Council Picks "Plan B" For Annexing Retail Rich Ina and Oracle

Council targets $1.6 million in new sales tax revenues from annexing three Oracle-Ina Centers

Annexation of retail-rich commercial areas is part of Oro Valley’s financial strategy. The three shopping centers at the intersection of Oracle and Ina roads are a prime target. Two of them already meet the state’s annexation requirement because they touch Oro Valley’s boundaries. Together, the three centers could generate about $1.6 million annually in sales tax revenue for the town with minimal added cost. How annexation of all three centers might occur was the focus of last week’s Oro Valley Town Council strategic planning study session.

But Center owners see no benefit in annexation

The town has approached the owners of the commercial properties, but there has been no interest in annexation. Several say they already receive acceptable service from Pima County. What they would prefer is a financial incentive, such as a rebate of sales tax revenue. State law, however, prohibits that approach. While the town can offer inducements to encourage annexation, those typically involve infrastructure improvements such as roads or other public facilities. Those types of incentives have little relevance for the existing shopping centers.

So, the town will turn to Plan B: Include nearby residential areas in the annexation

The town is moving to Plan B. Under this approach, nearby residential neighborhoods would be included with the commercial properties in a proposed annexation area. Arizona law requires annexation petitions to be signed by property owners representing more than 50 percent of both the owners and the assessed property value within the area. Including nearby homes could help meet those thresholds and allow the commercial centers to be annexed as part of the same action. 

The approach may have promise. Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett said residents living near one of the Ina and Oracle shopping centers have approached her asking why their neighborhoods have not already been annexed into Oro Valley.

Plan B does have its challenges

There are a number disadvantages to Plan B. 

• First, it requires convincing far more people to support annexation than a simple discussion with a single property owner. This would require a significant outreach effort by the town. It also opens the discussion for negotiations.
• Second, some residents, or perhaps outside groups, could organize to oppose the annexation.
• Third, the strategy is more complicated to structure because the annexation area must be carefully designed to meet state requirements for both property ownership and assessed value. 
• Fourth, including residential properties generally reduces the financial attractiveness of the proposal. Residential areas produce less revenue and increase the town’s service obligations, particularly for police, road maintenance, and administrative services. According to staff, adding residential support to annex the two areas south of Ina Road, for example, would add about $116,000 in annual costs while generating only about $40,000 in additional revenue. This is a net cost of roughly $76,000 per year.

Plan B could guide future annexations of Foothills and LaEncantada

Plan B could provide a roadmap for pursuing the annexation of the former Foothills Mall and LaEncantada

• The Foothills Mall area is not contiguous with Oro Valley’s current boundaries. Annexing it will require bringing in residential areas that together include roughly 2,500 residents.
• Annexing La Encantada will require residential participation, which may not be readily available. During the Westward Look annexation discussions several years ago, some residents in nearby neighborhoods expressed little interest in becoming part of Oro Valley.
• The cost of serving larger areas such as these could be significant. For example, the roads in those areas are currently maintained by Pima County, and the town would need a much clearer understanding of road conditions and long-term maintenance costs before moving forward.

For now, the safest direction for the town and the one most likely to produce results in the next several years are the Ina–Oracle annexations. That is where the council directed staff to focus their effort.

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Meet Council Hopeful Matt Wood

In the past few weeks, LOVE has presented information about five of the six individuals who plan to seek one of the three open Town Council seats in the upcoming primary election. Each is currently gathering the more than 500 signatures required by mid-March. Today, we feature the sixth hopeful, Matt Wood.

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Meet Matt Wood

Matt Wood grew up in the Portland, Oregon area and spent 43 years working for a national cement company, relocating several times during his career to locations including Kansas City and Colorado. He holds a business degree from Oregon State University and an MBA in marketing from Portland State University. Wood and his wife, Susan, chose Southern Arizona for retirement and purchased their first home in Oro Valley in 2014, moving here full time after he retired in 2019. The couple has one daughter and two grandchildren. Wood is also an avid golfer and regularly walks the course at the Oro Valley Country Club.

Became involved in the community in service to the Rancho Vistoso community
After retiring, Wood said he wanted to give back to the community where he lives. He began by volunteering on the Rancho Vistoso Community Association finance committee and later was elected to the HOA board. Since 2020 he has served on the board of the association, which represents about 6,200 homes, serving as treasurer, vice president, and most recently president. Wood was also appointed to the town’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board in 2020.

Involved in the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve effort
Wood lives near the former Vistoso golf course and became involved early in community discussions about its future. He attended meetings on proposals for the property and participated in community efforts that led to preservation of much of the land as the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. Wood also supported the effort financially and has volunteered in restoration activities at the site. He has also served on the town’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board during discussions on projects such as the Naranja Park expansion and the preserve acquisition. In his role on the Rancho Vistoso Community Association board, he led community discussions that resulted in the removal of aging neighborhood streetlights, saving residents significant costs.

