Bits and Pieces

2026 Election Update... Five so far... Petition signing begins

As of last Friday, five individuals have submitted statements of interest for positions on the Oro Valley Town Council. Former Pima County Sheriff Mark Napier has filed to run for mayor. Chris DeSimone, a local media personality, is seeking a council seat. Former Councilmember Rhonda Pina, who served for four years on council from 2018-2022, has also filed. Current Budget and Finance Commission member Dan Karlsberg and Jacob Herrington. former member of Planning and Zoning Commission, submitted statements of interest as well. The next step in the process is for each to obtain the required number of signatures to appear on the August ballot. We will let you know as we learn of additional candidates. 

Our plan is to interview each person during the petition-signing period to provide clear, fact-based profiles of their backgrounds, priorities, and reasons for seeking office.

Sunday is the Northwest Chanukah Festival at the Oro Valley Marketplace

Join in the celebration of the first night of the eight days of Chanukah this Sunday at the Oro Valley Marketplace. The event begins at 3 p.m. and will include craft booths and activities, music, food for sale, and free latkes (potato pancakes) and donuts. The Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony and “gelt drop” will take place from 4:30 to 5:00 p.m. We went to last year's celebration. It was family fun for all.

Update: Copper Creek Elementary closing still in the works... Amphi decision may well backfire on District

On Tuesday, the Amphi School District formally advanced its recommendation to close Copper Creek Elementary at its board meeting. The proposal, presented to the governing board, will take effect in the 2026–27 school year if approved. One change has been made since our earlier report: Half of Copper Creek’s students would attend Wilson K–8, and the other half will go to Harelson Elementary.  Harrelson is not even remotely close to Copper Creek. The governing board is scheduled to make its final decision on January 13.  

Families with children at Copper Creek are devastated. Their efforts have to date been ignored. One parent at the meeting said the closure is likely to push more families to seek alternatives outside of Amphi, worsening the district’s enrollment problems. 

Town's December economic development notes Saddlebrook outreach and more...

The Town of Oro Valley Economic Development Department has released an expanded December 2025 update. The provides a more comprehensive picture of ongoing business activity, community engagement and development efforts than previous reports. For examplee, on notable item is the SaddleBrooke outreach. The town received 909 survey responses from residents that detailed their preferences for dining, retail and medical services, along with how they prefer to receive community information. These findings will guide future business recruitment and communication strategies.

Other highlights from the report include progress on multiple business assistance projects, continued growth in restaurant and retail interest, and updated marketing efforts that promote Oro Valley as a regional hub for outdoor recreation and high quality living. The department also noted rising interest from bioscience and technology companies and increased coordination with regional partners to attract new investment.

The lights are in full bloom

The Landoran holiday lights display is now in full bloom, and it’s well worth a visit. As we reported earlier, the show combines synchronized lights, music, and dramatic displays at the western intersection of Landoran and Golf View Drive. The display runs through New Year’s Day, with extended evening hours on weekends. If you haven’t been yet, this is a great time to take a drive or stroll through the neighborhood and enjoy one of Oro Valley’s most festive traditions.

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Community Comments Are Refining Oro Valley’s 10-Year Plan

The latest plan version is ready for your review
Over the past few months, residents read and commented on the first draft of Oro Valley’s next 10-year action plan. Now you can see all the comments received and how they are improving the draft Plan. The Big Community Review Report is available on OVPathForward.com. 

The report includes all 256 comments submitted over the past two and a half months, along with how each was handled in a revised draft of the Plan. Most comments that align with the community’s collective voice were addressed, while others need additional guidance from residents.

Join your neighbors to continue refining the draft 10-year plan
Residents are meeting online this month to discuss key areas highlighted in the BIG Community Review. The goal is to ensure the plan accurately reflects the collective voices expressed in the 10,500+ comments contributed to the draft Plan, or to make necessary refinements.

There will be one more online meeting before the holidays on Tuesday, December 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. During this meeting, the group will review and discuss specific goals within the housing section of the draft Plan. Interested residents can find the meeting agenda and RSVP on www.OVPathForward.com.

2026 is a big year for OV’s Path Forward
The draft will continue to be revised based on discussions from these meetings, leading to a Resident Recommended Draft that will be available next year. This recommended draft will be presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Council in the spring and summer. It will then be placed on the ballot for voter consideration in November 2026.

Please read the BIG Community Review Report and learn about the upcoming meeting on www.OVPathForward.com.

