we were awarded a significant planning grant. The main areas we are targeting is a commercial kitchen, the trades, general use, and opportunities in the cyber world for our youth. We want to continue to create a sustainable economy.
We are also working on workforce housing in our community. We have created incentives for developers to address this need. Right now, we are looking at creating 300 units of workforce housing.
How long have you been an AAED member?
I first joined 30 years ago but moved out of state. I rejoined in 2007 when I moved to Show Low.
What do you enjoy most about being an AAED member?
Getting information on relevant topics and education. Networking is also big. It’s nice to meet people and trade war stories about is and isn’t working. I served as a mentor this past year and that was also enjoyable.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I do a lot of fishing, mountain biking, and hiking.
What’s your favorite Arizona location for a weekend trip?
We visit a lot different areas. Recently my wife and I visited Bisby and Tombstone — that was really cool. We also like going to Verde Valley and traveling to Colorado.