Mesa voters rejected a proposal in 2016 that would have brought a branch of ASU to downtown Mesa. Voters did not want the tax increase needed to pay for the project, but now another proposal is in the works.
The Mesa City Council approved the first steps Monday in building an ASU development in downtown Mesa.
The plan, which would not increase taxes for Mesa residents, would include a new building to house programs like film, gaming and virtual reality.
The council’s approval means officials can now look into financing. Mesa Mayor John Giles voted to advance the proposal.
"Do we want to engage in that investigation and engage in that due diligence to possibly take advantage of this opportunity? I think saying no before we do that homework is not the best route for us to go," Giles said.
That “homework” will involve figuring out what the project will cost and how it will be paid for.
Mesa officials and ASU will now produce a budget and lease agreement that will require council approval.