Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pinal County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues with critical priority
Santan Valley Area Drainage Master Plan
Pinal County is finalizing a comprehensive drainage study for San Tan Valley to map flood zones, identify vulnerable homes, and plan multimillion-dollar infrastructure projects like retention basins and channels. Because the area has grown through piecemeal development, stormwater management is disjointed, leaving many neighborhoods susceptible to heavy runoff.
FY 2023-24 Financial Audit Findings and Corrective Action
The county's books earned a clean opinion, but auditors flagged seven findings — including $91,320 in fuel and purchasing card spending that broke county policy, weak IT controls, and an annual financial report issued five months late. Finance staff say fixes are on track for March 2027.
Elections Department and County Recorder General Election Preparations
Speakers debated the merits of transitioning Pinal County from a precinct-based voting system to a vote center model to improve accessibility, following recent legal rulings.
Public Safety Personnel Retirement System Administration
The board approved a budget amendment to make a $15.58 million one-time payment to wipe out the Pinal County Public Safety Retirement Plan unfunded liability.
Horseshoe Energy Project Industrial Proposal
Epic Star Energy proposed a massive 500-megawatt battery storage facility and 500-megawatt natural gas peaking plant on 159.2 acres in Hidden Valley. Residents and commissioners raised intense concerns over a late-stage capacity doubling, noise, water usage, and safety, leading to a unanimous continuance.
Barcelo Farms Residential Subdivision
Developers proposed a high-density 1,052-lot subdivision near Florence, which commissioners and residents scrutinized for exceptionally small lot sizes and potential strain on local infrastructure.
Rosebud Energy Project Solar and BESS
A proposal to re-designate 534 acres of farmland near Maricopa to green energy production for a solar and battery storage facility. Proponents emphasize significant water savings, while residents and officials raise questions about decommissioning guarantees and local infrastructure impacts.
Desert Crest Battery Energy Storage System
A 40-acre battery energy storage facility and substation is planned near Casa Grande to support electrical grid reliability for APS, bringing significant tax revenue and modern energy infrastructure.
Opioid Overdose Prevention and Kiosk Expansion
Pinal County is continuing its efforts to fight the opioid epidemic with federal grant money. This funding helps local agencies provide overdose prevention tools, link people to care, and build public safety partnerships.