Traffic delays expected on Ina at Westward Look today
Drivers should expect traffic delays today at the intersection of Ina Road and Westward Look Drive due to traffic signal repairs. Westbound Ina will be reduced to one lane with a 25 MPH speed limit, and periodic full stops will occur during crane operations. Oro Valley Police will direct traffic while the signal is offline. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes and allow extra travel time.
Nine Month Results: Town finances remain stable with a caution
Town staff reported at Tuesday's Budget and Finance Commission meeting that Oro Valley’s financial position remains strong through the first nine months of the fiscal year. Revenues—including sales tax and recreation income—are generally meeting or exceeding budget, while most departments continue to manage expenses at or below expected levels. Staff credited conservative budgeting and a healthy local economy for these results, but cautioned that slower revenue growth may be ahead, reinforcing the need for continued prudent financial management.
Nine Month results: Community Center Fund surplus grows as golf revenues exceed budget
Tuesday, The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board received an update on the nine-month financial results for the Community Center Fund and municipal golf. Staff reported that both areas are performing well above expectations. Membership and program revenues are exceeding budget, golf rounds and revenues remain strong, and overall expenditures are on track or below budget. As a result, the Community Center Fund is now projected to end the year with a significant surplus, growing the fund balance to an estimated $2.3 million.
Staff sees progress toward golf self-sufficiency...possibly freeing funds for other recreation activities one day
Also at this meeting, staff reported that municipal golf operations are now generating an operating profit, thanks in part to strong membership growth and efficient management. Since the town took ownership ten years ago, about $29 million in half-cent sales tax has been collected to subsidize golf and the community center, with cumulative operating losses and major capital investments totaling about $19 million ($10 million each for losses and capital). Now, things may be changing. Staff noted that the next step is to use these operating surpluses to fund ongoing capital improvements, reducing the need to rely on the half-percent sales tax for golf’s capital needs. As golf operations move closer to full self-sufficiency, staff emphasized that more sales tax revenue will be available to support other parks and recreation projects across Oro Valley.
Memorial Day is more than just a day off—it’s a time to remember and honor those who gave their lives in service to our country. Join the community on Monday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Arizona Heroes Memorial in Naranja Park for a special remembrance event. The ceremony is free and open to all.
OVPOA: Delay in police MOU discussion a good thing
According to Chris Knapp, representative for the OVPOA and FPO (Fraternal Order of Police), removing discussion of the possible wage agreement between the town and OVPOA from last night's council agenda is a good thing. Knapp noted that there have been discussions with council members and staff and that good progress has been made. Knapp thinks a compromise is at hand. A new MOU will be presented for approval at the June 4 council meeting.
Vella provides added insights into the Trails Master Plan
On Tuesday, LOVE provided an update on the Town’s Trails Master Plan study. That evening, Town Planning Manager Bayer Vella offered additional insights during a presentation to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, expanding on several key areas:
- Funding may be key: Vella noted that Marana dedicates part of its bed tax to trail and open space improvements. Oro Valley may consider a similar approach to fund future trail needs.
- Trail easements required: Much of the well-used trail land north of Big Wash lies on State Trust Land with no public easements. Gaining access will likely require coordination with state and county agencies and possibly purchasing easements.
- Trail difficulty ratings suggested: Board members proposed labeling trails by difficulty, similar to ski runs. Vella confirmed that trail maps will include slope, surface type, and other features to help users—especially families and those with mobility concerns—plan their outings.
- Connectivity gaps identified: Suggestions included creating safer access from the Loop to Catalina State Park, and building a direct connection from Riverfront Park to the Loop—both of which will likely be included in the plan’s recommended actions.
- Volunteer and partner contributions remain vital: The Town has no full-time trail planning staff. Many unpaved trails have been built by developers or volunteers, and that approach will remain important as the system expands.
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