Board votes to call special override election to continue existing M&O override

The Maricopa Unified governing board voted May 13 to call a special budget-override election in November to continue its existing 10% maintenance-and-operations (M&O) override.

Mr. Harmon explained the override would restart a seven-year cycle and that, without continuation, the district would face a roughly $2.5 million funding reduction beginning in the 2028 fiscal year because override funding phases down after year five. "This funds teachers, class sizes, some technology, counselors and TOSAs," Harmon said, clarifying the override continues existing priorities and does not represent a new tax.

Board members discussed the timing and confirmed the measure would maintain the current rate rather than increase taxes. By unanimous roll-call vote the board approved the resolution calling the election; motions on the record showed full board support.

The board did not at this meeting launch a campaign for or against the override; staff will publish the formal election timeline, filing deadlines for arguments and other administrative details required for the November ballot.