As Buckeye continues to experience rapid population growth, its newly elected representative in the state senate, Timothy Dunn (R-Yuma), has outlined key legislative priorities aimed at addressing the city’s evolving needs, including water sustainability, infrastructure development and education funding.
Dunn, formerly a House member since 2018, emphasized that water remains his top legislative focus.
“There are several bills that address the needs of Buckeye and its water accessibility,” he told InBuckeye.
Among his efforts are initiatives targeting the Phoenix Active Management Area to increase water access and reopen limited homebuilding opportunities. Dunn also expressed his intent to support “Ag to Urban” legislation, which would facilitate the transfer of water rights from farmers to developers.
![At a previous swearing-In ceremony, state lawmaker Dunn takes his oath of office. [InBuckeye]](https://inbuckeye.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Dunn-swearing-in.avif)
On infrastructure
Dunn highlighted his ongoing commitment to investment in transportation.
“I will work with my colleagues on the next phase of Jackrabbit Pass,” he promised.
He noted funding for State Route 30 would be secured over the next decade following voters’ November passage of Proposition 479, which he supported.
Education is another area of focus for Dunn as Buckeye schools strive to accommodate a fast-growing student population. The freshman senator pointed out more than half of the state budget is allocated to education and said he would work with stakeholders to introduce a ballot initiative to address funding needs.
Additionally, he said he plans to prioritize funding for career and technical education programs to prepare students for careers in the STEM fields.
When it comes to economic development, Dunn said he aims to maintain a balanced tax structure to attract businesses while preserving Buckeye’s quality of life. Doing so successfully could make Buckeye a gold standard in that regard.
“The world is watching what we do and say,” Dunn said.
Collaborating with the Buckeye City Council, Dunn plans to align local and district-wide goals to ensure the city is prepared for growth with adequate water resources, schools and affordable housing. His Legislative District 25 encompasses northern Yuma and western Maricopa Counties.
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This article first appeared in the winter edition of InBuckeye Magazine
Winter (January) 2025 InBuckeye Magazine
