New State Zoning Edict Shifts Roles for Non-Discretionary Development Requests

Oro Valley moves ahead with development process changes required by HB 2447
At its September 10 meeting, the Oro Valley Planning and Zoning Commission discussed proposed zoning code amendments to comply with HB 2447—state legislation that changes how municipalities review certain development requests. The Commission unanimously approved initiating the zoning code amendment process. Staff will draft specific changes, including administrative review language, and a separate effort will define objective design standards for future projects.

HB 2447 shifts roles among commission, staff, and the public
Planning and zoning commission will see a reduced load
The Commission will lose some oversight authority. Non-discretionary items such as development plans, plats, architecture, and public art will move to administrative approval. Commissioners noted this could cut a substantial portion of their traditional workload. The Commission will continue to review discretionary cases—rezonings, general plan amendments, and conditional use permits—but will no longer weigh in on many design and architectural issues.

Staff will see a larger role
Town planning staff will be required to approve code-compliant submittals, shifting most development and design reviews from public hearings to administrative decisions. Staff will also manage new processes, including at-risk grading and expedited reviews.

Public input will narrow once an application meets code
Neighborhood meetings will remain, allowing residents to comment early in the process, but once an application meets code, staff must approve it. This reduces direct community influence over outcomes compared to today’s hearing-based process.

Town council’s role will be reduced
Discretionary cases—such as rezonings, general plan amendments, and conditional use permits—will still require Commission review and Council approval. For non-discretionary items (development plans, plats, architecture, design reviews), Council will not see them. Council’s influence will be primarily up-front when adopting code amendments and refining design standards. Once standards are set, Council will not be involved in individual project approvals unless a discretionary request is included.

Board of adjustment’s role will expand
Appeals of staff administrative decisions will go to the Board of Adjustment. This makes the Board the formal venue for contesting administrative approvals, increasing its oversight role while narrowing the timing and scope of public influence compared to current hearings.

"Objective Design Standards" key...yet to be developed...not an easy task
Staff explained that proposed amendments will require consistency with the zoning code and “objective design standards”—a key focus of the Commission’s discussion. The town will develop these standards in a separate process. The standards must be specific, measurable, and not subject to interpretation. Commissioners asked what qualifies as an objective standard, including whether aesthetic elements such as color or texture could be regulated. They noted that unclear standards could limit staff’s ability to enforce Oro Valley’s design expectations.

The town will develop these standards through a separate process that is expected to include significant community involvement.

Next steps
Staff will draft the zoning code amendments, including administrative review language. They will launch a separate process to develop objective design standards that will govern future projects.
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See our May 27 Article on HB2447

Bits and Pieces

Colorado River Reservoirs Still Strained

As of August 10, the seven major reservoirs in the Colorado River system are only 39% full, holding 22.5 million acre-feet of water. That’s slightly less than a year ago, when they were at 41%. The two largest reservoirs, Lake Mead and Lake Powell, remain at just 31% of capacity each. Since the Colorado River is Oro Valley’s primary source of water, these persistently low levels highlight the continuing challenges of long-term water supply. (Source)

Community Academy returns this fall

The Town of Oro Valley’s Community Academy begins October 2 and runs through November 5. This year’s program offers nine classes, including new sessions on water and tourism. The Academy gives residents an inside look at how the Town operates, and many graduates later go on to serve on boards and commissions. Registration is available here.

Community Center Fund: Financial results for year even stronger than anticipated

In our September 3 report, we noted that town staff projected that the Community Center Fund was on track to add about $750,000 to reserves, ending fiscal 2025 with a $2.6 million balance. Final year-end results came in even better. Revenues reached $12.1 million, or 113% of budget, while expenses were 2% over plan. The fund added $1.1 million to reserves and closed the year with a $2.9 million balance. (Source: Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of September 9, 2020)

Oro Valley Welcomes New Economic Development Manager

Sarah Denman has been introduced as the Town’s new Economic Development Program Manager, following Margie’s retirement. In her role, Denman will oversee the Town’s Business Retention and Expansion Program, co-manage the Shop Oro Valley campaign with the Chamber of Commerce, and assist businesses with site analysis, permitting, and resources. She brings experience from working with the City of Tucson, Pima County, Sahuarita, and AmeriCorps. Denman, who moved to Southern Arizona in 2020, holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Arizona and looks forward to supporting Oro Valley’s business community. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Jankowski Named Outstanding Professional of the Year

Deputy Parks and Recreation Director Matthew Jankowski has been honored as the 2025 Outstanding Professional of the Year by the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association. The award recognizes his leadership and innovation since joining Oro Valley in 2018, where he has overseen major growth at the Community Center and Aquatic Center, secured nearly $1 million in upgrades, and helped bring a $1 million grant to develop a skate and bike park at Naranja Park. Jankowski also serves as Vice President of APRA and was recently appointed by Governor Katie Hobbs to the Arizona Outdoor Recreation Coordinating Commission. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Council Approves Broadband Partnership

