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Oro Valley has launched a program that pays special attention to the retention and expansion of businesses in the town.

"An important part of economic development isn't just bringing in new businesses; it's also working with existing businesses," said Mary Davis, town spokeswoman.

The effort isn't a response to struggling businesses, said Matt Michels, Oro Valley's acting economic development administrator. Rather, it's a proactive endeavor, he said.

"Our business community in Oro Valley is strong and growing," he said. "But while we're experiencing growth, we don't want to neglect our existing businesses."

The program will target the town's storefront businesses, which number 802, Michels said.

In 2007, the town granted 97 new licenses, and so far this year, the number is 33, Michels said.

Town officials are coordinating the effort with the Northern Pima County Chamber of Commerce.

The program will involve visits from town employees and chamber officials to the various businesses, as well as a survey intended to determine the needs of the business community, Michels said.

Town and chamber officials said they will visit business owners a couple of times a month to gather information.

"This is a unique opportunity where government is reaching out to businesses," said Jerry Bustamante, the chamber's president and CEO. He plans to drop by several Oro Valley businesses.

"It's an opportunity to really open up the lines of communication." Bustamante said. "We want to have a better idea about what's going on in our business community."

For more information about the program, call Amanda Jacobs, economic development specialist in Oro Valley, at 229-4735, or send an e-mail to ajacobs@orovalleyaz.gov.