'Do not spend more than you have': Thomas Galvin opens up on the DOJ and why public safety is paramount

Phoenix, Arizona: Thomas Galvin, Vice-Chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, recently joined Mike Broomhead to discuss the county's budget and the growing challenges facing election supervisors. The conversation shed light on the fiscal strategies and public safety priorities guiding the county, as well as the political pressures impacting local governance.

What's the top priority?

Galvin highlighted the county's significant budget reduction efforts, noting that Maricopa County has decreased its overall budget by 11% this year, following a 3% reduction last year.

"We're in a huge county with 4.5 million people, the fastest-growing in the country," Galvin said. "We've cut property taxes every year for the past four years." Public safety remains the top priority, with nearly half of the budget allocated to the Sheriff's Office, the county attorney's office, jails, and courts.

The importance of fiscal responsibility

Addressing staffing challenges, particularly in the county attorney's office, Galvin emphasized the importance of adequate funding. "We sit with them and say, 'What do you need?'" he explained. County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has made significant strides in filling vacancies and recruiting talent, even from out of state, to ensure the office can effectively handle cases.

Galvin also praised the county's prudent fiscal management, avoiding debt by adhering to a simple philosophy: "Do not spend more than what you have." This approach, along with conservative budget estimates, has allowed Maricopa County to maintain financial stability without compromising essential services.

The $315m elephant in the room

The discussion shifted to the potential Department of Justice (DOJ) oversight of the Phoenix Police Department, with Galvin warning of the negative impact seen in similar situations elsewhere. "If the DOJ takes over, it would decimate the Phoenix Police Department," he asserted. He cited the costly and cumbersome federal monitoring of the Sheriff's Office, which has cost taxpayers $315 million and imposed significant administrative burdens.

Galvin also addressed the intense scrutiny and hostility faced by election supervisors, fueled by misinformation and social media. "Public service has never been more unappealing but never more important," he remarked. The vitriol has extended to personal attacks and threats against supervisors, undermining public trust and morale.