The Town of Paradise Valley will host a mayor and town council candidate orientation on at 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 11, in the Town Hall boardroom and on Zoom to answer questions about running for office.

According to the release, the town is fortunate to have skillful and accomplished residents who routinely volunteer their time to the community.  

Whether it is in the form of a civic, religious or charitable organization; one of the many appointed members of the town's committees, commissions and boards; or the all-volunteer municipal court, town residents share a unique sense of community pride.   

“Possibly the most meaningful and rewarding way to volunteer is to serve on the Town Council,” the release stated. 

The goal of the candidate orientation is to familiarize potential candidates with the campaign process, provide an overview of town government and operations, and describe the expectations and time commitments for mayor and council members.

The town government operates under a council-manager form of government in which the elected town council is responsible for making policy, adopting ordinances, authorizing appropriations and exercising general governmental oversight. 

The mayor is a voting member of the legislative body and acts as presiding officer of the council; and they also fulfill ceremonial duties and represents the town on regional committees and organizations. 

This governing structure is patterned after the private business or corporate structure in which policymaking and administrative operations are separated and also simplifies government and reduces direct political involvement in administration.

The council is composed of six members who are elected to serve four-year staggered terms, while the mayor is elected to a two-year term.  

At the first meeting in January, the council selects a vice mayor from its members to serve a one-year term.  The mayor and council serve on a voluntary basis accepting no compensation for their service.

Additionally, the council appoints the town manager who is responsible for administering government operations, appointing department heads, and implementing the policies adopted by the mayor and council. 

The mayor and council also appoint the town attorney, the municipal court judges, and all members of various town boards, committees, and commissions.

To run for office candidates must be at least 18 years of age, a registered voter in Paradise Valley at the time of filing their nomination paper, a resident in Paradise Valley for one year preceding the primary election date and able to speak, write and read the English language.

An election will be held on Aug. 2 to fill the office of mayor and three seats on the town council.  

The deadline to collect signatures and file as an official candidate is April 4 and the newly elected council members will take office on Jan. 12, 2023.

For more information or to request a candidate packet, contact Duncan Miller, town clerk, at 480-348-3610 or dmiller@paradisevalleyaz.gov.