Successful people in Verde Valley come from all walks of life, but they all have one trait in common. In our new series, LEADERS & ENTREPRENEURS, we talk to people who have come to the fore about what attributes can help them in their field. Today we speak with Cottonwood Mayor Tim Eliniski.

Q. What inspired you to join the Cottonwood community?

A. I fell in love with Cottonwood. Really simple. When a vacancy arose on the Planning and Zoning Board, I applied and the council appointed me. That was 17 years ago! Since then my love for the community has grown and it has been the ultimate honor to serve with so many wonderful colleagues over the years.

Q. Please tell us your philosophy as a leader.

A. I believe that everyone is a leader at some point in their lives and that everyone has the ability to lead in ways that influence them. Sometimes it’s about leading a city through economic hardships.

Q. What’s the best advice you’ve received on how to be a leader?

A. I definitely had to find my own leadership style. I learned a lot from them because I got to serve with his two other Cottonwood mayors and his three mayors. As a Flynn-Brown Fellow, I have followed the political lines of many of my colleagues across the state. Seeing how my friends navigate difficult policy-making points in their communities has given me a lot of insight.

Q. What do you like most about Cottonwood?

A. There are many things I love about Cottonwood. We are located in one of the greenest places in the state, surrounded by mountains and flowing rivers connecting our unique communities. We are diverse in nature, made up of generations of hardworking families and local business owners. Caring and united, this community really pulls together when needed. This is a testament to our character and small town culture.

Q. What do you listen to on the radio while driving around town?

A. A cassette of The Clash’s 1978 debut album Before Radio gave up.

Q. Who has had the biggest impact on your life?

A. My entrepreneurial spirit, love of travel, and stubbornness were bestowed on me by my mother. My father gave me patience, a dry sense of humor, and more stubbornness.

Q. How do you balance your family life, work life, and your role as mayor?

A. Teamwork. At home, I am blessed with my best partner in the world, Ruth Ellen, and her two very talented, intelligent and patient girls. Our days are busy and chaotic, but we always make time for family meals and sometimes take a little break on the weekends to recharge our batteries. Hmm, but not too shabby. Being mayor puts a lot of demands on my time. [yet] I have an excellent council to rely on.

Q. Do you have a mentor about the history and activities of Cottonwood?

A. Local historians who shared their memories of the Verde Valley helped us gain perspective on where we were generations ago, how far we’ve come, and how much work lies ahead. increase.

Q. What is your favorite food?

A. Cooked over a campfire in the middle of a national forest. If that’s not an option, try the Verderea torta!

Q. What is your favorite movie?

Grow A. Arizona.

Q. What is your favorite sports team?

A. Let’s go back to the work/life balance issue… sports didn’t work!

Sebastian DiGiovanni is an author and freelance writer living in Cottonwood.