InBuckeye Magazine May/June 2026

InBuckeye Magazine May/June 2026 InBuckeye is Buckeye's premier local news source InBuckeye is your go-to source for hyper-local news and information about Buckeye, Arizona. Stay informed with the latest community updates, events, and stories that matter to our city. InBuckeye is the only dedicated news outlet focusing exclusively on the city of Buckeye, ensuring residents are always in the know.

May/June 2026

InBuckeye.com

Water and the need for water continues to be a top concern as Buckeye sees continued growth DEEP DIVE

HISTORY • COMMUNITY • BUSINESS • REAL ESTATE • MORE

May/June 2026 | InBuckeye.com

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May/June 2026

LEADING OFF Publisher’s letter 4 HISTORY A buried pipeline that has quietly

carried treated municipal wastewater from Phoenix through Buckeye on its way to the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station has unearthed local archaeological history. 8 GOVERNMENT Five candidates are running for three seats on the Buckeye City Council. Read what they said in a Q&A with InBuckeye. 14 COMMUNITY When the Bureau Of Land Management approved a 25-year lease to allow Buckeye to expand Skyline Regional Park, it paved the way for a host of activities at the wildland park. 22 The Buckeye Aquatic Center will open for the 2026 season on May 23, offering an array of swim opportunities, lessons and special events through the summer and into early fall. 26

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BUSINESS Learn how a business teamed up with the Sisters of Life to help one l ocal growing family. 28 Mapping local business headlines 30 REAL ESTATE Extreme home sales 32

DIRECTORY Your guide to Buckeye businesses 34 PARTING SHOT Gila River shows off 38 TRENDING What’s the latest in Buckeye? 39

Veteran Owned - West Valley Based

ON THE COVER AG TO URBAN. Building continues on Beloat Road, where irrigation brings life to some of Buckeye's most historic farmland, illustrating how important water is to both development and the area's rich agricultural industry. Photographed by David Kennard.

InBuckeye.com | May/June 2026

Publisher’s Letter DAVID KENNARD

A thing or two about water

W HEN I STOP AND THINK ABOUT IT, A WHOLE LOT OF MY LIFE HAS revolved around water. I’ve paddled kayaks, canoes, and rafts through some pretty big water out in Colorado and southern Utah. I’ve tried my hand at surfing on both the East Coast and the West Coast—some days better than others. I’ve caught the wind sailing around the San Juan Islands up in the Pacific Northwest, and I’ve spent quiet mornings paddling across those glassy Adirondack lakes in upstate New York. Heck, I even paid my way through a good chunk of college working as a lifeguard and aquatics director at a Boy Scout camp. To this day, I still remember

Publisher DAVID KENNARD

Editorial Director ELIAS WEISS

Editorial Consultants SCOTT BARTLE HAL DEKEYSER

the mantra: “Reach, Throw, Row, Go!” So it probably won’t surprise you that as you flip through this week’s InBuckeye magazine, you’ll notice water comes up more than a few times. Not all that long ago, I was working on a story about the upper and lower basins of the Colorado River. One expert I spoke with—a professor up at the University of Colorado—told me there’d be enough water to go around for places like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and beyond for years to come… so long as you could afford it. That was before we started watching water levels drop at Lake Powell and Lake Mead, and before those Rocky Mountain snowpacks began trending lower year after year. These days, that reality hits a little closer to home. As Buckeye keeps growing, it’s going to take folks—city leaders, landowners, and builders alike—working together to make sure we’ve got a sustainable water supply. There’s a good example of that kind of teamwork in action on page 10. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some of the people in Buckeye’s ag community. Hearing their stories, you quickly understand just how central water has been to this region’s way of life. Maybe that’s why it resonates with me. I grew up spending summers with my grandparents. aunts and uncles in the wheat fields of central Kansas; you learn pretty quickly out there that water isn’t just a resource — it’s everything. And as a relative newcomer to Buckeye, I’ve been struck by just how deep the roots run here. Not just recent history, but ancient history, too — stories that are still being uncovered as the city grows. On page 8 you’ll find some of my reporting on how these artifacts were discovered, revealing how water has been a part of Buckeye’s past for hundreds of years and reinforcing how important it will be for our future.

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Buckeye’s Newest Community, Westpark, is Now Open.

