Golf Pays Its Way, Other Recreation "Pay To Play" Facilities Require Town Subsidies

Only one of three fee-based recreation facilities covers its ongoing operating costs

Oro Valley’s three primary fee-based recreation facilities, Golf, the Community and Recreation Center, and the Aquatic Center, do not perform the same financially. A first-ever Town financial analysis of the town's financial amenities shows that golf is the only one where revenues exceeded operating costs in fiscal year 2024-25. The Community and Recreation Center and the Aquatic Center both required Town funding to operate.

Aquatic Center requires substantial financial support 

The Aquatic Center had a net operating cost of about $1.12 million, with operating costs of about $1.63 million and exceeding  revenue of about $516,000, The Community and Recreation Center had a net operating cost of about $744,000, on $2.32 million in costs and $1.58 million in revenue. Together these "pay for play"  facilities required about $1.86 million in Town subsidy.  At the same time, there were 296 aquatic center paying members and 4,150 Community Center members. That was a subsidy per member of  $3,784 and $179 in 2025, respectively.

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Other recreational assets are free to residents

The analysis included other Town recreational assets: Steam Pump Ranch, Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve, JDK Park, Naranja Park, and Riverfront Park. These facilities generally do not charge user fees and showed net operating costs ranging from about $163,000 for Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve to about $560,000 for Steam Pump Ranch. Staff said that these types of amenities are expected to recover little of their costs because they are open and accessible to the public. According to staff, the value of these assets is not reflected in revenue generation but in community access and use.

Some amenity costs are directly tracked while others are allocated

Costs for major facilities such as golf, the Community and Recreation Center, and the Aquatic Center are largely based on directly tracked revenues and operating expenses. Greater use of allocation was required for parks and other shared services, where costs such as maintenance, utilities, and portions of staffing are not tracked by individual location. In those cases, staff assigned costs using estimates based on factors such as acreage, building size, and staff time. Staff said these allocations provide a reasonable overall picture, though they are not exact.

Analysis did not include estimated economic impact of events

One of the values assumed for the Aquatic Center is that it drives sales and bed tax revenues based on the events that it hosts. The Aquatic Center generates revenue from swim meets, team use, and other events. The report includes those revenues in total operating income but does not isolate how much is attributable to out-of-town visitors or measure any related economic activity, such as spending at local businesses.

Capital spending totaled about $2.9 million, largely tied to "Pay to Play" facility improvements
Capital spending for the recreational amenities included in the analysis totaled about $2.9 million in fiscal year 2024-25. Of that amount, the $2.02 million was reported under golf included approximately $1.2 million for an elevator and entryway project that serves access to the Community and Recreation Center. Other capital spending included and added $160,000 for the Community and Recreation Center, $378,000 for Steam Pump Ranch, and $328,000 for Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. There was no capital spending for the Aquatic Center, JDKriegh Park, Naranja Park, or Riverfront Park.

Council views analysis as baseline for future funding decisions

The Council took no action after the presentation and asked few questions. Rather, they said that the analysis is a starting point for future budget discussions, noting that it provides a clearer picture of how individual amenities perform financially. Council members said the information will be useful as they consider funding levels, fees, and priorities in upcoming budget cycles. They also indicated interest in additional information, including how recent fee changes may affect future results.

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Publisher's Note: The financial results presented in this article were prepared by Town staff and presented to Council. They have not been independently audited, and we have no basis to challenge their validity. An ad hoc analysis of this type should be viewed as a general picture of results rather than precise measurements, particularly since many costs are allocated rather than directly tracked.

Planning and Zoning Commission Split Leaves Sun City Fountain Proposal Unresolved

No recommendation made after tie vote on water fountain
Last week, the Planning and Zoning Commission did not approve nor deny a text amendment to the Rancho Vistoso PAD that would have allowed an ornamental fountain to return to the Sun City Recreation Center. They did this through a split vote of 3-3 on a motion to deny the amendment, meaning no majority decision was reached.

