Bits and Pieces

Town issues RTA Next voter information

The Town released a voter-information notice encouraging residents to learn about RTA Next ahead of the March 10, 2026 election. The update outlines the two propositions voters will consider, highlights key project corridors affecting Oro Valley, and provides dates for ballot mailings and a December 10 community Q&A session. The information is consistent with the details reported in our LOVE article Wednesday, and readers who want a deeper understanding of what the RTA’s presentation revealed—including project specifics and clarifications not covered in the Town’s summary—can read the full analysis on LOVE.

Work starts next week on building the Naranja Drive multi-use path

Work on the Naranja Drive Multi-Use Path begins Monday, November 17. Crews will be building a 1.75-mile, 10-foot-wide paved path on the north side of Naranja Drive between La Cañada and First Avenue. The project, managed by ADOT and constructed by Granite Construction, will run through summer 2026 and is designed to improve safety and neighborhood connectivity. Drivers should expect shoulder activity, slow down in the work zone, and follow posted signs. The Town notes that no lane closures are anticipated. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release) 

Town seeking volunteers for key boards and commissions

The Town is recruiting residents to fill several current and upcoming vacancies across eight boards and commissions, and applications will remain open until each position is filled. These volunteer groups play an active role in reviewing development proposals, shaping long-term planning, advising on parks, water policy, finances, and broader community priorities. Residents who want to participate directly in town decision-making can apply through the Town’s website, where details for each board and commission are posted. (Source: Oro ValleyVista) 

Marketplace redevelopment officially underway

The Town reports that construction continues on Phase 1 of the long-planned Oro Valley Marketplace redevelopment, approved in 2023. This first phase includes 320 new apartments, a public park, and pedestrian improvements designed to create a more active, mixed-use environment. HSL Properties and Borderlands Construction are leading the work. Shoppers can expect lane restrictions and detours on Water Harvest Way through 2027, but all Marketplace stores will remain open during construction. (Source: Oro ValleyVista) 

Wednesday's TEP outage disrupted traffic along Oracle Road

A Tucson Electric Power outage Wednesday afternoon affected several areas of Oro Valley, the County, and the City of Tucson. In Oro Valley, power  along and near Oracle Road, was cut off beginning at 2:06 p.m. and returned 4 p.m. The loss of power caused traffic signal malfunctions at major intersections in Oro Valley, prompting the Police Department to remind drivers to treat dark or flashing signals as four-way stops. A TEP update later in the day confirmed restoration efforts and advised customers still without service to check their outside breakers. TEP listed the cause as an “Emergency/Safety Issue,” meaning power was intentionally cut so crews could address a hazardous condition. This type of shutdown explains why multiple outage areas across the region lost and regained service at the same time.

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Get Involved: Volunteer For An Oro Valley Board or Commission

Oro Valley seeks residents to serve on boards and commissions
The Town of Oro Valley is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on one of the Town’s volunteer boards or commissions. These groups give residents a direct way to participate in Town government by advising the Council and influencing decisions that affect the community.

Who can apply
To serve, applicants must be residents of Oro Valley, able to attend meetings as scheduled, and complete the Town’s Community Academy during their term. Applications and more information are available on the Town’s website under “Apply for a Board.” These vacancies will remain open until filled.

Open positions
Current openings include one seat on the Board of Adjustment, which reviews requests related to zoning. The Budget and Finance Commission has two openings for residents with backgrounds in finance, accounting, or business administration. There is also one opening on the Historic Preservation Commission, which works to protect and promote Oro Valley’s historic and cultural resources.

Additional vacancies
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board has one vacancy for a resident interested in parks, trails, and open space planning. The Planning and Zoning Commission also has one vacancy, offering residents a voice in land use, zoning code changes, and General Plan matters. In addition, there are multiple openings on the Stormwater Utility Commission and the Water Utility Commission, which deal with key infrastructure, water, and environmental issues.

Regional representation
Finally, Oro Valley is also seeking a representative to serve on the Pima Association of Governments Environmental Planning Advisory Committee. This regional body reviews and recommends environmental policies and studies that affect communities across Southern Arizona. Serving in this role allows Oro Valley to help shape important environmental planning decisions.

