Buckeye Economic Development Deputy Director, Harry Paxton, has been selected as the recipient of the William Lampkin Long-Term Excellence in Economic Development Award by the Arizona Association for Economic Development.

This award recognizes individuals who have made lasting contributions to the field of economic development. Paxton’s career spans more than three decades of significant impact in leadership roles in Chandler, Goodyear, and Buckeye.

During his tenure with the City of Goodyear, Paxton played a key role in advancing the Loop 303 corridor as a major hub for industrial and manufacturing growth, helping position the area to attract nationally recognized companies and significant private investment. While in Chandler, he contributed to innovative redevelopment and reinvestment strategies, including a forward-thinking retail reinvestment program.

One of Paxton’s most consequential and enduring contributions was his role in conceiving and championing the creation of Foreign Trade Zone #277 (Greater Maricopa FTZ) for the West Valley approximately 20 years ago. Recognizing the competitive disadvantage West Valley communities faced without this tool, Harry helped initiate discussions with WESTMARC to serve as the regional host organization, ultimately securing federal designation. He then served on the Greater Maricopa FTZ Advisory Board from its founding and later on the Board of Directors through 2021, ensuring the zone functioned as a shared regional asset benefiting multiple jurisdictions. FTZ #277 helped set the stage for large-scale advanced manufacturing and logistics companies such as Sub-Zero, Andersen Windows, Ball Corporation, Dick’s Sporting Goods, REI, UPS, Funko, Ross Dress for Less, among several others. These efforts generated thousands of jobs and substantial capital investment across multiple communities in the West Valley.

In Buckeye, Paxton has led major industrial projects like Amazon, Blue Polymers, and Highland Cabinetry along with other long-range planning initiatives that continue to position the city for sustained economic growth.

This award recognizes outstanding achievements by an individual who has made significant contributions to economic development efforts in Arizona. It is no surprise that Paxton is this year’s recipient, with a body of work that will continue to benefit Buckeye, the West Valley, and the state for years to come.