Stay Safe This Summer
Stop Hiking in the Heat
While our state has already been experiencing extreme heat, making it feel like summer, June 20, 2025 officially marked the first day of summer! Our Open Space, Trails, and Regional Parks staff want to remind our community to put a pause on hiking this summer due to extreme heat! Hiking in extreme heat is not only dangerous for you but also puts our first responders at risk should you need to be rescued.
Check out the message below from District 5 Supervisor Jeff Serdy and Pinal County Director of Open Space, Trails and Regional Parks, Scott Hamilton, who address the dangers of hiking in the Arizona heat, and provide a series of tips for those who do choose to hike in the Arizona summer.
Meet Our Two Newest Staff Additions
To Your District 5 Services
Community Development
District Manager, District 5
My name is Angela Sanchez, and I am honored to serve as the Community Development District Manager for Supervisor Serdy’s office and District 5. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, Policy, and Management from the University of Arizona, and I bring with me over 27 years of dedicated service as a Pinal County employee. As a proud resident of this county for more than 40 years, I am deeply invested in the success and well-being of our county and its residents.
In my role as Community Development District Manager, I serve as both an internal and external liaison, working to strengthen relationships between the Supervisor’s office, residents, and County departments. My responsibilities include addressing constituent concerns, facilitating problem-solving efforts, and helping to streamline the development and permitting processes to better serve the community.
I am committed to transparent communication, proactive service, and ensuring that the Community Development needs of District 5 are met with care and efficiency. I look forward to continuing my service to the residents of Pinal County in this new capacity.
Code Compliance Officer, District 5
My family moved to Arizona 7 years ago due to my husband’s position in his career. My husband’s job has given us the opportunity to experience and explore Washington and New Jersey as well but I was raised and attended college in Southern Idaho.
I absolutely am in love with Arizona. I enjoy hiking, paddle boarding and being in the outdoors when the weather permits. I will conquer FlatIron this year!
My husband and I have five children, three girls, Taylor Rayne, Cassandra and Payton. Two boys, Brock and Donaven. We are also proud grandparents of three grandsons, Dean, Archer and Jaxon a granddaughter, Leviah.
We are a football family and our team is the Denver Broncos, I really believe Nix can bring the Broncos back to life and maybe just maybe a Superbowl win in the future.
I have an English Bulldog that thinks she’s a 60 pound lap dog and her name is Muffin, yes, I own an English Muffin. We also have a rescue dog named Nacho, he’s a corgi and pug cross. He’s a bit spicy (in a fun way) and vocal when he wants attention and treats so his name fits perfectly.
I do have previous Code Compliance experience but I am excited for the opportunity to work for Pinal County and the residents in the community. I look forward to making connections with them and their neighbors while learning more about Pinal Development Services, Pinal County and other departments that provide support and services to our community.
Pinal County Launches Summer
”Earn and Learn” Internship Program
Supervisor Serdy’s office was instrumental in working with Pinal County Economic Development, Workforce Development, and Human Resources to develop the first Pinal County Internship program for county youth.
On May 27, 2025, Pinal County officially launched an exciting new initiative designed to inspire and empower local youth through hands-on job experience. The Pinal County Summer Earn and Learn Program offers students a unique opportunity to gain valuable work experience, build essential life skills, and explore future career paths — all while earning a paycheck. A total of 40 youth were hired for the 2025 summer program.
The Earn and Learn Program is open to youth ages 16 to 20 who are currently enrolled in high school, college, or an equivalent program. This paid internship places students in various Pinal County departments, giving them firsthand insight into public service and professional environments.
Program Highlights:
- Eligibility: Students ages 16–20 currently enrolled in High School, College, or equivalent
- Duration: 7 weeks — May 27 through July 11
- Pay: $14.70/hour, up to 40 hours per week
- Departments: Internships available across multiple county departments
- Training: Includes professional skills development and life skills workshops
Why Participate in the Earn and Learn Program?
- Real-World Experience: Interns will work in a structured environment that builds responsibility, teamwork, and time management skills.
- Career Exploration: Students will be exposed to a wide range of career opportunities within county government.
- Workforce Development: The program strengthens Pinal County’s future workforce by connecting youth with local projects and services.
- Skill Building: Participants will engage in workshops focused on leadership, financial literacy, and personal growth.
- Community Connection: Interns will develop a stronger sense of civic engagement and community pride through their work.
The Summer Earn and Learn Program is more than just a job—it’s an investment in the next generation of leaders in Pinal County. We’re excited to see how these young professionals will grow and contribute this summer!
Discover Summer Adventures in
Pinal County’s District 5
Now that summer is in full swing, activities across Pinal County shift to embrace the season’s pace and warmth. EXPLORE Pinal County (https://explore.pinal.gov) is your go-to guide for fun, family-friendly summer experiences, and nowhere is that more evident than in District 5 – the recreational heart of Pinal County.
District 5 serves as your gateway to unforgettable day trips and outdoor adventures. Begin your journey along the Copper Corridor with a visit to historic downtown Superior, where charming shops, acclaimed restaurants, and storied mining sites await.
Head west on U.S. 60 to discover the lush beauty of Boyce Thompson Arboretum (https://btarboretum.org), then continue on to Apache Junction, home to excellent dining along the famed Apache Trail. While there, stop by the Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum (https://superstitionmountainlostdutchmanmuseum.org) to uncover the myths and legends surrounding the towering Superstition Mountains and the vast wilderness they guard.
Continue north on the Apache Trail (SR 88) to explore the Goldfield Ghost Town (https://goldfieldghosttown.com), where you can tour a real working gold mine and enjoy fun-filled attractions for the whole family. As you venture into Maricopa County, don’t miss Canyon Lake, where the Dolly Steamboat (https://dollysteamboat.com) offers scenic nature cruises. Just beyond, enjoy lunch or a sweet treat – like local Prickly Pear ice cream – at Tortilla Flat (https://www.tortillaflataz.com/saloon).
Your return route leads you through the dramatic landscapes of Fish Creek Hill, past Apache Lake, and to the impressive Roosevelt Dam and Lake. Before heading back, take time to explore the Tonto National Monument (https://www.nps.gov/tont/index.htm) and soak in the breathtaking views along the edge of the Superstition Wilderness.
Complete your round trip via U.S. 60 through the historic mining town of Globe (https://discovergilacounty.com/globe) and on to Top-of-the-World, before arriving back in Superior (https://www.superiorarizona.com/attractions).
Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or just a relaxing day in nature, District 5 offers the ultimate recreation experience in Pinal County.
Come visit us this summer – District 5 is waiting for you!
If you are going to take a road trip this summer, ADOT recommends the following checklist as additional precautions:
Mark Your Calendar & Save the Date
