Special Community Designation Policy

The City of Maricopa welcomes community-driven initiatives that enhance quality of life, civic pride, and community engagement. Organizations or community groups may request official City recognition for special community designations such as Purple Heart City, Dementia Friendly Community, Autism Friendly Community, Tree City USA, and similar programs.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for City recognition, a designation must:

Be administered by a recognized and credible organization
Demonstrate meaningful community benefit
Align with the City’s values and strategic priorities
Have sustainable community leadership and support
Avoid creating ongoing unfunded obligations for the City

All designation efforts must be community-initiated, community-led, and community-funded.

Request Process

Step 1: Submit a Request

Applicants should provide:

Program description and administering organization
Community benefit statement
Evidence of community support
Funding and sustainability plan
Required standards or commitments

Step 2: Staff Review

City staff will review the request for policy alignment, operational impacts, and completeness.

Step 3: Council Consideration

Eligible requests may be presented to the Maricopa City Council for formal consideration and approval.

Funding and Responsibilities

The sponsoring organization is responsible for all costs associated with obtaining and maintaining a designation, including fees, signage, outreach, and renewals.

Recognition and Promotion

Approved designations may be recognized through:

The City website
City Hall displays or signage
Press releases, newsletters, social media, or proclamations

Recognition may be removed if designation standards are no longer maintained.

Full Policy

Click here to view/download the policy.(PDF, 138KB)

Contact Information

For questions or to submit a request, please contact:

Communications & Cultural Services Department
(520) 316-6856
quinn.konold@maricopa-az.gov