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Contact us for Buckeye specific homebuyer incentives. 480.405.5313 PhoenixInfo@drhorton.com DRH Properties, Inc., Broker. Home and community information, pricing, plans, included features, options, terms, availability, amenities and co-broke are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Square footage dimensions are approximate and vary by elevation. Drawings, pictures, photographs, video, square footages, colors, features, and sizes are for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Please see a sales agent for complete details, including a list of available homes. Sales that are conditional may be rescinded by purchaser until receipt and acceptance of the Arizona Subdivision Disclosure (Public) Report. A copy of the public report is available on the State Real Estate Department’s website. D.R. Horton reserves the right to cancel or change all offers without prior notice. If buyer is working with a licensed real estate agent or broker, the agent or broker must accompany and register buyer on first visit to the D.R. Horton sales office. Prices vary by community. D.R. Horton is an Equal Housing Opportunity Builder. Construction of West Valley homes by DRH Construction, Inc., License ROC # 113105-B.

DRH Properties, Inc., Broker. Home and community information, pricing, plans, included features, options, terms, availability, amenities and co-broke are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Square footage dimensions are approximate and vary by elevation. Drawings, pictures, photographs, video, square footages, colors, features, and sizes are for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Please see a sales agent for complete details, including a list of available homes. Sales that are conditional may be rescinded by purchaser until receipt and acceptance of the Arizona Subdivision Disclosure (Public) Report. A copy of the public report is available on the State Real Estate Department’s website. D.R. Horton reserves the right to cancel or change all offers without prior notice. If buyer is working with a licensed real estate agent or broker, the agent or broker must accompany and register buyer on first visit to the D.R. Horton sales office. Prices vary by community. D.R. Horton is an Equal Housing Opportunity Builder. Construction of West Valley homes by DRH Construction, Inc., License ROC # 113105-B.

InBuckeye.com | May/June 2026

May/June 2026 | InBuckeye.com

HISTORY

PIPELINE AND HISTORY Palo Verde’s wastewater pipeline unearthed significant artifacts en route to nuclear plant A BURIED PIPELINE THAT HAS QUIETLY CARRIED TREATED MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER FROM THE Phoenix area through Buckeye on its way to the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station unearthed archaeological history even as it became a cornerstone of the plant’s water strategy. BY DAVID KENNARD Designed and built when Palo Verde was sited hundreds of miles from perennial rivers and major reservoirs, the pipeline system was intended to supply huge volumes of water needed for condenser cooling, steam-cycle makeup and other plant functions without tapping scarce freshwater or groundwater. The project paired the nuclear plant’s owners — a consortium led by Arizona utilities — with municipal wastewater districts in the Phoenix metro area under long-term purchase contracts that laid out volumes, quality standards and pricing.

— and 10 smaller ones, indicating long-term settlement and daily activity in the area. More extensive excavations followed in the 1930s and 1940s, led by Phoenix-based archaeologist J. W. Simmons. Simmons focused much of his work on a massive trash mound and a cremation burial ground, uncovering evidence that provided key insights into Hohokam mortuary practices. At the heart of the site lies a low, flat area prone to flash flooding, making it unsuitable for permanent dwellings. Instead, the Hohokam built their homes on higher ground surrounding this basin, often near the middens that formed raised knolls. This layout aligns with known Hohokam settlement patterns, which favored elevated terrain along terraces. Simmons documented 63 burial pits and numerous pit houses, suggesting a densely populated community. The burial pits — typically about 20 inches in diameter and extending more than four feet underground — were used for cremations, with evidence indicating that the burning of the dead took place in the central lowland area. Although Simmons sometimes referred to himself as a “pothunter,” a term often associated with less scientific excavation, his work at the Van Liere Site demonstrated many hallmarks of professional archaeology. He approached the site with clear research questions, carefully documented his findings through photographs, maps, and notes, and maintained communication with leading scholars of the time. Among those he collaborated with were Emil Haury of the University of Arizona and A. V. Kidder, one of the most prominent archaeologists in the United States during that era. Like many archaeologists of his time, Simmons concentrated on burial areas due to the abundance of artifacts found in mortuary contexts. These discoveries contributed not only to understanding burial customs but also to broader questions about cultural interaction and historical timelines — topics that remain central to archaeological research today. Near the end of his life, Simmons donated much of the collection recovered from the site to the Buckeye Valley Museum, where many of the artifacts are still preserved and displayed for the public. Today, the Van Liere Site stands as an important window into the region’s ancient past, offering valuable insights into the daily life, traditions, and ingenuity of the Hohokam civilization.

