Axon HQ project critical for Arizona jobs and economy

Published: 12/17/2024
Updated: 12/23/2024

Axon’s global headquarters would provide an estimated $40 billion in economic impact

By Chris Camacho

Greater Phoenix is recognized internationally for its commitment to smart growth and economic leadership. In developing a healthy business ecosystem with qualified talent and a strong quality of life, the region has attracted global companies seeking to create high-wage technology jobs and invest billions of dollars into the market.

Recently, a Fortune Future 50 company was approved to expand its global headquarters in Scottsdale, add 5,500 high-wage jobs, and generate $40 billion in economic impact over the next decade.

This Axon Enterprise global HQ is the definition of smart growth that broadens a tax base, creates disposable income for residents and catalyzes economic impact for small businesses — yet petitioners threaten not only the future of this homegrown company in Scottsdale, but the prosperity of the city and its residents.

As a Scottsdale resident and advocate for the economic vitality of our region, I am concerned about the deceptive campaign waged against Scottsdale residents and Axon Enterprise. This company, which currently employs 800 people locally and supports thousands of indirect jobs, has grown from operations out of an Arizona garage 30 years ago into a global leader today. It contributes $1.4 million in tax revenue annually to the city, and its headquarters plan would increase that nearly tenfold.

An economic analysis by Rounds Consulting Group reveals the transformative potential of this project. With an estimated $40 billion economic impact over 10 years and a 600% increase in Axon’s Arizona footprint, the campus would add 5,500 high-wage jobs, support an additional 13,300 indirect jobs, and generate $11.5 million annually in tax revenues for Scottsdale alone. This is the type of revenue that allows fiscally conscious, forward-looking cities to maintain funding for public safety, roads, schools and infrastructure without placing any additional tax burden on residents.

Some argue that the site should remain industrially zoned and are concerned about the increased traffic, but this is a short-sighted position that fails to consider alternatives. Industrial zoning allows for uses like intense manufacturing, fulfillment centers and warehouses, which would bring heavy truck traffic, noise and environmental impacts to the area. By contrast, Axon’s plan is a carefully designed, community-focused development that integrates open spaces, residential apartments and condos, retail shops and recreational amenities. In building this environment, Axon opens the door to increased tourism and business travel opportunities, further increasing revenue for small businesses and the city’s funds. This project embodies responsible growth, balancing economic opportunity with quality of life.

The company, with plans to invest $1.3 billion in its new corporate campus, is embedded in the community in a variety of ways including trimming the number of apartments in its plan and reconfiguring the roadways after hearing requests of residents. Axon has grown into a foundational component of the Scottsdale economy while operating in the region over the last 30 years; with this project, Scottsdale stands to benefit enormously without public financial risk.

The effort of the special interest group to manipulate public opinion has consequences. The derailment of this project would cost 5,500 high-wage job opportunities for residents — that’s money that would go to local restaurants, small businesses and events in the city. It would strip Scottsdale of $11.5 million annually in tax revenue, money that would help maintain public safety and well-being without raising taxes. It would send a chilling message to other high-tech companies considering expansion into Scottsdale.

Rejecting Axon’s global headquarters would not protect the city; rather, it would threaten the city’s revenue base, employment options for residents, and the ability of the economy to withstand the impact of future recessions.

Supporting Axon’s project is not just about retaining one company; it’s about securing Scottsdale’s place as a hub for innovation, a magnet for top-tier companies, and a city with a dynamic, diversified economy.

I urge you to think carefully when approached by petitioners asking for your signature. Reject their misinformation and consider the facts: Axon’s headquarters will strengthen our economy, enhance our quality of life, and ensure that Scottsdale continues to thrive.

Chris Camacho is a longtime Scottsdale resident.