Canadian Consulate delegation visits Maricopa

A three-member delegation from the Consulate of Canada received a briefing on the merits of Maricopa as a business destination and residence from city officials this morning as part of the city’s efforts to attract new business to the area.

At a meet-and-greet at the Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Course, Senior Trade Commissioner Brad Niblock and Trade Commissioners Jeanine Jerkovic and Dawn Nagle met informally with Maricopa Mayor Anthony Smith, Councilmembers Julia Gusse and Carl Diedrich, City Manager Brenda Fischer and Economic Development Director Danielle Casey, among others.

Smith greeted the delegation by explaining what an important role Canadians play in the economic health of the city.

“Our Canadian winter residents play an important role in the success of many of our local business,” Smith said. “Many would not be in business today if it wasn’t for that influence.”

Smith added he thinks the Canadian residents enjoy the city as well. “I think they like living here. They love to play and enjoy the area of Maricopa.”

Smith said that he would like to see not only a residential impact, but small businesses and light manufacturing that might come from the Canadian market.