Maricopa County Garners National Praise for Innovative Use of GIS Technology
Maricopa County has been recognized on a national stage for its advanced utilization of data and digital mapping tools to enhance government operations. The county was distinguished with the Enterprise Approach to GIS Award at the 2026 Esri Public Sector CIO Summit, highlighting its innovative Geographic Information Systems (GIS) initiatives.
Board of Supervisors Chair Kate Brophy McGee from District 3 expressed, “Our county has so much data. What GIS allows us to do is help make that data consumable. Done right, digital maps give residents a better understanding of what’s happening in their community and our employees a better understanding of how to enhance service to residents.”
The Enterprise Technology and Innovation (ETI) team spearheaded Maricopa County’s award-winning GIS strategy, enabling various departments to analyze and visualize extensive datasets using multi-layered maps. These maps uncover patterns in data that can guide policy-making and enhance services. Residents gain access to vital information about county government activities whenever they need it.
The practical applications of these maps are numerous. Residents can identify their voting districts or precincts, check zoning designations, search for lost pets, find out if they live in flood-prone areas, report invasive species in county parks, and discover if their neighborhood is undergoing mosquito control measures, among other uses.
Richard McHattie, the Chief Information Officer for Maricopa County, commented, “What we’re doing with GIS is creating a more open and responsive government. Kacie Baker, our Geographic Information Officer, along with her talented team, positioned GIS as a key driver of innovation for Maricopa County. Their ingenuity and leadership are transforming how we use data to deliver smarter, more responsive services for our residents.”
For more information on Maricopa County’s GIS applications, visit their GIS Mapping Applications page.
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