ISSUES
Economic Development Opportunities
El Paso’s economy, situated at the heart of a binational metropolitan area, stands at a pivotal moment of growth and transformation. As one of the largest border communities in the United States, El Paso boasts a unique blend of cultural richness, strategic geographical location, and a dynamic, youthful population. With nearly 869,000 residents in El Paso County and about 680,000 in the city itself, it’s not only a significant player in the Texas economy but also a central hub for U.S.-Mexico trade. This trade, vital to the city’s economic vitality, sees over $110 billion in goods crossing annually, highlighting El Paso’s role in international commerce.
Despite facing slower growth rates compared to the broader Texas economy, El Paso’s countywide population saw an 8.1% increase from 2010 to 2020, outpacing the U.S. growth rate. Particularly, the Eastside of El Paso emerged as a robust growth engine, indicative of the area’s potential for further development. The commercial and residential boom on the Eastside, with over 4,800 building permits issued in the last five years, underscores a thriving economic activity that’s ripe for expansion.
Strategic Growth Plans
To harness this potential, El Paso is laying down strategic plans focused on expanding its commercial tax base and boosting sales tax revenues through targeted growth in retail and entertainment sectors. By attracting new businesses and supporting the expansion of existing ones, El Paso aims to enhance its attractiveness as a destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. This approach not only leverages the city’s demographic advantages but also capitalizes on its status as a cultural and economic bridge between the U.S. and Mexico.
El Paso’s biggest economic development opportunities lie in its binational trade relations, industrial and manufacturing prowess, and a robust military presence. The city is poised to further its role as an industrial powerhouse, with plans to attract more high-tech manufacturing and logistics companies, benefiting from its strategic proximity to major North American trade routes. Additionally, leveraging the substantial military complex and the associated workforce presents another avenue for economic expansion, particularly in sectors that can benefit from the skills and expertise of veterans and active-duty personnel.
To support these opportunities, I will work to deploy a variety of economic development tools, including:
Economic Incentives:
Active use of Chapter 380 agreements to stimulate job creation and capital investment, with a focus on industries that bolster the city’s strategic growth areas.
Small Business Focus:
Small business accounts for over 80% of business in El Paso with over 80% of businesses having less than 20 employees. Enhanced support for small businesses, recognizing their critical role in the local economy. This includes significant financial strategies and fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship.
Leveraging Funding:
An aggressive pursuit of state and federal grants to finance key projects, particularly those enhancing infrastructure, technology innovation, and cross-border economic activities.
By focusing on these strategic areas, El Paso aims not just to expand its economic base but to create a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable economic future. The city’s commitment to leveraging its unique geographic and demographic advantages, coupled with targeted investments in key sectors, lays a solid foundation for growth. El Paso’s economic development plans are poised to transform the city into a more prosperous, dynamic, and attractive community for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Heat Readiness and Preparation
In response to the unprecedented heat levels recorded in 2023, I am pleased to share my plan to initiate a Heat Mitigation Readiness Response Pilot Program. This program is designed to proactively address the escalating urban heat challenges and promote a sustainable, livable environment for all residents. The program will leverage a comprehensive approach, focusing on enhancing urban greenery, implementing street pavement cooling efforts, and organizing community-centered cooling activities in tandem with the City’s first resilient and sustainability office.
Quality of Life
My priority is the prompt and effective rollout of voter-approved bond projects, a commitment supported by my extensive experience in managing citywide initiatives to completion. I am equally focused on enhancing our city’s connectivity through the construction of new roadways and the rehabilitation of existing ones, both in residential areas and major thoroughfares. Moreover, I am keen to advance the construction of the downtown multi-purpose center, the Mexican American Cultural Center, and the El Paso Children’s Museum. These projects are vital cultural and educational assets that will enrich our city’s fabric.
Financial Stability
When I took office as a city representative, El Paso’s Rainy Day fund was critically low, with reserves covering less than 10 days, far from the optimal 90-day benchmark. I have consistently supported bolstering our reserves, contributing to them annually over the past seven years. Moving forward, I am committed to enhancing our savings further, to safeguard against future economic challenges. Strengthening El Paso’s fiscal health is a cornerstone of my campaign, with a focus on improving our bond rating and diversifying revenue sources beyond property taxes, particularly through an enhanced grant matching program. Remarkably, we’ve reached a pivotal moment where federal and state grants now surpass property tax revenues, signifying a tremendous opportunity for sustainable finance. It is crucial for El Paso to seize this moment of significant federal investment. Our city deserves a Mayor with a solid track record of successfully navigating the complexities of state and federal grants, someone who deeply understands economic development and is skilled in tapping into diverse, sustainable financial avenues.