Maricopa County Supervisors Press Recorder to Wrap Up Shared Services Deal

By Jonathan Eberle |

Maricopa County’s election administration faces uncertainty as the Board of Supervisors pushes County Recorder Justin Heap to finalize a Shared Services Agreement (SSA). This decisive move aims to end months of stalled negotiations crucial for the upcoming elections.

The letter, signed unanimously by all five Supervisors—Chairman Thomas Galvin, Vice Chair Kate Brophy McGee, and Supervisors Mark Stewart, Debbie Lesko, and Steve Gallardo—reflects their frustration with the delays since Heap terminated the previous SSA on January 27, 2025. In that instance, he hinted at potential litigation.

“After the meeting between you and Chairman Galvin and Vice Chair Brophy-McGee on April 11, we felt hopeful that an agreement was imminent,” the Board expressed. Both sides had left that meeting with optimism, believing they were close to a resolution.

The SSA is vital for delineating the roles of the Recorder and the Board of Supervisors in managing elections in Arizona’s largest county. Arizona law splits election duties between the two, making a clear agreement essential for compliance and efficiency.

In their correspondence, the Supervisors pointed to the latest draft of the SSA sent on April 12, which incorporates negotiated changes. The draft includes both redlined and clean versions for review to facilitate quick acceptance.

“Reaching an agreement promptly is in the best interests of Maricopa County voters and our dedicated County staff,” the Board emphasized.

This appeal comes amid rising concerns that without a signed SSA, preparations for the 2026 election cycle could be hindered. Disagreements have arisen regarding communication strategies, IT system control, ballot tabulation, and staffing responsibilities.

The SSA draft clearly outlines responsibilities for election operations, including communications, staffing, and IT services. It also defines procedures for election plan approvals, security measures, ballot custody, and interactions with political parties.

Both sides have engaged outside legal counsel in pursuit of a resolution. Despite numerous offers and counteroffers, an agreement remains elusive. The Board’s letter concluded with a call for immediate action, asserting that “the voters deserve better.”

Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.