Bits and Pieces

Running For Office? Your candidate packet awaits 

Oro Valley residents thinking about running for mayor or Town Council in 2026 can now pick up a Candidate Handbook from the Town Clerk’s Office at Town Hall, 11000 N. La Cañada Drive. Appointments can be made by emailing Mike Standish at mstandish@orovalleyaz.gov or calling 520-229-4700. Three council seats and the mayor’s seat are on the ballot. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, qualified to vote, and have lived in Oro Valley for at least one year before the election. Nomination papers can be filed March 9 – April 6, 2026, with between 525 and 1,050 signatures required. The Primary Election is August 4, 2026, and newly elected officials are expected to be sworn in shortly after the General Election on November 3, 2026. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Council to seek public input on proposed new taxes

By a 4–3 vote, the Oro Valley Town Council agreed Wednesday night to post notice of intent to adopt three taxes: A phased-in Commercial Rental Tax; a Telecommunications Tax; and a Use Tax. This step begins a state-required 60-day public notice and comment period, ending with a potential Council vote on January 14, 2026 to approve or reject any of the taxes. If enacted as proposed, Oro Valley’s 0% commercial rental tax would phase up to 2.5% over three years, the telecommunications tax would increase from 0% to 2.5%, and a new 2.5% use tax would be added to align with neighboring jurisdictions like Tucson and Marana. Councilmembers Barrett, Murphy, and Nicholson opposed moving forward, citing concerns over timing, business impacts, and the need for more cost-saving reviews of town operations. Staff will post a public notice of these proposed taxes on the town website on November 15. The council will make a decision on each of the three taxes at it's January 14 meeting. 

Where there is a will, there is a way

At Wednesday’s Council meeting, several residents expressed concern about the new no parking signs installed along Calle Buena Vista and parts of Calle Concordia. She said her household was not notified about the change and has seen no parking issues near their home in the past four and a half years. While she supports signage near OVCN to address overflow parking, she believes the signs further south are unnecessary, unsightly, and out of character with the neighborhood. Despite all the signage, which she described as an eyesore, we noted that church attendees were still parking on Calle Buena Vista this past Sunday [see panel right]. 

As written: New Use Tax would legally apply to individuals as well as businesses

If adopted, residents have been told by town staff that Oro Valley’s proposed use tax would apply mainly to businesses and not to residents. Businesses would be required to report out-of-state purchases where no local sales tax was paid. These are captured on regular tax filings submitted through the Arizona Department of Revenue, which may also conduct audits to ensure compliance. Town staff has repeatedly stated that the use tax would not be enforced on individual residents, and there are no plans to audit personal purchases. However, as technology advances, future governments may find it easier to track and enforce such taxes more broadly; though doing so would likely raise questions about privacy and require higher-level policy changes.

Film producer urges creation of Oro Valley film commission

Hollywood film producer Mark Headley spoke during Call to Audience segment of Wednesday's council meeting. He talked about the economic benefits of attracting movie production to the town. Drawing on his years of experience in the industry and Arizona’s past success as a filming location, he recommended the creation of a local film commission. Headley said such a commission could be inexpensive to set up and would complement efforts by the Arizona Film Office. He added that film productions typically leave about one-third of their budgets in the communities where they shoot.  Locally, both the Tucson and Marana film commissions. Film Tucson reported last year that filmmaking in the Tucson region generates between $9 million and $12 million annually in economic impact (hotels, restaurants, crews).

Council approves funds for police headquarters purchase and repairs

Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council unanimously approved reallocating $5.45 million from the Capital Fund contingency to cover the purchase and immediate repairs of the new police administration facility at 13101 N. Oracle Road. The purchase, completed for about $3.8 million, will be followed by an estimated $1.65 million in improvements, including HVAC replacement, roofing, stucco and parapet repair, and termite treatment. Vice Mayor Barrett noted she would have preferred some of the funding to be addressed during the next budget cycle but acknowledged the allocation was necessary. The motion passed 7–0, ensuring the building can be secured and preparations begun for future police operations.

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Rockin' 4Heroes Celebrates Sunday at Kriegh Park

Rockin’ 4 Heroes Concert Is This Sunday
The 5th Annual Rockin’ 4 Heroes concert is happening this Sunday, November 9, at James D. Kriegh Park, 23 Calle Concordia in Oro Valley. Gates open at 1 p.m. and the Opening Ceremony begins promptly at 2 p.m. Admission is free and lawn seating is open—bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the show.

