Mesa City Council Backs New Tax Incentive Deal

The city voted to move forward with a potential tax incentive agreement for a retail development project.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Business — General

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring a skeletal steel retail structure, representing the planned commercial development in Mesa.
The Mesa City Council has unanimously approved a notice of intent to enter a tax incentive agreement with Martens Development Co. for a new retail project. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Mesa City Council has unanimously approved a notice of intent to enter a tax incentive agreement with Martens Development Co. This initiative involves the proposed retail project known as The Craftsman.

Why it matters

The development is designed to bring new upscale dining options to the area, potentially boosting local commerce at the intersection of Hawes and Elliot roads.

The council moved to finalize the agreement through a unanimous vote during a recent session. Further details regarding the exact monetary value of the incentive remain under negotiation.

The players

Mesa City Council

This local governing body is responsible for legislative actions and development approvals within the city of Mesa.

Martens Development Co.

This company is the developer behind The Craftsman project which seeks to establish new retail space.

The details

The proposed project, named The Craftsman, is slated for the northwest corner of Hawes and Elliot roads. The Mesa City Council approved the initial notice of intent via a consent agenda process.

Timeline

  1. The Mesa City Council approved the notice of intent on Monday, October 26, 2026.

Market Landscape

This project aligns with regional efforts to secure high-end commercial tenants through established municipal tax incentive programs. It positions Mesa to compete more effectively for premium dining brands by offsetting initial development costs.

Area residents can expect new upscale dining options to arrive at the corner of Hawes and Elliot roads once the project is finalized. The approval sets the stage for site development, potentially improving local retail variety and property utility.

The takeaway

Tax incentives are frequently used by local governments to attract specific retail developments that improve neighborhood amenities. Residents should monitor future council meetings for updates on the final terms of the agreement.

Further reading

For more information on local commercial expansion, visit the Mesa Business — General section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Your Valley.

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Do you support using tax incentives to attract private commercial projects to your community?