GOAL: TO BE THE BEST LITTLE CITY IN ARIZONA

IAN MCGAUGHEY, SOMERTON CITY MANAGER

Ian McGaughey, Somerton City Manager

LAST WEEKEND, A former resident returned to Somerton after being away a few years and remarked about the changes he saw. “Somerton is really growing,” he said. “You’ve got a lot of new businesses here and some really great restaurants. It’s becoming the hip place to be!”

The city’s motto is “The Best Little City in Arizona,” and at City Hall staff works to make that vision a reality. Economic Development Director Hector Tapia has been a key player in helping to foster the city’s business growth. “I work closely with businesses to help guide them through the process,” Tapia said. “I know it can be intimidating for an entrepreneur to be faced with licenses, regulations and codes, but my goal is to make it easy. In Somerton, we’re here to help businesses succeed.”

Tapia and his staff have added promotional tools to support new and existing businesses in Somerton. “We have a Shop Local program that encourages people to take advantage of the great businesses we have right here in the city,” he said. To help with that effort, the city developed a local business directory highlighting local businesses and the various things they offer. “It’s been a very helpful tool,” Tapia said.

In addition, his department has worked with a local video production company to create short videos showcasing various Somerton businesses. The videos are shared online and reach thousands of viewers. “These have been very popular helping to get the word out.” Also, the business of the week is highlighted on Thursdays.

Somerton hosts a variety of new and old businesses, including some highly regarded restaurants. “We’ve got some of the best food in Yuma County, without question,” Tapia said. “Residents and visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of dining opportunities along Main Street and South Somerton Avenue.”

The city continues to develop webpages highlighting its local businesses and the various products and services available. The information can be found at: https://www. somertonaz.gov/departments/ economic_development/business_in_somerton.php

Avenue,” he said.

In addition, Tapia says a new loan program designed to assist businesses with façade improvements will be a benefit to Somerton’s Main Street. “The city will provide loans to eligible property owners to enhance commercial buildings and store fronts within the program’s designated area, on Main Street between Somerton Avenue and Cesar Chavez

That effort is just one part of a Main Street Redesign program the city is working on, including sidewalk, beautification and other enhancements. “Street improvements enhance the environment for existing and incoming businesses,” Tapia said.

The city’s continued growth has been fuel for new economic expansion. With a new Somerton High School on the horizon, more opportunities for growth are sure to be had.

“This is just the beginning,” Tapia said. “We’re working every day to enhance our local businesses to make Somerton the Best Little City in Arizona.