By Maricopa County
Hello neighbors, the summer heat is upon us, but it hasn’t slowed me or my office down at all. May was a busy month for elections, public safety, and, of course, passing our tentative budget for FY2027. Keep scrolling to learn more!
Defending Our Election Workers
Last week the Recorder’s office sent us a letter threatening election volunteers with criminal charges for performing their duties. This letter arrived as we were about to vote on a resolution to approve certain tasks for the upcoming July primary.
This letter was shocking and appalling. I will always defend elections workers, who are the backbone of our voting process. Our priority is the voters, who don’t care about officials playing games. Voters just want the system to work.
Watch the video below to hear my full comments on the recent resolution.
Approving a Strong, Conservative Budget for Fiscal Year 2027
My Board colleagues and I have approved the tentative budget for FY2027. The $4.1 billion budget highlights our conservative budgeting philosophy. This budget includes:
- A decrease in overall property tax rate for the sixth consecutive year.
- Operating at $278.4 million below the maximum tax levy.
- A two-month funding reserve to weather unanticipated economic circumstances.
My Fourth Annual Lake and Trail Safety Event
This month I hosted my fourth annual Lake & Trail Safety Event. It’s important to me to promote safety measures ahead of Memorial Day and the summer. I’m proud that drowning deaths have declined in recent years, but one drowning death is one too many. I’m grateful to all the local new outlets that attended. And if you’re heading to the lake or trail this summer remember:
- Kids 12 and under must wear a life vest.
- Make sure your life vest fits properly.
- If you go hiking alone, let loved ones know where you are headed and when you’ll be back.
Be sure to enjoy our beautiful, Maricopa County Parks safely this summer!
Celebrating our America250 Youth Essay Contest Winners
Earlier this month we celebrated our America250 Youth Essay Contest winners by presenting each winner with a certificate at our May 4 informal board meeting. I was so impressed and sincerely moved by each of these students’ thoughtful responses and patriotism. In case you missed it, you can watch our winners read their essays by clicking the picture below.
Honoring Our Fallen at the Annual They Served Well Event
It was my honor to attend the beautiful and poignant “They Served Well” ceremony earlier this month. This is an annual event I never miss because I find it so important to honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty. I am grateful each days for all our first responders, especially the brave men and women of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. Click the picture below to watch a video recap of this touching event.
Meeting with TSMC
Digital infrastructure is a national security issue. Maricopa County is doing its part as home to TSMC, which is constructing the most significant economic development project in the nation. I was honored to meet with TSMC President Rose Castanares and her team earlier this month to discuss this $165 billion project.
Maricopa County plays an integral role in this effort, as we oversee and regulate many components of development, including air quality. These fabs are creating both temporary and permanent jobs as the Valley leads the way in expanding semiconductor manufacturing capacity in America!
Introducing: Patriotic Pets Social Media Campaign!
We are on the search for Maricopa County’s most patriotic pets! In the month of June, you can submit pictures of your Yankee Doodle doggies, your cats dressed as Uncle Sam, or even your reptiles decked out in red, white, and blue! Submit your best pictures of your pets to our contest page and your furry friends may be featured on Maricopa County’s social media pages this summer. Learn more by heading to Maricopa.Gov/America250 or clicking the picture below.
Looking for a New Member of the Merit Systems Commission!
The Maricopa County Merit Systems Commission is actually two commissions in one! The Commissions are responsible for overseeing the Employee Merit System and the Law Enforcement Officers’ Merit System. The Commissions represent public interest in the improvement of personnel administration in county service. Are you interested in applying? Click the button below to learn more!
D2 is Open for Business!
Welcome to District 2, Starfish!
Starfish is a Southern California-based, coastal Asian-inspired restaurant that just made Scottsdale its home. This is Starfish’s first restaurant outside of Southern California. External Affairs Advisor Taylor from my D2 team brought a certificate to the restaurant’s recent soft opening.
Congratulations, Mesa Golfland Sunsplash!
This East Valley family favorite recently opened several new attractions just in time for summer! Deputy Chief, Michele presented a certificate at the recent unveiling of the new features at Mesa Golfland Sunsplash.
Lighting Our Administrative Building to Celebrate America250!
From Memorial Day to Labor Day this year, if you find yourself in downtown Phoenix, look for Maricopa County’s Administrative Building. This building will be lit in red, white, and blue to help to celebrate America250!
Nonprofit Spotlight
The Gillian Ragan Foundation
Losing a loved one creates a devastating ripple effect in our community, particularly for friends and family. That’s why the Gillian Ragan Foundation is dedicated to supporting families navigating the unimaginable loss of a child by providing access to mental health therapy and emotional healing resources. This beautiful foundation was founded following the loss of Gillian “Gigi” Ragan when she was just 14. Learn more about this foundation and its mission by clicking the button below.
What to Chew in District 2
Local Favorite: Syrup and Salt
If you’re looking for great comfort food for any meal of the day, head to Syrup & Salt in Mesa. This Halal-centered menu ensures diners receive high-quality food that tastes delicious! From classics like their Original French Toast and Classic Caesar to creative specialty dishes like their Cookie Butter Pancake, there’s something for everyone on this menu.
District 2 is on a mission to spotlight the district’s tastiest food. Whether you’re a new restaurant, a food truck, or a local staple that’s been around forever, please fill out the below form so we can follow up with you about potentially showcasing your story in our newsletter.
My Office Is Here To Assist You
We want to ensure our constituents have the information they need. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact my office at 602-506-7525.