Request made because fountain lost legal status to be restored without approval
The request is to allow restoration of the long-standing Lion Head Fountain. It was made by the Sun City Vistoso Community Association. The fountain was in operation until 2020. Unfortunately, it remained out of service for more than six months, causing it to lose its legal non-conforming status under Town code, which no longer permits ornamental fountains.

Proposal seeks smaller, lower-use fountain

The redesigned fountain will be smaller and more water-efficient than the previous one. It will use a  a closed-loop system of potable water, with the option to supplement with rainwater harvesting. The redesigned fountain would use about 1,300 gallons of water per month due to evaporation, or roughly 15,600 gallons annually. With rainwater harvesting, potable water use could drop to about 200 gallons per month. For comparison, a typical Oro Valley household uses about 7,500 gallons per month, meaning the fountain would use a fraction of a single home's annual water consumption.

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Staff says proposal conflicts with town water policies
Town staff recommended denial of the request, stating it conflicts with the Town's General Plan policies on water conservation. Staff referenced both the current Your Voice, Our Future General Plan and the draft Path Forward General Plan, which emphasize responsible water use, conservation, and drought-tolerant development. The zoning code has prohibited ornamental fountains since 2011 as part of that policy direction. Staff said allowing a new or reactivated fountain, even a smaller one, would be inconsistent with those policies and with the Town's long-standing approach to limiting non-essential water use.

Public comment was mostly supportive
Public comment reflected strong interest, with most speakers supporting the proposal. Supporters described the fountain as a valued community feature that provided a gathering place and contributed to the character of Sun City. They also pointed to the redesign and reduced water use. Those opposed focused on water conservation concerns, noting ongoing drought conditions and questioning whether any non-essential water use is appropriate.

Commission divided on whether exception is justified
Commission discussion reflected the same divide. Some members supported the amendment, noting the relatively small amount of water involved and the effort to reduce usage. Others emphasized the need to follow the General Plan and avoid setting a precedent for exceptions to the code. Several commissioners acknowledged the strength of public opinion on both sides.

Town Council will make final decision
With the 3-3 vote, the Commission did not make a formal recommendation. Instead, the matter will move forward to Town Council with notice of the split vote. Council will make the final decision on whether to approve the text amendment.
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Bits and Pieces

Regional safety data shows rising fatalities and identifies local hotspots 

A presentation from the Pima Association of Governments to the town council last week highlighted a 10-year increase in traffic fatalities across the region, including pedestrians and cyclists, while also identifying crash “hot spots,” many at intersections along corridors such as Tangerine and Oracle. PAG provides data tools and Road Safety Assessments used by Oro Valley staff to evaluate roadway safety and prioritize improvements. Their data also showed some positive trends, including increased bicycle helmet use and declines in unsafe riding behaviors. Travel pattern analysis indicated that many trips through problem areas outside town begin or end in Oro Valley, meaning incidents elsewhere can affect local residents. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, 4-09-26)

Marketplace development continues with new buildings underway

The Town reports that construction at Oro Valley Marketplace continues to move forward, with new apartment buildings now going vertical as part of the ongoing development in the area. The project remains one of the more visible signs of current growth activity, with additional phases, including related infrastructure and nearby improvements, also progressing.  ( OV Edge. 04-10-26)

Wilkins outlines how the need for a traffic signal is evaluated and communicated

Town Manager Jeff Wilkins explained to council last week that traffic signals are installed based on established criteria, including road capacity, safety concerns, conflicting traffic, level of service, pedestrian needs, and standards in the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices. He added that “typically these will be installed when they meet one or more warrants,” though other factors such as sight distance or “unique safety issues or physical characteristics of the road or the intersection” may also be considered. His explanation was in response to council member questions exactly how it is decided that there should or should not be a traffic light at a location. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, 4-09-26)

OV Path Forward General Plan moves forward to council after unanimous Planning and Zoning Commission Approval

Tuesday night, the Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended adoption of the Path Forward General Plan at the conclusion of its second public hearing. Only one resident spoke during the hearing, expressing support for the plan. Commission discussion was brief and generally supportive, with members noting the extensive resident input behind the plan and the work completed over the past three years. The next step is for the plan to be presented to Town Council in May before being placed on the November ballot for voter consideration. (source: Planning and Zoning Commission meeting of April 14, 2026)

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Volunteer's Are Heroes Too

Volunteers power one of Oro Valley’s largest events
It’s often said that volunteering is an act of heroism. Volunteers don’t necessarily have extra time, they have heart.

