Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Maricopa County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in public safety with critical priority
2026 Heat Season Preparedness and Public Health Response
Maricopa County is gearing up for another dangerous summer after recording 427 heat-related deaths in 2025. Public health officials are expanding cooling and respite networks, adding family-specific sites, and partnering with 2-1-1 and local organizations to protect vulnerable residents.
Public Safety Sales Tax Renewal
Maricopa County is putting a 20-year extension of its one-fifth cent jail excise tax on the November ballot to prevent a massive funding cliff for jails, correctional health, and probation. Without this sales tax, the county would face severe budget disruptions that property taxes alone cannot cover.
Information Technology Security and Risk Management Findings
State auditors identified two ongoing IT findings regarding risk management policies, data inventory, access controls, and change management procedures, prompting county remediation efforts.
Statecraft PLLC Legal Procurement and Election Litigation
Supervisors approved a $250,000 sole-source legal contract for outside counsel to handle election-related litigation involving the county recorder, sparking public debate over transparency and board spending.
Sheriff's Office Overtime and Vacancy Rate Adjustments
The Sheriff's Office reported high overtime costs and requested a budget adjustment to reset budgeted vacancy rates downward as civilian hiring improves while sworn deputy vacancies remain high.
Jail Facilities Excise Tax Renewal (Proposition 413)
Maricopa County is asking voters to renew a one-fifth cent sales tax that funds half of the county's jail and detention operations. Because the existing tax expires in March 2027, putting Proposition 413 on the November 2026 ballot ensures public safety agencies and the jail system maintain stable funding without increasing tax rates.