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Oro Valley Begins Work on New State Mandated Housing Program

Town begins reponding to yet another state edict
The State of Arizona has handed Oro Valley yet another housing mandate. This edict (SB 1529) requires every city and town to create a library of preapproved housing designs including single family homes, accessory dwelling units, duplexes, and triplexes that residents may use when building on their property. These plans must be posted online and available beginning in mid 2026. This directive follows other recent state imposed changes to local zoning authority, such as the nondiscretionary approval requirements and the rezoning “shot clock” we previously reported, continuing a trend of the State exerting greater control over how communities manage residential development.

Town begins work to comply by building a “preapproved housing plan library”
In response to SB 1529, Oro Valley staff have begun building the framework for the required preapproved housing plan program. They are drafting a call to designers, creating a dedicated webpage where the plans will eventually be posted, and developing the process guides that residents and builders will need to use the plans. Staff are also studying the City of Tucson’s casita program, which has already implemented a similar system, to understand best practices for formatting, reviewing, and publishing plans. The goal is to have at least three preapproved designs for single family homes and accessory dwelling units available by July 1, 2026, with duplex and triplex models added by early 2027.

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Program offers a quicker, less expensive timeline for residents planning an “ADU”
For current residents, the program offers some practical advantages. Those who want to build a small home, casita, or accessory dwelling unit ("ADU") will have access to professionally designed, preapproved plans that can reduce both design costs and permitting time. The streamlined approval process will make it easier for families to add space for aging parents, adult children, caregivers, or seasonal visitors. Property owners who have long considered adding a guest house or rental unit may also find the process more predictable and affordable. Even residents who never intend to build can benefit from knowing that any new small home or casita must still meet all town codes, neighborhood standards, and, where applicable, HOA rules.

But does have its disadvantages
While the program offers potential advantages, it also brings challenges. The state requires Oro Valley to accept any code compliant design submitted by any designer, which could result in a large number of plans with varying architectural styles and quality. This may complicate neighborhood compatibility reviews and increase staff workload without adding value for most residents. The program is also unlikely to address the broader housing affordability issues the State intends to target, since most lots in Oro Valley are governed by HOAs with strict architectural rules that may prevent the use of many preapproved plans. For residents who live in these neighborhoods, the new program may change little while still requiring time and resources from the town to implement and administer it.

It is unlikely that the program will be used for building subdivisions
Although state law does not prohibit a developer from using these preapproved plans in a new subdivision, town staff made it clear in its discussion with the Planning and Zoning Commission last week that such use is improbable. Oro Valley’s design standards require architectural variety and do not allow rows of identical homes, making the uniform application of preapproved plans difficult. Large builders also prefer to use their own coordinated model home sets, which are designed to offer buyers multiple elevations and interior configurations and to fit a unified subdivision theme. In addition, most new subdivisions are governed by HOAs that impose their own architectural requirements, further limiting the usefulness of the state mandated plans. As a result, the program is expected to serve individual property owners rather than shape large scale residential development.

Some plans to be in place by next July
To meet the state deadlines, town staff will continue developing the components needed to launch the preapproved housing plan library. This includes issuing a formal call to designers, creating the webpage where the plans will be posted, and preparing clear process guides for residents and builders. Staff will also refine the review procedures that must be used to administratively approve any code compliant plan submitted under the program. As these elements come together, the Planning and Zoning Commission will receive updates, and any required code amendments will be brought forward at a future public hearing. The goal is to have the first set of preapproved plans for single family homes and accessory dwelling units available by July 1, 2026, followed by duplex and triplex plans in early 2027.
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Council Steps In: New Attorney Hiring Rules, No Go for Surf-Thru Art

Council acts on two fronts

At last week’s meeting, the Oro Valley Town Council made two decisions that clarify its role in town oversight, one involving how the next town attorney will be hired, and the other affirming the Town’s long-standing rules on public art. Here’s what happened.

Ratifies staff decision: No “Surfboard Art” for Surf-Thru Car Wash
The Council also affirmed a staff decision regarding the public art proposed for the Surf Thru Express Car Wash at the Oro Valley Marketplace. The car wash is under construction and expected to open next spring or summer; however, it cannot receive a certificate of occupancy until its required artwork is approved.

Town staff explained that the proposed artwork [Panel right] did not meet two requirements of the 2007 public art code. One issue, the color of the art, is something the applicant agreed to change. The second issue is more significant. The code prohibits artwork that includes advertising elements, including colors, graphics, logos, or other representations of corporate identity. Staff determined that the proposed panel was advertising, and the Council agreed.

This code requirement may explain why the two large spheres in front of Target are not painted red like those at other Target stores; painting them red would likely be considered advertising under the same rule.

The developer will need to submit a revised concept. 

The broader question remains: Should the 2007 public art agreement between the town and then property owner Vestar be updated given that the Marketplace has a different owner that is transforming it to the Oro Valley Village Center.