Nowhere is that more evident than at Rockin’ 4 Heroes, an all-volunteer nonprofit that stages one of Southern Arizona’s largest free outdoor rock concerts. Each year, thousands gather at James D. Kriegh Park for a high-energy afternoon of music that celebrates, honors, and raises funds to support our nation’s heroes, First Responders, Active Military, Veterans, and Gold Star families.

Volunteers drive the event’s success
Behind the scenes is an army of volunteers. Mike Kelly and his Knights of Columbus team are among the many groups essential to the event’s success. For the past four years, Kelly and his fellow Knights have been the friendly faces serving beverages at the ever-popular beer tent, one of the concert’s busiest hubs. 

Kelly says filling volunteer spots is never a challenge. “They embrace the mission of Rockin’ 4 Heroes,” he said. “And just as important, they know it’s going to be fun. Yes, we sell beer, and that raises money for a great cause, but what you’ll really see is a group of guys enjoying the music, enjoying each other, and connecting with the community. People tell us we’re having too much fun, and they’re probably right.”

Community partners and volunteers support every detail
Event organizers say they are deeply grateful for the many organizations that return year after year, helping manage the countless moving parts, from setup the day before, to greeting guests at the gate, driving golf carts, selling raffle tickets and merchandise, and handling teardown after the final encore.

Among those partners are the American Legion, Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene, Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke, Trico Electric Cooperative, T-Mobile, University of Arizona ROTC, Hughes Federal Credit Union, the Town of Oro Valley, and State Farm (Dave Clarkson Agency). In addition, a dedicated core group of individual volunteers helps plan, organize, and carry out the mission of Rockin’ 4 Heroes throughout the year.

Event details and how to get involved
At Rockin’ 4 Heroes, the spotlight may be on the stage, but the true heart of the event is found in the volunteers who make it all possible.

There is plenty to do at Rockin’ 4 Heroes. Organizations and businesses that would like to participate can contact the nonprofit at Info@Rockin4Heroes.org. This year’s event is Sunday, November 8, at James D. Kriegh Park in Oro Valley.

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Council And Residents Ask: When Should No Parking Be Waived?

Bagging a"No Parking" sign is not a simple decision

What town staff thought would be a simple decision turned into a lengthy discussion with Council last week. Staff came forward to codify a long-standing practice: Temporarily covering (“bagging”) no-parking signs to allow overflow parking during events. Staff proposed an ordinance to authorize the Town Engineer and Chief of Police to suspend no-parking restrictions under circumstances when nearby parking options have been exhausted and safety can be maintained. Instead of a routine discussion of the item, staff encountered a wary public and a cautious Council, both of which raised a series of questions the proposed ordinance.

Longstanding practice lacks legal authority
The Town Engineer’s office proposed the ordinance after finding that the long-standing practice of staff approving “bagging” no-parking signs had no basis in Town Code. Requests have been reviewed and approved by the Town Engineer and Police Chief, based on the impact that bagging would have on safety. They have been doing this for more than 20 years, granting perhaps ten events each year. It occurs most often in the area around Kriegh Park, the Aquatic Center, and Canyon del Oro High School. Events there can attract a large number of attendees, creating demand for parking that exceeds what is available.

OVCN request brings issue to light
Staff brought the ordinance to Council after a recent request to allow temporary parking in the Calle Concordia/Buena Vista area prompted them to review the code and realize no formal authority existed. While staff emphasized that the proposed ordinance was not tied to any single applicant, they specifically mentioned a request by the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene for an upcoming event. Street parking in and around OVCN was prohibited by Town Council last year, following significant effort by area residents. As a result, any suspension of those no-parking restrictions is a significant concern for those who live nearby.

