- Meeting Date:
- 04/09/2026
- Title:
- Interview and Discussion; Economic Development Services
- Submitted By:
- Lara Loewenheim, Board of Supervisors
- Department:
- Board of Supervisors
Submitted for Signature:
of PRESENTER:
of PRESENTER:
or Basis for Support?:
Information
Agenda Item Text:
Pursuant to A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(1), the Board may vote to go into Executive Session for the purpose of interviewing and considering the appointment/employment of finalists selected through the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process for Economic Development services.
Background:
Cochise County issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for professional services to develop an Economic Development Roadmap for the County as a whole, with particular focus on key corridors and strategic opportunities. The scope of work includes evaluating existing economic conditions, identifying opportunities for growth, and providing actionable strategies to guide future development.
The County received ten (10) proposals in response to the RFQ. Staff conducted an initial review and presented top-ranked firms to the Board for consideration. At the Board’s direction, additional proposals were reviewed to ensure a thorough evaluation of available options.
The Board considered factors such as experience in economic development planning, staffing capacity, familiarity with regional and cross-border economic conditions, and the ability to deliver a practical, implementation-focused strategy. The importance of developing a comprehensive plan to guide economic growth, particularly along the State Route 191 corridor and at key ports of entry, was emphasized.
Following discussion, the Board directed staff to invite selected finalists to participate in interviews prior to making a final selection.