 
Takes charge of town attorney hiring process
The Town is in the process of filling the town attorney position. The attorney reports directly to the Town Council. When the Council first authorized the hiring, it agreed to use the same process that had been used to hire Town Manager Jeff Wilkins.

In hiring Wilkins, the Town used a three layered interview process in which executive staff and a community panel provided impressions and recommendations to the Town Council, though the Council retained final decision authority. While the Council ultimately selected Wilkins, word later circulated that he was not the candidate preferred by the non council interview groups. The process was intended to be advisory; however, it created public confusion about who had truly chosen the finalist.

At last week’s meeting, the Council unanimously revised course. Although an earlier motion had inadvertently directed the use of the same three layered approach for hiring the new town attorney, the Council chose a different path. Members agreed to conduct the first round of interviews themselves to ensure what they described as an unbiased and independent evaluation.  Those interviews will take place in Executive Session this Thursday.There will be no community panel. 

Once the Council identifies finalists, a staff panel will conduct interviews and provide written summaries of each candidate’s strengths and weaknesses, without rankings or recommendations. That panel will include the Town Manager, the Human Resources Director, leadership from the Town Attorney’s Office, the Town Magistrate, the Chief of Police, and the Town Council’s outside attorney.

This revised process places the hiring decision directly and clearly with the Town Council.

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Bits and Pieces

Holiday Festival of the Arts this weekend at the Oro Valley Marketplace 

Art State Arizona and the Town of Oro Valley will host the 14th Annual Holiday Festival of the Arts & Tree Lighting Celebration on December 6–7 at the Oro Valley Marketplace. The free two-day event features more than 150 artists, over 500 performers, hands-on activities for kids, festive food, and the community tree lighting at 6 p.m. Saturday. This long-running celebration has grown into one of Southern Arizona’s signature holiday weekends, drawing thousands each year. See the two day event schedule here.

 “Safest City in Arizona” and holiday scams featured in this month's Crimefighter Newsletter

The Oro Valley Police Department ("OVPD") reports that Oro Valley was ranked the #1 Safest City in Arizona earlier this year by security company SafeWise, based on the latest FBI crime statistics showing the town had the lowest violent crime rate in the state. The department credits the community’s support, strong crime-prevention programs, and the work of its officers and volunteers for maintaining the town’s safety record. See the list here.

OVPD is warning residents about a spike in holiday scams, citing a Visa report showing that criminals are using more sophisticated, AI-generated fake shopping sites, package-delivery texts, travel deals, and even bogus charities to steal personal and financial information. Residents are urged to avoid clicking unknown links, verify websites before purchasing, and confirm the legitimacy of any charity before donating. (Source)

Council continues silence on possible Copper Creek Elementary closing
Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council remained silent on the possible closing of Copper Creek Elementary during last week’s meeting. This was the final meeting of the year, so there will be no further opportunity for council discussion before the Amphi School District makes its decision in January. Not one council member suggested adding the matter as a future agenda item.

No residents attended the meeting to voice concern or ask for council support. Perhaps the council viewed the absence of public comment as a reason to do nothing. Still, as we and others reported last week, there are residents who are worried.

We had hoped the council would show some leadership by ensuring those residents are heard and that their concerns are communicated to the Amphi School District before its January decision. We are not alone in that view. “This should have been anticipated and we should already have engaged area residents and at least have some options for addressing this. Unfortunately, not so,” Mayoral Candidate Mark Napier wrote on our Facebook page.

"Lights On Landoran" 

The holiday display and synchronzed musical light show is back at the west intersection of Landoran and Golf View Drive. The display runs nightly through New Year’s Day—6 to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. It's well worth the visit.

Council Member Greene announces that he is "alive and well"

Council Member Mo Greene addressed a "social media" rumor that he was going to resign from council. Greene, speaking at the Wednesday Council meeting, quoted Mark Twain, noting that "the reports of my death are greatly exaggerated." Greene has every intention of completing his term.

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The Oro Valley Historical Society Wishes You Happy Holidays

Happy holidays in Oro Valley
Happy holidays, Oro Valley! We hope you had a thankful and fulfilling Thanksgiving and are ready to enjoy the rest of 2025.

Holidays at the Pusch House Museum
Our current exhibit, Holidays Are for Everyone, is installed at Steam Pump Ranch and ready for visitors. With so many multicultural traditions celebrated this time of year, the exhibit highlights the richness of our area’s history and heritage. The Pusch House Museum is open from 9 a.m. to noon every Saturday in December, except December 27. Volunteers will be on site to answer questions and provide additional information. Tours are self-guided and free, with donations gladly accepted.

Be Our Ranch Guest – December 6
Gift giving is also part of the season, and two nonprofit groups will be at the Museum on December 6 as part of the “Be Our Ranch Guest” program.

