Maricopa supervisors adopt Framework 2040, a long-range policy guide for unincorporated county areas

The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted Framework 2040 on May 20, 2026, a long-range comprehensive policy framework intended to guide future decisions about growth in unincorporated areas.

County planning staff described the two-year effort behind Framework 2040 and emphasized that the document is a policy guide, not a zoning ordinance or project approval tool. "Framework 2040 is the long range comprehensive plan for unincorporated areas of Maricopa County," planning staff said in the presentation, noting the plan organizes nine elements into 33 goals and 137 policies meant to inform rezoning and infrastructure decisions. The plan also includes a Municipal-Rural Influence Framework to differentiate urban-edge and rural-review decisions.

The plan drew five public speakers from the Rio Verde Foothills, all in support of the Framework with requests to protect rural densities and to ensure infrastructure and water sufficiency before any higher-density rezoning. Brian Smith, a Rio Verde Foothills resident, urged supervisors to "preserve and protect the strict rural densities designation" and warned that weakening rural designations could open the door to higher-density sprawl that local infrastructure and water supplies cannot support. Amanda Moniz, who identified herself as an elected member of the Central Arizona Project Water Conservation District but spoke as a resident, urged the county to prioritize sustainable water resources and compatibility with existing rural communities, citing the recent Sandpipe connection and remaining long-term water-supply gaps.

Board members praised staff for the extensive outreach and the practical focus of the document. "This only happens every 10 years," Supervisor Galvin said, thanking planning staff and volunteers for public engagement; multiple supervisors noted the plan’s role in framing questions about location suitability, infrastructure availability and service realism before growth decisions become permanent.

Vice Chair Lesko moved for approval; the motion was seconded and carried on a unanimous vote. Supervisors said the plan provides a structure for more consistent and transparent decision-making on rezoning, plan amendments and individual development proposals.

The board’s adoption means Framework 2040 will serve as the county’s primary policy foundation for evaluating unincorporated-area land-use decisions going forward. Implementation steps, including coordination with municipalities and staff guidance, were discussed as next steps during the meeting.