Congratulations to The Desert Ridge Lifestyle for launching a newspaper that will bring important news and information to the northeast Phoenix community. I look forward to sharing news and activities about the city of Phoenix with your readers.

Northeast Phoenix is an important area to attract retail development and District 2 businesses in are helping to make that happen. Quality substantial retail development and generating additional sales tax dollars is critical for our city now and into the future.

Kierland Commons and its surrounding resorts are just what Phoenix needs. For example, Kierland Commons has about 50 retailers, including office tenants, restaurants, apparel and home furnishing and it is anticipated the area will generate $2.4 million annually in city sales tax.

The J.W. Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa offers two 18-hole championship golf courses and 170,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The resort employs approximately 1,300 people and features 10 distinctive dining opportunities.

The 735-room Westin Kierland Resort and Spa is a full-service resort that employs approximately 975 people and is immediately adjacent to the 38-acre Kierland Commons specialty retail development featuring shops, boutiques and restaurants.

The opening of the new Schumacher Mercedes Dealership and The Expo symbolizes District 2's desire to attract quality retail development to the area. They provide a much needed boost to our economy and are strong source of sales tax revenue which help to provide city services to all our residents.

Not only do these businesses boost the economy, but they add jobs to the Valley, increase sales tax revenue and attract visitors from around the nation and the globe. I'm incredibly pleased with this development and the prospect of other projects in District 2. I look forward to building on the growth that's occurring and attracting more retail development.

If you have questions or comments you would like to discuss with me, don't hesitate to call my office or send an e-mail. You are also invited to join me at my monthly Issues & Info breakfast the third Friday of every month and learn about topics that impact your neighborhood and family. You are always invited to take the opportunity to ask questions about issues that are important to you. The next one is 7 a.m. Friday, Sept. 19 at Jillian's at Desert Ridge. Come and meet Asst. Fire Chief Bob Khan and learn how to keep you, your family and your neighborhood safe. Also learn about the new RAPID bus service with Public Transit Director Ed Zuercher. I hope to see you there.

Phoenix City Councilwoman Peggy Neely represents District 2, which encompasses most of northeast Phoenix. She can be reached at (602) 262-7445 or via e-mail at council.district.2@phoenix.gov.