Why I am running for Oro Valley Town Council
I am running for Oro Valley Town Council because of my love for the community and to preserve the quality environment that makes it a distinctive place to live and work. I will bring my private-sector and previous Town Council experience when making decisions to ensure long-term benefits to the community.
Experience to address budget challenges
It is widely recognized that the Town is currently facing significant budgetary hurdles. My experience makes me uniquely qualified to assist. Thoughtful leadership actions should be centered on providing the high-quality service delivery that Oro Valley residents have come to enjoy and expect. Currently, I am the Deputy Director for Pima County Community & Workforce Development, which includes oversight of the Kino Veterans Workforce Center. Additionally, I serve on the Tucson Airport Authority Board. Having a 29-year career in commercial and retail banking, serving as a former Oro Valley Town Council member, and participating in civic engagement on regional commissions and Oro Valley boards, I will prioritize public safety, budget accountability, and strategic economic development, as each of these reinforces the others.
We must identify realistic short- and long-term goals that generate revenues to support residents’ needs. Diverse approaches include improving the tax base through tourism efforts that support resort industry partners and increase bed tax revenue, evaluating business opportunities to minimize leakage caused by residents going outside Oro Valley to fulfill their consumer needs, and creating partnerships that allow beneficial and resourceful growth without placing a burden on residents. In tandem, we must reduce expenses where applicable and manage Town debt. Oro Valley has much to offer, and it takes an understanding of how to fiscally align the needs and wants of the Town. My priorities align with that goal and are straightforward.
A record of community-centered decisions
My previous Council experience demonstrates the ability to collaborate within community-centered governance. Supporting and voting for the Oro Valley Hands-Free Distracted Driving Ordinance and the Northwest Recharge and Recovery Project to preserve our water, while supporting fiscal responsibility to deliver quality Town services, are examples of the importance of having Council members with leadership experience. I am proud of my endorsement by AZCOPS, the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs, because of my support for public safety, which provides an economic benefit that aligns with other core services.
Preserving what makes Oro Valley unique
I will continue making decisions and providing oversight that preserves the uniqueness of Oro Valley while providing services and amenities through a fiscally responsible budget. I would be honored once again to serve the Oro Valley community.
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Learn more about Rhonda here.