On Thursday, Arizona lawmakers seized an opportunity to increase the state’s active economic activity by passing Senate Bill 1543 and bringing them a step closer to the proposed international headquarters in Scottsdale.
The project was supposed to promise thousands of well-paid jobs, new housing, hospitality and long-term growth in the area. The project has a wide range of public support.
Despite the long opposition campaign, the bill cleared the entire National House Committee on Wednesday and passed with today’s bipartisan support.
“The Arizona Chamber of Commerce is praising the home for today’s aisles,” said Courtney Coolidge, vice president of Chamber. “As we said on multiple occasions, this is about a single project in Scottsdale. It’s about the statewide future, sending a message that Arizona is open for business and that extra-out-state benefits don’t deny any important employment projects here.”
A recent statewide Cygnal poll found 75% of voters support Axon building headquarters in their community. In Scottsdale, where projects are set to infiltrate, 65% of voters support the plan. This support crosses party boundaries that include strong majority Republicans, independents and Democrats.
Axon’s campus is more than just a corporate office. It is a dynamic, multi-development with restaurants, hotels, entertainment venues and approximately 2,000 apartments. The projected economic impact is impressive at $38 billion over the next decade.
When poll respondents presented these details, support jumped to 64% and 60% statewide in Scottsdale. Local opposition fell sharply to 27%.
The act ensures that Arizona cities cannot block similar developments if 200,000-500,000 residents meet clear criteria. It’s a full-time job of at least 1,000 people at above average wages and a full campus plan that includes housing and hospitality.
Advocates for economic development and job creation argue that the bill is a smart policy that will welcome innovation and enhance Arizona’s competitiveness by attracting and retaining top employers.
Passing today will send the bill to the Senate for a final vote.
Despite attempts by a California-based union to overturn the approval of the city’s project through a referendum, a majority, 63% in Scottsdale and 52% across the state, are stepping up their voting efforts. Almost half of Scottsdale voters say they are “strongly opposed” to a campaign that derails the project.
