This week, we 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 Dan Karlsberg
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Council Candidate Dan Karlsberg Shares Views on Growth, Finances, and Community Priorities Dan Karlsberg is one of five candidates seeking signatures to get on the ballot for a seat on the Oro Valley Town Council in 2026. In a wide-ranging December interview with LOVE, Karlsberg discussed why he is running, what he sees as the town’s key challenges, and how his professional background shapes his approach to public service.
Longtime resident, financial advisor, and commission chair
Karlsberg has lived in Oro Valley for more than a decade. He and his wife are raising three children, whose educational paths have included both Oro Valley public schools and local private schools. He said those experiences as a parent have shaped how he views quality-of-life issues in the community.
Says timing and family stage make service possible now
Karlsberg said his decision to run reflects timing as much as ambition. With his children older and his business more established, he said he now has the capacity to devote the time required to serve effectively. He described his candidacy as a way to give back to a town he considers an exceptional place to live and to model civic responsibility for his children.
Sees long-term financial planning, growth decisions, and water reliability as key issues
Karlsberg said Oro Valley does not face an immediate financial crisis, but he believes the town must plan now for longer-term challenges. He pointed to the expiration of one-time federal and state funding, the need to balance revenue generation with responsible spending, and concerns about relying too heavily on internal fund transfers. He also cited growth and annexation decisions, economic development, permitting efficiency, and long-term water reliability as issues that require deliberate, forward-looking policy choices rather than short-term fixes.
Committed to supporting public safety
In discussing public safety, Karlsberg said that maintaining strong police and emergency services is a core responsibility of the town: "We are very fortunate to have an incredible, committed police force." While he supports reviewing overall spending for efficiency, he does not view public safety as an area for reduction. He described reliable public safety services as foundational to resident confidence, property values, and economic vitality.
Describes himself as independent and focused on timely decisions
Karlsberg described himself as independent and not aligned with any current political faction. He said he sees value in listening to former and current leaders, weighing different perspectives, and avoiding a status quo approach. His stated goal is to make timely decisions that reflect resident priorities while keeping the town financially sound.
If you want to learn more about Dan follow his campaign on facebook: Dan Karlsberg for Oro Valley. If you wish, you can sign his petition here.
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What you can do next...
We are providing these profiles so that, if you are approached for a signature, you will have some context about the person seeking your support. You are also free sign a petition for a candidate here. All those signing either in person or on line must be a registered voter and a resident of Oro Valley.
What you can do next...
We are providing these profiles so that, if you are approached for a signature, you will have some context about the person seeking your support. You are also free sign a petition for a candidate here. All those signing either in person or on line must be a registered voter and a resident of Oro Valley.
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