PALO VERDE NUCLEAR POWER PLANT

BUCKEYE

Van Liere Ruins

Source: Buckeye Museum and APS

The Palo Verde Nuclear Generating relies on reclaimed water piped underground through significantly historic ground around Buckeye. Below: Arizona Public Service Company planners stand on ground in preparation for pipeline construction.

Water for the generating station

Public records show mostly routine incidents — leaks or breaks requiring repair and occasional contractual disagreements — rather than systemwide failures. Water managers and researchers treat Palo Verde’s pipeline as an influential early demonstration of “fit-for-purpose” reuse at industrial scale. Advocates say the project helped shape regional water-management thinking by showing that treated municipal effluent can supply heavy industrial consumers without compromising municipal needs or environmental protections. “That’s just a fact of what is in our water contracts and it is important to us to look for ways to operate more cost-effectively,” said Brad Berles, general manager of Palo Verde water resources in a 2022 news report for undergroundinfrastructure.com. Today, the pipeline continues to supply reclaimed water to Palo Verde under long- term contracts, with operators monitoring aging infrastructure and evolving regulatory standards.

Operators and municipal partners say one advantage of using treated wastewater is its steady year-round availability. Unlike runoff-fed supplies, effluent volumes relate more closely to population and indoor water use, making them relatively predictable even during drought. That predictability proved appealing for a baseload power plant that requires a continuous, controllable water supply. Over four decades, the pipeline system has been maintained and incrementally upgraded: pumps and controls modernized, pipeline segments repaired or relined as needed, and telemetry and SCADA systems added for remote monitoring. The reuse arrangement also attracted scrutiny at times. Regulators required monitoring and protocols to prevent cross-contamination and to ensure compliance with Clean Water Act and state rules; local concerns occasionally surfaced over odors, right-of-way impacts during construction or disputes about effluent allocation and rates in dry years.

Maria Johnson, Buckeye Library/Museum assistant shows some of the artifacts unearthed in the Liberty area and other archeological sites around Buckeye.

The delivered effluent met quality thresholds to prevent corrosion, scaling and biological growth in heat exchangers and condensers; additional on-site filtration and chemical treatment has been part of routine operations since startup.

rural unincorporated community of Liberty, where a large number of artifacts from a Historic Hohokam Village have been found. The significant archaeological site along the Liberty Canal sheds light on the lives and customs of the ancient Hohokam people, thanks to decades of exploration and excavation. Known as the Van Liere Site, the area was originally homesteaded in 1910 by Peter Van Liere. Bordered by the Southern Pacific Railroad tracks, the Buckeye Canal, and Jackrabbit Trail, the site stretches roughly three-quarters of a mile westward and sits atop what was once a thriving Hohokam village. The site first drew scholarly attention in 1928, when archaeologist Frank Midvale conducted an early survey. Although much of the land had already been leveled, Midvale identified at least five large trash mounds — known as middens

In a 2017 interview in Municipal Water Leader, Kathryn Sorensen, director of research at ASU’s Kyl Center for Water Policy and former Phoenix water director explicitly tied Palo Verde’s desert siting to availability of reclaimed municipal wastewater “The nuclear power plant … is able to exist in our desert environment only because of the availability of this reclaimed water,” Sorensen said. Construction in the late 1970s and early 1980s included large-diameter buried pipe, pump and booster stations, monitoring vaults and on-site storage and conditioning basins. Historic Hohokam Village at Van Liere site On its path westward through Buckeye, the pipeline runs almost exactly under the historic,

THE PIPELINE HISTORY

BEGINNING OF COMMERCIAL OPERATION

Water sources evaluated and tested effluent contract with SROG

Unit 1: January

Unit 3: January

1969

1973

1976

1986

1988

Unit 2: September

Concept presented to Arizona Public Service Board of Directors

Initial construction permit, May

InBuckeye.com | May/June 2026

May/June 2026 | InBuckeye.com

GOVERNMENT

SURFACE WATER SUPPLIES

Surface water from rivers like the Salt, Gila, Colorado and Hassayampa all have specific criteria that must be met before the city can use them. • SALT RIVER – Buckeye is not able to access water from the Salt River as we are not in the Salt River Project service area. • GILA RIVER – The Gila River has been completely allocated. The City of Buckeye does not possess any Gila River water rights. The city is able to utilize Gila River water through agreements with entities that are willing to partner with the city for use of their rights. • COLORADO RIVER – There are several types of Colorado River Water rights an entity can own. The city of Buckeye has two types of water allocations: • Municipal and Industrial (M&I) contract: 68 acre-feet per year, which decreases to 25 acre-feet per year after 2034. This right has been earmarked to the Sun City Festival golf course. • Non-Indian Agricultural (NIA) allocation: 2,786 acre-feet per year. In the event of shortage calls on the Colorado River, each of these rights are subject to temporary reductions or eliminations. • HASSAYAMPA RIVER – The Hassayampa is a dry river in Buckeye. The city is able to access groundwater in the Hassayampa basin only.

