Candidate: Jerry “Geronimo” Martin, Camp Verde resident of seven years
Age: 77
Current or past profession: “Currently retired; public speaker. I’ve been a successful truck driver, a fiber optic engineer and an entrepreneur who built and ran HarePin Communications, a U.S. government contractor buyer, and a licensed real estate agent.”
Q: Why are you qualified to serve on council?
A: “My background is as diverse as the challenges Camp Verde faces. Serving as a Marine Corps medic in Vietnam with the ‘Walking Dead’ [1st Battalion, 9th Marines] instilled in me the values of discipline, service and resilience. My Bronze Star medal is a testament to my commitment to protecting others. As a U.S. government contractor buyer, I learned to navigate complex systems. As a licensed real estate agent, I understand the importance of responsible growth and development. For the past five years, I’ve volunteered at Fort Verde State Historic Park, sharing history with young minds and visitors. I’m actively involved in veteran organizations like the VFW, American Legion, Marine Corps League and Vietnam Veterans of America, ensuring the voices of those who served are heard. As a member of the worship team at Parkside Community Church, I understand the importance of faith and unity. My community involvement extends to being the neighborhood watch captain for our emergency preparedness team and working to recognize Native American participation in American wars, a testament to inclusivity. My experience, dedication and unwavering commitment to ethical leadership make me the ideal candidate to represent Camp Verde. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive community.”
Q: How would you help advise the completion of the Camp Verde Sports Complex?
A: “Thus far, the Sports Complex has not been well received overall. The expense outweighs the benefits. It was not thought out completely. There is no accessibility for the disabled. There is no fair bidding for food truck services. There has to be better oversight on the expenditures.
“One thing I would like to see would be an official moto-cross racetrack for locals as well as outsiders that could be televised. Major televised events could bring in a lot of money. When not used for official events, it should be opened to residents at no charge. This would alleviate the problems of the individual tracks being put in residential neighborhoods.”
Q: How do you plan to balance growth while maintaining Camp Verde’s rural and Western lifestyle?
A: “Camp Verde is recognized for its blend of history, culture, nature and adventure. It is famous for ancient petroglyphs, the historic Fort Verde and Montezuma Castle. Camp Verde residents enjoy the Verde River, the lush vineyards, farmlands and rural living. It is also renowned for Out of Africa Wildlife Park. Although the Western lifestyle is a small integral part of the community, it does not define Camp Verde as a whole. There is room for many lifestyles within the town borders. My priorities are clear: Responsible growth, enforced codes and a fair system that benefits everyone, not just one cultural group.
“The current zoning practices lack transparency and favoritism needs to be eradicated. We must uphold the town plan’s separation of residential, commercial and industrial areas. Establishing a magistrate will address code violations effectively. The Yavapai-Apache Nation is a vital part of our community, and their voices deserve representation at the table. Similarly, the needs of disabled residents must be prioritized through accessible infrastructure.”
Q: What is your vision for economic development in Camp Verde?
A: “I would like to see controlled growth and development of restaurants or independent cafes intermingled with an additional grocery store. I am in favor of light manufacturing and non-polluting businesses that would provide local jobs.”
Q: What kind of direction would you give to the incoming town manager?
A: “Transparency and clear communication are cornerstones of effective leadership. The town manager must actively listen to residents’ concerns and provide timely responses.”
Camp Verde Town Council Election
Mayoral candidates (one four-year seat):
- Charles German, challenger
- Dee Jenkins, incumbent
Council candidates (three four-year seats)
- Terry Andrews, challenger
- Jackie Baker, incumbent
- Brian Bolton, challenger
- Kai Buchanan, challenger
- Robert Foreman, challenger
- Dan Inman, challenger
- Jerry “Geronimo” Martin, challenger
- Jessie Murdock, incumbent
- Thomas “T.C.” Noble, challenger
- Patricia Seybold, challenger
