Authority Overview
"Our mission is to protect life and property and to enhance the well-being of all those we serve."
The Arizona Fire & Medical Authority (AFMA) was formed in 2017 through an Intergovernmental Agreement between North County Fire & Medical District (Sun City West & Wittmann) and South County Fire & Medical District (Sun Lakes & Tonopah). In 2023, Buckeye Valley Fire District joined as a third partner agency. In October 2025, AFMA began providing fire and life safety services to the Town of Guadalupe.
This Joint Powers Authority (JPA) model allows each district to retain local control over budgets and tax rates, while sharing personnel, equipment, and daily operations under one unified Governing Board. The Board includes two members from each district and one at-large member for equitable representation.
Why It Matters
Arizona fire districts face serious financial challenges due to strict tax caps, budget growth limits, and rising service costs. By joining forces, our partner districts have reduced administrative overhead, shared resources, and protected emergency services—without impacting the quality of care provided to residents.
A Smarter Model
AFMA operates under a shared services model, where districts pool funding and responsibilities to improve service delivery. The model enables:
- Lower operating costs
- Greater efficiency
- Reinvestment in frontline emergency services
Our Communities
AFMA delivers all-hazard emergency response, including 9-1-1 ambulance service, from twelve strategically located fire stations in Maricopa County’s West and East Valleys.
We proudly serve approximately 103,000 residents in areas including Buckeye Valley, Guadalupe, Sun City West, Sun Lakes, Tonopah, Wittmann, and other unincorporated areas of Maricopa County.
Our Team
AFMA is staffed by over 300 dedicated full-time and part-time fire and EMS professionals, administrative staff, and over 50 Fire Corps volunteers who support community outreach and public education.