After more than 25 years of dedicated service to the City, Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton announced his retirement effective on November 14, 2025. The announcement comes after a distinguished career, including the last four years as City Manager. Beginning his career with the City as an internal auditor in 1999, Barton served the City of Phoenix in … [More]
Arizona Universities Partner to Safeguard State’s Groundwater
As concerns about Arizona’s water future grow, the state’s public universities and the Arizona Board of Regents are offering solutions. The Regents’ Grant-funded Arizona Tri-University Recharge and Water Reliability Project is focused on enhancing groundwater recharge to sustain Arizona’s agriculture and ecosystems. In partnership with the Arizona Department of Water … [More]
What Does the Revived PAID Program Mean for Employers?
The U.S. Department of Labor announced the return of the Payroll Audit Independent Determination (PAID) program. PAID is a voluntary compliance initiative that helps employers resolve inadvertent violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)—such as unpaid overtime or minimum wage—without litigation or civil monetary penalties. This announcement extended the reach of PAID … [More]
Queen Creek, Buckeye Unveil New Water Source through Transportation Order
The Arizona Department of Water Resources finalized a Transportation Order approving the importation of groundwater from the Harquahala Groundwater Basin to the City of Buckeye and Town of Queen Creek. This first-ever transportation approval from ADWR creates a new water source opportunity that will add to Arizona’s diverse and robust water portfolio. The City of Buckeye and … [More]
New Zoning Ordinance Addresses Data Center Concerns
The Phoenix Mayor and City Council approved updates to modernize the City's Zoning Ordinance to add data centers as a permitted use that must address health and safety concerns when applying for a special permit for construction. As Phoenix continues to flourish as a hub for high-tech jobs and industry, these updates establish requirements and a framework to address health and … [More]
Groundbreaking Ag-to-Urban Water Law Promotes Sustainable Growth for Metro Phoenix Developers
Arizona Water Company celebrates Governor Katie Hobbs' signing of the groundbreaking ag-to-urban water legislation, marking a pivotal moment in Arizona's approach to sustainable water management and long-term water security. The newly-signed Senate Bill 1611 was crafted as a result of more than two years of bipartisan negotiations with farmers, homebuilders, … [More]
How Does Tariff Policy Impact Corporate Decision Making?
Earlier this year, President Trump announced a plan to enact tariffs “on nearly every country on Earth.” Although tariff negotiations continue, they will soon be enacted in the U.S. on products made in most other countries. The first question many in corporate leadership ponder is whether sales taxes are due on the amount a tariff adds to a product or the component cost. … [More]
El Mirage Mayor Named MAG Chair
El Mirage Mayor Alexis Hermosillo was elected as chair of the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) Regional Council during the agency’s annual meeting. As the agency’s new chair, Hermosillo said her top priority is ensuring the promises of Proposition 479 become a reality. Mayor Hermosillo, who previously served as MAG Vice Chair, succeeds Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke, who … [More]
Regional Freeway Program Sets Plan for Future Development
Shorter commute times, reduced congestion, and enhanced safety are just a few of the benefits drivers on Valley freeways will see thanks to the regional freeway program. The Freeway Life Cycle Program is funded in part by Maricopa County’s dedicated half-cent sales tax for transportation. Approval of the program establishes priorities and sets schedules for major freeway … [More]
Updated Phoenix Building Code to Include Streamlined Permitting, Provisions for EV Charging
This update reflects Phoenix’s ongoing commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring structures are constructed using best practices and designed for longevity. “Updating the building code is one of the most impactful ways we can promote safety, sustainability, and long-term value for our residents and development community,” said Planning and Development … [More]
Opening of South Central Light Rail Extension/Downtown Hub Celebrated
5.5-mile light rail extension connects South Phoenix to Valley Metro Rail’s new two-line system
More than 5,000 community members, along with federal, state and local officials, gathered to celebrate the opening of the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub light rail expansion in Phoenix. The extension represents an historic milestone for Valley Metro Rail marking the system’s evolution to a 35-mile two-line rail system. The A line now travels east/west and the B line … [More]
Ready to Roll: Celebrating Major Transportation Projects across the Region
Two of the Valley’s most high-profile transportation projects are nearing completion, and the week of June 2–7 marks a regional celebration of this long-awaited progress. The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), in partnership with regional and local agencies, is launching Ready to Roll Week, a celebration showcasing newly completed infrastructure, key safety … [More]
Point in Time Homeless Count Sees Increase in People Living Unsheltered
Total is higher than 2024, but on par with recent years
Results from the 2025 Point in Time Homeless count (PIT count) are in, and the region has seen a 3 percent increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness, in particular among those living unsheltered – sleeping in parks, cars, and other places not meant for habitation. The count was conducted on January 28, 2025, as part of an annual nationwide effort to count … [More]
Maricopa County Partnership Launches Campaign to Display Critical Local Heat Relief Resources
Clear Channel Outdoor and Maricopa County are teaming up for a second year in a row to reduce heat deaths in the region. A new digital billboard campaign will educate and alert residents and visitors across the Valley about critical, local heat relief resources, specifically 200+ local heat relief sites that can help them stay cool during Arizona's dangerous late spring and … [More]
Mesa Boosts Economic Development Department to Shape Economic Future
The City of Mesa Office of Economic Development is adding three dynamic professionals to its team: Amanda Elliott as Deputy Director, Small Business Services and Administration; Benjamin Snow as Deputy Director, Business Development and Hayley Freestone as Economic Development Specialist. These appointments underscore Mesa's continued commitment to fostering economic … [More]
Phoenix Recognized as a National Leader in Affordable Housing Development
Phoenix has earned a spot as one of the top 10 cities leading the way in affordable housing development, according to a recent report by Yardi Matrix. The report underscores Phoenix’s commitment to expanding affordable housing options and the City’s proactive approach to addressing the growing need for accessible living spaces for all residents. The most … [More]
Plans for Additional Tempe Town Lake Recreation Opportunities Begin to Take Shape
If you’ve ever wanted to partner with the City and open a recreation amenity business on Tempe Town Lake, the City of Tempe is looking for great concepts and companies to add to the suite of activities available on the lakeshore as part of exciting next steps for the implementation of the Rio Salado Master Plan. The Rio Salado Master Plan provides a roadmap for additional … [More]
Innovative Partnership Brings 96 New Affordable Family Housing Units to Phoenix
Nearly 100 families in Phoenix have a new, affordable place to call home. UMOM New Day Centers, the City of Phoenix, Maricopa County, the Phoenix IDA and its partners are proud to celebrate the grand opening of La Esperanza Terrace. This landmark affordable housing development was made possible through an innovative, first-of-its-kind agreement between the Isaac School … [More]
