Toby Payne
District 3
Alton “Toby” Payne, a second-generation Arizona native, has deep roots in the state. Raised in Phoenix, Toby spent 25 years in Cave Creek/Carefree and now resides in Clarkdale, embracing the vibrant quality of life in Arizona’s rural communities. His family’s legacy traces back to the First Families of Arizona, underscoring a profound connection to the state’s history.
Professional Experience
Toby’s career spans decades as a business owner, post-secondary educator, community leader, and advocate for the nonprofit sector. With expertise in technology and construction, he excels in consensus-building and creating opportunities for individuals to enhance their skills, improve quality of life, and contribute to their communities.
- Entrepreneurship in the AV Industry:
- Founded Stage Sound of Arizona while attending Phoenix College.
- Provided sound and lighting for renowned performers such as Andy Williams, Sammy Davis Jr., Waylon Jennings, and Luther Vandross.
- Grew Stage Sound into a major international company, servicing Fortune 500 clients like CBS, Microsoft, Estee Lauder, Polygram, and General Motors.
- Designed sound systems for events including the Papal Visit at ASU Stadium, the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and the World’s Fair in New Orleans.
- Developed and toured the LamaVision Instant Replay system for PRCA rodeos.
- Sold and retired from the business in 1995.
- Educational Contributions:
- Taught at the ICIA Institute for Professional Development (1985–1995) and was honored as Instructor Emeritus.
- Served on the ICIA Professional Education Training Committee, contributing to the establishment of the CTS certification.
- Delivered AV training nationwide to IATSE union members.
Leadership in Education and Community
- Governing Board Leadership:
- Served on the Governing Board of the Cave Creek Unified School District for four years, including two as president, gaining expertise in school finance and Arizona’s education funding systems.
- Community Service and Nonprofit Impact:
- Advisory Board Member, Arizona Town Hall.
- President, Kiwanis Club of Carefree, leading the establishment of the Kiwanis Marketplace, generating over $1 million annually for children and education.
- Partnered with Paradise Valley Community College to develop the Black Canyon Campus.
- Contributed to arts organizations like Arizona MusicFest and Desert Foothills Theater.
- Produced the Cave Creek Christmas Pageant (1992–2019), a cherished local tradition.
Contributions in the Verde Valley
Toby has a long history with live events in Sedona, including work with Sedona Jazz on the Rocks, the Sedona International Film Festival, and technical design for the Mary D. Fisher Theater and Barbara Antonsen Pavilion.
Since moving to Clarkdale in 2021, Toby has continued to make a significant impact:
- Volunteered for the Town of Clarkdale, supporting live events and the Summer Concert Series.
- Serves on the Growth Committee of the Clarkdale-Jerome School District.
- Active member of the Kiwanis Club of Clarkdale-Verde.
- Provided equipment and labor for Southwest Wine Center’s “Wine & Dine” events (2022–2024).
- Conducted site surveys and provided recommendations for the Mabery Pavilion.
Personal Life and Interests
Toby and his wife Deborah, married for 43 years, have three sons and two young granddaughters. He enjoys flying, boating, and traveling with family. A licensed multi-engine instrument-rated pilot, Toby is also Vice President of the Verde Valley Amateur Radio Association and a member of the Mingus Mountain Repeater Group.
Toby’s life and career are defined by his dedication to service, innovation, and community-building, making him an invaluable asset to the communities he serves.
District 3: Big Park, Bridgeport 1 and 2, Clarkdale, Clemenceau, Coffee Pot, Cottonwood, Fir, Jacks Canyon, Jerome 1 and 2, Mingus, Orchard, Quail Springs, Red Rock 1 and 2, Red Rock East, Red Rock West, Verde Village, Western, and Wild Horse
Term Expires: December 31, 2030