Snowflake Town Manager Paul been named to the newly created post of assistant county manager with emphasis on economic development for Navajo County.
Watson has been town manager for seven years, leading the town through the economic downturn that caused loss of jobs and businesses in the community, and working to bring economic development to Snowflake.
When the paper mill closed, Watson saw the importance of keeping the railroad and was able to purchase it.
“It is truly with mixed emotions that I announce my resignation from the Town of Snowflake. It has been a pleasure to serve as town manager for the past seven-plus years, and I appreciate the support I have received as we have worked together to become more efficient during these very difficult economic times,” said Watson as he announced his resignation at the April 9 REAL AZ meeting.
“I also appreciate the cooperative efforts that have been made between Snowflake and Taylor to improve the services to all our citizens in this area, and I know that continuing these cooperative efforts will assist in strengthening our local economy, as well,” said Watson.
The economy has been and continues to be a top priority for Watson, and to continue with his efforts he will join the Navajo County staff on May 4 to lead the economic development efforts for the region.
Watson’s career began in Springerville. He went on to work for the towns of Eagar and Pinetop-Lakeside as town manager. He then worked at Cellular One and was a Realtor with Realty Executives.
Over the years he has been involved with the Northern Arizona Council of Governments (NACOG), which gave him a unique perspective to some of the economic challenges in the area.
“This is an area that I have developed a great passion for, as I have witnessed the loss of jobs and the negative impacts that these lost opportunities have created for the individuals, families and communities,” said Watson.
“The future looks brighter, and I believe that by helping to coordinate efforts within the region, we can bring jobs back and add new jobs that will enhance the quality of life that we all enjoy.”
Watson compared our economy to a child, paraphrasing the old African saying, “It takes a village to raise that child.”
“Everyone who is in a position to influence that economy has to be focused on how we position ourselves to be competitive in a global marketplace. Everyone needs to recognize that we are all impacted by that economy, as well. Whether it is education, public services, healthcare, or other goods and services, all are affected by the strength of the economy. It is important to recognize what are the assets and strengths that we have to offer that can set us apart,” he said.
“Paul Watson is the ideal person to help facilitate the regional economic development partnership. I have known Paul since the early 1990s, and know him to be a person with great character, integrity, respect in our area and an absolute heart for economic development and the future of our region,” said Navajo County Manager James Jayne.
One of the big projects Watson has been working on is the Apache Railway, which is now making a profit with current operations doing maintenance on rail cars.
Watson and District IV County Supervisor Jason Whiting were working on a loan the previous day. Whiting said, “It’s a fluid situation,” noting that ultimately there is long term financing at the table. “We feel like there’s some good solution.
“There are 150 jobs tied to the railroad right now. We want to do everything we can to protect that.”
Several companies have expressed interest in purchasing the mill site, and the railway has been a positive factor in the discussions.
Paul Watson
