Growing up in Topock, Arizona, I fondly recall attending Topock Elementary School, a place that holds cherished memories of my formative years. However, recent events have brought about grave concerns regarding the fiscal management and governance of the Topock Elementary School District #12.

On August 4, 2025, the Mohave County Board of Supervisors delayed a decision on approving a property tax increase for our district. This decision followed public testimonies alleging violations of Arizona’s Truth in Taxation law (A.R.S. § 15-905.01) and Open Meeting Law (A.R.S. § 38-431), along with troubling governance and hiring practices within the school district.

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https://www.youtube.com/live/3Gics3SdVmk?si=bLtvmLdR30o22aVw&t=7631 

These allegations are not to be taken lightly. The Truth in Taxation law is designed to ensure transparency and fairness in any proposed tax changes, giving constituents an honest overview of how their taxes will be spent. Alleged violations suggest that the community's trust and legal expectations in handling public funds might have been breached. 

Now, we’ve learned that the Arizona Auditor General’s Office is withholding state aid from the district due to its lack of internal financial controls. In other words, the district currently fails to meet basic requirements for how taxpayer money is tracked and spent.

Despite this, the district is still asking us—as taxpayers and community members—to trust them with more public money through a property tax increase.

This is unacceptable.

Similarly, any breach of the Open Meeting Law signifies potential opacity in decision-making processes where openness is crucial. School district decisions should reflect public interests with full accountability and transparency, yet these claims raise doubts about the integrity of such proceedings.

Furthermore, concerning hiring practices within the Topock Elementary School District need to be thoroughly examined. There should be explicit and justifiable criteria that align with ethical standards and public expectations to prevent any suspicion of favoritism or misconduct. This has been highlighted by the state's audits 

As a community rooted in family values and mutual respect, we must stand together in demanding accountability and transparency from the Topock Elementary School District and the Mohave County Board. It is imperative that fundamental legal standards are adhered to, ensuring trust in the governance of our local education system.

I urge fellow residents of Topock and concerned citizens to stand against any property tax increase under these suspicious circumstances until these critical issues are transparently resolved. Demand that our voices are acknowledged and that corrective actions are taken to uphold the laws and standards we all depend on.

Please join me in calling for a thorough investigation into these allegations and insist on no property tax increase until these issues are rightfully addressed.

Sign this petition to ensure accountability and transparency in our beloved community.