Why it matters to you
Residents who want to contribute to the Town’s future should consider applying. These boards and commissions are where many important conversations begin, and serving on them is a direct way to make a difference in Oro Valley.

Apply here

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(Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Bits and Pieces

"Crimefighter" focuses on internet safety for kids

This month's edition of "Crimefighter," a publication of the Oro Valley Police Department, focuses on internet safety for kids. The article provides a list of internet use guidelines for you to share with children and a list of basic guidelines for parental supervision. The article includes links for additional safety tips and videos. You can read the entire newsletter from the link we have provided.  You may want to sign up for "Crimefighter" and other Town of Oro Valley publications.

Aquatic Center Reopens

"The Oro Valley Aquatic Center has reopened after a temporary closure in December for improvements to the pump room, circulation and filtration, along with general maintenance and cleaning. The previous pool filters had reached the end of their useful lives and were replaced with modern, deep-bed filters. Although not noticeable to the eye, these filters allow for finer filtration to ensure a high standard of water quality for swimmers. To accommodate for the size of the new filters, the Aquatic Center’s pump room plumbing was expanded to the east. This new area will soon be enclosed and resulted in no loss of deck space for the public." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

OVCN is on a "mission"

This past Sunday, Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene minister Chris Collins informed congregants that the Planning and Zoning Commission had not approved the Church's rezoning request.  Collins expressed his disappointment but emphasized his resolve to turn this setback into a victory.  OVCN sees their request in entirely religious terms. The defeat of the measure by the commission was based on the commission's conclusion that the sports complex which will sit on the property adjacent to the church is simply not suited for the character of the neighborhood of which it is a member. It also is not suited to the 2016 General Plan. The next hearing on the request is March 1. We expect a large turnout.

OVCN-A matter of perspective for some

A long dialogue on Nextdoor voiced poster opinions on the OVCN rezoning request. One of the posters included a map [panel right] to support their assertion that the size of the OVCN sports complex will be small in relation to the size of the "existing high school, park and swim complex." That is correct. However, it's not relevant to the rezoning request.

What we found interesting was the picture the commenter posted. The picture they posted is the one on the bottom right of the panel. It severely visually understates the impact on the adjacent neighborhood, as show on the picture on the top, because it includes a very small portion of the residential area. Even the map on top, which is the one the town uses, understates the area impacted.  There are many homes to the south and further west that are concerned about the impact.

 

We have to give the commenter credit for deceptiveness. The map is rather clever way of implying that the rezoning is a not "big deal".

Oro Valley issues call for Board and Commission Vacancies

The Town of Oro Valley is accepting applications from residents who are interested in serving on a Town Board, Commission or Health Care Benefits Trust, which was just recently approved by Council. These volunteer groups provide an opportunity for residents to be active in Town government.  These are:

• Health Care Benefits Trust
• Historic Preservation Commission
• Planning and Zoning Commission 
• Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee
• Public Safety Personnel Retirement System Board

You can apply here.

Council approves drive-thru use for NW Corner of Naranja and La Canada

This past Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council voted 6-1 to approve a drive-thru use for a multi-use facility that will be built on the NW corner of Naranja and LaCanada. The drive-thru use had been opposed by some residents because it will increase traffic at an already busy intersection.  Paul Oland, representing the applicant, pointed out that the uses for which the property are currently approved would result in even more congestion than his client proposed. Read about that project here.

Shannon Road pavement and reconstruction project begins Feb. 21, drivers should expect traffic delays 

"The Town of Oro Valley will begin the Shannon Road pavement and reconstruction overlay project on February 21. During construction, Shannon Road from Lambert Lane to Naranja Drive will be limited to one lane of traffic with speed reduced to 25 mph. Drivers should expect delays. Please see details below. The project is expected to finish by April 14." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Oro Valley Seeks To Fill Four Board and Commission Vacancies

Town seeks to fill four vacancies

Want to make a real difference in our community? Then apply for one of the following openings on a Town of Oro Valley voluntary board or commission. 

There are four vacancies
Historic Preservation Commission has one open position
Council Member Steve Solomon is the council liaison to this commission. "The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) promotes the education, cultural and economic welfare of Oro Valley. The HPC works to preserve historic buildings, districts, landmarks, structures, documents and photographs. The commission has one open position that serves a three-year term. The HPC meets on the first Monday of every month at 5 p.m."

