The Town of Apple Valley was incorporated in 1988 as a general law city. Wishing to retain the hometown feeling embedded in the rural roots of the community, the incorporation drive chose “town” over “city” (although both terms mean the same thing under California law). Apple Valley celebrated 30 years as a town in 2018, and its five-member town council is proud of the accomplishments achieved in that short time and continues to base their decisions on whether the outcome contributes to A Better Way of Life for residents, businesses and visitors.
The town hall at the Apple Valley Civic Center, 14955 Dale Evans Pkwy., opened in 2002. The 25,000-square-foot building houses most town departments, as well as a recreation center and the council chambers. The Civic Center is also home to the Newton T. Bass San Bernardino County branch library and a 13,000-square-foot building that houses the Police Department and Code Enforcement Department.
Immediately adjacent is the 22-acre fully landscaped Civic Center Park, which includes an amphitheater, aquatic center, separate playgrounds for small children and larger kids, a walking trail and two dog parks. The town also operates 15 neighborhood parks and special-use facilities, such as the James A. Woody Community Center, Michael H. Martin Gym, and Horsemen’s Center. For more information, visit www.applevalley.org.