Queen Creek Mayor Julia Wheatley has announced she is taking a leave of absence to focus on her family.

“One of the qualities that makes Queen Creek so special is our community’s shared commitment to being family-friendly,” Wheatley stated in a town press release. “That same value has motivated me to take an unusual but meaningful step for my own family. My children have never known a time when I have not served in elected office, and taking this opportunity will allow me to give them the dedicated time they deserve.”

Wheatley said she will return to her duties in late fall.

“I will not be accepting my mayoral stipend during this time. I am grateful for the council’s support and willingness to assist with meetings and responsibilities, and with the dedication of our town staff, I have every confidence that Queen Creek will continue to be well served in my absence,” she stated.

"I am in total support of this plan for Mayor Wheatley and her family! 'Family First' isn't just a slogan or cool catch phrase ... It's an important and healthy underpinning of our community," Council Member Jeff Brown said. "It will be my pleasure to assist in any of the meetings, events or issues that she would otherwise have attended/addressed over this short hiatus."

Wheatley has served on the Queen Creek Town Council since 2010 and as mayor since 2023.

“It has been an honor to serve this community for the past 15 years, and I look forward to returning to continue that service,” she stated. “I am sincerely grateful for the understanding and support of this community that I love."