The city of
Wednesday, officials from Benedictine and the city of
Mesa Mayor Scott Smith thinks the school will be a draw for many reasons: for students who want a Catholic education, and for potential job creators.
“It makes our community and our region even more attractive to those kinds of employers that are looking for qualified people, that are looking for...institutions they can build relationships with that will build a strong economy,” Smith said.
The city and the university hope to negotiate a 15-year lease for the space. The Mesa City Council will vote on the proposal this coming Monday. Mayor Smith says the city is still in talks to bring in other colleges and universities.