Maricopa County, Recorder Settle Election Fight With $15 Million IT Deal
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jul 16
Maricopa County, Recorder Settle Election Fight With $15 Million IT Deal
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jul 16
Summary
$15 million for a new recorder I.T. system anchored a legal settlement between Maricopa County's board and Recorder Justin Heap, ending a yearlong lawsuit over election control.
The agreement splits duties more clearly: the board will generally oversee Election Day voting and tabulation, while Heap's office keeps voter registration and early voting.
Tuesday's emergency approval followed late-night negotiations and months of public infighting, with the Arizona Supreme Court having intervened during the dispute.
The clash had threatened election administration in Phoenix-area Maricopa County, a pivotal Arizona battleground, after Heap accused the board of seizing responsibilities, funding and systems.