Maricopa County Supervisors Approve Draft Agreement for County Recorder

By Matthew Holloway |

Maricopa County Supervisor Mark Stewart is optimistic about the recently approved Shared Services Agreement (SSA), anticipating that Maricopa County Recorder Justin Heap will endorse it. The Board of Supervisors voted unanimously this week to submit a new draft of the SSA centered on election responsibilities.

In a statement, Stewart noted, “The SSA draft now incorporates feedback from the Recorder’s Office. This is not the final version; the Recorder will have the chance to propose revisions, which will then return to the Board.” He expressed confidence, saying, “We are 95% of the way towards finalizing the SSA and I feel more optimistic than ever.”

Chairman Thomas Galvin emphasized the extensive negotiations involved, stating, “This latest agreement includes many concessions from our Board. It’s time the public knows the full story.”

In a statement initially shared by outlets but later retracted, Recorder Heap acknowledged the ongoing negotiations: “The Board’s presentation is one side of the discussion. I disagree with some statements made; however, my focus remains on reaching an agreement that serves Maricopa County voters.” He noted that recent delays stemmed from his need to secure competent legal counsel.

With the appointment of former Arizona Supreme Court Justice Andrew Gould to assist in negotiations, Heap is hopeful for a swift resolution.

Arizona law mandates a division of election management duties between County Boards of Supervisors and County Recorders. Shared Service Agreements aim to clarify these responsibilities, improving efficiency while minimizing costs.

Supervisor Debbie Lesko voiced her frustration, citing a previous meeting that seemed productive. She stated, “After the April 11th meeting, Justin texted me, saying we were in agreement on 95%. Then he changed attorneys, and we seem to be back to square one.”

Supervisor Kate Brophy McGee criticized Heap’s reliability in negotiations. “He has not been a trustworthy partner,” she said. “Successful elections in Maricopa County depend on reaching this agreement.”

As of now, Recorder Heap has not provided a revised statement nor clarified the removal of his earlier comment.

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