Planning and Zoning Commission has one open position

Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett is the council liaison to this commission.  "The Planning and Zoning Commission has one open position that serves a two-year term. The commission holds public meetings and makes recommendations to the Town Council on matters relating to the General Plan, zoning code amendments, rezoning’s and other land use requests. The Planning and Zoning Commission meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m."

Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee Representative has one open position
"The Town of Oro Valley provides a representative to be part of a joint committee that acts as the official advisory body on bicycling matters in Pima County and the City of Tucson. The Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee meets at 6 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month."

Public Safety Personnel Retirement System Board has one open position
"The Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) board has one open citizen position that serves a four-year term. PSPRS is governed by State guidelines. The local PSPRS board was created to provide a uniform, Consistent and Equitable statewide retirement program for public safety personnel who are regularly assigned hazardous duty in the employ of the State of Arizona or a political subdivision of the state. The Public Safety Personnel Retirement System board meets at 2 p.m. on the second Tuesday every other month."

How to apply

"To serve on any board, commission or committee, members must be residents of Oro Valley, be able to attend the designated meetings and complete the Town’s Community Academy within their term. Those interested in applying can visit the application process” by visiting the following this link.

(Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release 1-18-23)

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Bits and Pieces

Town seeks applicants for volunteer commissions

"ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Sept. 27, 2022) – The Town of Oro Valley is accepting applications from residents who are interested in serving on a board, commission or committee. Oro Valley boards and commissions provide an opportunity for residents to be active in Town government. 

To serve on any board, commission or committee, members must be residents of Oro Valley, be able to attend the designated meetings and complete the Town’s Community Academy within their term. Those interested in applying can visit the application process on our website."

The following are fourteen openings: 

• Budget and Finance Commission (3) 
• Historic Preservation Commission (1) 
• Parks and Recreation Commission (3) 
• Planning and Zoning Commission (2) 
• Stormwater Utility Commission (1) 
• Water Utility Commission (3) 
• Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee Representative (1)

(Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release)

Oro Valley Police Sergeant Sanchez cited for leaving the scene
"ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Sept. 28, 2022) - Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD) Sergeant Jose Sanchez was cited by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) for leaving the scene of a collision stemming from an off-duty incident on September 6, 2022. In order to avoid interfering with the investigation, OVPD was not able to advise the community until the criminal investigation by the PCSD was complete.

Inquiries regarding the details of the criminal investigation should be forwarded to the PCSD. In addition, there is an ongoing administrative investigation to determine whether any policy violations occurred. OVPD would like to thank PCSD for their professionalism throughout the investigation.

Chief Kara Riley stated “OVPD is committed to complete transparency and is now able to advise the community of this incident. The trust of our community is vitally important to us, and we will always strive to maintain that trust.” (Source: Oro Valley Police Department Press Release)

Oro Valley Town Council to retain a search firm to identify the next Town Manager

The Oro Valley Town Council met in special session Wednesday to agree upon a process for finding a new Town Manager. This became necessary when former Town Manager Mary Jacobs resigned last Friday.  The town will select among three firms using the "cooperative contract process". The cost of the search is yet to be determined. The search will be nationwide. Chris Cornelison is is now the interim town manager.  The Town Council will be integrally involved in the process.

In a press release this morning, the Mayor provided the following comment: "“We are grateful for the many years of leadership that Ms. Jacobs provided, and we wish her well in her future endeavors,” said Mayor Joe Winfield. “My fellow councilmembers and I have directed Town staff to work with a recruiting firm to conduct a nationwide search for our next Town Manager. We are committed to casting a wide net to ensure we find a quality candidate to carry on the great work of the Town in the years ahead.”

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Town of Oro Valley Seeks Applicants For Volunteer Boards and Commissions

The following is an opportunity for those of you who have the time and want to serve our community.

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ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (May 2, 2022) –– The Town of Oro Valley is accepting applications from residents who are interested in serving on a commission or committee. To serve, members must be residents of the Town of Oro Valley, be available to attend the designated meetings and be committed to completing the Town’s Community Academy within their term. These positions will remain open until filled. Those interested in applying can visit the application process on our website. The Town of Oro Valley has the following vacancies open:

Historic Preservation Commission-Three vacancies

Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) members serve three-year terms. The commission was formed to promote the educational, cultural and economic welfare of Oro Valley by ensuring the preservation of historic buildings, districts, landmarks, structures, documents, photographs and other artifacts that represent the historic background and development of the greater Oro Valley area. The commission meets on the first Monday of every month at 5 p.m.

