Follow Up: Finance Director Gephart reinforces “lean but balanced” five year financial forecast
Wednesday, we reported that the town’s latest five-year financial forecast maintains balanced operations and reflects a more cautious, scaled-back approach to capital spending, while also highlighting longer-term uncertainties. Wednesday night, at the Town Council meeting, Finance Director David Gephart reinforced that view, describing the forecast as intentionally lean on capital projects to keep the town on a sustainable path. He said the plan is balanced and keeps spending within current means, while cautioning against drawing down fund balances, particularly in the capital fund, which will be needed for future priorities such as the full build-out of the police headquarters. He added that the forecast is a starting point, and any new spending will require adjustments during the upcoming budget process. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)
“ARK Project” promotes acts of kindness among local youth
Also at Wednesday's council meeting, Rabbi Baruch Zimmerman introduced a new community initiative during remarks tied to Education and Sharing Day, announcing the launch of the “ARK Project,” which stands for Acts of Random, or Routine, Kindness. The program centers on small charity boxes that individuals, particularly students, can fill with spare change and later donate to a person or organization of their choice. He said the effort is intended to encourage a mindset of giving, especially among young people, by working with local schools to distribute the boxes in classrooms and homes. Rabbi Baruch emphasized that the initiative is not a fundraiser for any organization, but rather a way to help instill habits of generosity and community contribution. Residents interested in participating or helping distribute the boxes are encouraged to reach out through local schools or community connections involved in the effort. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)
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Town Center GPA proposal returns to public discussion next week
We have had another resident ask about the yellow signs posted at the intersection of Oracle Road and Pusch View Lane. The sign announces a meeting that will take place next Wednesday at 6 p.m. in Town Council Chambers. The meeting concerns a general plan amendment and the rezoning of property donated to the town by the Rooney family. The property is currently zoned for somewhat unusual uses, and no development occurred under that zoning. As a result, the family donated the land to the town. Under the leadership of Melanie Barrett, the town has developed a concept that places commercial uses along Oracle Road, with some housing behind, while preserving much of the property as open space. Here is a link to the town’s information on the rezoning. Here is a link to LOVE’s previous reporting. Wednesday is an opportunity to learn more if you are interested in this property.
Town Easter celebration on April 5
Kriegh Park will again be busy, this time for the town’s annual Easter celebration on Saturday, April 4. This free event features age-based egg hunts scheduled throughout the morning: ages 0–2 at 9:30 a.m., ages 3–5 at 9:50 a.m., ages 6–8 at 10:10 a.m., and ages 9–10 at 10:30 a.m. Families can expect another well-attended community event at one of the town’s most frequently used parks. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)
Resident raises concerns about bright night signage near Vistoso Highlands
Resident Susanna Cameron Crichton raised concerns about lighting from the Centerpoint development near Vistoso Highlands Drive. Speaking at Wednesday's council meeting, she shared that two large illuminated signs along Pebble Creek Drive are affecting nearby homes and the adjacent nature reserve. She described the signs as unusually large and brightly lit, noting that they turn on at dusk and remain visible through surrounding vegetation. According to Crichton, the lighting disrupts sleep for nearby residents despite window coverings and may also impact wildlife in the preserve. She said she previously contacted a town ordinance officer, who reviewed applicable lighting regulations, but still questioned why this level of illumination is permitted when other neighborhoods in Oro Valley use more subdued signage. We don't know what will happen with this, but the mayor did not ask staff to look into it. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)
Former council member questions legitimacy of new traffic signal approved by council at Naranja Park north entrance
Also speaking at Wednesday's council meeting, Bill Garner, an Oro Valley resident of more than 20 years and a former council member, raised concerns about the proposed traffic signal at Tangerine Road and Musette Drive, stating that it does not currently meet established warrant standards. He noted that this would be the second signal pursued without meeting those criteria, referencing the signal installed near the Community Center. Garner emphasized that the town has adopted standards and previously funded studies to guide such decisions, and cautioned against proceeding based on expectations that warrants may be met in the future. He also said nearby residents and the HOA were not notified of the proposal. Garner suggested that future projects include formal confirmation that warrants are met before construction begins and that advance public notice, such as posted signage, be required for major roadway changes. He also applauded Vice Mayor Barrett for abstaining from approving this traffic signal. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)
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