This week, we break down how Arizona’s property tax system works, from how tax bills are calculated and who sets the rates, to the key taxpayer protections that keep costs relatively low. We also explore what property taxes fund across counties and the growing cost pressures, including state-mandated programs, that shape local tax policy.

Tune in to the episode to learn more, and explore our resources on property taxes below:

• Property Tax Primer and Key Terms
• Limits on Property Taxes
• Board of Supervisors' Property Tax Roles and Responsibilities
• Constitutional Levy Limits Report
• Tax Burden FAQs
• Explore our website for additional materials: https://www.countysupervisors.org/property-tax

In this episode, we take our show on the road to visit and tour the Pleasant Valley Veterans Retreat in Young, Arizona, a Gila County-led effort to transform a former U.S. Forest Service site in the heart of the Tonto National Forest.

Gila County Supervisor Woody Cline and Executive Assistant Cathy Melvin walk us through the years-long process of working with the U.S. Forest Service and partners across county, state, and federal government, including advancing federal legislation to convey the site to the county, all in pursuit of turning more than 200 acres into a peaceful retreat where veterans can visit, connect, and heal.

To learn more about the retreat, visit their website here

This week, we’re joined by Bill Gates, former Maricopa County Supervisor and current Director of Arizona State University’s Mechanics of Democracy Lab (MODL) and Professor of Practice at ASU, to discuss the lab’s work to strengthen election administration and public understanding of elections. We also highlight MODL’s efforts to train the next generation of election professionals through student fellowships and innovative programs like its new AI and Elections Clinic.

To learn more about MODL, visit their website here

This week, we break down key legislative proposals that could impact county finances across Arizona. We explore pending state policies with the potential to restrict local revenue authority, as well as proposals that could shift costs to counties and drive additional spending. Learn more about what these proposals could mean for county budgets and the services Arizonans rely on.

To view our document detailing these proposals, click here.

To explore our handout detailing existing restrictions on county revenues and transparency requirements, click here.

For more information about counties, visit our website at https://www.countysupervisors.org/

This week, we break down what expenditure limits are, why they exist, and the practical implications on county operations. From historical context to modern challenges like workforce pressures and voter-approved adjustments, we explain how these constitutional rules guide—or constrain—the way counties serve their communities.

To learn more about expenditure limits, check out our website at https://www.countysupervisors.org/expenditurelimits

And check out our resource guide here

In this episode, we unpack the first bill of the 2026 legislative session to be signed into law and a key county priority: HB 2022, sponsored by Representative Kolodin. We’re joined by AACo’s Jen Marson, who has been at the tip of the spear on this issue, to discuss how the bill streamlines election administration, moves the next primary election to July 21, and ensures overseas and military voters receive their ballots on time for the upcoming general election.

It’s not just about buying things—it’s about how local government actually gets things done. This episode spotlights an 18-month research partnership between CSA, the League of Cities and Towns, the Arizona Board of Regents, and Arizona State University exploring how procurement delivers real value for residents.

Led by Dr. Akheil Singla, Dr. Justin Stritch, PhD candidate Mariah Lindberg, PhD student Ignacio Pezo, and the ASU research team, the conversation unpacks why this work matters, and what it means for communities across Arizona.

Explore the full report on our website at https://www.countysupervisors.org/general-government/procurement

To watch the video briefing, click here.

On the heels of his visit to Arizona, we sat down with Matt Chase, CEO of the National Association of Counties (NACo), to discuss how counties are supported at the national level. We explore NACo’s role in assisting local leaders, key federal issues—from public lands and disaster response to AI and data centers—and the growing importance of data-driven advocacy and local storytelling.

To learn more about NACo, visit their website at https://www.naco.org/

To learn more about how CSA supports Arizona's counties, visit our website at https://www.countysupervisors.org/