Bill > SB1269

This bill modifies the process for forming fire districts in Arizona, creating an alternate, streamlined method for counties with less than 500,000 residents until December 31, 2028. The existing law, section 48-261, outlines a detailed procedure involving a district impact statement, public hearings, and petition circulation requiring signatures from owners representing over half of the taxable property units and assessed valuation. The new section, 48-825, allows for a simpler formation process where a written request to the board of supervisors, along with a map of the proposed district and a limit of 5,000 or fewer residents, can lead to a public hearing. The board of supervisors can revise boundaries to ensure no single property contributes more than 2.5% of the district's funding, and if they decide to proceed, the matter is put to a vote of qualified electors within the proposed boundaries. If 65% of the votes are in favor, the fire district is declared formed, and the board of supervisors appoints an organizing board of directors until regular elections can be held. This alternate formation process is a temporary measure, expiring at the end of 2028.

Government Affairs

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/84794