County Board of Supervisors Chair Prioritizes Service to Constituents

Longtime public servant Mary Mallory, currently chair of the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors (BOS), credits her childhood experience for inspiring her to focus on serving others in whatever way she could.

Mallory did not have a typical childhood. Her father was in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a Philippine Theater war prisoner at the notorious Bataan Death Camp March when the war ended in 1945. He was released and returned to California. He never regained his health and was older than most dads when Mary was born in 1959 in Long Beach, California. At age 11, Mary had to take care of her mother, who had major health issues.

“They told me at school that I might be able to get some help from our Congressman. I didn’t know any better, so I caught public transport to his local office, went in and asked to see him. He graciously let me in, heard about our plight,” she said. “He initiated help through the Veteran’s Administration for assistance to me and my mom.”

Mallory says the positive impact of that one childhood experience – being helped by an elected official – remains with her no matter what jobs or volunteer organizations she commits to.

In an exclusive interview with Quad Cities Business News in late January, Mallory shared her long-held beliefs about what she thought the role of an elected official should be. She also shared her vision for the county’s and its community’s near future.

“It’s my heartfelt belief that if people in your community elect you to a position, it is your absolute responsibly to represent them honestly, fairly and sincerely. I think one of the highest honors a person can have is to be an elected representative. Voters put their trust in you. You should not defile it,” she said. “Any time you have any position of senior leadership, you should feel obligated to do all within your authority to be honest and transparent in working for what will benefit the greater good.”

Mallory says she felt that way when she was earning her business administration degree at Long Beach City College. “I continued feeling that way when I was a store manager for major supermarkets before I ever considered serving in public office. I certainly believed that when I was named to the Prescott Valley Town Council in March of 2011.”

Mallory served in a PV council member’s role until July 2019, when she was appointed to the BOS. District 5 voters then elected her to the same position in 2020. She was named board chair Jan. 1, 2022. Fellow BOS James Gregory from District 2 was named vice-chair.

Mallory Optimistic about Economic Future

Despite some grim consequences created because of impacts of the pandemic and its social and economic effects, Mallory is optimistic and enthusiastic about the fiscal future of Yavapai County.

“Given the increased growth in our county as evidenced by the census – from 211,033 in 2010 to 236,209 in 2020 – we’ve got to face up to some key issues. People are moving here from all over the world. With almost 12% growth, we simply must make solving water issues a major priority. We need to address the aging wastewater treatment systems and other out-of-date water facilities. We’ve now got some ARPA [American Rescue Plan Act] funds available to help with that,” she said. “Same is true with placing broadband throughout the county. Our rural residents need access to broadband to survive in today’s technological environment. ARPA can help with that, too.”

The BOS and county staff members will be setting specific priorities in upcoming meetings as they plan the budget for the next fiscal year.

“I want it made clear that in establishing a ‘Comprehensive Plan,’ we want citizen input. That plan will be our roadmap. It is required, and we want it to reflect where and how we should grow and what we should protect.”

Mallory cited eight elements that will be included in the plan: Land Use, Growth Areas, Transportation, Water Resources, Energy, Open Space, Environmental, and Cost of Development. She urges people to visit the Yavapai County Comprehensive Planning website at www.planningyavapai2032.org to complete online surveys to let their voices be heard.

Dumbest Thing I’ve Ever Done

When my husband, Kirk, and I moved from Southern California to Prescott Valley, we didn’t think we would need a house. We bought a fifth wheeler. Did anyone ever tell you how cold it gets in Prescott Valley during the winter?

Favorite Activity

We love hiking, biking and outdoor activities. We also enjoy travel in the U.S. and hope to see a lot more of this great country.

Last Time I Felt Proud

I am honored and humbled to be credited with initiating what is now called the “Healing Fields” in Prescott Valley, which honors those who lost their lives in the terrorist attack of 9/11. We Americans can never forget that horrifying day.

Who I Admire

With no hesitation, [I have to say] the late Harvey Skoog, former longtime Prescott Valley mayor. He was the kindest mentor to me when I was elected to town council and I’ll always remember him.

Advice for Newcomers

Don’t just sit back. Become aware of and participate actively in community issues. Become a part of the solution, not the problem. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN