March 2026 Member Spotlight
Julie Leonard
Economic Development Analyst/Coordinator
Where are you originally from and what brought you to Arizona?
I am originally from Hanna City, IL which is a rural community in the non- Chicago part of Illinois. My husband, Dan and I moved to Arizona in 2001 to be in full-time ministry as house parents at a Christian Children’s Home – Sunshine Acres Children’s Home in Mesa. We cared for 10 junior high and senior high boys while at Sunshine Acres. We eventually moved to Coolidge in Pinal County and raised our family there and then on to Payson 4 ½ years ago.
How did you come to work in the economic development profession?
I was introduced to economic development when I was working at Central Arizona College (CAC) managing a federal workforce grant (TAACCCT) focused on the Trades programs at CAC. I worked with the legend, Tim Kanavel (Pinal County) and Richard Wilkie (Casa Grande) representing the college and post-secondary education. I worked with the local team and ACA in the early days of attracting and landing Lucid Motors. I coordinated the efforts to revamp the welding and manufacturing programs at CAC to meet the industry needs and standards. I had the amazing opportunity to work closely with many of the manufacturers in the area. I then moved to Payson as the Economic Development Coordinator in September 2021. God orchestrated the way to do something I enjoy in a community my husband and I love. I have worked on many various projects since working for the Town of Payson which now also includes the Beeline Bus Transit System and Housing as well as Economic Development.
What drew you to the opportunity at the Town of Payson and how long have you been in your current role?
My family had vacationed in the Payson area for over 20 years. We loved the community and especially enjoy being near the forest, creeks and lakes. I am passionate about the Payson community and desire to see growth happen that makes sense while keeping the rural, hometown feel of the community. I have moved around quite a bit in my role with the Town of Payson in the last 4 ½ years but Economic Development was moved to its own department this year and there are many opportunities ahead.
What are your thoughts and experiences with AAED?
When I moved into this role in Payson, I was the only person in the town working solely on Economic Development, so AAED helped me connect with others doing that work. The networking has been an important part of AAED for me. I love that other colleagues are willing to share their expertise and knowledge. I also completed the AZED pro certification through AAED which helped to learn more about economic development.
What committees are you involved in?
Rural and Northern Committees.
Are there any economic development projects that you’re particularly proud of?
I have worked with our small businesses to create our Shop Hop events that included over 20 local shops, tourism efforts and housing needs which led to our first LIHTC funded project in over 20 years in Payson. Adventure Payson month in May has grown over the last few years featuring our many events in the area. We have also had successful Moonshot competitions in Payson which led to 2 of our businesses winning at the State Rural Competition for Crowd Favorite. I have also been an integral part of overseeing our Visitor Center operations, staff and volunteers for the last few years. Payson has the best Visitor Center! Be sure to stop by when you are coming this way.
What comes to mind when you think about Arizona?
As someone who relocated to Arizona from the Midwest I find that many people have no idea how many different ecosystems there are in Arizona. Many people assume it is all desert! They have no idea how unique our mountain communities are!
What is it that you like to do outside of work?
My husband, Dan and I love to hike and try to get out every weekend to enjoy the beauty of Payson. We also camp, kayak and fish when we can. We also love spending time with our Kids and Grandkids – Annalisa (1 year), Rowan (4 years) and one on the way! We also serve at our church and enjoy studying the Bible.