Jose Maldonado: Councilmember
Jose L. Maldonado, known as “Mo,” was elected to the Florence Town Council on August 2, 2022, during the Primary Election and began his term on December 5, 2022. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Jose has built a life rooted in service, leadership, and community involvement. After moving to Puerto Rico in 1989, Jose graduated from Vocational High School as an electrical mechanic in 1992, followed by additional studies in Tourism & Airlines, completing his program within 16 months.
In 1994, Jose enlisted in the United States Air Force (USAF), where he trained and served as a Civil Engineer Structural Apprentice. His service took him across the globe to places like Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait. Jose was stationed at several bases, including Pope AFB in North Carolina, Spangdahlem in Germany, and Edwards AFB in California. After a distinguished career, Jose retired as a Structural Craftsman from Shaw AFB, South Carolina, in 2014.
After his retirement, Jose moved with his family to Florence, Arizona, in the spring of 2016, seeking a better quality of life. Today, he works as a Maintenance Technician for the Gila River Indian Community. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Jose has served as Commander of the American Legion Post 9 and District Commander for District 4. He is currently a National Legislative Councilman assigned to Congressman Grijalva (District 7), continuing his dedication to public service at multiple levels.
Jose is also active in several local organizations, including the Florence/Coolidge Elks Lodge, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Coolidge as a Trustee, the Combat Vets Motorcycle Association Casa Grande as Chaplain, and the American Legion Riders as District 4 Representative. His dedication to community service earned him the title of "Volunteer of the Year" from the Florence Chamber of Commerce in 2021. As a Town Councilmember, Jose has served as a Town Liaison to the Board of Appeals, Pinal County Water Alliance Association, and the Chamber of Commerce.
Family has always been at the core of Jose’s life. He is a father of five—four children from a previous marriage and one with his wife of nine years, Susan, whom he met during his time stationed at Shaw AFB. Together, Jose and Susan moved to Florence in 2016, seeking a better quality of life for their family.
In his “free” time, Jose is an active member of multiple veteran and community organizations. Whether volunteering with the Elks Lodge, serving as a trustee for the VFW, or participating in the American Legion Riders, Jose is always eager to give back. His contributions to the community have been recognized, notably with the "Volunteer of the Year" award from the Florence Chamber of Commerce in 2021.
When he’s not working or volunteering, Jose enjoys spending time with his family and engaging in activities that allow him to stay connected to his veteran roots and the Florence community.
Councilmember Jose Maldonado is the Town Liaison for the following:
Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce
Board of Appeals