Board of Supervisors

The Apache County Board of Supervisors (BOS) serves as the governing body for the county. Each elected member represents one of the three supervisorial districts, which are divided geographically and by population.

Our Vision

We envision a future where residents are healthy and successful and where our communities are safe and vibrant. We will strive to meet and exceed expectations by engaging people and communities in developing innovative solutions to challenges. We will be a diverse learning organization. We will partner with others to enhance the quality of life in Apache County and the region.

Our Mission

Our mission is to serve our citizens through efficient allocation of resources and services, develop cooperative working relationships with communities and governments, and encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the diverse cultural heritage and abundant outdoor activities the county has to offer.

Meet Our Board

Our Board of Supervisors consists of three individuals elected to a four-year term to represent the district in which they reside. The board members elect a chairman at the first meeting of each year.

Alton Joe Shepherd
Board Chairman - District II
District II
Biography

About Alton Joe Shepherd

Yá’át’ééh, I am Alton Joe Shepherd from Steamboat Canyon, Arizona, and currently reside in Ganado, Arizona. I am a family man first and foremost and am happily married to Wendy D. Shepherd from Dilkon, Arizona. We have four beautiful daughters that keep us on our toes with school and youth activities year-round. I am of the Water Edge People clan, born for Honey Comb People. My maternal grandparents are the Coyote Passing People, and my paternal grandparents are the Many Goats People. I have a professional background in Law Enforcement and have been in public services for eight years as a Ganado Fire Board member and as a member of the 22nd and 23rd Navajo Nation Council. 

We are excited to serve District II and look forward to much success. We appreciate your patience in times of need. Thank you in advance for sharing your thoughts and requests with my staff as we strive for excellence in customer service. May the Holy Ones continue to bring many more blessings to us all.

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Nelson Davis
Board Vice Chairman - Supervisor - District III
P: (928) 337-7608
District III
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Biography

About Nelson Davis

Nelson Davis is a fifth-generation resident of Apache County. He was born the second eldest of six brothers to parents, Calvin and Robbie Davis. Nelson spent his early years involved in farming and ranching alongside his brothers, parents, and grandparents. After high school, he became interested in business. Over a span of 35 years, Nelson built, owned, and operated several successful businesses in the Saint Johns area. His wife, Tammy, has been by his side for 41 years. They have two sons, two grandsons, and one granddaughter all residing in Texas. 

Nelson works as the transportation, maintenance, and sports fields director for the Saint Johns High School. He believes his business management, finance, and construction background as well as his knowledge and dedication to Apache County and its residents have qualified him to assume the role of Apache County’s District III Supervisor. He looks forward to working with the board and staff and is welcomed in his new role.

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Dr. Joe Shirley, Jr.
Supervisor - District I
P: (928) 674-5664
District I
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Biography

About Dr. Joe Shirley, Jr.

The Honorable Dr. Joe Shirley, Jr. is presently serving his sixth, four-year term. His inspirational journey includes distinguished leadership and experiences with the Chinle Agency Division of Social Services, Chinle Chapter Council Delegate, Apache County District I Board of Supervisor, and a former Navajo Nation president. In this age of cultural change, economic adversity, and technological innovations, Dr. Shirley has stood as a staunch advocate and protector of our future generations. He is passionate about ensuring quality educational opportunities and safe transportation of students to and from school and has initiated many partnerships and collaborations to improve our resources. Dr. Shirley is married to Vikki Shirley of Lukachukai, Arizona, and they have six children. He enjoys reading books, jogging, country-western dancing with his wife, and playing basketball with his children. Education: Chinle High School, 1966; Associate of Arts, 1968 - Magic Valley Christian College in Idaho; BS in Business, 1973 - Abilene Christian University in Texas; Master of Social Work (MSW) - Arizona State University. Awards & Recognition: Dr. Shirley was awarded Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Northern Arizona University in 2005 in recognition of 37 years of meritorious public service to the Navajo people.

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County Manager & Clerk of the Board

The county manager and clerk of the board work closely with the Board of Supervisors in a variety of capacities. 

County Manager 

The county manager oversees the daily business of the county, including working with department heads and elected officials to implement board mandates and to ensure the county functions according to those mandates, and representing Apache County at statewide and national meetings. 

Clerk of the Board Duties 

Appointed by the Board of Supervisors, the clerk prepares meeting agendas and takes minutes for preservation in the permanent record of the county. Additionally, the clerk performs various statutory assignments related to board actions and duties. 

Contact Information

PO Box 428
St. Johns, AZ 85936 

P: (928) 337-7503
F: (928) 337-2003