Pima Association of Governments Environmental Planning Advisory Committee - One vacancy

The Town of Oro Valley provides a representative to be part of the Pima Association of Governments Environmental Planning Advisory Committee (EPAC). The committee provides technical review and develops recommendations on environmental plans, studies, reports and programs to the Pima Association of Governments management. Every year, the committee recommends a key list of environmental issues likely to be of note for the region during the coming year. EPAC meets four times per year or as needed.


Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee Representative – One vacancy
The Town of Oro Valley provides a representative to be part of a joint committee that acts as the official advisory body on bicycling matters in Pima County and the City of Tucson. The Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee meets at 6 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month.

(Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

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Town of Oro Valley Seeks To Fill Board and Commission Vacancies

Oro Valley seeks to fill various board and commission vacancies
ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Jan. 10, 2022) –– The Town of Oro Valley is accepting applications from residents who are interested in serving on a board, commission or committee. Oro Valley boards and commissions provide an opportunity for residents to be active in Town government.

To serve on any board, commission or committee, members must be residents of Oro Valley, be able to attend the designated meetings and complete the Town’s Community Academy within their term. Those interested in applying can visit the application process on our website.

The following boards, commissions and committees have openings. These positions will remain open until filled.

Budget and Finance Commission
The Budget and Finance Commission (BFC) has one open position. BFC members serve two-year terms. The commission advises Town Council on policy-related issues related to the financial operation of Oro Valley, including review of the Town Manager’s recommended budget and review of the Town’s annual financial audit. A background or experience in accounting, finance, banking, investments or other related business administration is required. The commission meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) 

....has three open positions. HPC members serve three-year terms. The commission was formed to promote the educational, cultural and economic welfare of Oro Valley by ensuring the preservation of historic buildings, districts, landmarks, structures, documents, photographs and other artifacts that represent the historic background and development of the greater Oro Valley area. The commission meets on the first Monday of every month at 5 p.m.

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB)

... has two open positions. PRAB members serve two-year terms. The board acts in an advisory capacity to the Town Council in matters pertaining to parks and recreation, park design, open space and trail use. The board meets at least four times per year at 6 p.m.

Planning and Zoning Commission The Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC)...

has one open position. PZC members serve two-year terms. The commission holds public meetings and makes recommendations to the Town Council on matters relating to the General Plan, zoning code amendments, rezoning’s and other land use requests. The commission meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m.

Water Utility Commission The Water Utility Commission (WUC)

... has one open position. WUC members serve three-year terms. The commission members advise the Town Council on issues related to water policies, water rates, water resources and water conservation. The commission meets on the second Monday of every month at 5 p.m.

Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee Representative The Town of Oro Valley 

...provides a representative to be part of a joint committee that acts as the official advisory body on bicycling matters in Pima County and the City of Tucson. The Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee meets at 6 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month.

PAG Regional Transportation Authority’s Environmental Planning Advisory Committee Representative 

The Town of Oro Valley provides a representative to be part of the Pima Association of Governments Environmental Planning Advisory Committee (EPAC). EPAC provides information and coordinates among jurisdictional and other members, to advise the Management Committee and Executive Director on regional environmental planning issues. EPAC meets four times per year or as needed.

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(Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release 1-10-22)

Oro Valley Seeks To Fill Seven Volunteer Board Positions

Town seeks seven volunteer board members

Oro Valley has been blessed with residents who are active in the community. One way residents do this is as an appointed member of a Town of Oro Valley volunteer board or commission. (“Boards”). There are seven open positions on six of the town’s seven volunteer boards (see panel).

Candidates do not need to have prior experience

...in the board’s area to be selected as a member. What one does seem to need is volunteer experience. That’s our interpretation based on the application one completes for the position. Indeed, the town stated qualifications for board membership don’t even list that. What they do list are three things: “…must be residents of the Town of Oro Valley, be available to attend the designated meetings and be committed to completing the Town’s Community Academy within their term.”

