The Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently named the City of Goodyear as the winner of the 2020 Best City for Business Award, according to a release on The Chamber's web site.

Goodyear earned the award in recognition for its business-friendly customer service and achievements in attracting a broad range of industry. The annual award recognizes municipalities that drive economic development, streamline business regulations, and work with businesses for the betterment of the local community.

“On behalf of Arizona job creators, we want to thank the city’s leadership and commitment to creating an environment where communities can flourish, and businesses can grow and thrive,” said Chamber president and CEO Glenn.

Previously considered little more than “a sleepy golf town” for retirees, Goodyear has attracted a wealth of industries and transformed into an economic force. Mayor Georgia Lord said that besides strategic planning, efforts by staff and a “supportive council,” the two key factors that helped attract business was the elimination of bureaucratic red tape and the city’s ability to quickly meet deadlines for industry.

“When companies decide they are going to plant themselves in Goodyear, we’re very aggressive about delivery dates,” she said. “They’re very challenging. I think of Microsoft and the kinds of companies coming in and you have to be on top of things.”