2026-05-20 Formal - Adopt Resolution for the 2026 Primary Election

This Maricopa County Board of Supervisors meeting on May 20, 2026, focused primarily on adopting a resolution for the 2026 primary election, specifically authorizing the use of voting centers, emergency voting centers, and secure drop boxes. The resolution also empowered the Elections Department director to approve facility use agreements and make changes to voting or drop box locations with public notification. Significant discussion centered on a legal dispute with County Recorder Dustin Heap, whose attorney sent a letter threatening criminal liability for election workers handling ballots at drop boxes without the recorder's explicit authority. Board members expressed frustration over communication breakdowns and coordination challenges with the Recorder's office, emphasizing the need for collaboration to ensure election integrity and voter access. A motion to approve the resolution passed unanimously, with some members proposing an amendment to allow the recorder to object to drop box locations by a specified date, though the amendment was not seconded. The meeting highlighted ongoing tensions but underscored the board's commitment to timely election preparations and statutory responsibilities.