Full afternoon of music and community
The event opens with Mariachi Voces de mi Pueblo at 1:40 p.m., followed by a 30-minute Opening Ceremony and a headline performance by the Lexington Lab Band. Visitors can explore over 40 booths, grab food from local food trucks, enjoy a beer and wine tent, and enter a raffle featuring local news anchor Sean Moony and a 50/50 drawing. The event concludes by 5 p.m. Free parking is available at CDO High School, with a designated accessible lot and golf-cart shuttle service provided by Oro Valley’s American Legion.

Council Member Murphy: “Celebrate our amazing heroes”
“As the proud wife of a man who has spent his entire career in law enforcement and the military, it is my honor to serve as the volunteer Executive Director of First Responder and Military Affiliations for the local non-profit, Rockin’ 4 Heroes,” said Council Member Mary Murphy. “This high-quality annual concert event is an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate our amazing heroes.”

Event born from loss
“The Rockin’ 4 Heroes mission was born from both grief and gratitude,” said Bonnie Quinn, who founded the nonprofit with her husband. “Michael and I wanted to thank the community of First Responders who served our son so well in the final year of his battle with cancer. We were blessed that many good people wanted to help carry out this mission alongside us, and that the public in general is very receptive to saying "Thank you" to these heroes who serve us every day.”

Donations power scholarships and training
The concert is free to attend, but donations are accepted at rockin4heroes.org.  All proceeds go to the Hero Fund, which supports several programs including the Jacob Dindinger Memorial EMT Scholarship at Pima Community College, a fully endowed scholarship that funds two full EMT scholarships every year. The Fund also established a $50,000 Veteran Student Endowment at the University of Arizona this past spring. That endowment has provided training stipends to six Oro Valley Police officers to support professional development.

See you Sunday
Bring your family, your friends, and your thanks. The weather looks good, the music will be great, and the cause couldn’t be better. See you Sunday at Rockin’ 4 Heroes. 

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Oro Valley Trails Plan is 60% Complete — Your Voice Still Matters

Oro Valley Trails Connect Master Plan continues to take shape
Oro Valley’s OV Trails Connect Master Plan is the Town’s first comprehensive effort since 2010 to evaluate, upgrade, and expand its network of unpaved trails and paved paths. The Town’s trails and paths are a key feature of our community, used by residents and visitors alike. Once approved by the Town Council, the plan will serve as a guide for maintaining and expanding Oro Valley’s trail system. 

How the process began
The study began in early 2025 with surveys, stakeholder meetings, and “trailside chats” that gathered input from hundreds of residents about how they use and value local trails. Earlier discussions focused on developing a shared vision and identifying key priorities such as connectivity, maintenance, and safety.

Public input shapes the 60% draft
Since those initial discussions, Town staff and consultant Kimley-Horn have broadened public involvement through additional meetings with residents, stakeholders, and regional partners. According to staff, participants have provided comments on the Town’s paved path and unpaved trail assets, as well as feedback on the draft vision and guiding principles.

Four areas of focus
The plan is now organized around four focus areas, each representing a key part of Oro Valley’s trail and path network:

• Unpaved trails:  Natural-surface trails such as those in Big Wash, Honey Bee Canyon, and other open-space areas.
• Multi-use paths (MUPs):  Paved paths located along or separate from major roadways, including those on La Cholla, Tangerine, and Naranja.
• The Loop within Oro Valley: The portion of the regional Pima County Loop system that runs through the Town.
• Paths at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve: The paved paths within the Preserve, including its main concrete trail network and access points.

In the draft, each focus area include proposed improvements and priority action tables that link community feedback to specific projects.

Amenities and partnerships added to the discussion
The plan gives attention to accessibility and user comfort, calling for amenities such as restrooms, benches, shade, and ADA-compliant trailheads. It also begins to outline strategies for partnerships, volunteer programs, and grant funding to support long-term maintenance and future expansion.

Challenges that remain
Even with the progress reflected in the 60% draft, several challenges remain unresolved. The plan still does not specify how proposed improvements will be funded or maintained, offering no dedicated funding source or staffing plan for ongoing upkeep. Coordination with the State Land Department on future trail easements—especially in areas north of Big Wash—remains undefined. While the document outlines safety and etiquette goals, it lacks detail on enforcement and accountability. Environmental considerations, such as habitat protection and trail impact assessments, are addressed only broadly, with no clear standards or procedures. Finally, the plan does not yet establish measurable performance goals or timelines to track whether future trail expansion and maintenance efforts achieve their intended results.

Time to get involved
The 60% draft marks the first time Oro Valley’s OV Trails Connect Master Plan has been presented as a complete document for public and advisory review. Following input from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the draft will go to the Town Council in mid-November for additional feedback. Staff and the consultant will then refine the plan and share a final version with residents and regional partners early next year. The Town expects to bring the completed plan back to the Board and Council for approval in the spring of 2026. 

