Pinal County Community Forums begin Sept. 14

Beginning on Sept. 14, Pinal County is hosting a series of evening sessions to acquaint the public with the duties of the county, its budget structure, services that are mandated by statutes and more. 

Sessions will begin every Tuesday at 6 p.m. (except for Sept. 28, an evening when there is no session planned) and will last from 60 to 90 minutes.
 
“During challenging financial times, people want to see that their government is conserving tax dollars and spending wisely on essentials,” Vice Chairman Bryan Martyn said. “We want to solicit input from the public while also deepening their understanding of the services we are obligated to provide.”
 
Chairman Pete Rios highlighted the fact that to balance the state budget, costs for certain services were shifted from the state to Arizona’s counties. “Our intention is to help taxpayers understand what we do for them and their communities – from caring for our elderly residents, to providing public health services, operating the Justice Courts and filling potholes and clearing roads after floods.”
 
Sessions are scheduled for 6 p.m. in the Board of Supervisors’ meeting room at 31 North Pinal Street, Building A on the following dates:
 
• Assessor, Clerk of the Court, School Superintendent and Treasurer on Sept. 14 at 6 p.m.
• County Attorney, Recorder and Courts (Superior Court, Adult Probation, Juvenile Court Services, Conciliation Court, JPs & Constables) on Sept. 21 at 6 p.m.
• Sheriff and Development Services on Oct. 5 at 6 p.m.
• County Manager, Clerk of the Board & Administrative Services on Oct. 12 at 6 p.m.
• Board of Supervisors, Internal Audit and Health & Human Services on Oct. 19 at 6 p.m.
Pinal County’s elected officials have been invited to provide overviews of the services they deliver. Managers who oversee specific programs will also have an opportunity to present the services they provide and entertain questions from interested residents.
 
“We intend for these forums to be interactive, with opportunities for open, honest dialogue between taxpayers and county officials and staff,” Supervisor David Snider said. “Anyone with an interest in their government and the use of their tax dollars is welcome to attend these free sessions.”

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