Winfield to present "State of the Town" todayOro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield will deliver his eighth and final "State of the Town Address" today at El Conquistador. Winfield is expected to reflect on the Town’s accomplishments during his eight years as mayor (2018–2026) and discuss the importance of community planning and stewardship for the future. Hosted by the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce, the event begins at 9 a.m. with a business expo, followed by a luncheon and the mayor’s address at 11 a.m. More than 700 business and civic leaders are expected to attend. Tickets are available through the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce. For residents unable to attend, the Town plans to post a video recording and transcript of the speech on its website in late October. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)
A reminder to vote on Proposition 431, Oro Valley’s next General Plan
Early voting is underway for the November 3 general election, when Oro Valley voters will decide Proposition 431, the Town's proposed 10-year General Plan, known as OV’s Path Forward. The plan, developed with more than 10,700 community contributions, addresses future growth, land use, water resources, public safety, transportation, parks, housing, and other community priorities. Voters can review the proposed plan at OVPathForward.com and read the Town's election publicity pamphlet at OVAZ.gov by searching for "Election Guide." Early ballots were mailed beginning October 7. The last day to request a mailed ballot is October 23, the recommended deadline to return ballots by mail is October 27, and in-person early voting ends October 30. Election Day is November 3. Residents can find voting information through Pima Votes or by calling 520-724-4330. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)
Upcoming community events in Oro Valley
This month's Oro Valley Vista newsletter reminds residents of several upcoming community events:
- National Night Out, October 23: From 6 to 9 p.m. at the Walmart Supercenter, 2150 E. Tangerine Road. Activities include K9 demonstrations, helicopters, music, food trucks, prizes, and candy for children. Costumes are encouraged.
- Rockin' 4 Heroes, November 8: A free concert honoring first responders, active military personnel, veterans, and Gold Star families at James D. Kriegh Park, 23 W. Calle Concordia. Gates open at 3:30 p.m., with the concert beginning at 4 p.m.
Heads up, Picklr members!
If you frequent The Picklr at Oro Valley Marketplace or are a member, keep an eye out for changes. Although the local facility is independently owned, the company that franchises The Picklr filed for bankruptcy on October 9. According to Fox Business, the company guaranteed leases for approximately 40 franchise locations, leaving it financially responsible when some franchisees couldn't pay. The company reportedly lost $4.4 million last year on revenues of $10.3 million. The local Picklr relies on the parent company for services such as marketing, technology, training, and operating support. Whether the bankruptcy will affect those services or operations at Oro Valley Marketplace is unknown. The local facility remains open, and no changes have been announced.
Construction begins on new senior living community in Oro Valley
Construction is underway on Vineyard Park Senior Living, a new senior living community at 12380 N. Vistoso Park Road, just east of the existing All Seasons Oro Valley senior living facility. A groundbreaking ceremony was held October 13 for the approximately eight-acre development, which will include a three-story building with 137 assisted living and memory care units, along with 18 independent living casitas. The project, previously known as Oro Valley Assisted Living Community, received Town approval in 2024. The facility is expected to open in March 2028, adding another senior living option in Oro Valley. (Source: Business Wire)
State audit finds millions in uncollected revenue at Oro Valley's new ASDB campus
The Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (ASDB), which recently relocated its Tucson operations to Oro Valley's Copper Creek Campus, is facing serious questions following a state audit. According to a KGUN 9 news report, auditors reviewing operations from 2022 through 2024 found more than $2 million in uncollected revenue and another $2.5 million in potentially recoverable Medicaid claims. The audit also found that as many as 25 students graduated without meeting all requirements and criticized the school's decision to relocate to Oro Valley without adequately assessing the impact on students or obtaining proper approval. Although auditors found no evidence of fraud or criminal wrongdoing, they issued 75 recommendations to improve financial management, educational oversight, and transparency. ASDB says it will address the findings, and the Auditor General plans to review its progress within six months. (KGUN 9 Tucson News)
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