Because Oro Valley’s trails and paths are an essential part of the community’s quality of life, supporting recreation, health, and connection to nature, we encourage you to review the plan, share you thoughts to help shape the future of this community asset. 

“Throughout this process, the community is invited to www.OVTrailsConnect.com to sign up for the Trails Stakeholder Group, stay informed about the latest materials and information, and reach out to Senior Planner Kyle Packer (kpacker@orovalleyaz.gov) with comments and questions.”

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Resilience and Forward Looking Governance Define Oro Valley’s “State of the Town”

“As I prepared this year’s remarks, two ideas stood out: Resilience and forward-looking governance. Resilience is the ability to adapt, to absorb shocks, and to keep delivering the quality of life our residents expect. Forward-looking governance means anticipating tomorrow’s needs and making disciplined, strategic decisions today. Together, these principles form the foundation of every success story in Oro Valley.” 
Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield’s seventh State of the Town address

Thus began the remarks of Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield in his seventh State of the Town address, last Thursday, Winfield delivered his remarks at an event sponsored by the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce at the El Conquistador. 

Oro Valley’s multi pronged approach to fiscal resilience
Winfield said Oro Valley’s continued growth and stability reflect a commitment to fiscal resilience. During his seven years as mayor, the town has maintained a balanced budget through conservative budgeting, prudent reserves, and fiscal restraint, saving nearly $4 million over the past two years by delaying non essential projects and adding only one new full time position, a police officer. The town also secured several state and WIFA grants totaling about $3 million for improvements at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve, Naranja Park Archery Range, and Steam Pump Ranch.

“Strategic investments are another critical way to build financial resilience,” he said, “and it’s through forward looking governance that we’re poised to seize opportunities early.” He explained that the town’s long term strategy combines targeted annexations, business recruitment to reduce retail leakage, pursuit of grants, and strategic bonding when appropriate. When needed, the plan also includes modest new revenue sources such as telecommunications, commercial use, and commercial rental taxes already used in neighboring jurisdictions. Winfield described these actions as part of a balanced, long term plan to protect essential services and sustain Oro Valley’s quality of life.

Focused on forward looking governance
“Forward looking governance means anticipating tomorrow’s needs and making disciplined, strategic decisions today. Together, these principles form the foundation of every success story in Oro Valley. Strategic investments are another critical way to build financial resilience, and it’s through forward looking governance that we’re poised to seize opportunities early.” He provided examples:

• “When this council chose to invest $33 million to fully fund the Public Safety and Personnel Retirement System, it was a bold decision that will save taxpayers an estimated $20 million through 2038.”
• The Northwest Recharge, Recovery, and Delivery System, a $40 million project that will deliver 4,000 acre feet of renewable water annually, enough for about 12,000 homes.
• “We’ve also purchased and are now beginning the phased renovation of a new police station, a practical, cost effective way to meet community needs while living within our means.”

Involving the community
“Forward looking governance also means planning now for the future we want. The most effective way to do that is to engage the public in the processes that will guide and shape our community.” Winfield called for continued public participation in shaping Oro Valley’s future. He praised the community’s involvement in both the Trail Master Plan and the Path Forward 2026 General Plan, noting that to date more than 9,000 community comments have guided the general plan’s development.

Regional transportation planning is essential
Winfield, who serves as chair of the Regional Transportation Authority, said the next RTA plan will guide 20 years of transportation improvements across Pima County. He said this long term planning demonstrates the kind of leadership he calls forward looking governance, anticipating future needs rather than reacting to them. The plan’s focus on safety, mobility, and connectivity also supports the region’s resilience by ensuring communities can adapt and thrive as conditions change. Winfield encouraged residents to stay informed and engaged ahead of the March 2026 vote, noting that regional partnerships like the RTA are key to Oro Valley’s ability to plan responsibly and build a stronger, more connected future.

“Resilience is something we live”
As he closed, Winfield said Oro Valley’s strength lies not in any single leader, but in the collective effort of its residents, businesses, and public servants. Thinking back to the impact of the pandemic, Winfield noted that “resilience isn’t something we just talk about. It’s something we live...Resilience and forward looking governance are not abstract concepts,” he said. “They guide how we plan, spend, protect, and serve. Oro Valley’s strength has never come from any one individual, it’s come from all of us.”

