The Business Roundtable Series, sponsored by Meadows Bank, is organized by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Office of Economic Development. This recent meeting brought together key members of the local business community and stakeholders to discuss current economic trends, workforce challenges, and opportunities for growth within Gilbert. The roundtable facilitates dialogue between business leaders and decision-makers, fostering collaboration to strengthen Gilbert’s business environment.
Key Findings and Discussion Points
- Workforce and Retention Challenges: One of the significant discussion points revolved around the difficulty of retaining talent. Employers noted that employees are becoming disengaged more quickly, leading to higher turnover rates. This highlights the need for businesses to promote internal growth and career development opportunities sooner. Some businesses have shifted from focusing on resumes and experience to prioritizing cultural fit within the company, as referrals remain a strong recruitment strategy.
- Affordable Housing and Transportation: A recurring theme throughout the meeting was the issue of affordable housing. Many employees struggle to find housing within the community, pushing them to seek housing in other areas. Coupled with the lack of efficient public transportation, this makes it harder for businesses to maintain a stable workforce. Bus routes are not meeting the needs of the workforce, and there is a growing need for better transportation solutions. As a response, the town is planning a housing study to address this concern.
- Business Growth and Infrastructure: While the town’s infrastructure is generally praised, there is recognition that further growth is dependent on strategic planning for the future, particularly regarding water management and transportation systems. Employers appreciate Gilbert’s small-town feel and the pride that residents take in their community, but they also acknowledge the need for scalable infrastructure that can accommodate the influx of new businesses and residents. The roundtable highlighted that mixed-use development is an attractive model, blending residential and commercial spaces in ways that align with the town’s goals.
- Competitive Wages and Pricing Pressures: Rising wages were discussed, particularly how they contribute to increasing costs across various sectors. While businesses are keen on staying competitive, there is an understanding that wage growth must be balanced with pricing strategies to prevent inflationary pressures from spiraling.
- Future Planning and Community Engagement: One of the most favorable outcomes of the meeting was the reaffirmation of the strong sense of community within Gilbert. The business leaders appreciate the collaborative spirit fostered by the town, which has made working with local authorities smooth and productive. This relationship has helped businesses adapt to changing demographics and maintain a good reputation as employers. There is a shared belief that community involvement is crucial in addressing the future challenges of the town.