Bits and Pieces

Arizona Heroes Memorial Celebrates Kuwait Liberation Day Tomorrow at 1pm

The Arizona Heroes Memorial at Naranja Park will host a ceremony tomorrow commemorating Kuwait Liberation Day. Since 1991, the United States has maintained a strong partnership with Kuwait, evolving from military liberation to ongoing cooperation in regional security. Hosted by VFW Post 12222 of Oro Valley, the event honors the courage and sacrifices made during the liberation of Kuwait, a small but strategically important nation in the Middle East. The ceremony offers residents an opportunity to recognize those who fought for freedom and to reflect on the enduring values of liberty and alliance. 

County suggest you mail your RTA Next election ballot by next Tuesday

The Pima County recorder's office suggests you mail in your RTA Next ballot by next Tuesday.  We are not sure why since the official election day is March 10. You can also drop of you ballot at various locations downtown. There is no convenient Oro Valley location for drop off.

Pima County Mail In "Envelop" requires raises privacy concerns 

Concerns have emerged over Pima County’s mail-in ballot system, where the design of the return “envelope” may create opportunities for fraud. Critics say the format could make it easier to manipulate ballots or compromise voter verification. This is because the ballot affidavit you sign requires your legal signature and is the back of the mail- in envelop.  There is also a line for your phone number. However, your phone number is not required and you can leave it off.  Be sure to mark the space with a line of you choose to do so.

There is a workaround:  You can put your completed mailer in manilla envelop and mail it to the address on the envelop. We were to to use the zip of 85702 instead of the one on the envelop. Of course, you will do this at your cost.

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Commemorate 9-11 Thursday At The Arizona Heroes Memorial

 

Bits and Pieces

Traffic delays expected on Ina at Westward Look today

Drivers should expect traffic delays today at the intersection of Ina Road and Westward Look Drive due to traffic signal repairs. Westbound Ina will be reduced to one lane with a 25 MPH speed limit, and periodic full stops will occur during crane operations. Oro Valley Police will direct traffic while the signal is offline. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes and allow extra travel time.

Nine Month Results: Town finances remain stable with a caution

Town staff reported at Tuesday's Budget and Finance Commission meeting that Oro Valley’s financial position remains strong through the first nine months of the fiscal year. Revenues—including sales tax and recreation income—are generally meeting or exceeding budget, while most departments continue to manage expenses at or below expected levels. Staff credited conservative budgeting and a healthy local economy for these results, but cautioned that slower revenue growth may be ahead, reinforcing the need for continued prudent financial management.

Nine Month results: Community Center Fund surplus grows as golf revenues exceed budget

Tuesday, The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board received an update on the nine-month financial results for the Community Center Fund and municipal golf. Staff reported that both areas are performing well above expectations. Membership and program revenues are exceeding budget, golf rounds and revenues remain strong, and overall expenditures are on track or below budget. As a result, the Community Center Fund is now projected to end the year with a significant surplus, growing the fund balance to an estimated $2.3 million.

Staff sees progress toward golf self-sufficiency...possibly freeing funds for other recreation activities one day

Also at this meeting, staff reported that municipal golf operations are now generating an operating profit, thanks in part to strong membership growth and efficient management. Since the town took ownership ten years ago, about $29 million in half-cent sales tax has been collected to subsidize golf and the community center, with cumulative operating losses and major capital investments totaling about $19 million ($10 million each for losses and capital). Now, things may be changing. Staff noted that the next step is to use these operating surpluses to fund ongoing capital improvements, reducing the need to rely on the half-percent sales tax for golf’s capital needs. As golf operations move closer to full self-sufficiency, staff emphasized that more sales tax revenue will be available to support other parks and recreation projects across Oro Valley.

Honor America's Heroes Monday

Memorial Day is more than just a day off—it’s a time to remember and honor those who gave their lives in service to our country. Join the community on Monday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Arizona Heroes Memorial in Naranja Park for a special remembrance event. The ceremony is free and open to all.

OVPOA: Delay in police MOU discussion a good thing

According to Chris Knapp, representative for the OVPOA and FPO (Fraternal Order of Police), removing discussion of the possible wage agreement between the town and OVPOA from last night's council agenda is a good thing.  Knapp noted that there have been discussions with council members and staff and that good progress has been made. Knapp thinks a compromise is at hand.  A new MOU will be presented for approval at the June 4 council meeting.