A DEEP DIVE Buckeye plans for growth amid water challenges, rate increases BY DAVID KENNARD T The Central Arizona Project canal brings water from the Colorado to Buckeye and other communities in the greater Phoenix area. The canal relies on pumping stations along its route to move water uphill from the Colorodo River. HE FASTEST-GROWING COMMUNITY IN THE WEST VALLEY, BUCKEYE IS TAKING A CLOSER LOOK AT its water future—balancing continued development with long-term sustainability in an increasingly water-conscious region. City officials say Buckeye currently has enough water to support existing residents and projected growth for the next 15 to 20 years. However, beyond that window, new water supplies will need to be identified to meet demand, prompting ongoing planning efforts by the city’s Water Resources Department. “We recognize that our long-term needs will exceed our current supplies,” officials said, noting that the city updates its Integrated Water Resources Master Plan every five years to identify new opportunities and strategies.

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integrating that supply into Buckeye’s system will take years, but leaders call it a critical step toward sustainability. Reliance on groundwater and replenishment Despite its varied portfolio, Buckeye still depends heavily on groundwater. Nearly all homes are part of the Central Arizona Groundwater Replenishment District, which uses property tax funding to replenish aquifers with non-groundwater supplies, including Colorado River water. State regulations from the Arizona Department of Water Resources limit how much groundwater the city can pump each year to prevent overuse and protect surrounding wells.

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A diverse water portfolio Much like an investment strategy, Buckeye relies on a diversified “water portfolio.” This includes groundwater, Colorado River allocations, reclaimed water, and long-term storage credits. While groundwater remains

the city’s primary source, officials are working to expand and integrate alternative supplies. One major investment is in the Harquahala region, where the city has secured rights to nearly 600,000 acre-feet of water—enough to support future generations. Transporting and

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GOVERNMENT

Rate increases on the horizon To maintain service and prepare for future needs, Buckeye is proposing gradual water and wastewater rate increases. Typical households can expect their bills to rise by about 5% annually over the next five years. City officials say the increases are necessary due to rising costs for electricity, chemicals, labor, and infrastructure maintenance—some of which dates back to the 1960s. Recent investments include $9 million for water treatment improvements in Tartesso and $18 million for a reclamation facility in Sundance.

Without these adjustments, officials warn the utility system could fall below sustainable funding levels, delaying maintenance and limiting future water investments. Growth paying its own way City leaders emphasize that current residents are not subsidizing new development. Developers are responsible for building water infrastructure for new communities, which is then turned over to the city for operation and maintenance. Still, growth brings added costs. More customers mean more water pumping,

treatment, and storage—expenses that must be covered through utility rates. Conservation efforts expand Buckeye is also encouraging residents to use water more efficiently. Programs include leak detection through smart meters, rebates for water-saving appliances, turf removal incentives, and personalized usage alerts. Residents can also request water audits and access online tools to track daily consumption. Water quality meets standards Despite concerns about taste due to naturally occurring minerals in groundwater, officials say Buckeye’s water meets or exceeds all federal safety standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium—known as total dissolved solids—can affect taste but are not harmful. Reducing them further would require costly treatment upgrades, which could significantly increase rates. Looking ahead As Buckeye continues to grow, city leaders say the challenge will be maintaining a balance between affordability, infrastructure demands, and long-term water security. “The goal,” officials said, “is to ensure we can continue to grow while providing a safe, reliable, and sustainable water supply for generations to come.”

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POSSIBLE FUTURE WATER SUPPLIES

Like a financial portfolio, the city’s Water Portfolio consists of several different classes of water assets, according to information provided by the city, including the following: • Brackish groundwater from the Buckeye Waterlogged Area. • Acquisitions or leases of other Colorado River water from entitlements from public or private owners. The water could be transported through the Central Arizona Project canal to Buckeye. • Instate Surface Water supplies. This water could be transported to Buckeye through the canal systems owned by the irrigation districts operating in Buckeye.