Feels confident to help the town meet future financial challenges
Wood said he decided to run this year after learning that several incumbents would not seek reelection and believing the timing created an opportunity to serve. Drawing on his experience working with the Rancho Vistoso HOA and town advisory boards, he believes Oro Valley will face financial pressures as construction-related revenues decline and the community approaches buildout. In his view, the council will need to work with residents to determine which services and priorities the community values most as future financial decisions are made.

Brings a consensus-oriented approach to decision making
Wood describes his leadership style as collaborative and focused on reaching consensus. Drawing on his experience working with HOA board members and residents, he said he prefers to gather input, evaluate options, and move toward solutions that address concerns while allowing decisions to move forward.

You can learn more about Matt and sign his petition if you wish here. 

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Bits and Pieces

Kriegh park use highlights need to balance town revenue goals and resident access
Kriegh Park will be largely unavailable for casual resident use for the third consecutive weekend. This weekend, the Oro Valley Aquatic Center is hosting the Age Group State Swim Meet, running Thursday through Sunday, and attendees are expected to use much of the available parking. The previous two weekends also brought heavy park activity with wine festivals held at the site. In addition, during most weekdays the park’s fields are reserved for organized baseball and softball beginning around 5 p.m., further limiting opportunities for casual resident use of the park. These programs run year-round. Finding parking is difficult. Walking the perimeter during games can also be difficult, with foul balls, lawn chairs, and children riding bikes around the fields. 

The town’s goal of attracting visitors who spend money locally needs to be balanced with maintaining reasonable access for residents.

New police headquarters is well underway...20 police units may locate there

At Monday’s second council strategic planning session, council and staff discussed police facilities. As we reported in August, the town purchased an existing building for a future police headquarters. The building is about 50,000 square feet. Planning is underway to determine how it will house roughly 20 police operational units and support the department’s needs over the next 10 to 20 years. 

At present, the plan is for dispatch operations to remain in the La Canada headquarters because of the cost of relocating the communications infrastructure. Once the police department moves into the new facility, the remaining space in the La Canada building will likely be used by other town departments that need additional room, with the Water Utility Department mentioned as a possible future occupant.

Renovation may cost far less than anticipated

Staff delivered some good news regarding the cost of renovating the new space at the Monday strategy session.  Early planning indicates that about 70 percent of the existing building can be reused with only interior modifications, such as moving walls and repurposing rooms. Because much of the structure can remain intact, staff believe the renovation may be completed for only a few million dollars, depending on final design and construction estimates.  The town will first look for available cash within its capital improvement program to fund the work. If borrowing is required, the town will likely arrange a direct bank loan rather than issuing bonds, which staff said would keep financing costs lower.

Firefighters host community cookout tomorrow at Naranja Park archery range

The North Tucson Firefighters Association are hosting the Jose Samaniego Memorial Archery Shoot and BBQ Challenge, a community event that combines a 3D archery competition with a first-responder cookout. The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Naranja Park archery range. The event raises funds for programs such as “Shop with a Firefighter,” which supports local families during the holidays. The event also honors fallen Golder Ranch firefighter Jose Samaniego. Residents are welcome to stop by to watch the competition, enjoy barbecue, and meet local first responders.

March 15:  Celebrate Oro Valley with the Tucson Roadrunners

Oro Valley residents are invited to attend Oro Valley Day with the Tucson Roadrunners on March 15 at 4 p.m. when the Roadrunners host the San Jose Barracuda at the Tucson Convention Center. The event, organized with the Town of Oro Valley and the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce, offers discounted tickets for Oro Valley attendees and includes a pregame St. Patrick’s day themed gathering with music, food, and community booths highlighting Oro Valley organizations. Town officials are expected to take part in the festivities, including a ceremonial puck drop. Mayor Winfield is expected to ride the Zamboni.  More information and ticket details are available here.

Traffic alert for Sunday's Arizona Distance Classic

Drivers should expect minor delays Sunday morning, March 8, due to the Arizona Distance Classic running event in Oro Valley. The half marathon begins at 6:30 a.m., followed by the quarter marathon and 5K at 7:05 a.m., with the race starting and finishing at Roche Tissue Diagnostics on Innovation Park Drive. Portions of Innovation Park Drive, Rancho Vistoso Boulevard, Tangerine Road, and nearby residential streets will experience traffic control, lane restrictions, and some temporary closures as runners move along the course. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and watch for runners, volunteers, and law enforcement directing traffic. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Mid-year financial report shows stable finances but sales tax shortfall

The town’s fiscal year 2025-26 mid-year financial report shows that Oro Valley’s finances remain generally stable, though several trends bear watching. Local sales tax revenue, particularly construction sales tax, is running significantly below budget and is expected to finish the year about $4.8 million short. Some of that reflects development projects that were assumed in the budget but have not yet begun. Town departments, however, are holding spending below budget, helping offset part of the revenue gap. Golf operations at the Community Center are performing strongly and are expected to exceed budget, providing a bright spot in the results. Even with the sales tax shortfall, the town projects that its General Fund balance will remain about $4 million above the 25% reserve policy at year end. (Source: Finance Director David Gephart report to council on March 4, 2026)

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Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary With Oro Valley Historical Society (Part 2)

Continuing our Semiquincentennial Series
In March, the Oro Valley Historical Society continues to "march on" with the second part of our three-part series celebrating 250 years as an independent nation.