 .. but experience would be valuable to the individual and to the town
Though prior experience seems to not be a requirement, it would be very helpful for the individual to have. This is because the discussions can be technical. How does an individual sit on the budget and finance committee without understanding finance? How does one even begin to understand a zoning code change request passing through the Planning and Zoning Commission without any prior knowledge of zoning requirements? How valuable could their input be?

Time commitment varies
The town press release states that there are monthly meeting requirements for each board. This is true of some boards but not all. To date, the town’s boards have met 44 times for a total of about 61 hours. The number of meetings and time commitment per meeting for each does vary so you will want to consider that in deciding which Board you would like to join. We’ve prepared the table at right with pertinent information regarding the boards and the openings.

Could be a "stepping stone"

A board position is a way to become familiar with the town and the challenges it faces. Many of those who have served on town council have also served on a board. Vice Mayor Barrett, for example, was a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Mayor Winfield worked on special assignments for the Parks and Recreation Commission.  Board membership is also a way to get to know one of the current members of town council. A council member serves as liaison to a board.

Community Academy "included"

With the commitment to join the board comes a requirement that the new member attend the "Community Academy" at some time during the term of office if they have not already attended it. The academy is a multi session briefing on all aspects of town operations. It is worth attending even if one is not going to apply for a board seat.

Read the town's press release on the board openings here. Apply for a position here.

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Town Council: New and Old Go "Toe To Toe"

11 new faces on 5 Oro Valley commissions
The Oro Valley Town Council appointed 11 new members to five of its boards and commissions at last week's town council meeting. This represents a sea change by bringing fresh insight and energy from Oro Valley's citizen involved community to town affairs.

Favoritism no more
This contrasts sharply with the Hiremath years. During those years, the town eliminated the Art Review Board, The Conceptual Design Review Board, and the Bond and Finance Commission. These totaled "...19 citizens that were removed from being involved in our community," according to Mayor Winfield, in his remarks during last week's council meeting.  In addition, that council eliminated term limits on boards and commissions, assuring virtual life-long appointments for those who were favored by them.

December council decision reinstated commission term limits
Mayor Winfield observed that the decision to return to board and commission term limits at the December 5 council meeting was a return to a policy that had been successful prior to the Hiremath council changing it.

"The intent of restoring term limits was to open the door to citizen involvement." In just one month, the policy change has increased citizen interest in serving on boards and commissions: 42 applications for 13 positions.  This is a marked increase over recent past years when people were discourage from applying to a board or commission because they knew that close allegiance to the Majority-4 was a requirement and because many of those serving were reappointed.

One year too many
At the meeting, Vice Mayor Barrett, in the spirit of increasing community involvement in town affairs, recommended a new member for Planning and Zoning Commission, rather than reappointing Commissioner Hitt to a sixth year of service. She felt that this is far too long given an objective of increasing community involvement in town affairs.

Rodman: We met the goal of increasing involvement 
Council Member Rodman, the liaison to the commission, responded. He and town planner Bayer Vella had selected Hitt for reappointment on the basis that he is experienced.  Rodman felt that the three new appointees to the commission reflected the demographics of the community and added diversity to the commission. "We recommended two women to be on the commission, who are also family demographic." He also felt that Hitt's reappointed reflected the "...younger family demographic."

Rodman asserted that, Hitt, a former Pima County Planner, brings experience to the board that is lacking in the three new appointed members. In addition, he pointed out that the two remaining members, both of whom are experienced, will be "turned out at the end of the year."

Rodman: Term limits should not work against experience 
Rather than focusing on this specific appointment, Rodman then revisited the December 5 decision on term limits.

"To me, I'm disappointed" that people can not serve beyond their current term, even though they are qualified. "That does not make sense for the future of the town. Our job was to select the most qualified candidates. Our job was not to worry about politics and political promises."

Rodman and Pina supported reappointment
Council Member Solomon, speaking in what appeared to be a prepared remark, proffered his support of reappointing Hitt. Tomorrow we will report Solomon's comments since they became noteworthy because of their accusatory nature.

"It's really hard for me to understand how we can bring on three new people and not allow one experienced person stay on board to help them get up to speed," Council Member Pina noted. Pena was not correct in this statement because there are two members continuing on the Planning and Zoning Commission. Thus, they can help the new members.

