Queen Creek mayor resumes duties after going on leave over summer

PHOENIX — Queen Creek Mayor Julia Wheatley has resumed her mayoral duties after taking a leave of absence.

Wheatley returned to her role on Monday after she announced she was taking a leave of absence to focus on family on Aug. 25. In the interim, Queen Creek Vice Mayor Leah Martineau temporarily took over to serve in Wheatley’s role.

Wheatley has worked as a council member since 2010 and as mayor since 2023.

“I am so incredibly appreciative of the support I received from the community and my fellow council members to take a leave of absence to focus on family,” Wheatley said in a statement.

Wheatley said she’s used the past few months to connect with her children on a deeper level, adding that they’ve known her as a public servant for their entire lives.

“The Council stepped up to cover my meetings, speaking events and other various responsibilities, most notably Vice Mayor Martineau,” she added. “She led the Council meetings and fulfilled many of my mayoral duties with dedication and genuine care for our community.”

Wheatley expressed deep gratitude in Martineau, who she said has her confidence and trust.

“I’m truly grateful to the vice mayor, the Council and this incredible community,” Wheatley said. “I am so excited to be back and to continue my service to this amazing community that I have called home for the past 18 years.”

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