TITLE
A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona, adopting a Special Community Designation Requests Policy to establish a process for official City of Maricopa recognition of a special community designation. Discussion and Action.
AGENDA ITEM DESCRIPTION
At the January 2026 City Council Futures Planning the City Council directed staff to develop a policy framework for Special Community Designation Requests.
At Futures Planning City Council outlined the following items they would like considered in the policy:
• Requiring nonprofit leadership rather than city management.
• The requesting organization is responsible for any required funding.
• Establishing community standards that align with organizational and community values.
• Determining signage policies to avoid excessive entrance signage.
The policy includes the following:
Special designations must be community-initiated, community-led, and community-funded. The City may provide recognition when a designation:
1. Demonstrates clear community benefit
2. Meets recognized external standards
3. Aligns with City priorities and values
4. Does not create ongoing fiscal or operational obligations
5. Has sustainable local leadership
Final approval of any special designation rests with the City Council.
City recognition of a community designation may include.
• City Website
Listing on the City website with designation name, description, sponsoring organization, and recognition date.
• City Hall Recognition
Standardized signage or display at or within City Hall, as determined by the City.
• City Communications
Acknowledgment through official channels such as press releases, social media, newsletters, or proclamations.
PRESENTER
This item will be presented by Jennifer Brown, Assistant City Manager.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of the resolution adopting a Special Community Designation Requests Policy.