Maricopa County has a new supervisor representing parts of the East and Northeast Valley. In a unanimous vote today, the Board of Supervisors appointed Thomas Galvin to represent District 2. He was sworn in hours later.
“Public service has never been more challenging or more important,” said Galvin. “I believe this job, at this moment, has the potential to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and our region’s future. I want to thank the Board for appointing me, and I look forward to earning their trust and serving my constituents with honor.”
Galvin is a local attorney with expertise in land use and water issues, two critical areas of focus for the nation’s 4th largest and fastest-growing county. Galvin is also no stranger to government. In his work as a lawyer, he has worked with legislators and other decision makers at the local, state, and federal levels. Galvin, a long-time Republican, also has a background in real estate development.
“I was so impressed with the quality of the candidates who applied, from long-time public servants to accomplished businesspeople and professionals,” said Chairman Jack Sellers, District 1. “Ultimately, Tom Galvin stood out by clearly demonstrating he understands the priorities and values of Maricopa County as well the current and future needs of District 2.”
“I’m excited for Thomas Galvin to join our team. He’s a person of integrity with expertise and experience that will really complement our current Board,” said Vice Chairman Bill Gates, District 3. “I believe he can hit the ground running, which is exactly what we need at such a critical time for our county.”
Supervisor Galvin replaces Steve Chucri, who resigned in November.
“First off, I want to thank all the candidates for their willingness to serve. This is a demanding job, and anyone willing to put their name in the hat has my respect,” said Supervisor Clint Hickman, District 4. “Supervisor Galvin impressed me with his understanding of the County, both our successes and our challenges. I look forward to collaborating with him to help our county grow in a smart, sustainable way.”
District 2 includes parts or all of Apache Junction, Carefree, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Gilbert, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Scottsdale, as well as the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.
“Maricopa County supervisors represent more people than some members of Congress in Arizona—we’re talking hundreds of thousands of people—so this is not an appointment we took lightly,” said Supervisor Steve Gallardo, District 5. “I’m confident Supervisor Galvin will be a good colleague and a strong advocate for his constituents.”
The Board received 22 applications for the position and formally interviewed six. Arizona Revised Statute 16-230(A)2 requires the current Board of Supervisors to appoint a person of the same political party from District 2. Galvin will serve in this position until the person elected in the November 2022 General Election is sworn in.