New Pinal Administrator Vitiello from Maricopa Sworn In Amid Community Hopes

FLORENCE — The atmosphere was lively as Pinal County celebrated the swearing-in of its newly elected officials at the Administrative Complex on December 18, 2024. The ceremony welcomed ten individuals, including former Maricopa Vice Mayor Rich Vitiello, to their new roles.

Vitiello’s victory in the November general election was notable, as he won the District 1 supervisor position by a significant 15-point margin. Though he will officially begin his duties in January, he has already expressed eagerness to contribute. “I’m so excited. The day after the election, I was already meeting people with the county and I wanted to get to work immediately,” he remarked.

His enthusiasm matches that of Sheriff-elect Ross Teeple, who has already begun on-the-job training with the outgoing sheriff, Mark Lamb. Teeple described the experience as overwhelming yet enlightening. “It’s a bit like drinking from the fire hose,” he said, reflecting on their first meeting on Veterans Day when they began transitioning responsibilities.

Teeple also credited Lamb for his support during this transition, stating, “He’s just been outstanding, and so for him to entrust me to take charge of the sheriff’s office after he steps out was very important.” This bond indicates a smooth transition for the sheriff’s office.

Other officials sworn in included Supervisors Stephen Miller, Jeff McClure, Jeff Serdy, and Mike Goodman, along with Assessor Douglas Wolf, Recorder Dana Lewis, School Superintendent Jill Broussard, and Treasurer Michael McCord. However, Pinal County Attorney-elect Brad Miller was absent from the ceremony.

Looking ahead, Vitiello intends to carry on the work initiated by outgoing Supervisor Kevin Cavanaugh, emphasizing his commitment to local issues. “Of course, the focus is on State Route 347 and economic development throughout the county,” he stated, though he refrained from providing additional details.

Teeple’s immediate goals for the sheriff’s office include advocating for better pay for detention officers and addressing concerns about animal cruelty. Residents raised these issues during his campaign, and he is already proactive, having reached out to the head of animal control to form a dedicated task force. “They were really concerned with hoarding and mistreatment of livestock,” Teeple explained, demonstrating his focus on community concerns.

In a concluding sentiment, Teeple expressed gratitude towards the electorate: “I’m just really thankful for the voters and citizens of Pinal County. Please understand that I take this responsibility very heavily and will do my best to continue to make Pinal County the safest large county in Arizona.”