Mesa Council Backs Tax Incentive for Retail Project
Operators near Hawes and Elliot roads should prepare for potential shifts in local traffic as new dining options are planned.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Business — General
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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. for a new retail project. The development, known as The Craftsman, is planned for the northwest corner of Hawes and Elliot roads to help attract upscale dining options.
Why it matters
Tax incentive agreements are a primary mechanism municipalities use to attract specific commercial amenities, like high-end restaurants, that developers might otherwise avoid due to initial construction or leasing costs. For local operators, such projects can significantly shift foot traffic patterns and competitive landscapes in the immediate surrounding area.
The Mesa City Council confirmed its support via a unanimous vote on the consent agenda, marking the first formal step toward a retail development tax incentive. The final financial scope of this agreement for The Craftsman project remains pending further negotiation.
The players
Mesa City Council
The local legislative body responsible for municipal zoning, tax incentive approvals, and economic development policy in Mesa, Arizona.
Martens Development Co.
A commercial real estate development firm currently spearheading plans for The Craftsman project.
The details
The notice of intent enables the city and Martens Development Co. to begin formal negotiations regarding a tax incentive structure for The Craftsman. By using the consent agenda process, the council signaled broad agreement for the development at the intersection of Hawes and Elliot roads. Developers typically seek these arrangements to offset infrastructure costs in exchange for bringing desired retail tenants that fill gaps in a city's current dining market.
Timeline
Monday, October 26, 2026: The Mesa City Council approved the notice of intent.
Market Landscape
The approval of this notice of intent follows a common pattern where municipalities use targeted tax incentives to lure specific commercial developers into new projects. This strategy mirrors broader regional efforts to fill retail gaps by subsidizing construction costs for developers like Martens Development Co.
Local business operators should monitor the project site at Hawes and Elliot roads, as the introduction of upscale dining can alter neighborhood consumer habits and rental rates. Owners should review future council meeting agendas to track when the final incentive contract comes up for a binding vote.
The takeaway
The move signals a priority on expanding upscale dining options, which may benefit businesses relying on increased foot traffic in the Hawes and Elliot corridor. Operators should track upcoming public hearing notices to understand the specific tax terms and anticipated delivery dates for the project.
Further reading
For more on municipal development policies, review our latest analysis in the Business — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Your Valley.
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