During his final official meeting as a Maricopa County supervisor, Denny Barney, District 1, expressed gratitude to his colleagues on the Board, county staff, and constituents, as well as family and close friends who attended his final board meeting.
“Life is about dreams and one of mine was to serve in elected office,” said Barney. “I arrived at Maricopa County thinking I knew how it should work. But I had a lot to learn and I love being a part of a team working to improve people’s lives.”
Barney is stepping down effective February 1st to focus on his position as the President and CEO of the East Valley Partnership. At today’s meeting, the Board of Supervisors acknowledged his contributions to Maricopa County with a video tribute and some heartfelt thanks from the dais.
“He always answers questions directly and just calls it like he sees it. That’s so refreshing in government,” said Chairman Bill Gates, District 3 Supervisor. “The issues that come to the Board are not the easy ones. The ones that come to us are challenging, and that’s where he always rises to the occasion. We are going to miss him.”
“He has always been a gentleman. Kind and inclusive. And he really helped make this board click,” said Vice Chairman Clint Hickman, District 4 Supervisor. “I know he will make us proud as he leads the East Valley Partnership.”
Barney was elected in 2012. He served as Chairman of the Board in 2014 and 2017. His achievements include a holistic approach to criminal justice, and reforms of budget and regulatory processes.
“What I admire most about Denny is his ability to stand up for what he believes in. He’s going to say what he believes from the heart, not for political showmanship or any other reason, but just for the very fact that he’s principled,” said Supervisor Steve Chucri, District 2.
“He is definitely going to be missed here at Maricopa County,” said Supervisor Steve Gallardo. “He was one guy you turned to when you had discussions on land issues or the budget. He was a hawk.”
The Board of Supervisors will appoint Barney’s replacement in the coming weeks. The Board received 13 applications and welcomes public comments on applications before 5:00 p.m. Friday, February 1st. Barney’s replacement must be a member of his same political party (Republican) and be registered to vote in District 1.
