Supervisor James Gregory Steps Down: A Surprising Political Shift

James Gregory, the Yavapai County District 2 Supervisor and Board Chairman, announced his resignation on Facebook on January 29, following his acceptance of the chief of police position in Williams.

In his statement, Gregory expressed enthusiasm for returning to law enforcement, a field he has a deep connection with. “I have a history of being in law enforcement, and I enjoyed serving the community in that capacity,” he remarked. He noted plans to retire in the Williams area, where family resides, which influenced his decision to apply for the position that opened unexpectedly.

The salary range for the Williams chief of police position is between $103,272 and $131,810. Gregory interviewed for the role in December and intends to officially resign from the board on February 4.

According to state law, his replacement must also be a Republican. The current board will appoint someone to serve until the next general election in 2026, with the seat up for election again in 2028.

Before his tenure as a supervisor, Gregory had a notable career in law enforcement, having spent 25 years with the Prescott Valley Police Department, where he retired in November 2020. His extensive duties included managing patrol, K-9 and SWAT operations, and overseeing criminal investigations.

Tad Wygal, the outgoing police chief, will assist Gregory as he transitions into his new role. Wygal has served the Williams community for 28 years, including as police chief since 2021, and has also contributed as the head coach of the local high school football team.

Williams City Manager Tim Pettit expressed confidence in Gregory, stating that his extensive background in law enforcement will greatly benefit the Williams Police Department. This decision came after a comprehensive hiring process involving interviews with city council members and community leaders.

In his political career, Gregory won the 2020 Republican primary with 31% of the vote and ran unopposed in the general election, taking office in 2021. He was reelected in 2024, again besting Wiley Cline in the primary.

Gregory emphasized his hopes for his successor to continue key initiatives, such as the expansion of Windmill Park and supporting broadband construction in District 2. The park project is currently undergoing a National Environmental Policy Act planning process, which does not have a defined completion date. District Ranger Alex Schlueter praised Gregory’s commitment to the project and his professional collaboration with the Forest Service.

District 3 Supervisor Nikki Check expressed disappointment at Gregory’s departure, highlighting his effective leadership. Gregory shared that he would miss working with county staff the most, while he will not miss the lengthy commutes to Prescott.

Finally, Yavapai County Public Information Officer David McAtee outlined the process for appointing Gregory’s successor, indicating that a press release will invite interested candidates to submit their letters of interest. Public interviews will then be conducted before a new appointment is made. Cline has confirmed his intention to seek the appointment.