Winfield: 18 new faces "I have great confidence in."
Mayor Winfield observed that tonight's appointment of 11 new commission members, the future appointment of five people to the budget and finance commission, plus the future appointment of two vacant seats on the Historical Preservation Commission will bring total number of new citizen involvement to 18 people! "These are people that I have great confidence in."

The council approved the proposed board and commission members on a 4-3 vote. Pina, Rodman and Solomon stated that they approved of all the appointments. However, they voted no to express displeasure that Hitt was not reappointed.

You can watch the council discussion via this link.

Bits and Pieces

OV Public Art Tours Return For 2014-15 Season

Oro Valley, Arizona (October 17, 2014) - This fall marks the return of Oro Valley's guided public art tours, which take place on the third Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. This FREE, two-hour tour begins and ends at Oro Valley Town Hall. Seating is limited, so reservations are required. Reservations can be made online at www.orovalleyaz.gov and click on the Arts & Entertainment link.

Due to the increase in development and construction, there are several new public art pieces that art enthusiasts will enjoy. The tour will also include stops at the impressive public art collections at Oro Valley Marketplace and Oro Valley Hospital.

Are you interested in hosting a large group? Special art tours may be reserved for groups of 8-10 people. Please contact William Vicens, economic development specialist at wvicens@orovalleyaz.gov or call 520-229-4758.

(Source: Town Of Oro Valley Press Release)
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Town Of Oro Valley Has Many Volunteer Commission and Board Seats Open

The Town Of Oro Valley is seeking candidates to fill the following volunteer Board and Commission openings:

• Historic Preservation Commission
• Parks and Recreation Advisory Board 
• Planning and Zoning Commission
• Stormwater Utility Commission
• Water Utility Commission

Visit this link to learn more and to apply.  November 4 is the deadline for applying.

(Source: Town Of Oro Valley Press Release)
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Town's Report Shows Not Much Happening On Oro Valley's Economic Commercial Development

The Town Of Oro Valley has issued its October commercial economic development report. Though there is little new reported, it is interesting to scan through the businesses that are operating in Oro Valley.  Did you know, for example, that "Spirit Halloween" is located in the Oro Valley Marketplace?  Sounds like a good place to visit before October 31.
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Oro Valley Crime Statistics

The Oro Valley Police Department has issued Oro Valley's latest crime statistics.  What do you think is Oro Valley's #1 major crime in terms of number of incidents?

1. Residential Burglary
2. Larceny (Theft)
3. Aggravated Assault
4. Homicide

You tell us by posting a comment.

We'll give the answer as a comment on Monday.

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Bits and Pieces

TOWN SEEKS TO FILL VARIOUS APPOINTMENTS

The town is looking to fill seats on 2 voluntary committees.  Read our posting on appointments to Oro Valley's Board and Commissions before applying.

"ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (June, 2014) - The Town of Oro Valley is accepting applications from local citizens who are interested in serving on a Board or Commission. Terms of office require that members be residents of the Town, be available to attend the designated meetings and be committed to the completion of the Town's Community Academy within their term.

The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) has one (1) open position. HPC members serve three-year terms. The HPC was formed to promote the educational, cultural and economic welfare of Oro Valley by ensuring the preservation of historic buildings, districts, landmarks, structures, documents, photographs and other artifacts that represent the historic background and development of the greater Oro Valley area. HPC meets on the first Monday of every month at 5:00 p.m. at Town Hall.

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) has one (1) open position. PRAB members serve two-year terms. The PRAB acts in an advisory capacity to the Town Council in matters pertaining to parks and recreation, park design, open space and trail use. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at Town Hall." (Source: Oro Valley Press Release)
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3 Memory Care Facilities To Open In Oro Valley 

This link will bring you to an article that summarizes the 3 memory care facilities that are currently under construction in Oro Valley.
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Metropolitan Grill Closes..Chuy's To Open... But In A Different Location

Don't be going to Metropolitan Grill. It closed last week.  Read about it here.  Meanwhile, the latest Oro Valley Economic Commercial Project Status Report lists Chuy's Mesquite Broiler going into the Capin Car Wash Center on Oracle. That would be the fourth restaurant in this location. The other 3 never had sufficient business so survive.
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Celebrate July 4 In Oro Valley

The Town will host July 4 events at Kreigh Park.  Events start at 5:30 PM. Fireworks are at 9PM.
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Family summer passes and great programs at the Oro Valley Aquatic Center

"Oro Valley, Ariz. (June 4, 2014) - Summer's hot. We're cool! Join us at the Oro Valley Aquatic Center this summer for programs, classes and events to suit all ages and abilities. Looking for discounted rates for the family? Purchase a discounted summer family pass, valid now through August 10, 2014. Oro Valley residents pay just $155 for a family up to six people. A non-resident family pass is $180. Click here to view our summer flyer.

