The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has approved a reduction in property tax rates for Fiscal Year 2026 while also increasing funding for public safety. According to an announcement on the county's website, the new budget includes pay raises for law enforcement officers and dispatchers, as well as retention bonuses for eligible detention officers.
Chairman Thomas Galvin emphasized the county’s approach to managing resources efficiently while prioritizing public safety and economic stability. “I promised as Chairman that we would be good stewards of taxpayer dollars, and with this budget, we are showing how government can run efficiently and effectively to enhance public safety and promote economic prosperity,” he said in a county press release. Despite challenges such as modest sales tax revenue growth and ongoing inflation, Maricopa County has adjusted the property tax rate to 1.348, marking a 0.37% decrease from the previous year, while maintaining funding for essential services.
The $3.9 billion budget breaks from the usual pattern of service cuts or tax increases. Vice Chair Kate Brophy McGee emphasized the county’s conservative budgeting approach, which has protected taxpayers from financial threats. The Board instructed departments to focus on mandated services and limit requests for new funding. Operational efficiencies, such as optimizing office space and reducing reliance on expensive leases, are projected to avoid up to $250 million in costs.
The budget allocates nearly half—49.5%—of its total to public safety, increasing staffing for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and Public Fiduciary, and raising salaries for sheriff’s deputies and detention officers to remain competitive. The Board, working closely with Sheriff Sheridan, Human Resources, and budget teams, developed a fiscally responsible plan to enhance compensation for county patrol and detention staff.
The Board is increasing investment in public safety while also committing to long-term infrastructure projects, including a new tabulation and elections center scheduled to open in summer 2027. Additional funding has been allocated for a new West Valley animal shelter, a county library in Anthem, and various upgrades to regional parks. These projects are expected to contribute to Maricopa County’s community resources and services in the coming years.
