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I hope you all were able to enjoy the holidays and are energized and ready to take on 2024!
As I reflect back on this past year, I can’t help but think back on my Chairman’s speech given back in January. I shared my vision for 2023 and how the County planned to tackle challenges like inflation, homelessness, and the eradication of fentanyl from our neighborhoods and schools.
My colleagues and I were able to cut property taxes for a third consecutive year, while also cutting the overall county budget by 2.6% from fiscal year 2023. We then focused our spending where it would truly make a difference- providing housing, public safety, and jobs. For example, we took a significant step to address the pressing need for housing by partnering with the Town of Wickenburg, allocating $10 million to an affordable housing construction project known as Wickenburg Apartments. The new housing is estimated to support up to 675 people per year. When it came to job opportunities, we helped more than 11,000 people search for their next career opportunities through our two comprehensive career centers and workforce development partnerships with cities and towns across the region.
On addressing public safety, the fentanyl crisis was one of my top priorities. This drug’s effects cannot be underestimated – fentanyl is cheap, accessible, and can be 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office estimates that more than three people die every day due to fentanyl overdoses in Maricopa County. And while you may have preconceived notions of who may try fentanyl, the truth is that its addictive qualities can pose a threat to any of our loved ones.
As a father, I knew I had to do my part to keep our kids safe and lead the County in combating this deadly drug. That’s why the County recently released a video series and website, Maricopa.gov/fentanyl, to share stories of those affected by this crisis and resources for how to combat opioid addiction and save lives.
Although, we accomplished so much this past year, none of it would have been possible without the tremendous support from our team here at Maricopa County. I would like to thank every single County employee for all the hard work you perform day in and day out and County leadership for supporting our goals and visions and helping turn them into reality. My fellow colleagues, it has been an honor and privilege to serve as your Chairman- your dedication and commitment to serving the residents of Maricopa County, and the integrity and character you have shown during my leadership helped us get through the tough issues we faced during these challenging times. For that, I am forever grateful. I would also like to thank you, the residents of this county and in my district for the trust you placed in me. Running a responsible government is a task I take very seriously, and I will continue to serve with your best interest at heart.
Lastly, I want to congratulate the new Chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, Mr. Jack Sellers. I look forward to serving under your leadership as we head into 2024, and will work with you to support your priorities for this new year. Thank you.
For more on my Chairmanship and Passing of the Gavel please click on the button below.
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