Vella provides added insights into the Trails Master Plan
On Tuesday, LOVE provided an update on the Town’s Trails Master Plan study. That evening, Town Planning Manager Bayer Vella offered additional insights during a presentation to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, expanding on several key areas:

• Funding may be key: Vella noted that Marana dedicates part of its bed tax to trail and open space improvements. Oro Valley may consider a similar approach to fund future trail needs.
• Trail easements required: Much of the well-used trail land north of Big Wash lies on State Trust Land with no public easements. Gaining access will likely require coordination with state and county agencies and possibly purchasing easements.
• Trail difficulty ratings suggested: Board members proposed labeling trails by difficulty, similar to ski runs. Vella confirmed that trail maps will include slope, surface type, and other features to help users—especially families and those with mobility concerns—plan their outings.
• Connectivity gaps identified: Suggestions included creating safer access from the Loop to Catalina State Park, and building a direct connection from Riverfront Park to the Loop—both of which will likely be included in the plan’s recommended actions.
• Volunteer and partner contributions remain vital: The Town has no full-time trail planning staff. Many unpaved trails have been built by developers or volunteers, and that approach will remain important as the system expands.

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It's a Wrap! Top Stories of 2024

Top five stories of 2024

2024 was a busy year in Oro Valley. Here us out cut at the top five stories. 

1. Celebrating 50 years of community and growth
The Town of Oro Valley commemorated its 50th anniversary throughout 2024 with a series of events that highlighted the community’s history and spirit. The celebrations included a vibrant parade on April 6, featuring over 90 participants from local schools, community groups, and businesses, along with a spectacular fireworks display on April 13 at James D. Kriegh Park. Additionally, on April 27, the town hosted the “50 Trees for 50 Years” community tree planting event, where residents gathered to plant 50 trees across four locations, enhancing the town’s green spaces. The Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce also launched the “50 Businesses for 50 Years” Shop OV campaign, highlighting 50 local businesses throughout the year to encourage community support and economic growth.

2. Robb and Murphy elected to council
In the 2024 Oro Valley Town Council election, two new council members were elected by a vast majority of votes, reflecting strong community support. Elizabeth Robb, a local business owner, and Mary Murphy, a longtime resident and community advocate, bring fresh perspectives to the council. Their addition is expected to influence upcoming decisions on key community issues, including development projects, public services, and fiscal policies. Residents anticipate that the new council members will prioritize transparency and community engagement, ensuring that the voices of Oro Valley citizens are well-represented in the town’s governance.

3. The OVCN’s onslaught on Oro Valley’s historic neighborhood took a new turn
The Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene (OVCN) put its plan to build a massive sports complex on hold, at least for the moment. However, that plan is not dead; it’s simply on hiatus. Instead, they are now pursuing the addition of new facilities to their campus, substantially increasing their footprint. The latest effort is to ask permission for buildings of greater height than currently exists. As we wrote yesterday, it’s a continuing cycle of misery for the residents. This saga will continue into 2025.

4. Another year of nothing for the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve
The Town Council did lots of talking about the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. There was much discussion about plans to do something. The council even agreed to “do something” only to learn that one of those plans — repurposing the abandoned pond into a “desert garden” — was an unattractive alternative. Residents noticed this, and the council temporarily paused the approved plan to take another look at the water feature instead of a desert garden. More on this in 2025. In the meantime, the preserve looks like an abandoned golf course.

5. "OVPathForward" moves forward big time
The town made progress this year in creating its 2026 General Plan, called “OV Path Forward.” A draft vision and guiding principles were developed with the input of thousands of residents. The next step is to flesh out the details around these principles. Working groups will tackle this in 2025.

Honorable mention

There were some other notable happenings this year:

• The fourth annual Rockin’4Heroes concert was a huge success.
• The town implemented an 8.3% increase in water rates, while continuing to use thousands of gallons of water on recreation facilities, earning the LOVE Water Waster Award for the fourth time.
• The town council adopted a $151.2 million budget.
• Oro Valley celebrated the opening of Naranja Park.
• The Arizona Heroes Memorial at the park was dedicated.
• The town ended its contract with Visit Tucson and took over its own destination marketing program.
• The Town Council rejected the tiny homes project in Rancho Vistoso.

And on a sad note
Rick Messina, a well-liked groundskeeper at the Pusch Ridge Golf Course, tragically died from a bee attack in July. Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf raised almost $10,000 to help Rick’s parents.

It was indeed a busy year in Oro Valley.

We suspect that 2025 will be just as busy.