Last week, the Oro Valley Town Council approved an intergovernmental agreement with Pima County to join the Regional Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Project. The initiative will build a countywide fiber optic ring that enhances public safety communications, supports next-generation 911 services, and opens the door for expanded broadband access. Oro Valley will contribute $200,000 in FY 26–27 and provide in-kind support such as permitting and inspections. In return, the Town gains access to more reliable fiber infrastructure, improved digital equity, and long-term opportunities to attract businesses and expand internet service. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council meeting of 9-03-25)

RTA Next Plan of $3Billion Vote scheduled for March

The Pima County Board of Supervisors has unanimously referred the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) Next plan to the March 2026 ballot. The plan is the result of years of meetings and negotiations among community and business leaders, including contributions from Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield, who served as chair of the RTA Board, and Town Manager Jeff Wilkins, who provided technical input. Supporters describe the measure as a balanced plan that will benefit Oro Valley as well as the broader Pima County community. More information about the projects included in the plan is available at the RTA Next.

Oro Valley Residents Invited To Review Draft Of Ten-Year Action Plan Starting September 22

It’s coming… the BIG Community Review!
Oro Valley residents have dedicated their time and voice to creating the next 10-year action plan, known as OV’s Path Forward. Whether you took a survey, stopped at a booth in front of your favorite restaurant, commented online, or participated in meetings, your voice is shaping OV’s future!

It’s almost time to check your work, Oro Valley
The release of the first comprehensive draft of the plan marks a major milestone in this three-year effort—but there is still more work to be done. The plan’s success depends on how well it captures your values, priorities, and expectations for Oro Valley’s future.

Ready, set, go
Starting September 22, your voice is needed to make sure the draft plan accurately reflects Oro Valley residents. OV’s Path Forward will be the Town’s first web-based plan. All residents can go online to OVPathForward.com between September 22 and October 31 to read and comment on the draft plan.

Want to get more involved
In addition to the BIG Community Review, all residents are invited to participate in this year’s Community Academy. Community Academy is a fun, interactive, and free program offered by the Town. It’s held one to two evenings a week throughout October and will cover topics in the 10-year action plan, including public safety, water conservation, and Town finances. All are welcome, with new classes added this year. Visit orovalleyaz.gov and search “Community Academy” to learn more and register by September 30.

Join the Resident Working Group
For those seeking a larger role in shaping the next 10-year plan, the Resident Working Group will meet in December to discuss comments received during the BIG Community Review and help shape a Resident-Recommended Final (90%) Draft of the plan. This draft will be presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission, Town Council, and ultimately voters for approval. All residents are welcome—whether you participated in previous working-group meetings or are just now interested. Learn more and sign up at OVPathForward.com.

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Town of Oro Valley Adopts Updated Building Codes

Town aligns with regional standards
Last week, the Oro Valley Town Council approved new building codes by adopting a set of ten 2024 International Codes. These codes are maintained by the International Code Council (ICC) and updated every three years. Oro Valley last adopted code changes in 2019, when the 2018 editions took effect.

Brings code consistency across southern Arizona
This approval brings Oro Valley’s standards in line with neighboring jurisdictions, including the City of Tucson, Pima County, the Town of Marana, and the Town of Sahuarita. The Golder Ranch Fire District has already adopted the 2024 fire code, and the Town’s amendments align with theirs. Fire officials noted that while new codes address lithium-ion battery storage and solar safety, Oro Valley has required sprinklers in all commercial buildings for more than 20 years, so some changes will have little local effect. The overall goal is to provide consistent regulations for builders and developers across the region.

No impact on existing homes
The codes have no impact on existing homes unless homeowners undertake remodeling, additions, or major system replacements that require a building permit. The updated standards apply only to new construction and permitted remodels. For the first time, the Town also adopted the International Existing Building Code (IEBC), which provides flexible standards for remodeling and reusing older structures. Staff emphasized that this code will make it easier and less costly to adapt existing buildings while maintaining safety.

Minimal added costs for new homes
The costs of these new standards will add about $1,500 to $3,000 to the price of new homes in 2026, largely due to updates in the International Residential Code.

International energy conservation code not adopted
The Council did not adopt the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code. According to staff, these codes are very costly, adding $6,000 to $9,000 per home. In addition, there are concerns about software and training readiness. Staff also noted that future revisions may reduce both cost and stringency.

Long-term benefits for those building new homes
Though the updates may raise construction costs, they also bring important benefits. The new standards improve structural resilience against wind and seismic events, strengthen fire safety provisions, and expand accessibility requirements. Over time, updated energy codes are expected to reduce household utility costs by an estimated $300 to $500 per year, improve indoor comfort and air quality, and may also help lower property insurance premiums through improved ISO ratings. Staff noted that Oro Valley’s rating could improve from Class 4 to Class 3 for residential properties and from Class 3 to Class 2 for commercial properties.