Need a place to party? The Oro Valley Aquatic Center is the perfect place to hold your summer birthday party, special event or corporate meeting. Visit us online to find out more about renting all or part of the facility.

Summer programs, classes & events:

• $5 Friday Family Nights 
• Amphibious Athletes Summer Camp 
• Infant survival swimming lessons 
• Red Cross certification classes 
• Reiki-In-The-Water SCUBA diving classes 
• Splash N' Dash Race Series 
• Swimming lessons - group and private Teen Nights Water aerobics and Pilates classes Year-round youth and adult swim teams"

(Source: Oro Valley Press Release)
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High Visibility Enforcement (HiVE) June Deployments - Oracle Road at Magee and Suffolk

ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (June 2, 2014) - The Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD) will continue with its High Visibility Enforcement (HiVE) efforts during the month of June on Oracle Road at the Magee and Suffolk intersections. OVPD hopes to increase awareness and reduce collisions related to inattention, following too closely and failing to yield to other drivers. The Pima County Sheriff's Department (PCSD) will continue to participate and support the education/enforcement efforts.

OVPD and PCSD will deploy motorcycle officers on the following dates:

• June 11, 2014 4 - 7 p.m. 
•  June 17, 2014 7 - 10 a.m. 
•  June 24, 2014 4 - 7 p.m.

(Source: The Oro Valley Police Department Press Release)

Summarily Dismissed: A Story Of The Politics of Oro Valley Voluntary Board and Commission Appointments

We have suspected for some time that appointment to Oro Valley Voluntary Boards and Commissions can be arbitrary and political.   We know, for example, that it is far better to be recommended to a board or commission by a council member than to apply "cold."

We suspected this based on observing that Commissioner Cox has remained on the Oro Valley Planning and Zoning Commission despite using his position to criticize elected officials.  He should have been removed, but he is the the political ally of the Majority-4.

We suspected this based on the dismissal of Oro Valley resident Gil Alexander from a board because he asked too many questions. He is not an ally of the Majority-4.  Read: "The Fix Was In."

Such is life in the "big city" that Oro Valley is becoming.

Town Council discussed the process of selecting members of Oro Valley's Boards and Commissions at the May 7 council meeting.  Council Members Hornat, Snider and Waters  defended the current process.  Their defense of the process confirmed our suspicion.

These are the only town stated qualifications for being on a volunteer town board or commission.

"To serve on a board or commission, members must be residents of the Town, be available to attend the designated meetings and be committed to the completion of the Town’s Community Academy within their term."

Before you rush to apply, recognize that you need much more than what has been stated to serve on a board or commission.  You really do need an "in.

Each board or commission has a town council member as a liaison.  As stated by Council Member Garner at the May 5 council meeting, council liaisons should not be involved in the interview process. (Meeting marker 3:20:08)  Their participation biases those on the selection committee, whomever that may be, to "please" the liaison.

But, the liaison does participate in the interview process and their participation is significant.

It was Council Member Hornat's discussion of the recent process of filling vacancies on the water commission that affirmed this.  Watch his brief discussion of the process.

As he states, he participated in the review of the applications.  As Council Member Hornat explained at the council meeting: "There were 17 applications." Working with Bob Milkey, "We threw out 7 or 8. Some of those were for good reason. There were obviously or potentially conflicts of interest with their employer and what they had done in the past." (Source: 3:25)

Apparently, when they had done in the past includes being critical of a council member.

We know of an individual who applied for an opening on the water commission.  The individual was most surely qualified to serve on the commission as the individual had water rate making and water operations expertise.  The individual is also very current on Oro Valley operations. The individual has also completed the Citizen's Academy.  The individual was most certainly worth of consideration. The individual had not conflict of interest.   The individual submitted an application, expecting to be interviewed.  The interview never happened.