Happy holidays to all.
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Bits and Pieces

Arizona Heroes Memorial dedication is tomorrow
The Arizona Heroes Memorial will officially open on tomorrow, marking a major milestone in honoring veterans, first responders, and healthcare workers. The ribbon cutting ceremony is at 11am. This initiative began with resident Dick Eggerding, a dedicated Oro Valley volunteer who envisioned the memorial in 2015. Supported by community leaders and volunteers, the project secured 2.58 acres at Naranja Park, with initial fundraising efforts in 2017 bolstered by key sponsors. Despite challenges, including delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the project gained renewed momentum with new leadership and strong partnerships. The groundbreaking took place in February 2023, with over 300 attendees. The Memorial now stands as a testament to community spirit, resilience, and gratitude, inviting ongoing support and pledges to honor loved ones and maintain this symbol of sacrifice.

Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf need your help
FOPRG is focusing on two initiatives this year: water use advocacy and adaptive golf. This supports their mission to “connect the community through the game of golf.” The water advocacy effort includes gathering data and reaching out to homeowners to encourage conservation. The adaptive golf program targets individuals with physical challenges, inspired by a special golf cart shown at a recent event. Significant fundraising will be needed to support this due to the high cost of the equipment. Click this link if you would like to help: (Source: FOPRG media release)

BizTUCSON features Oro Valley’s growth and thriving economic future
BizTUCSON, a quarterly business magazine showcasing Southern Arizona’s economic landscape, recently featured Oro Valley in its summer edition, written by freelance writer and former Chamber of Commerce President Dave Perry. The articles highlighted Oro Valley’s 50 years of growth from a small bedroom community to a thriving economic center. With a commitment to public safety, quality education, and ample community amenities, the town has attracted major employers like Roche Tissue Diagnostics and Simpleview, as well as a dynamic range of small businesses. The Oro Valley Marketplace is set to transform into the “Oro Valley Village Center,” adding new hotels, apartments, and retail spaces to further enhance local commerce. The town’s proactive leadership continues to create an inviting business environment, solidifying Oro Valley as an ideal place to live, work, and grow. (Source)

Oro Valley secures grant for historic house assessment
The Town of Oro Valley has been awarded a $30,000 grant from the Arizona State Parks’ Historic Preservation Heritage Fund for a Historic Building Condition Assessment (HBCA) of the Proctor-Leiber House at Steam Pump Ranch. The HBCA will document the current state of the 1930s house, aiding future conservation and restoration plans. The assessment’s total cost is $50,000, with the town contributing $20,000 from its Grants Fund. This is the final structure at Steam Pump Ranch awaiting such an evaluation, essential for its potential future use. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Council approves Starbucks drive-thru at Tangerine and Innovation Park Drive
Last week, the Oro Valley Town Council discussed two key items related to a proposed office and restaurant development, including a drive-thru coffee shop near Tangerine Road and Innovation Park Drive. The council considered a text amendment to allow access to the coffee shop from Tangerine Road and a conditional use permit for the drive-thru. The property, part of the 1987 Rancho Vistoso PAD, was rezoned in 2008 for commercial use and later included in the Economic Expansion Zone (EEZ). After analysis, including traffic and noise studies, the council approved both items unanimously, affirming compliance with zoning codes and the town’s general plan.

Bits and Pieces

Update on federal grants
A few weeks ago, we reported on Oro Valley's efforts to secure significant funding for public works projects.  We noted  in the article that our grant request for repairing the La Cañada bridge was rejected. We have since learned that the rejection was due to the highly competitive nature of the grant process, with more projects requested than available funding. Senators Sinema and Kelly did secure $685,000 in federal funding for the Honey Bee Wash and Bridge Project, which is scheduled to begin next year.

Oro Valley Marketplace Revitalization  construction to begin in spring
According to a reliable source, progress should start this spring at the Oro Valley Marketplace. Town West plans to start construction on the Hampton Inn and Suites, with hope to begin building the 320 apartments on Tangerine Rd. this summer. The plans for the Hampton Inn and Suites are currently under staff review, and a pre-application meeting has already taken place regarding the Tangerine apartments.

More good news at the Marketplace
There’s also a new tenant in process in the Oro Valley Marketplace: A pickleball and fitness center. Town West has shared that much more is expected in 2025, including the rebranding of the marketplace to "Oro Valley Village Center." They hope everyone in Oro Valley will continue to support the stores, shops, and restaurants.