Residents raise safety and fairness concerns
Which is why residents who live in the area showed up at the meeting to express their concerns. Three residents spoke, raising strong concerns about safety. They cited increased traffic in their neighborhood and general disruption. They also questioned whether it would be fair for the Town to waive parking restrictions that were put in place to protect them from traffic congestion and safety risks, and to preserve the quiet enjoyment of their property. They noted that more residents would have attended to express similar concerns but chose not to attend out of fear for their personal safety.

Council seeks clearer rules and stronger safeguards
Council discussion reflected many of the same concerns. Members focused on how an ordinance could be written to ensure consistency, fairness, and safety. Several councilmembers questioned how “special events” should be defined, noting that without clear limits the exception could become routine, particularly in areas where events occur frequently. Others emphasized the need to include explicit safety requirements in the code, such as traffic control measures, rather than leaving those decisions solely to staff discretion. Council also raised concerns about notifying nearby residents, the timing of when signs would be covered, and whether recurring events should qualify at all. In addition, they raised questions about who should bear the cost of implementing the temporary changes and whether different types of applicants should be treated differently.

Council delays decision pending revisions
Council took no action on the proposed ordinance. They directed staff to return with a revised ordinance that addresses the concerns raised. They asked staff to refine the definition of qualifying events, incorporate clearer safety requirements, consider a notification process for affected residents, and address issues such as timing, frequency, and cost. During the discussion, staff said the current informal practice would likely continue in the interim, particularly with upcoming events, though no formal direction was given. The item was ultimately tabled, with Council indicating it will revisit the issue later this year, likely after additional review and input from the Town Attorney and staff.

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Funding Set...Finally, Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve Pond Moves Into Construction Phase

Council approves funding to move project forward
Oro Valley Town Council voted 6–1 to approve additional funding for the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve pond project, allowing construction to proceed. The decision finalizes funding needed to move the long-discussed restoration effort into its next phase.

Prior design spending reduced available construction funds
Council’s decision focused on addressing a budget shortfall after Town staff had already spent about $427,460 of the $2 million originally approved budget on design work for the pond and broader restoration of the preserve. That left approximately $1.57 million available for construction, which was not sufficient to cover the full construction bid of $1,883,939.

Contingency funds used to close funding gap
The Town has budgeted $2 million in general fund contingency funds for this year. Council approved using $461,399 from that contingency to complete funding of the pond and parking project, covering the shortfall identified in the construction bids.

Residents express strong support for moving forward
Public comment at the meeting showed strong support for fully funding the project. Approximately a dozen residents spoke, with most urging Council to proceed after years of delay. One speaker said the project “has gone on an awfully long time” and should be completed, while others highlighted its value as a community amenity and restoration effort. One speaker also referenced prior concerns raised by the preserve’s easement holder, Archaeology Southwest, (ASW)  regarding the use of reclaimed water. Another speaker directly rebutted those concerns, stating they were based on incorrect assumptions about the project design. 

The Council did not discuss the easement holder’s concern regarding the use of reclaimed water. As LOVE has previously reported, those concerns appear to have little merit based on the rights granted to the Town in the easement agreement to restore the pond. In addition, ASW has rescinded its request for mediation of the matter.

Parking included to support access and avoid future costs
Funding for a parking area, estimated at about $113,967, was included as part of the approval. Discussion focused on whether to build the parking lot now or defer it to a later phase. Staff and the project consultant said parking would support accessibility, including ADA access, and help manage expected use. Several councilmembers noted that delaying the parking could lead to higher costs if the work must be rebid later.

Area will include memorial garden to be funded separately
A planned memorial garden associated with the project will not be funded through the construction contract. Instead, it will be funded using proceeds from the sale of the Zimmerman house, a property that was gifted to the town.  Its funding is separate from the Town-funded portions of the project.

