U.S. Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) praised Gilbert, Arizona, Mayor John Lewis last week after learning that Lewis will be leaving his post to become president and CEO of the East Valley Partnership (EVP).

“John Lewis has been a dedicated and effective mayor for the city of Gilbert over the last several years, working to advance economic growth and improved quality of life for residents of the East Valley,” McCain said. “I’m confident that John will continue to have an enormous impact as the new head of the East Valley Partnership and look forward to working with him to drive even more business development and success across the region.”

Lewis’ selection to head EVP from a pool of over 50 candidates will require him to leave his mayoral post six months ahead of schedule. He was elected mayor of Gilbert, which enjoys a reputation as one of the area’s safest communities, in May 2009. 

EVP Project Director Mike Hutchinson will serve as interim president until Lewis takes over.

East Valley Partnership, a nonpartisan civic coalition comprised of influential leaders from the East Valley communities of Greater Phoenix, is committed to the area’s economic development, actively advocating in the education, transportation and infrastructure, arts, and behavioral health sectors.