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Meet Chris DeSimone
Chris DeSimone held a council campaign launch gathering in January. At that time, he shared his thoughts on the community, his reasons for running, and the experiences that have shaped his perspective.A long-time resident
Chris DeSimone has lived in Oro Valley since 1995, when he and his wife moved into their first home in the Copper Creek neighborhood after initially living in Tucson near Swan and Pima. A native of New York married to a New England native, he raised his children in Oro Valley, where they attended Copper Creek Elementary and participated in local youth sports. DeSimone has been active in the community for decades, coaching American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) soccer and helping lead a local team to national competition. Professionally, he has built a career in local media and commentary, hosting a long-running radio and digital podcast program and writing a column for Inside Tucson Business, experiences he says have given him insight into how local government operates.
For years, he had been interested in running but could not do so while working on FCC-regulated radio due to equal time rules. Now that his program is fully digital, that barrier no longer exists. More importantly, his focus has shifted from national politics to local impact. Conversations with residents, particularly seniors concerned about rising costs and affordability, and ongoing debates about development within Oro Valley’s existing footprint led him to believe local decisions were increasingly important. He concluded that working at the town level offered the most direct way to influence issues such as fiscal pressures, growth, and community direction.
Sees fiscal challenges, development tension, and need for efficiency
He expressed concern about growing fiscal pressures, noting that rising costs and property taxes are making it harder for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes, to remain in the community. He also sees ongoing tension around development, with many residents worried about building within the town’s existing footprint. In addition, he highlighted what he views as efficiency issues in town operations, suggesting that costs of government continue to rise even as services must be maintained. Finally, he raised concerns about maintaining public safety and quality of life, especially as crime and social pressures from surrounding areas may increasingly affect the region.
A hands on leadership style
He described his leadership style as hands-on and accessible, emphasizing direct engagement with residents and a willingness to meet people where they are rather than relying solely on formal channels. He said he intends to be visible in the community, holding informal conversations in parks and local businesses and encouraging open dialogue with residents on town issues. He also stressed a commitment to representing all residents, regardless of political support, and believes elected officials should actively experience the community and respond to concerns in real time.
You can learn more about Chris and sign his petition if you wish here.
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