Officials of the Town of Snowflake remain very focused on the economy this year, with an emphasis on job retention and creation, and on continuing to provide residents with the quality services and facilities that promote a family centric lifestyle for the community.
“We are working with existing industry and attracting new industry to replace the jobs that were lost at the end of 2012 with the closure of Catalyst Paper Mill,” reported Town Manager Brian Richards.
According to Richards, a significant factor in attracting industry is building and maintaining infrastructure. In 2016 the town resurfaced many roads and worked on road preservation projects planned for later in the summer of 2017.
Maintaining the town sewer and water lines are also vital ongoing projects so the systems can handle the additional use and capacity that comes with growth in the area. Another important aspect of development is the ability to keep up with technology. “We are continuing our quest to get broadband in our area by working with surrounding communities and state officials,” added Richards.
An important aspect of industrial development is the Northern Solution Drainage Project going on in the Snowflake Industrial Park. The town hopes to receive a $550,000 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for the project, and has already made significant progress toward removing the industrial park from the floodplain, which will greatly enhance the possibilities for continued growth in that area.
“We are excited to have Copperstate Farms, which will bring a $4 million payroll and 130 jobs to our area,” said Richards, referring to jobs being created by the new medical marijuana growing facility being built in the former Nature Sweet complex in the industrial park.
Several other industries have re-established or established themselves over the course of the last couple of years. Wood related products are being produced in the area again, including moulding and pellets.
Throughout the year the town will continue working with Navajo County to promote these types of industries, and to search out other industries or facilities that would consider locating or relocating to the area. Discussions continue with officials of an egg production facility.
Working closely with the Town of Taylor, Snowflake continues to improve and enhance services whenever possible. Work is being performed to update the police dispatch center.
Both towns utilize volunteers to help meet their goals, and Richards said he is truly grateful for their assistance.
“The greatest asset to our town is the people and their willingness to do the things that make our community great,” said Richards. “We support the local entities that work hard to serve this and surrounding communities.”
The town plans to continue maintaining and improving existing facilities, which benefit residents, and to promote tourism, another important venue for revenues for area businesses and the town.
Over the last year the town dedicated resources to enhance the overall condition of the Snowflake Community Golf Course and added a new disc golf course to attract a new group of athletes to the area. Already several disc golf tournaments have been planned for the year.
“We continue to provide local programs and entertainment for the citizens of our community that promote a healthy and family oriented atmosphere,” concluded Richards.