The Rotary Club of Oro Valley is partnering with Edge High School, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit eligible for the Arizona Public School Tax Credit. Edge provides an alternative education for students who have dropped out or are at risk of doing so, offering academics and personalized counseling to support student success. Rotary supports Edge students with school supplies, tutoring, field trips, and vocational counseling. They are requesting tangerines, granola bars, assorted single-serve chip bags, and Haribo Gold Gummy Bears.

Gap Ministries will also return with their request for new and unwrapped toys for foster children. Needed items include dolls, books, Lego® sets, ear pods, craft kits, sports balls, games, RC cars, makeup sets and mirrors, fidget toys, and trains.

Walking tours – December 13
On December 13, our naturalist will lead two gentle, hour-long tours of the Ranch at 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. The tour covers plants, animals, geology, and the history of the Ranch and those who lived there. Tours conclude at the Heritage Garden, where winter crops such as lettuce, kale, cauliflower, cabbage, onions, peas, radishes, arugula, beets, carrots, lentils, chickpeas, cilantro, parsley, and spinach have been planted. The walking tours are free.

The holidays are here, and we hope you will enjoy our exhibit, walking tours, the Heirloom Farmers Market, supporting high school students and foster children, and the joy that December Saturdays bring in Oro Valley.

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Council Makes Major Suggestions for the Trails Connect Master Plan

Council weighs in on trails master plan
Several weeks ago, LOVE reported that Oro Valley’s OV Trails Connect Master Plan is now 60 percent complete and ready for public and advisory review. That article summarized the plan’s structure, priorities, and the challenges that remain, including the lack of a dedicated funding strategy and questions about long-term maintenance. Staff presented the same 60 percent draft at the November 19 Town Council meeting. That discussion resulted in several significant Council suggestions that could shape the plan’s next version.

Council wants trails to be a major tourism focus
The most significant theme of the Council discussion was the clear link between trails and tourism. Councilmembers emphasized how important outdoor recreation has become for visitor spending, hotel activity, and Oro Valley’s identity. They encouraged staff to elevate trails and multi-use paths as core tourism assets, integrate them into the Explore OV platform, and ensure that maps and information are easily available in hotels, resorts, and bike shops.

Volunteer programs should support short-term priorities
Councilmembers repeatedly stated that volunteer programs should be treated as a short-term action, not a mid-term item. Oro Valley’s volunteer culture is strong, they noted. Council wants to mobilize residents quickly for tasks such as trail maintenance, mapping, outreach, and small-scale improvements. This direction would shift how implementation is phased in the next draft.

A northern Loop extension toward Saddlebrooke and Biosphere 2 is being studied
A surprising element of the discussion was that Pima County and regional partners are exploring a northern extension of The Loop that could eventually reach Saddlebrooke and even Biosphere 2. Councilmembers saw this as a major long-term opportunity and suggested that the Trails Plan acknowledge and plan for regional connectivity.

Rancho Vistoso Boulevard identified as a future multi-use path corridor
Vice Mayor Barrett highlighted Rancho Vistoso Boulevard as a location where residents already walk and cycle in large numbers. She suggested that the Town consider adding a multi-use path along this roadway to improve safety and enhance connections to Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. This was not in the original 60 percent draft but received support during discussion.

Stronger partnerships needed to legitimize and expand trails
Council encouraged staff to work more actively with HOAs, homeowners, trail groups, and local local businesses to secure legal access for certain “informal” trails. Members suggested preparing a stakeholders-only map identifying where approvals are needed and who might help obtain them. This reflects a shift toward more community-driven trail expansion.

Better integration with mapping and navigation apps needed
Councilmembers suggested that the Town use mapping platforms more effectively, including Strava, AllTrails, and Apple mobility data. They encouraged staff to ensure that Oro Valley trail maps appear in the Town’s Explore OV app and in apps that residents and visitors already use. Better visibility, they said, would improve both safety and tourism value.

Recognize regional mountain biking assets
Some Councilmembers suggested adding references to the 50-Year Trail and other nearby mountain biking areas that, while not located in Oro Valley, draw riders who often stay and shop in Town. They viewed these as regional assets that complement the Town’s own network.

Implementation should emphasize low-cost “quick wins”
Several members pointed to small actions that can be completed quickly, such as better printed maps at hotels and bike shops, trail-day events, and clearer wayfinding signs on existing paths. These short-term improvements were seen as a way to build momentum before larger, more expensive projects begin.

90% version is up next… final version next spring
Staff will use Council’s direction to revise the plan, prepare a 90 percent draft, and share it with the public and regional partners early next year. A final version will return to Town Council in the spring of 2026 for possible approval.
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