Maricopa County Committee Pushes for Two-Decade Tax Rate Extension

By Matthew Holloway |

The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors’ Public Safety Funding Committee (PSFC) last week put forth a critical recommendation: a 20-year extension of the voter-approved tax rate of 1/5th of a cent, which is set to expire in 2027. This proposal aims to bolster funding for adult and juvenile correctional facilities, correctional healthcare, and a range of county programs.

Chairman Jack Sellers emphasized the importance of transparency in funding public safety efforts. “Providing for public safety is a core function of our government,” he stated. The PSFC, formed to include diverse perspectives on public safety funding, conducted public hearings and facility tours, ultimately shaping their recommendations.

Support for the tax extension was prominent among the Supervisors, particularly from Clint Hickman, Bill Gates, and Steve Gallardo. Hickman highlighted the Jail Excise Tax’s contribution of approximately $300 million annually, framing it as a viable solution for the county’s escalating public safety demands. He noted that maintaining the current tax rate is essential for community safety and economic stability.

The committee’s comprehensive 165-page report includes policy suggestions addressing several key areas: Reentry, Community Services, Programming, Courts, Capital, and Data Initiatives. Recommendations advocate for partnerships in crime prevention, enhancing the behavioral health system, and crucial improvements in juvenile placement policies.

Additionally, the report suggests replacing outdated facilities and increasing security at key locations, such as the Durango campus. Vice Chairman Thomas Galvin remarked on the open engagement between the PSFC and community stakeholders, expressing optimism about moving forward collaboratively to ensure public safety.

Chaired by John Lewis, the committee comprises nine individuals from various sectors, including law enforcement, criminal justice, and business. However, as reported by KTAR News, the Board’s ability to act remains limited. While it can endorse the tax extension, the ultimate power to place it on the ballot lies with the Arizona Legislature and the governor.

With a Republican-controlled legislature and a Democratic governor, the path to extending the tax is uncertain, raising questions about voter reception and legislative action.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.