When a 5-year-old Buckeye boy with autism was left alone on a school bus for six hours, it didn’t happen “somewhere in the Valley.” It happened here. We investigated.We applied pressure.We held the responsible parties accountable.We secured an $800,000 settlement for the family. We handle car crashes, truck crashes, and cases the big firms won’t touch.When something goes wrong in Buckeye, on your streets, your highways, in your schools, we’re already here. Big-city firms run ads in Buckeye.We run cases in Buckeye. We know the roads.The schools.The families.When it happens here, it’s personal. If your child is harmed. If your family is ignored. If someone thinks they can get away with it in Buckeye: They’re wrong. Don’t call a billboard. Call your law firm.

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GOVERNMENT

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DISTRICT 4

DISTRICT 5

DISTRICT 6

Pamela Croff

G. Patrick HagEstad Incumbent

James P. Subjack

Chase Ryce

Clay Goodman Incumbent

THE CANDIDATES 5 seek 3 seats on Buckeye City Council

BY DAVID KENNARD

OTERS WILL GO TO POLLS ON JULY 21 to cast their votes in a primary election to select three candidates from five who are running to serve on The Buckeye City Council..

QUESTION Tell us about yourself — include information about your family, career, education, volunteer work and any prior experience in public office. District 4: Pamela Croff: I am a full- time Buckeye resident and was born and raised in Buckeye. I’m a proud parent of four adult children, and I’ve always been deeply involved in their lives—supporting their athletic pursuits and robotics competitions, and volunteering as a team mom and even an assistant coach when they were younger alongside my husband of 20 years. Professionally, I’ve worked in the swimming pool construction industry since 1998, where I’ve grown into a leadership role and developed a strong passion for the construction industry. I’m also an active member of our organization’s “Make A Difference” committee, which focuses on giving back to the community. Through fundraising efforts, we support local elementary schools by organizing Christmas festivals, ensuring every child from kindergarten through 8th grade receives a gift—often delivered with a memorable visit from Santa, who arrives by helicopter.

District 4: G. Patrick HagEstad, incumbent: Mr. HagEstad did not respond to email, text or phone calls from InBuckeye . District 5: James P. Subjack: I am a native of the Buffalo, NY area, moving to Buckeye in 2015,My loving wife and I have been married nearly 47 years with 2 children, a son who teaches creative writing in Pasadena and a daughter who is a Criminal Justice Professor at Southern Utah University. I am a graduate of Penn State University and the University of Illinois College of Law. My first job after law school was as City Clerk for the City of Dunkirk, NY. That led to appointment as an Assistant DA which led to private criminal law practice. In 1993 I was elected DA of Chautauqua County, NY and held that position for 12 years, retiring back to criminal law private practice. I was a member of both the Kiwanis and Lions Clubs. I was President of our local United Way. I served on our City's Charter Revision Committee. I was later City Attorney for Jamestown, NY. I was a member of the NYS DA's Association, serving on its Executive Committee. I was a member of the NYS Bar Association Criminal Justice Section, serving as its President for 2 years. I've been a speaker at several national and state law conferences. Upon moving to Sundance

Open seats are for District 4 – northwest Buckeye (including Sun City Festival), District 5 – East Buckeye (South of I-10 and north of Yuma Road) and District 6 (Northeast Buckeye – including Verrado) The following will appear on ballots: District 4: Pamela Croff and Incumbent G. Patrick HagEstad. District 5: James P. Subjack. District 6: Chase Ryce and Incumbent Clay Goodman. Candidates were given the opportunity to answer questions from InBuckeye Magazine regarding their run for office. Below are their unedited responses to each question.

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GOVERNMENT

that support safe, efficient travel. Through the General Obligation Bond initiative, more than $130 million is dedicated to infrastructure improvements across the city. This includes eliminating scalloped streets, adding lighting, and making other critical upgrades. We are also actively working with the Governor’s Office and the state legislature to secure funding for improvements to I-10, as well as Jackrabbit Trail and the I-10 interchange. Additionally, we collaborate closely with Arizona Public Service to ensure our power infrastructure can support both industrial and residential growth.

local leadership, responsive services, and a community that works together to support families and businesses. My platform focuses on practical, community-driven priorities: supporting local economic growth, supporting public safety, maintaining safe, strong, well-kept neighborhoods, investing in youth and family programs, and ensuring responsible, transparent use of taxpayer dollars. I believe in listening to residents, working collaboratively, and making thoughtful decisions that reflect the needs and values of our community.

three boys are biological brothers, with two of them being twins. My oldest was a year old, and the twins were newborns when we were graciously blessed with them. They’ve grown into strong leaders and consistently serve as positive role models for their peers. Recently, they even debated who my favorite child is— and the fact that each of them believes they hold that spot feels like a true parenting success and makes me incredibly proud.

