Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) Draft Review and Public Comment
The Tonto Apache Tribal Nation, in collaboration with aLocal and WBK Engineering, is pleased to announce the release of the draft Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for public review and input in adherence to EDA guidelines. This strategic plan outlines a visionary path to enhance economic opportunities, community well-being, cultural preservation, and sustainable growth within the Tonto Apache community.
Purpose of the CEDS
The CEDS serves as a strategic roadmap for the economic and community development of the Tonto Apache Tribal Nation. At the heart of this strategy is the Apache Corners Development, a multi-phase project focusing on key initiatives such as infrastructure improvements, expansion of economic opportunities, workforce development, retail and tourism growth, and culturally respectful initiatives. By investing in these and other projects, the CEDS aims to foster economic self-sufficiency and resilience while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Tonto Apache people.
Public Comment Period
The public is invited to review the draft CEDS and provide comments during a 30-day public comment period beginning on 11/26/2024 and concluding on 12/26/2024.
How to Access the Draft CEDS
The draft document can be accessed through the following channels:
● Online: Visit the Tonto Apache Tribal Nation’s official website at http://www.apachecorners.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Tonto-CEDS-Final.pdf to view and download the CEDS draft.
● In-Person: Hard copies of the draft are available for review at the Tonto Apache Tribal Council Office reception from Monday to Thursday 7am – 5pm. Office Address: 30 Tonto Apache Tribe Reservation, Payson, AZ 85541.
● Request a Hard Copy: To request a copy by mail, please contact Christine Zuber at czuber@tontoapache.org.
Submitting Your Comments
Feedback on the draft CEDS can be provided through any of the following methods:
● Email: Send your comments to kmacwan@alocalsolutions.com.
● Survey: Complete the survey available on the Tonto Apache Tribal Nation’s website, which includes text space for your comments/feedback. Survey link: CEDS Public review comments / feedback survey
● Mail: Written comments may be mailed to Tonto Apache Tribal Council Office Address: 30 Tonto Apache Tribe Reservation, Payson, AZ 85541.
● In-Person: Comments can be submitted directly at the Tonto Apache Tribal Council Office during regular business hours 7am – 5pm. Office Address: 30 Tonto Apache Tribe Reservation, Payson, AZ 85541.
Stakeholder Participation and Documentation
Extensive participation from both tribal citizens and external stakeholders is crucial for the success of the CEDS. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback that will be tracked and documented to ensure comprehensive engagement. The Tonto Apache Tribal Nation will maintain an Excel-based system to log all comments received, including how each was resolved, ensuring compliance with EDA requirements.
For Additional Information or Questions, please contact:
Komal Macwan – Planning, Community, and Economic Development Associate from aLocal Solutions at kmacwan@alocalsolutions.com
For media inquiries, please contact:
Eric Trevan – President of aLocal Solutions at Eric.Trevan@alocalsolutions.com