Free shred event tomorrow
Oro Valley residents are invited to a free document shredding event on Saturday, November 2, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Oro Valley Marketplace (11785 N. Oracle Road, south of Fork & Fire). The event, sponsored by the Town of Oro Valley, the Beacon Group, and the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce, will provide onsite shredding to help prevent identity theft. Services will be available until noon or until the trucks are full. For details, contact Jessica Hynd at jhynd@orovalleyaz.gov or 520-229-4711. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Traffic Alert: Lane restrictions on La Cañada begins Monday
Starting Monday, the Town of Oro Valley will begin road improvements on La Cañada Drive between Lambert Lane and Rancho Verde Drive, scheduled on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. through November 15, weather permitting. Lane restrictions will reduce traffic to a single lane in both directions, likely causing delays, so drivers are encouraged to use caution, share the road with cyclists, and consider alternate routes. This project, part of Oro Valley’s Capital Improvement Projects, includes utility adjustments, asphalt replacement, and new striping. For information, contact ask@orovalleyaz.gov or Jessica Hynd at 520-229-4711. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Arizona Heroes Memorial ribbon cutting on November 16
There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Arizona Heroes Memorial at Narnaja Park on November 16 at 11 a.m. Yesterday, in his State of the Town address, Mayor Winfield encouraged everyone to attend and salute our veterans, active military, first responders, and healthcare workers.

Oro Valley resident Lisa Bayless invests in Oro Valley through community support
Lisa Bayless, real estate agent at Long Realty for 17 years, is deeply invested in her Oro Valley community. Beyond her successful career—totaling over $500 million in sales—she started the “Community First” program seven years ago, which dedicates a portion of each commission to local causes. In celebration of Oro Valley’s 50th anniversary and her own milestones, Bayless donated $120,000 this year alone, bringing her seven-year contribution to over $500,000, with 90% staying within Oro Valley. She is a resident of Oro Valley and is enthusiastic about our community.
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Bits and Pieces

Hardy Road to close for Carmack Wash improvement project March 27-31 

"ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (March 22, 2023) – The Town of Oro Valley is announcing road construction on Hardy Road between the Northern Avenue roundabout to Calle Loma Linda from March 27 – 31 to address erosion within the shoulder areas at the low flow water crossing of Carmack Wash. The section of road will be closed from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. during construction." Hardy Road between the Northern Avenue roundabout to Calle Loma Linda will be closed. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Winfield asks: "Does Sun City really need street lights?"

Town staff is budgeting to replace circuit three street lights in Sun City. Mayor Winfield, however, wonders why the town should continue to provide a street light service to Sun City. It is, after all, the only place in town that has street lights. Winfield asked this question at the CIP study session last week. The answer: Maintaining those lights was part of the agreement when the town annexed Sun City 45+ years ago. Perhaps, though, time to re-examine that.

Asphalt costs skyrocket...increasing road costs... and we will pay more for roads

The cost of asphalt, like the cost of everything else has skyrocketed, according to Oro Valley Director of Public Works, Paul Keesler. More costly asphalt comes at a bad time, as several Oro Valley major roads will need replacing over the next few year.

One of these Rancho Vistoso Blvd.  (Source: Keesler remarks to council at CIP study session of May 15, 2023).

Roads are paid from the Highway Fund. The gas tax which town gets from the State funds that fund.  When the highway fund is short of money, funds are transferred from the Capital Fund. That fund get its money from the General Fund. Thus, we may all be paying for at least some portion of road costs in the future.

Crooks can be very creative

"On Feb. 20, OVPD Detectives arrested a suspect involved in organized retail theft. The case originated from the Oro Valley Neighborhood Walmart in January 2023 when the suspect would scan items, use a credit card that gets declined and then leave with the merchandise. There were 10 cases with five different agencies and about $2,445 in total losses. The suspect is facing charges of organized retail theft/burglary/aggravated shoplifting/ fraud/trafficking in stolen property, and computer tampering."

(Source: Town of Oro Valley Town Manger Report, March 2023, p2)

Pusch Ridge Golf rounds ahead of plan

Pusch Ridge Golf rounds are pacing ahead of last year, according to Tony D'Angelo, President of Pusch Ridge Golf speaking to the Council in the Call To Audience section f last week's Council meeting.

 "We are confident that rounds will exceed the Town budget for total rounds for the season before the end of this month." This, as Tony noted, despite the area's uncharacteristic cold and rainy winter. 

