On the November 5th ballot, Coconino County residents will have the opportunity to have their say on a proposal that could have a significant impact on the region's public funding. If passed, Proposition 482 would add $7.7 million to the county's base expenditure limit, which was established nearly half a century ago in fiscal year 1979-1980, and make a permanent adjustment. This change in budget standards is intended to enhance the county's coverage of services, including critical areas such as law enforcement, road infrastructure, emergency response services and other county needs. Importantly, officials emphasize that the ballot issue is strictly about budget adjustments and is not a ploy to directly increase or decrease taxes.
To better inform voters, Coconino County is inviting residents to enthusiastically contribute logical arguments to be included in an official information pamphlet that will be distributed to registered voter households prior to the election. Individuals and groups are asked to briefly state their position on the measure, either “for” or “against,” in no more than 300 words. Coconino County Citizen AlertThese written assertions must necessarily include the signature of the person submitting them and, if applicable, the signature of the organization’s officers or political committee leaders.
The deadline for these submissions is fast approaching, and the County Commissioners Office will accept submissions until August 7, 2024 at 5:00 PM (Arizona time). Coconino County emphasizes the importance of active community engagement in this process and encourages lively discussion to unfold on the pages of a brochure that will be mailed soon. Anyone wishing to express their opinions may do so by mail or in person at the Coconino County Commissioners Office at the address listed on the Civic Alert page. Complete details, including additional guidelines and contact information, can also be found on this page.
Residents who would like to learn more about Proposition 482 or have questions about the comment submission process can contact the Clerk’s Office directly by calling 928-679-7145, where potential contributors can clarify how to best express and submit their opinions for public consideration. The County’s efforts to incorporate a range of citizen input reflect a democratic approach and appear to be aimed at providing voters with a balanced explanation of the proposition’s potential impact on Coconino County communities.
