The Queen Creek Town Council held a budget meeting on April 17, 2025, focusing on several critical financial issues affecting the town's future. Key discussions included the need for data collection regarding facility usage, pension funding challenges, and the potential implications of San Tan Valley's incorporation.

Council members emphasized the importance of gathering comprehensive data on facility usage, including peak and slow times, to make informed decisions about expenses and revenues. They acknowledged that this process would take time but is essential for targeted policy decisions moving forward.

A significant concern raised was the growing unfunded pension liability within the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS). As more employees are added to the system, the town faces an increasing share of costs. Council members noted that while the town's pension reserve is fully funded, the rate of growth in unfunded liabilities is outpacing previous estimates. They expressed the need to explore strategies to maintain the pension fund's health.

The potential incorporation of San Tan Valley was another topic of discussion. Council members highlighted that if San Tan Valley becomes a city, it could lead to a reduction in state-shared revenues for Queen Creek and alter the dynamics of local governance. This change could have long-term implications for the town's financial planning.

Additionally, the council discussed the ongoing updates to the transportation master plan, which will introduce new roads and associated costs. They noted that many projects from the previous plan have been completed, but new developments will require careful budgeting.

Lastly, the council addressed water and wastewater rates and fees, indicating that further discussions are needed as they navigate these complex financial matters. Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making and proactive financial management as Queen Creek prepares for future challenges.