In the heart of Maricopa County, a sense of collaboration and fiscal responsibility filled the air during the Board of Supervisors informal meeting on May 19, 2025. As the meeting commenced, the atmosphere was charged with gratitude, with board members expressing their appreciation for the diligent efforts of the county manager and the finance team in preparing the upcoming budget.

Supervisor Stewart opened the discussion by commending the thoroughness of the budget preparation process. “It really helps us understand how we’re moving forward and how we can continue to be good stewards of the taxpayer dollars,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of fiscal responsibility in the county’s financial planning.

The meeting showcased a unified front among the supervisors, with each member acknowledging the hard work that went into finalizing the budget. Supervisor Lesko shared insights from her interactions with budget staff, noting the challenges they face in balancing departmental requests with available funds. “It’s a tough gig,” she said, reflecting on her own experiences in state appropriations.

Chairman of the Board expressed pride in the collaborative effort that has characterized the budget process. He noted that 19% of the budget is mandated by state spending, emphasizing the need for careful planning and efficient use of resources. “We’re once again cutting the overall tax rate, which I think is phenomenal,” he stated, underscoring the board’s commitment to fiscal prudence while serving the community.

The meeting concluded on a high note, with the chairman expressing his pride in the board’s achievements and the teamwork displayed throughout the budgeting process. “It just shows that the entire county of 15,000 people are working well together,” he said, leaving attendees with a sense of optimism about the county’s financial future.

As Maricopa County prepares for the next fiscal year, the discussions from this meeting reflect a strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible governance, setting a positive tone for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.