Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Maricopa County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in general
Regulatory Outreach Program
Maricopa County is launching a new outreach program to get the public more involved in shaping local building and development rules. If you've got property to develop, this is your chance to actually have a say in the regulations that affect you.
Homeland Security Grant for Surveillance Pole Cameras
The board reviewed and approved a grant agreement for counter-terrorism surveillance pole cameras funded through the Urban Area Security Initiative, prompting debate over surveillance technology and transparency.
Holiday Renaming
Phoenix is swapping out 'Cesar Chavez Day' for 'Farmworkers Day' on the official city calendar. It's a permanent change that shifts the holiday's focus from a specific historical leader to a broader group of laborers.
Outside Legal Counsel and Federal Oversight of Sheriff's Office
The board authorized up to $750,000 for specialized outside appellate counsel to challenge ongoing federal court oversight and monitoring of the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office in Melendrez v. Sheridan.
Photo Radar Fines
Phoenix and Mesa are fighting back against a state-level Republican push to slash photo radar fines. They say the cut would hurt local traffic safety efforts and punch a hole in city budgets.
Extreme Heat Fatalities
Maricopa County is dealing with a brutal summer, with over 400 suspected heat-related deaths pushing city officials to ramp up cooling centers and safety measures. It's a stark reminder of how dangerous our summers are getting and why the city needs to step up its game.
Employment Services
Maricopa County's Mesa Workforce Center is offering totally free career coaching and job training to help locals level up their skills and find work. If you're on the hunt for a new gig or trying to switch careers, this is a totally free resource worth checking out.
Pension Debt
Maricopa County's soaring pension debt is siphoning tax dollars away from your neighborhood and into retirement funds. Because cities are forced to cover these massive shortfalls, you're getting fewer of the daily services you actually care about.
Criminal Justice
Maricopa County's infamous Tent City jail has officially shut down, closing a controversial chapter of outdoor incarceration from the Joe Arpaio era. The closure marks a major shift in how the county handles its inmate population.
Jail Closure
Maricopa County's new sheriff is finally shutting down the infamous 'Tent City' jail, closing a controversial chapter in local law enforcement. This move gets rid of a historic symbol of harsh detention conditions once championed by former Sheriff Joe Arpaio.