At the Museum this month: America’s Semiquincentennial and Arizona Statehood” Exhibit
This exhibit is In the Pusch House Museum. It will be available for viewing until March 28 when we will begin the third part of our series “America’s Semiquincentennial and the Founding of Oro Valley”. The Museum, located at historic Steam Pump Ranch is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon. Self-guided tours are complimentary, and volunteers will be on site to provide additional information and assist with any questions.

March 14: Two guided walking tours of the ranch
On Saturday, March 14, our naturalist returns to guide visitors on two gentle walking tours of the Ranch to share stories about the plants, animals, and people who lived and still live on the Ranch. The tours start at 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. from the porch of the Pusch House Museum, and both end in the Society-maintained Heritage Garden. Participants will be able to view a replica of a Hohokam pit house as well as the plants now blooming in the garden. 

March 14 and March 28: Two donation drives with Gap Ministries
Also, on that day and again on March 28, Gap Ministries will be at the Pusch House Museum requesting donations for the local families they serve. Items needed are toilet brushes and plungers, toilet bowl cleaner, toilet paper, and air fresheners. Make a difference, and help a family in need.

March 16: Gardening program at the Oro Valley Public Library
Now, let’s march over to the Oro Valley Public Library at 10 a.m. on March 16 when we will sponsor Catesby Suter, a University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Master Gardener. Her presentation is entitled “Caring for Iris and Other Bulbs”. The history of iris cultivation, planting techniques, working with the soil, and dividing bulbs will be discussed. Yes, you can grow iris plants here, and Catesby will help you beautify your gardens with her knowledge! 

March 7 and 8: Visit us at the "Foodie" Festival
The Oro Valley Spring Foodie, Art, and Wine Festival returns to the Oro Valley Marketplace, sponsored by Art State Arizona, and the Oro Valley Historical Society will be there! Come visit us Saturday and Sunday, March 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Enjoy the food vendors, beer and wine area, family friendly fun, live music, and all the wonderful Arizona artists and creative businesses who will be there. We hope you will join us. History loves company!

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Meet Council Hopeful Chris DeSimone

LOVE has been are presenting information about the individuals who plan to seek one of the three open Town Council seats in the upcoming primary election. Each candidate is currently gathering the more than 500 signatures by mid March. Today, we feature Chris DeSimone

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Meet Chris DeSimone

Chris DeSimone held a council campaign launch gathering in January. At that time, he shared his thoughts on the community, his reasons for running, and the experiences that have shaped his perspective.

A long-time resident
Chris DeSimone has lived in Oro Valley since 1995, when he and his wife moved into their first home in the Copper Creek neighborhood after initially living in Tucson near Swan and Pima. A native of New York married to a New England native, he raised his children in Oro Valley, where they attended Copper Creek Elementary and participated in local youth sports. DeSimone has been active in the community for decades, coaching American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) soccer and helping lead a local team to national competition. Professionally, he has built a career in local media and commentary, hosting a long-running radio and digital podcast program and writing a column for Inside Tucson Business, experiences he says have given him insight into how local government operates.

Wants to directly impact local challenges
For years, he had been interested in running but could not do so while working on FCC-regulated radio due to equal time rules. Now that his program is fully digital, that barrier no longer exists. More importantly, his focus has shifted from national politics to local impact. Conversations with residents, particularly seniors concerned about rising costs and affordability, and ongoing debates about development within Oro Valley’s existing footprint led him to believe local decisions were increasingly important. He concluded that working at the town level offered the most direct way to influence issues such as fiscal pressures, growth, and community direction.

Sees fiscal challenges, development tension, and need for efficiency
He expressed concern about growing fiscal pressures, noting that rising costs and property taxes are making it harder for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes, to remain in the community. He also sees ongoing tension around development, with many residents worried about building within the town’s existing footprint. In addition, he highlighted what he views as efficiency issues in town operations, suggesting that costs of government continue to rise even as services must be maintained. Finally, he raised concerns about maintaining public safety and quality of life, especially as crime and social pressures from surrounding areas may increasingly affect the region.