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Town Council Ends OVCN member parking on Buena Vista and Concordia ROW

Council takes long-awaited action
Last week, the Oro Valley Town Council voted unanimously to ban parking on the right of way along Calle Buena Vista from Hardy Road and to extend no parking on Calle Concordia to Calle El Milagro [See panel below-right]. This is the area where the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene (OVCN) is located.

Residents raise safety concerns
The situation has existed for years, with residents’ pleas for relief largely ignored until now.  Residents speaking at the Council meeting described hazards created by street parking. Karen Steinbrun said the street is heavily used by “bicyclists and also people riding horses,” adding that “I think it is a safety issue because it’s an area for walking.” Longtime resident Tricia Tozer recalled a near accident during a church event: “They were parked the entire length of Buena Vista… a man and his child darted out between a truck… if I hadn’t been going five miles an hour, what would have happened?” David Diver, who lives across from OVCN, called it “like the great escape when the church lets out… everybody peels out of there because they can’t wait to get away and that makes it even more dangerous”.

Keesler: Street parking is about convenience, not necessity
Town Engineer Paul Keesler explained that OVCN has adequate on-site parking and an agreement with CDO High School for overflow. He said the issue is convenience: “It’s more… a matter of parking out there so they can get out quicker”.

Council weighs scope of restrictions
Vice Mayor Barrett moved to extend no-parking restrictions along Calle Buena Vista from Linda Vista to Hardy Road, and along Calle Concordia to El Milagro. She said intersections make clearer boundaries than “some random place where you’re going, ‘Can I park here? I don’t know’.”

Considered impact on adjacent neighborhoods
Councilmember Murphy supported the action but cautioned against shifting the problem: “I don’t want to solve this safety issue only to push it further out and create a safety issue in adjacent neighborhoods.” Keesler acknowledged the risk: “If you blocked off all of the streets, I would imagine you’re gonna push it into Shadow Mountain Estates. So you will be pushing, you will be moving that around a little bit”. Mayor Winfield added that he would speak with OVCN’s pastor about encouraging attendees not to park on neighborhood streets.
Council decision
The Council approved the motion unanimously, 7–0, to extend no-parking zones along both Calle Buena Vista and Calle Concordia. The action aims to improve access and visibility for neighbors, cyclists, and drivers, while OVCN retains on-site and overflow parking options.

Commemorate 9-11 Thursday At The Arizona Heroes Memorial

 

Oro Valley Historical Society: 20 Years of Stories and Preservation

20 Years of History
The Oro Valley Historical Society is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and we invite you to join us from September through the end of April.

Opening Exhibit: Restoring the Past
We’ll begin our season at historic Steam Pump Ranch on Saturday, September 6, from 9 a.m. to noon with our exhibit “Restoring the Past.” Explore the restoration history of the Ranch’s structures, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. When the Town purchased the property in 2007, it looked very different than it does today. Through displays, articles, photos, videos, and more, you can follow the transformation brought about by the vision of the Society’s founders—Dick Eggerding, Pat Spoerl, and Jim Kriegh—along with community volunteers and Town staff. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and share additional information.

Permanent Interpretive Signs Installed
A special addition to the Ranch this year was made possible by the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Last year, the Society received a grant to create and install permanent interpretive signs at each historic building. Volunteers worked to determine what information the community would find most meaningful, and the Town staff completed the installation in July. Thanks to this effort, visitors can now learn about the buildings’ history, uses, and past residents anytime they visit the Ranch. We are grateful to the Foundation for helping us keep Oro Valley’s history alive.

Meteorites and the Gold Basin Adventure
As a prelude to our October exhibit, Board Member and Lifetime Supporter Twink Monrad will give a presentation at the Oro Valley Public Library on Tuesday, September 24, at 1 p.m. on meteorites and the Gold Basin Adventure. She accompanied Society founder and “Father of Oro Valley” Jim Kriegh on expeditions in Mohave County, where he discovered meteorites in an area long known for gold veins. This discovery attracted the University of Arizona, which went on to classify and map the region. Joining Twink will be her colleague Dr. Larry Lebofsky, Senior Education and Communication Specialist with the Planetary Science Institute. Dr. Lebofsky also serves on the Education and Engagement Advisory Board of the Vatican Observatory Research Group and the Council of Advisors of the Vatican Observatory Foundation.

Free Tours and Presentations
Tours of the Pusch House Museum will continue on Saturdays throughout the year. Both the tours and the library presentation are free, though donations are always welcome to support our mission of keeping Oro Valley’s history alive.

Celebrate With Us
Join us as we celebrate our 20th anniversary!

👉 Learn more at: www.ovhistory.org

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