Construction ahead
With funding approved, the Town will proceed with executing the construction contract for the base bid and parking alternative. Once under contract, the contractor will begin pre-construction coordination, including scheduling and permitting. Construction activity is expected to follow, with Town staff providing updates to Council as the project moves forward.

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Bits and Pieces

Chamber honors local businesses and community leaders 

The Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders at its 34th annual meeting, held at El Conquistador on March 26.  There were more than 330 attendees. Among the awards: A Senior Journey was named Outstanding Small Business; Anchor Wave received Outstanding Midsize Business; and Splendido at Rancho Vistoso was recognized as Outstanding Large Business. In the nonprofit category, Hearts of Gold Police Family Outreach Foundation and Youth On Their Own were honored, while Karen Kochhar of Right at Home Tucson was named Outstanding Community Leader. The Chamber also presented its Legacy Award to Art State Arizona, highlighting its lasting contribution to the community.

Town agrees to pay county almost $12,900 for election services this year
The Oro Valley Town Council approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Pima County Recorder’s Office to provide election services for the 2026 election cycle, including voter registration maintenance, early voting, and ballot processing for both the July 21 primary and November 3 general elections. The agreement, which runs through the end of 2026, continues the Town’s longstanding practice of using county services to conduct its elections. The cost of these services is expected to be about $12,900, which will be paid to the county for administering the elections. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting of April 8, 2026)

Town urges residents to sign up for CodeRED emergency alerts

The Town of Oro Valley is encouraging residents and businesses to sign up for CodeRED, a free emergency notification system that delivers alerts by phone, text, email, and social media. The system is used for urgent situations such as AMBER alerts, hazardous road conditions, boil water advisories, and evacuation notices. Officials recommend that users verify and update their contact information, including adding alternate numbers, to improve reliability during emergencies. The Town notes that CodeRED complements its broader communication efforts and helps ensure timely delivery of important safety information.  (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

State delay voided commercial use tax approval...Council to restart process

Town staff informed the Oro Valley Town Council that the use tax approved in January has been voided after the Arizona Department of Revenue failed to update the official model tax code within the required 10-day period, despite receiving the Town’s ordinance within that timeframe. As a result, the Town must restart the process, including public notification and a new council vote. Council voted 5-1 to authorize staff to begin that process, with plans to bring the item back for consideration in June.  (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, April 8, 2026)

Oro Valley leaders support Camp Corral fundraiser for military families

Oro Valley Councilmembers Elizabeth Robb and Mary Murphy will join the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 39 at a fundraiser for Camp Corral on Sunday, April 19 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Golden Corral (6865 N. Thornydale Road). Camp Corral is a national nonprofit that provides a free week of summer camp for children of wounded, ill, and fallen military service members, and has served thousands of children nationwide since its founding. The event will include raffle ticket sales, silent auction items, and donation opportunities, with proceeds helping send military children to camp and support the organization’s programs. The event is free to attend. (Source: Camp Corral Flyer)

Residents voice no opinion on the Path Forward General Plan at first public hearing

Tuesday, we reported that the Planning and Zoning Commission was holding a public hearing on the final resident-recommended draft of the Path Forward General Plan. As it turned out, only one resident had requested to speak but, when called, declined to do so. The Commission discussion focused on questions about specific elements of the plan, including broadband access for safety, and included general support for the plan and the level of resident participation in its development. The Commission will hold a second public hearing on April 14 before making a recommendation to Town Council.

Battle of the Bands registration opens for high school musicians

Registration is now open for the Oro Valley Battle of the Bands, scheduled for Friday, May 22 at 7:15 p.m. at Steam Pump Ranch. Bands must submit an original demo or YouTube link by May 15, with selected groups performing a three-song set in front of a live audience. To be eligible, at least half of each band’s members must be high school students. Winners will be chosen by a panel of judges, with first, second, and third place prizes awarded. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Bulletin)

Chamber Candidate Forum set for April 23

The Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce will host a candidate forum on April 23 at the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene, providing residents an opportunity to hear directly from candidates ahead of the July 21 primary election. The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to submit questions in advance to help guide the discussion.  

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