A hands on leadership style
He described his leadership style as hands-on and accessible, emphasizing direct engagement with residents and a willingness to meet people where they are rather than relying solely on formal channels. He said he intends to be visible in the community, holding informal conversations in parks and local businesses and encouraging open dialogue with residents on town issues. He also stressed a commitment to representing all residents, regardless of political support, and believes elected officials should actively experience the community and respond to concerns in real time.

You can learn more about Chris and sign his petition if you wish here.
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Meet Council Hopeful Rosa Dailey

LOVE is presenting information about the individuals who plan to seek one of the three open Town Council seats in the upcoming primary election. Each candidate is currently gathering the more than 500 signatures by mid March. Today, we feature Rosa Dailey. 

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Rosa Dailey is a longtime resident with strong family ties

Rosa Dailey is a 20-year Oro Valley resident who moved here to assist her ailing parents. Prior to relocating, she spent eight years as an insurance adjuster and 20 years as a technical writer for companies including Random House and IBM, culminating in work supporting a Steve Jobs-backed IT group involved in the Hubble Space Telescope’s first servicing mission. After later returning to NASA’s engineering directorate, she met her husband, Chris Dailey, an aerospace computer engineer who has contributed to major NASA missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope. In Oro Valley, Dailey focused on raising her twin daughters, both University of Arizona engineering graduates, while also supporting her husband’s career and leading a medical research nonprofit following her retirement from full-time work.

Behind the scene, Dailey’s actions have produced visible results for Oro Valley 
Dailey has been active in Oro Valley for many years. Her actions have resulted in two very visible community assets: The Aquatic Center and the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. She helped initiate the feasibility study that led to transforming the municipal pool into the Oro Valley Aquatic Center. Dailey also identified and worked with The Conservation Fund and Preserve Vistoso to turn the former Vistoso golf course into a nature preserve. Today, she remains actively involved in restoration efforts. Over the years, Dailey has assisted residents involved in rezoning efforts by offering guidance on how to get things done in Oro Valley. “I am always glad to help others in the community step up to make a difference.”

Dailey is now seeking a Town Council seat
Dailey is ready to take the next step in leadership for Oro Valley. Over the past five years, she has attended or watched regular Town Council meetings and study sessions on items such as budgets and strategic plans. Dailey has spoken at Council and neighborhood meetings to stay informed on town issues. She also participated in OV Path Forward sessions shaping the next 10-year plan and, based on community surveys on development, parks and recreation, and water sustainability, believes she has a strong understanding of resident priorities moving forward.

Plans to bring Her “Get Things Done” Approach to Council
Dailey believes that plans should lead to results. She describes her approach as collaborative and deliberative, preferring to listen, gather input, and build consensus before moving forward. Once a course of action is agreed upon, she emphasizes the importance of following through to completion. She expects to apply that same methodical style to council decisions and community issues.

Believes that Council decisions should reflect community values

According to Dailey, “The challenges that any 50-year-old community faces are always multifaceted. There are financial aspects as well as quality of life factors to consider. I think the most important considerations must reflect what our community values - public safety, the environmental stewardship of land and water, recreational amenities that meet the needs of residents of all ages, and growth that does not change the character of our special community.

You can learn more about Rosa Dailey and sign her nomination petition that will place her on the ballot here.

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Bits and Pieces

Arizona Heroes Memorial Celebrates Kuwait Liberation Day Tomorrow at 1pm

The Arizona Heroes Memorial at Naranja Park will host a ceremony tomorrow commemorating Kuwait Liberation Day. Since 1991, the United States has maintained a strong partnership with Kuwait, evolving from military liberation to ongoing cooperation in regional security. Hosted by VFW Post 12222 of Oro Valley, the event honors the courage and sacrifices made during the liberation of Kuwait, a small but strategically important nation in the Middle East. The ceremony offers residents an opportunity to recognize those who fought for freedom and to reflect on the enduring values of liberty and alliance. 

County suggest you mail your RTA Next election ballot by next Tuesday

The Pima County recorder's office suggests you mail in your RTA Next ballot by next Tuesday.  We are not sure why since the official election day is March 10. You can also drop of you ballot at various locations downtown. There is no convenient Oro Valley location for drop off.

Pima County Mail In "Envelop" requires raises privacy concerns 

Concerns have emerged over Pima County’s mail-in ballot system, where the design of the return “envelope” may create opportunities for fraud. Critics say the format could make it easier to manipulate ballots or compromise voter verification. This is because the ballot affidavit you sign requires your legal signature and is the back of the mail- in envelop.  There is also a line for your phone number. However, your phone number is not required and you can leave it off.  Be sure to mark the space with a line of you choose to do so.

There is a workaround:  You can put your completed mailer in manilla envelop and mail it to the address on the envelop. We were to to use the zip of 85702 instead of the one on the envelop. Of course, you will do this at your cost.

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