Paradise Valley Town Hall offers Jan. 10 event for potential candidates
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Are you interested in running for Paradise Valley Town Council?
A Paradise Valley Town Council candidate orientation is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 10, in the boardroom of Town Hall, 6401 E. Lincoln Drive.
The event is designed to answer questions about running for office, according to Paradise Valley Town Manager Andrew Ching.
In Mr. Ching’s weekly update available HERE, he points out candidate information packets, including all the forms and instructions necessary to run for office will be available Jan. 10. The deadline to collect signatures and file as an official candidate is April 8, 2024.
The election will be held on Aug. 6, 2024, and newly elected members of Town Council will take office on Jan. 9, 2025.
It is no secret the Town of Paradise Valley features accomplished residents who routinely volunteer their time to the community — whether it is in the form of a civic, religious, or charitable organization. Mr. Ching explains many appointed members of the town’s committees, commissions, boards — and the all-volunteer Municipal Court — town residents share a unique sense of community pride.
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.
A primer for those with an eye to run for Paradise Valley Town Council
Municipal 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 Town Council. Additionally, the mayor fulfills ceremonial duties and represents the municipality on regional committees and organizations.
This governing structure is patterned after the private business or corporate structure whereas policymaking and administrative operations are separated. This structure simplifies government and reduces direct political involvement in administration.
Paradise Valley Town Council is composed of six members who are elected to serve four-year staggered terms. The mayor is elected to a two-year term. At the first meeting in January, the Town Council selects a vice mayor from among its members to serve a one-year term. The mayor and council serve on a voluntary basis accepting no compensation for their service.
Paradise Valley Town 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.