Adult Village, I joined its Long Range Planning Committee and served as its chair. I have been a member of the SAV Board of Directors since 2019, serving as its President for the last 6 years. I served on the Buckeye GO Bond Committee and was Chair of the Water and Wastewater Rate Committee and have recently graduated from the Buckeye Civic Institute. District 6: Chase Ryce: Mr. Ryce did not respond to email, text or phone calls from InBuckeye . District 6: Clay Goodman, incumbent: I’m a third-generation Arizonan, born in Phoenix and raised in what was then north Phoenix near 32nd Street and Cactus Road. My wife, Lynda, and I have been married for 38 years, and we’re proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to one grandson. All of them live here in Buckeye. Our son works at the Palo Verde Generating Station, and our daughter teaches at Verrado Middle School. I joined the Buckeye City Council in June 2020 after being appointed to fill an unexpired term, and in 2022 I was elected to a full four- year term. I am now seeking reelection. Community involvement is important to me. I’m a member of the Verrado Rotary and serve on the Board of the White Tank Mountain Conservancy. I’m also a proud member of the Blue Blazer Squadron in support of Luke Air Force Base, and I serve on several additional boards through my work on the council. Professionally, I spent more than 25 years at Estrella Mountain Community College, retiring in 2015 as the Vice President of Academic Affairs. I then joined Arizona Public Service as the training manager for the non-nuclear generation fleet, retiring again in 2022. Today, I’m honored to serve Buckeye as the District 6 councilmember. Outside of public service, I’m an active mountain biker and also teach SCUBA—something I’ve enjoyed for about 25 years. As for my education, I’m a proud Sun Devil with a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University. I also hold a master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado and a PhD from Capella University.

businesses and create economic stability, and ensuring our police, fire, and emergency services have the resources they need to keep residents safe. I also believe in investing in youth programs and community partnerships that give young people positive opportunities to succeed. Equally important, I will remain accessible and responsive to residents, being transparent in decision-making, and working collaboratively to find solutions that reflect our community’s values and needs.

District 6: Clay Goodman, incumbent: We face several challenges as a growing community, including long-term water security, infrastructure needs, power capacity, and managing growth responsibly. I’ll focus on two of the most significant: water and infrastructure. When I first applied to serve on the city council, I was asked about Buckeye’s biggest challenge. My answer then is the same today: water. It remains our most pressing concern. The good news is that Buckeye is well positioned to address both current and future water needs. Roughly 75% of Arizona’s water use is agricultural, with residential and commercial use making up a much smaller share. Recent Ag- Urban legislation creates incentives that support responsible growth and water management. In addition, the city has invested more than $80 million to secure water rights in the Harquahala Basin, strengthening our long-term water portfolio and supporting future development. Streets, roads, and power systems are essential to keeping our community moving. Buckeye was built largely on former farm roads, and as development continues, those roads must evolve into modern thoroughfares

District

Patrick

HagEstad,

incumbent: Did not respond.

District

Patrick

HagEstad,

incumbent: Did not respond.

District 5: James P. Subjack: While I am proud of my past awards, recognition and achievements which include, but are not limited to, being named a NYS Super Lawyer, a NY Times Top Attorney in NY, admission into the Nation's Top one Percent of Attorneys, a Distinguished Lawyer in Martindale-Hubbell, named as Top Humane Prosecutor in NY by the NYS Humane Association and recently being instrumental in the implementation of the Buckeye Cares Program, I am most proud of my 46+ year loving marriage to my wife, Janel and co-raising 2 wonderful, successful children.

District

Patrick

HagEstad,

QUESTION

How will you best

incumbent: Did not respond.

District 5: James P. Subjack: Clearly the greatest challenge to Buckeye is its burgeoning growth and the need for expansion of its infrastructure to accommodate that growth. I will work with City officials, developers, private companies and neighboring communities to ensure that the growth is well regulated and consistent with our needs and our ability to fulfill those needs,

represent the views of your constituents – even those with differing political views? How will you communicate directly with constituents? District 4: Pamela Croff: I will represent my constituents by listening first and leading with respect. Our community includes a wide range of perspectives, and I believe good leadership means making sure everyone feels heard—

District 5: James P. Subjack: Public office is the highest form of community service one can achieve. Too often you hear people complain of all facets of governance, but never offer a solution nor seek to help in any way. I try to think of myself as a problem solver who constantly attempts to analyze a situation and devise a solution to it. That, in essence is my platform

District 6: Chase Ryce: Did not respond.

