Maricopa County Initiates New Eviction Prevention Pilot Program
In a strategic move to curb rising eviction rates, Maricopa County has rolled out an innovative Eviction Prevention Pilot Program. This initiative, which received formal approval from the Board of Supervisors in May, aims to provide crucial rental assistance to residents, thereby enhancing financial security for property owners. The program is a collaborative effort involving the City of Phoenix, which will offer utility assistance and case management, ensuring a holistic approach to supporting participants. Administration of the program will be managed by HOM, Inc., which will liaise directly with property owners and tenants.
The program offers one-time rental assistance to families facing financial hardships that prevent them from paying their monthly rent. Eligible households may receive up to $3,200 to cover rental arrears for up to two months, with the intention of addressing potential eviction cases before they escalate to the court system.
Chair Kate Brophy McGee of District 3 emphasized the program’s proactive approach, stating, “The purpose of this pilot is to identify a potential eviction case early on, thus avoiding late fees and legal fees for both parties. Many Maricopa County residents dedicate most of their monthly income directly towards their rent. When an accident happens, they are forced to redirect their limited funds, leaving them with no way to pay for the roof over their heads.”
Participation in the program requires both residents and property owners to meet specific conditions. Residents must demonstrate lawful presence and provide evidence of financial hardship. Meanwhile, property owners are required to submit documentation such as the rental agreement, tenant ledger, and a W9 form, and agree that the payment received will fully satisfy the rental arrears.
Phoenix Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “Too many households in our hardest hit neighborhoods live one emergency away from losing their home. I am grateful for our partnership with the County to implement a pilot that will direct help where it is needed most and that will pair assistance with follow-up support, so families aren’t left on their own after the rent is paid.”
With a budget of $800,000, the program will focus on areas within the City of Phoenix that have high eviction rates, particularly in District 3 and District 5. Supervisor Steve Gallardo of District 5 expressed optimism about the program’s impact, noting, “District 5 has some of the highest eviction rates in Maricopa County, so for my constituents to be an emphasis for this pilot program ensures meaningful outcomes will occur for families who need it most.”
The Arizona Multihousing Association (AMA) has provided input on the program’s structure and will assist in identifying participating property owners. Once property owners are engaged, eligible residents will be informed of their potential benefits. The initiative is funded from Maricopa County’s FY 2027 budget.
Data collection and follow-up with both residents and property owners will be crucial in assessing the pilot program’s success and determining its future direction.
For further details and a comprehensive list of the necessary documentation, visit Maricopa.gov/EvictionPrevention.
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