Treasurer Sarah Benatar, third from left, elected 2nd Vice President of the National Association of Counties. Photo courtesy Coconino County.
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Treasurer Sarah Benatar was elected 2nd Vice President of the National Association of Counties (NACo), marking a historic moment in the organization’s 90-year history. Benatar is the first Latina and the first Treasurer to serve in this leadership role.
“I am honored to be elected 2nd Vice President of NACo. Thank you to county leaders from across the nation for your support and your belief in our vision that when counties decide, communities thrive,” Benatar said. “I look forward to working alongside each of you to strengthen our counties and champion local leadership because it’s time to return decision-making to the people who know their communities best.”
Benatar brings a nationally recognized record of fiscal responsibility and government financial management to her candidacy. Since taking office in 2014 as the youngest County Treasurer in Arizona history, she has transformed Coconino County’s treasury operations with a focus on transparency, innovation and efficiency. Her leadership has earned her national accolades, including the 2023 National Government Controller of the Year by the Controllers Council.
Benatar’s professional background includes work with the United Way of Northern Arizona, the National Park Service, NASA and DNA People’s Legal Services. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, legal coursework from the University of Oregon and a certificate in public finance from the University of Missouri. She is the only Treasurer in Arizona to hold the Certified Government Investment Professional certification.
Her leadership has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Arizona Capitol Times Rising Star Award, IRS Community Service Leadership Award and Young Athena Award. She is also a fellow of the American Council of Young Political Leaders.