District 6: Clay Goodman, incumbent: I chose to run for office because I wanted to give back to my community and stay actively involved in shaping its future. I believe public service is a responsibility we all share as citizens, and it extends well beyond simply casting a vote. My background and experience help me see the broader picture and understand how the decisions we make today will influence Buckeye for years to come. I don’t frame my work around a traditional political platform. Instead, I focus on key priorities that matter to our community: securing our long-term water future, strengthening workforce development, investing in infrastructure, supporting smart economic growth, and above, maintaining strong focus on fiscal responsibility.

District 6: Clay Goodman, incumbent: That’s a tough question. If I’m being honest, my proudest accomplishment is raising two wonderful kids who are now actively contributing to our community. From a council standpoint, I’m especially proud of my leadership role in the city’s General Obligation Bond Initiative. We brought together a diverse community advisory committee that spent several months reviewing needs and ultimately recommending a bond package to the council. Two questions—Public Safety and Transportation—were placed on the ballot, and both passed with more than 60% voter approval. The resulting $280+ million investment will have a significant, positive impact on Buckeye’s future for many years to come. Why are you seeking political office within your community? Briefly explain your political platform. QUESTION District 4: Pamela Croff: I’m seeking public office because I care deeply about this community and want to play an active role in shaping its future. Through my professional experience and years of volunteering, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of strong

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May/June 2026 | InBuckeye.com

GOVERNMENT

our water portfolio and our transportation network. Ensuring we grow responsibly is always top of mind. QUESTION Regarding public safety, what should Buckeye’s strategy include to ensure residents have appropriate resources for first responders – police, EMS, fire and wildland fire protection? District 4: Pamela Croff: To keep Buckeye safe as it grows, the strategy must be proactive, well-funded, and coordinated across all public safety services—not reactive after needs outpace resources. Staffing and response times must be a top priority. As the city expands geographically, we need to ensure police, fire, and EMS coverage grow with it. That means planning new stations with development, maintaining competitive pay to recruit and retain qualified personnel, and setting clear response-time standards so residents know what to expect. Investment in training and equipment is critical. This includes modern fire apparatus,

recognize that new revenue ultimately comes from our constituents in one form or another. At the same time, I don’t believe we need to make cuts. Our city staff understands our fiscal philosophy and works diligently to improve services without increasing costs. Staff is also proactive in pursuing grants that allow us to fund important projects with little or no impact on the city’s budget. Shortly after I was appointed, I advocated for process improvements across the organization. I’m proud that Buckeye has embraced this approach. We now have two full-time staff members dedicated to helping departments streamline their processes, eliminate duplication, and reduce waste. QUESTION What is the best way to protect buckeye’s water and transportation infrastructure in anticipation of continued development? District 4: Pamela Croff: Protecting water and transportation infrastructure requires being proactive, disciplined, and willing to say “not yet” to development when systems aren’t ready. First, we need longterm, data-driven planning. That means aligning development approvals with real infrastructure capacity— water supply, treatment, roadways, and traffic flow—not just projections. Growth should pay for growth, so new developments must contribute fairly to the cost of expanding and maintaining these systems through impact fees and infrastructure agreements. On water, conservation and sustainability have to be front and center. This includes investing in efficient systems, reducing loss from aging pipes, encouraging water-wise landscaping, and diversifying water sources where possible. In a region like ours, responsible water management is critical to long-term viability. For transportation, it’s about both expansion and efficiency. We should prioritize maintaining and upgrading existing roads, improving traffic flow with smart technology, and planning connectivity before congestion becomes a problem. Coordinating land use with transportation planning is key, so we’re not constantly playing catch-up. Transparency and accountability matter. Residents should clearly understand how decisions are made and how funds are being used. If we plan carefully, invest wisely, and hold developers and the city accountable, we can support growth without sacrificing the quality of life people expect.