Why?

Hornat notes that some applications were thrown out for good reason.  We see no "good reason" for not even considering this individual.  Rather, we think that this individual was not considered for political reasons.  In this instance, this individual has been critical of Council Member Hornat's actions in the past.  Council Member Hornat knows this individual.  It appears that Hornat made sure that this applicant was never considered.

The "no thanks" letter sent by the town said: "Thank you for taking the time to apply for a position on the Water Utility Commission with the Town of Oro Valley. Although you were not selected at this time, we appreciate your willingness to serve the community."

Not selected?   Heck.  Not even considered.

Such is life in the "big city" that Oro Valley is becoming.
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Are Oro Valley's Board and Commission Members Really Amateurs?

Last week, we were corresponding with one of our readers. That person observed that "..way too many [Oro Valley board and commission members] have lived here too short of a time, and have never expressed an interest in local goings on.... [Oro Valley] winds up with a pretty amateurish group. That results in [town] staff having more control and influence, which is not what they want, but need to fill-in."

We thought this was an astute observation.

It made us ask: Just what are Oro Valley boards and commissions about?  Are they amateurs?

Oro Valley's Boards and Commissions
Oro Valley Has 9 boards and commissions. 55 individuals serve on these. They are volunteer position. There is no pay.  All but one, the Board of Adjustment, has advisory power.  The Board of Adjustment has judicial power.

In some instances, the job of members of a board or commission member is to be a sounding board for the department they serve.  In other instances, it is to vet recommendations to town council for actions to be considered.  So, these boards and commissions do matter as they are a means of providing citizen input into the governing process.

Council Interface
One council member is appointed to serve as liaison to the board or commission.  They are a conduit of information. They attend the meetings and provide council feedback to from the board or commission if needed.

Appointment Process
Membership to a board or commission starts with a notice to residents of a position being available. We post these as does the town. There are currently two open positions.  Those interested are asked to complete an application. They submit this application to the town clerk's office who log it in.   This is a relatively pain-free process.

Those who apply then meet with selected members of the current board or commission and several members of the department which is serves.   This meeting is focused on questions to the applicant. Those selected are notified. Those who are not selected are also notified. This latter notification notes that their application will be kept on file for 2 years if the applicant wants to apply for another board or commission opening during that time. Those selected are approved in the consent agenda of a town council meeting.

Training
"All new board and commission members get training specific to their board, including training in the Open Meeting Law. Each board and commission gets training on an annual basis. This training is Board specific."(Source: One of our bloggers)

Requirements
To our knowledge, the qualifications for being a board or commission member are unwritten.  The requirements for membership vary from one another.  Generally, the requirements are rather sparse.  For example, the current opening for the CDRB states that: "To serve on a board or commission, members must be residents of the Town, be available to attend the designated meetings and be committed to the completion of the Town's Community Academy within their term." It does not require, for example, that an individual have any knowledge or experience in an area.

Public Vetting
To our knowledge, there is no public vetting of the selection of a person to a board or commission.  By this we mean that the public is not involved in the process of providing insight to the commission on those who apply.
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Our Analysis

Some of those who serve on Oro Valley's boards and commissions are qualified for the job.  By this we mean that they:

1. Have experience in the area in which they will serve
2. Have the ability to remain independent from political or special interest
3. Have been residents of Oro Valley for a sufficient resident timeframe to represent all of its citizens.
4. Have demonstrated an interest, through past history, in being active in town governance.
5. Have the time and will devote the effort to serve and 
6. Are respected in their community.

Some, however, do not meet these standards.   This is because these are our standards. You may think of other standards.  

The town's standards are, as we've noted, rather sparse.

The reasons behind an appointment are never revealed. The reason for a decline is never revealed. Every appointment is completely based on vague standards. Every appointment can be influenced.

We have found that some of those appointed have been previously solicited to apply.  They have been given an inside track.  Therefor, the open solicitation for that position is not really open at all.  The others who apply, those who were not solicited, are simply wasting their time.

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The result of this is that some members of Oro Valley's boards and commissions are amateurs; that they really do not possess the requisites to provide effective, independent input to the town; and that, because of this, they do not represent the people.  Consequently, their decisions should be questioned.

What do you think?

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