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Bits and Pieces

Ciscomani says federal grants for Oro Valley bridge repairs is back on track
During his remarks introducing Mayor Joe Winfield at Oro Valley’s State of the Town Address, Congressman Juan Ciscomani indicated that federal funding for Oro Valley bridge repairs remains active, despite earlier setbacks in the congressional appropriations process. LOVE reported in June that these funds were not included in the latest spending bills, but Ciscomani told the audience that the project has again passed committee review and that he remains committed to securing the funds. He praised Mayor Winfield and town staff for submitting high-quality applications and said he looks forward to “getting that funding down here for those bridges very soon.”

Coming Tuesday: Our Report on Winfield's “State of the Town” Address

Mayor Winfield’s delivered his 2025 State of the Town address to a packed El Conquistador resort ballroom yesterday. His remarks covered everything from new businesses and tourism growth to future annexations and water security.  His message was clear: Oro Valley’s success depends on resilience and forward-looking governance.  We’ll share highlights, insights, and key takeaways from his remarks—don’t miss our full report Tuesday on LOVE.

Today is the last day to share your voice on the latest draft of OVPathForward

Today is the final day to give your feedback on the 60% draft of Oro Valley’s Path Forward 2026 General Plan — the document that will shape how our community grows, invests, and protects what we value most for the next decade. This plan influences everything from how we use our land and water to the types of housing, parks, and businesses that define our town’s future. Your input ensures the plan reflects what matters to you — not just today’s priorities but those of future residents as well. Visit OVPathForward.com and make your voice count before midnight.

Deputy Town Manager Cornelison earns international professional credential 

Oro Valley Deputy Town Manager Chris Cornelison has received the prestigious Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). The ICMA program recognizes local government leaders who demonstrate high standards of integrity, professional competence, and a commitment to continuous learning. Cornelison, who began his career with the Town in 2010 and has since served in several key management roles—including Interim Town Manager from 2022 to 2023—becomes one of more than 1,300 credentialed local government managers worldwide. A University of Arizona graduate with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public administration, Cornelison continues to mentor students as an adjunct instructor and professional advisor to the university’s ICMA student chapter. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Town earns national recognition for financial excellence

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has named the Town of Oro Valley a Triple Crown winner for fiscal year 2024, recognizing outstanding achievement in financial transparency and reporting. The Triple Crown honors municipalities that earn all three of GFOA’s top awards in the same year—the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, the Popular Annual Financial Report Award, and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. Oro Valley has achieved this distinction for 13 consecutive years. Finance Director David Gephart credited the town’s finance team for their professionalism and dedication to maintaining accuracy and public trust through clear, comprehensive financial reporting. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Camp under the stars tomorrow night right here in Oro Valley

Families can enjoy the fun of camping without leaving town this weekend at Family Camping at the Ranch, hosted at historic Steam Pump Ranch tomorrow night. The overnight event includes tent setup lessons, grilled hot dogs, and a movie on a giant inflatable screen, followed by s’mores around the campfire. In the morning, campers will be treated to an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast before packing up. It’s a simple way to experience the outdoors, meet other families, and create lasting memories—no long drive required. Families can sign up for Family Camping at the Ranch through the Oro Valley Parks & Recreation website, PlayOV.com. The event notice in the town’s newsletter includes a registration link labeled “Click here” that directs users to the online registration page. At least one participant must be 18 or older to register and attend. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation email).

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November Events: Oro Valley Historical Society’s 20th Anniversary Celebration

Oro Valley Historical Society celebrates 20 years
Join the Oro Valley Historical Society (OVHS) this month for a full slate of activities celebrating its 20th year. Events take place at historic Steam Pump Ranch unless otherwise noted.

Through November 15 – “The Society Begins” exhibit
Visit the Pusch House Museum to learn how and why the Oro Valley Historical Society got started. Who was involved? When did it happen? And most importantly—why? All your questions will be answered.

November 1 – Partners on site
As part of the new “Be Our Ranch Guest” program, OVHS welcomes three non-profits to the Ranch:

• Sol Dog Lodge will collect pet food (open bags accepted) and provide donuts for donors.
• We Care Tucson will accept new or used small electronics—computers, monitors, cell phones, and more—for refurbishing or recycling, keeping these devices out of local landfills.
• Gap Ministries will collect pasta, pasta sauce (jars accepted), and new unwrapped toys from their online wishlist: Amazon link.

November 8 – Continued collections
Gap Ministries continues to collect pasta, pasta sauce, and new unwrapped toys for foster children.
We Care Tucson will again accept new or used small electronics to refurbish for underserved Tucson residents.

November 8 – Guided walks and Heritage Garden
Take one of two guided, one-hour gentle walks around the property with a naturalist. Learn about local flora, fauna, geology, and the Heritage Garden—maintained by OVHS volunteers—featuring desert plants used by native peoples for thousands of years. Don’t miss the pit house representation.

