About

The Town of Star Valley was incorporated in 2005, making it one of Arizona’s newest municipalities. Located in northern Gila County, the Town includes approximately 36 square miles within its incorporated boundaries, with a broader planning area of about 100 square miles.

Star Valley sits at an elevation of approximately 5,150 feet and is nearly surrounded by the Tonto National Forest. It is located south of the Mogollon Rim and just east of the Town of Payson.

 

Historical Background:

 

The earliest inhabitants of the region are believed to have arrived over 10,000 years ago. The Mogollon culture settled in the area around 300 B.C., followed by the Ancestral Puebloans (Anasazi) and the Hohokam. Between 600 and 1200 A.D., approximately 1,000 habitation sites existed in the Star Valley area.

 

Over time, the Mogollon culture merged with other regional groups. Later, the Apache people became the dominant inhabitants, maintaining a more nomadic lifestyle focused on hunting rather than agriculture. The Tonto Apache Tribe continues to maintain a reservation near Star Valley today.

 

European-American settlement began in the late 1800s. By 1878, mining and ranching had brought additional settlers to the region. The area played a role in early military activity, including the Battle of Big Dry Wash in 1882.

 

 

Town Council
Bobby Davis

Bobby Davis

Mayor

Bobby Davis, AZED Pro, serves as the Economic Development Specialist for the Town of Payson…
Andy McKinney

Andy McKinney

Vice-Mayor

Andy McKinney came to Rim Country almost exactly at the time when Star Valley became an official town in Arizona…
Ray Armington

Ray Armington

Council Member

I am a long-term resident of Star Valley, having resided her both pre-incorporation and post. I am familiar with some of …
George Binney

George Binney

Council Member

Originally from California, George Binney grew up in Chula Vista, relocating in 1993 with wife, Brenda and two sons, Matthew and Ian to Star Valley….
Belle McDaniel

Belle McDaniel

Council Member

Belle McDaniel is a lifelong resident of Star Valley and Payson.  She grew up in Star Valley and graduated from Payson High…

Dennis Dueker

Dennis Dueker

Council Member

Dennis Dueker was born and raised in California. He moved to Mesa, Arizona in 1972 and graduated from Westwood High…
Matt Highstreet

Matt Highstreet

Council Member

Matt Highstreet was born in Arizona and has lived in Star Valley for 34 years. He graduated from Payson High School and obtained an associate degree focusing on….
TOWN STAFF
Timothy Grier

Timothy Grier

Town Manager/Attorney

The Town Manager/Attorney works closely with the Town Council to define and accomplish strategic goals and objectives. Meets with and advises the Town Council Members on matters relating to Town operations and policies including legal matters. Presents the Town’s operating budget to the Town Council for approval. Meets with members of the public on matters of relevance to the Town and promotes and establishes inter-governmental relations with other towns and cities, public and private organizations. Communicates orally and in writing with citizens, the press, Commissions and Town Council Members to solve problems, answer questions and provide accurate information. Prepares, directs and reviews the preparation of legal opinions, drafts ordinances, resolutions, contracts, deeds, leases and other legal documents. Responsible for the overall direction and coordination of staff.

Tina Ridings

Tina Ridings

Finance Department

Hello, my name is Tina Ridings, and I am the Finance Administrator for the Town of Star Valley. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting and have extensive experience in both the private and municipal sectors. I have worked as a CFO for a manufacturing company and operated as a Comptroller for a Golf Course. Later in my career, I gained experience as a Budget Analyst in the municipal sector.

I love the beauty and serenity of the Rim Country, and I enjoy spending time outdoors. Hiking, camping, and fishing are some of my favorite activities. As the Finance Administrator for Star Valley, I am committed to serving our citizens and meeting the challenges that come with the job.

The Finance Department is responsible for providing financial services and information to the public, auditors, the Town Council, and the Town Manager.

The Finance Administrator is accountable for accounting, procurement, payroll, utility billing, customer service activities, debt management, banking services, and investment management. Additionally, the Finance Administrator prepares and monitors the annual budget, conducts research, and administers the annual town budget and capital improvement program.

Committees

See our current committees and what they are working on.