Bill > HB2274

This bill provides a mechanism for establishing a domestic water improvement district in the Willcox groundwater basin within Cochise County, Arizona. The bill allows the Cochise County Board of Supervisors to place a ballot measure in the 2026 general election, asking residents within the basin if they want to create a special district to address water needs. If approved by a majority vote, the district would have the power to deliver drinking water through methods like constructing standpipes, water hauling, and building stormwater infrastructure to increase groundwater recharge. The proposed district would be limited to the portion of the Willcox groundwater basin in Cochise County and would operate under existing Arizona law for domestic water improvement districts. The Board of Supervisors would establish the district's boundaries before the election and, if the measure passes, would serve as the district's board of directors. Notably, this bill streamlines the typical process for creating such a district by eliminating the need for additional petitions or procedural steps. The bill also includes a provision for the Board of Supervisors to potentially establish a broader water improvements program, and it is designated as an emergency measure to take effect immediately.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82033