November 15 and 22 – Ongoing Gap Ministries collections
Gap Ministries returns on both dates to collect pasta, pasta sauce, and new unwrapped toys for foster kids and families.

November 19 – Presentation at the Oro Valley Public Library
At 10:00 a.m., Mary Jo McMullen, a volunteer at Tohono Chul and a docent at the Tucson Museum of Art, will introduce the Hohokam Culture and the Ancestral Sonoran Desert People who lived in the Tucson Valley 1,500 years ago. Learn about their culture through artifacts such as pottery, jewelry, petroglyphs, clothing, and acid-etched shells.

November 22 – “Holidays Include Everyone” exhibit opens
Visit the Pusch House Museum for a new exhibit celebrating the variety of holiday traditions in our diverse community. You might even find inspiration for your own celebrations!

This is also the last day to purchase a Jim Click Raffle ticket from OVHS for a chance to win a 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige. All proceeds benefit the Oro Valley Historical Society, thanks to Mr. Click’s generosity.

November 29 – Museum closed for Thanksgiving weekend
The Pusch House Museum will be closed. OVHS wishes everyone a warm and grateful Thanksgiving weekend—and expresses heartfelt thanks for the community’s ongoing support.

Event information
All OVHS events are free; donations are appreciated. For details and updates, visit ovhistory.org.

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Oro Valley Town Tourism Commission Reviews Tourism Destination Plan...Key Questions Remain

Consultant’s study introduced at October 20 meeting
At its October 20 meeting, the Town’s Tourism Advisory Commission (TAC) reviewed the draft "Oro Valley Leisure Tourism Destination Management Plan". The 75 page report was prepared by CSL Consulting. This meeting was the first public briefing for the Commission and the first time most commissioners were briefed on its contents. The plan presents a proposed 10 year framework for developing Oro Valley’s leisure and tourism economy. It is a draft, not adopted policy.

A vision built around wellness, culture, and community appeal
The draft plan presents a vision of Oro Valley as a “vibrant desert destination” known for wellness, recreation, arts, and culture. It imagines a community where visitors enjoy the same experiences that residents value—beautiful landscapes, active lifestyles, and authentic local character. The plan emphasizes outdoor recreation, cycling, culinary experiences, and cultural programming as the core of Oro Valley’s identity. Rather than expanding tourism through large-scale commercial development, it seeks to grow visitation in ways that enhance community life and maintain the town’s distinctive setting and quality of life.

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CSL Consulting developed the draft plan through research, community engagement, and comparative analysis.
The firm began by reviewing Oro Valley’s existing tourism assets—its trails, parks, arts venues, events, and lodging—and by examining related town plans and policies. It then conducted interviews and workshops with Town staff, business and tourism representatives, and community organizations to understand current conditions and opportunities. Resident perspectives were collected through surveys and public input sessions. CSL compared Oro Valley with similar destination communities across the Southwest to identify practices that balance quality of life with tourism growth. 

The document is a vision... not a plan
The draft plan sets broad goals for positioning Oro Valley. It proposes twenty recommended actions. They segmented these actions into two groups: Short term “quick wins” and mid term strategic enhancements. [see panels]  The plan also introduces five long term “Big Ideas.” These include a performing arts center or amphitheater, an indoor recreation complex, a public market hall at Steam Pump Ranch, expansion of Tohono Chul, and a resident designed cultural showcase.

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Commissioner's seemed receptive 
In general, commissioners appeared receptive to the document's tourism vision but cautious about its lack of cost estimates, funding details, and clear implementation strategy.  

But skeptical
Commissioners raised a range of concerns and questions about the draft document. Several asked how the proposed “Big Ideas” would be funded and whether the consultant’s work with the Town had concluded or would continue, Others questioned how the plan’s twenty recommended actions would be prioritized and one member suggested that commissioners review the list individually to identify which were most important before the next meeting. Members also expressed interest in clarifying the Town’s role in future tourism governance and how partnerships with organizations like Visit Tucson or local nonprofits would function.

Commissioners given difficult task...
The document is a starting point for discussion about some, but perhaps not all, of the options for growing tourism in the town. The conversation is limited, however. The document does not include cost or benefit estimates for any recommended item. It also does not suggest how to measure results or define goals. As a result, there is no tangible basis for determining which items to pursue or when to pursue them.

Consequently, it will be difficult for any Commissioner to complete the assignment given to them by Economic Development Director Melcher: To come back with their top three to five priorities so that the Commission could look for areas of agreement and begin shaping recommendations to the Town.
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