Prescott Valley Mayor Kell Palguta posted on Facebook to rebut claims of explosive population growth in the town, sharing data showing steady increases and pairing it with an image of an elderly person in a tinfoil hat looking at the Nextdoor app.
The graphic appears to mock what Palguta calls conspiracy theories from residents suggesting annual growth of 10% or more. He countered with figures showing an average 2% annual increase since 2017, or about 1,200 new residents per year—describing it as manageable growth that reflects the area’s appeal to families, retirees and businesses.
U.S. Census estimates support the mayor’s numbers: the population rose from about 44,500 in 2017 to roughly 46,785 in 2020, then to around 51,440 by mid-2024.
Palguta, a 30-year resident who raised his family in Prescott Valley, emphasized community pride and urged fact-based, positive dialogue over negativity. He promised to continue sharing accurate information for honest conversations.