Tony attempted to remind the Council that the town is committed to maintaining the land in a manner commensurate with a resort regardless of whether it is a golf course.. As a result,  the town needs to include some investment in the land even if the Council chooses to close the court in two years. No such costs are included in the Town Managers tentative 2023-2033 Capital Improvement Program.(Source: D'Angelo remarks to Council on May 15, 2023 and email to LOVE).

Tony's group created an advertisement that runs on the Golf Channel.  You can watch it at left.

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Bits and Pieces

Historical Society fundraiser on February 19

The Oro Valley Historical Society will have a fundraising event on Sunday, February 19 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Oro Valley Country Club. Author Wynne Brown will give a presentation on her book, “The Forgotten Botanist – Sara Plummer Lemmon’s Life of Science and Art”. Find out how this intrepid woman climbed to new heights (Mt. Lemmon)! Tickets are on sale at the Oro Valley Historical Society (OVHS) website. Look for the red ticket on the home page. You can also purchase tickets at the OVHS booth at the Farmer’s Market at Steam Pump Ranch (10901 N. Oracle) on Saturday from 9 to Noon. Ticket sales CLOSE Wednesday, February 15. We hope to see you at the Pusch House Museum and we thank you for your support!

Tucson Bicycle Classic: March 3-5

"The Town of Oro Valley is pleased to announce a partnership with Tucson Bicycle Classic, a three-day stage race March 3 – 5, which will bring a circuit race to Oro Valley on March 5, from approximately 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Oro Valley race route will be around Naranja Park and is expected to bring about 600-700 professional riders. 

The race route/circuit around Naranja Park is just over four miles long, and riders will complete that route up to seven times, providing spectators an excellent opportunity to view these athletes in action multiple times. The race will begin and end near the entrance to Naranja Park (810 W. Naranja Drive), with various viewing areas along the route. Please see map [above] for suggested locations. On event day, Naranja Park will be closed to all vehicles except to the racers." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Arizona Heroes Memorial groundbreaking February 28

The Arizona Heroes Memorial is going to happen. The groundbreaking is Tuesday Feb.28th at 11am at Naranja Park. Seven long years and it's finally coming to fruition! You can read more about the memorial here. 

Click on panel at left on how to attend.

Sunday is "Super Sports Day at Pusch Ridge Golf"

This Sunday from 11am to 3pm there will be food and live and televised sports for your entertainment at Pusch Ridge Golf.  Blacktop Grill food truck will sell quesadillas, hotdogs and Mexican street corn. The Pusch Ridge Pro Shop will be selling soda, margaritas and beer. Oro Valley Girls Scout Cadette Troop #157 will have their famous Girl Scout cookies for sale. You can watch live or televised sports throughout the day and watch action-packed tennis on El Conquistador’s courts as the USTA Junior Nationals, level 2 Tennis Tournament play. The Pro Shop plans to televise the Waste Management Phoenix Open and some of the Super Bowl pre-game activities.

New short term rental ordinance now in effect; licensing deadline is May 5

"ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Feb. 7, 2023) – On Jan. 4, the Oro Valley Town Council approved an ordinance establishing rules, regulations and licensing requirements for short term and vacation rentals (e.g. Airbnb, VRBO, etc.). The ordinance went into effect on Feb. 3; however, understanding that some individuals may need time to become familiar with the licensing process, Town Council allowed for a 90-day implementation period during which time the ordinance will not be enforced. The deadline to register short term rental properties is May 5, and enforcement of the ordinance begins May 6." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release) Click here to begin the registration process.

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A Heroes Memorial Of Which We Will All Be Proud

Arizona Heroes Memorial

Residents of Oro Valley are working to create the "Arizona Heroes Memorial." The memorial [panel below] will be located at Naranja Park. The site is on the hill on the left as one drives into the park from Naranja. 

A living memorial

The goal is that the site will have tours and presentations "...given by educators and/or leaders providing a rich history of services and heroes past and present. This living memorial provides the visitor with a conscious connection with the site as it commemorates Veterans, First Responders and Healthcare workers." (Source)

Funding from contributors

The memorial is funded by private donations and sponsors.

The goal this year is to raise 2022 capital campaign initiative to raise $2.5 million. This will facilitate the oversight of the building of the monument and expanded education and outreach programs.  Monies that were raised at the recent "Rockin'4 Heroes" event at Kreigh Park will be used this purpose.

You can help

Make this dream a reality by donating to http://azheroesmemorial.org/