resource. We live in one of the largest deserts in the world, and we must view our water supply through that lens. Buckeye is not short on water—we have what we need to support our community—but we cannot afford to be wasteful. That’s why recycling and reusing water is so important. Buckeye is actively recharging treated effluent back into the ground so it can be used again in the future. We’re also working with partners to explore the use of brackish water and to remove vegetation along the Gila River that consumes significant amounts of water that could be redirected elsewhere. As a city, we’re also focused on improving transportation. That includes eliminating scalloped streets, adding travel lanes along I-10, and making needed pavement upgrades. The passage of the 2024 GO bonds provides much of the funding required for these improvements, and we continue to work with the governor’s office and state legislature to secure additional support for I-10, Jackrabbit Trail, and the I-10 interchange. As a councilmember, I consistently ask questions about how new projects will affect

even when we don’t agree. I will take the time to understand concerns, ask questions, and make decisions based on what is best for the community as a whole, not just one viewpoint. Transparency and fairness will guide every decision I make. To stay connected, I will prioritize open and consistent communication. This includes regular town halls, attending community events, and being accessible by email, phone,and social media. I also want to create opportunities for direct feedback, so residents know their voices matter and have a real impact on the decisions being made.

are places in the budget where cuts could be made?

District

Patrick

HagEstad,

incumbent: Did not respond.

District 4: Pamela Croff: Parts of the budget that deserve strong, continued investment are public safety, infrastructure, and youth programs. Ensuring our police, fire, and emergency services are properly staffed and equipped is essential to maintaining a safe community. At the same time, we need to keep up with road maintenance, traffic management, and long-term infrastructure planning as our city grows. I also believe investing in youth and community programs pays long-term dividends by giving young people positive opportunities and strengthening families and our future. When it comes to reductions, I believe in a careful, responsible approach rather than across-the-board cuts. We should regularly review administrative and operational expenses to identify inefficiencies, eliminate duplication, and ensure taxpayer dollars are being used effectively. I would also look closely at underperforming programs or initiatives that are not delivering measurable value and consider reallocating those funds to higher-impact priorities. Overall, my focus is on being fiscally responsible—making smart investments where they matter most while ensuring accountability and transparency in every dollar spent. District 4: G. Patrick HagEstad, incumbent: Did not respond. District 5: James P. Subjack: City Court and the City Prosecutor's office are both in desperate need of additional space and significant effort should be undertaken to make that a reality.. With regard to overfunded departments, in my estimation there are none. Which is why careful, thoughtful study must be made to efficiently and effectively allocate funds consistent with deference to tax rates and departmental needs.

District 5: James P. Subjack: Having served as Chair of the Rates Committee, I learned first hand of the knowledge and abilities of those within that Department. We must trust their judgment and work to implement their recommendations as best possible. With regard to transportation, we must work with State Officials to expand I-10 which saw more than a 40% increase in traffic volume between 2020 and 2025, The high density of traffic seems to have led to a significant increase in the usage of our roads and streets. In addition, we must continue to insist that developers pay their fair share of roadway improvements caused by their project. We must also wisely use the funds made available by bonding for roadway improvements.

District

Patrick

HagEstad,

incumbent: Did not respond.

District 5: James P. Subjack: If elected, A plan is in place to open an office within the City and hold regular hours to meet with constituents and City employees. I would like to develop an eblast system to inform of significant events or news and to receive questions or concerns.Town halls will be held presuming there is interest in them.

District 6: Chase Ryce: Did not respond.

District 6: Clay Goodman, incumbent: I touched on this earlier, so apologies if there’s a bit of repetition. When it comes to water, we must be responsible stewards of this vital

District 6: Chase Ryce: Did not respond.

District 6: Clay Goodman, incumbent: I firmly believe every question deserves an answer, and I work hard to provide those answers. Most of the questions I receive start with “What…” followed closely by “When…”. Lately, I’ve been getting more “How…” questions, and those are often the most rewarding to address. I strive to represent my constituents fairly and equitably. My role is to listen to the many perspectives within District 6 and balance them with the broader needs of the city. A large part of my work on the council involves hearing resident concerns and helping people understand how the city operates, how decisions are made and resolving any issues. I hold quarterly community meetings where constituents can speak with me directly and ask questions. These are informal conversations over coffee—no agenda, just open dialogue. I also meet individually with residents whenever they prefer a one-on-one discussion. I’m not a fan of one-way communication. Government at any level is a people-centered endeavor, and it works best when we engage in candid, respectful conversation.

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District 6: Chase Ryce: Did not respond.

District 6: Clay Goodman, incumbent: My primary responsibility on the council is fiduciary ensuring we use taxpayer dollars wisely and make decisions that reflect strong stewardship of public resources. I consider myself a fiscal conservative, and I don’t believe every challenge can or should be solved by simply spending more. We must live within our means while still delivering the highest level of service possible to our residents. There is always a need for additional funding across the budget, but it’s important to

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QUESTION What parts of the city budget could use more funding? Where

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