About Taber
Family and Life in the White Mountains
Taber Heisler is a husband, father, grandfather, public safety leader, small business owner, and current Town Council Member who has built his life in the White Mountains.
For Taber, Pinetop-Lakeside is not just a place he serves, it is home. It is where his family lives, where his children have grown up, and where the next generation is now being raised. That perspective shapes how he approaches every decision, with a focus on long-term stability, responsible leadership, and protecting what makes this community special.
Family is at the center of everything Taber does.
He and his wife Amber are the parents of seven children and grandparents to two young boys. Their family reflects a deep commitment to service, with children working in healthcare, public safety, and the military.
They live across the street from Amber’s parents, a daily reminder of the importance of family, connection, and staying rooted in the community across generations.
Like many families in Pinetop-Lakeside, they understand both the opportunities and the challenges of building a life here, and that perspective continues to guide Taber’s work in public service.
A Career Built on Service and Leadership
Taber serves as the Assistant Chief of Operations for Timber Mesa Fire and Medical District, where he is responsible for managing operations, supporting personnel, and ensuring the delivery of critical public safety services.
His career in emergency services spans decades and includes advanced education in Fire Science, Paramedicine, Public Safety, and Leadership, along with multiple professional designations through the Center for Public Safety Excellence and the National Fire Academy.
Throughout his career, Taber has been part of efforts that have had lasting impacts on the region, including work to secure long-term ambulance service for the White Mountains.
In addition to his public safety career, Taber and his wife Amber own and operate Rim Outdoor Solutions, giving him firsthand experience with the challenges and realities local business owners face.
Experience in Local Government
As a member of the Town Council, Taber has worked directly on the issues facing Pinetop-Lakeside, from budgeting and infrastructure to community engagement and long-term planning.
He has built a reputation for being accessible, engaged, and willing to have honest conversations about the challenges the Town faces. His approach to leadership is grounded in transparency, accountability, and making decisions based on what is best for the community over the long term.
Taber believes leadership is not limited to council meetings. It requires being present in the community, listening to residents where they are, and working together to find practical solutions.
Deep Roots in the Community
Taber’s connection to this community extends well beyond his professional roles. Over the years, he has been actively involved in local events, volunteer efforts, and organizations that support families, youth, and public safety.
From creating the annual community event Christmas on Evergreen, to supporting charitable efforts such as Christmas for Kids, Make-A-Wish projects, and Muscular Dystrophy Association fundraisers, Taber has consistently invested his time in strengthening the community.
His past service also includes roles in regional planning, nonprofit leadership, and advocacy for firefighters across the White Mountains.
Why He’s Running
Taber is running for Mayor because he believes in the future of Pinetop-Lakeside and the responsibility to help shape it thoughtfully.
He understands the pressures residents face because he lives them, balancing public service, a small business, and raising a family. He also understands the importance of getting decisions right, not just for today, but for the long-term future of the Town.
His focus is simple:
Strengthening financial stability
Supporting core services
Planning responsibly for the future
Ensuring residents feel heard and included
Taber believes Pinetop-Lakeside does not need to become something different. It needs to become stronger, more stable, and more intentional about where it is headed.
A Commitment to the Community
Taber’s commitment is straightforward.
He will show up.
He will listen.
He will do the work.
And he will make decisions based on what is right for the long-term future of the Town.