Bits and Pieces

Ciscomani says federal grants for Oro Valley bridge repairs is back on track
During his remarks introducing Mayor Joe Winfield at Oro Valley’s State of the Town Address, Congressman Juan Ciscomani indicated that federal funding for Oro Valley bridge repairs remains active, despite earlier setbacks in the congressional appropriations process. LOVE reported in June that these funds were not included in the latest spending bills, but Ciscomani told the audience that the project has again passed committee review and that he remains committed to securing the funds. He praised Mayor Winfield and town staff for submitting high-quality applications and said he looks forward to “getting that funding down here for those bridges very soon.”

Coming Tuesday: Our Report on Winfield's “State of the Town” Address

Mayor Winfield’s delivered his 2025 State of the Town address to a packed El Conquistador resort ballroom yesterday. His remarks covered everything from new businesses and tourism growth to future annexations and water security.  His message was clear: Oro Valley’s success depends on resilience and forward-looking governance.  We’ll share highlights, insights, and key takeaways from his remarks—don’t miss our full report Tuesday on LOVE.

Today is the last day to share your voice on the latest draft of OVPathForward

Today is the final day to give your feedback on the 60% draft of Oro Valley’s Path Forward 2026 General Plan — the document that will shape how our community grows, invests, and protects what we value most for the next decade. This plan influences everything from how we use our land and water to the types of housing, parks, and businesses that define our town’s future. Your input ensures the plan reflects what matters to you — not just today’s priorities but those of future residents as well. Visit OVPathForward.com and make your voice count before midnight.

Deputy Town Manager Cornelison earns international professional credential 

Oro Valley Deputy Town Manager Chris Cornelison has received the prestigious Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). The ICMA program recognizes local government leaders who demonstrate high standards of integrity, professional competence, and a commitment to continuous learning. Cornelison, who began his career with the Town in 2010 and has since served in several key management roles—including Interim Town Manager from 2022 to 2023—becomes one of more than 1,300 credentialed local government managers worldwide. A University of Arizona graduate with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public administration, Cornelison continues to mentor students as an adjunct instructor and professional advisor to the university’s ICMA student chapter. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Town earns national recognition for financial excellence

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has named the Town of Oro Valley a Triple Crown winner for fiscal year 2024, recognizing outstanding achievement in financial transparency and reporting. The Triple Crown honors municipalities that earn all three of GFOA’s top awards in the same year—the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, the Popular Annual Financial Report Award, and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. Oro Valley has achieved this distinction for 13 consecutive years. Finance Director David Gephart credited the town’s finance team for their professionalism and dedication to maintaining accuracy and public trust through clear, comprehensive financial reporting. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Camp under the stars tomorrow night right here in Oro Valley

Families can enjoy the fun of camping without leaving town this weekend at Family Camping at the Ranch, hosted at historic Steam Pump Ranch tomorrow night. The overnight event includes tent setup lessons, grilled hot dogs, and a movie on a giant inflatable screen, followed by s’mores around the campfire. In the morning, campers will be treated to an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast before packing up. It’s a simple way to experience the outdoors, meet other families, and create lasting memories—no long drive required. Families can sign up for Family Camping at the Ranch through the Oro Valley Parks & Recreation website, PlayOV.com. The event notice in the town’s newsletter includes a registration link labeled “Click here” that directs users to the online registration page. At least one participant must be 18 or older to register and attend. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation email).

- - -

Bits and Pieces

Town partially funds purchase of police facility through release of some general fund reserves

Wednesday, The Oro Valley Town Council unanimously approved the release of some of Oro Valley's General Fund Reserves to pay for the purchase of the new Oracle Road police facility.  The resolution returns brings the reserve from 30% to 25%. Both of these levels are above the historical 20% reserve level under prior administrations. This release amounts to about $2.4 million this year. That amount, by resolution, will be applied to the $3.8 million cost of the building being purchases.

Grants fuel town projects

Grants continue to play a major role in funding projects across Oro Valley. According to the September Town Manager’s report, the Town has recently secured or is awaiting decisions on more than two dozen grants. Awards include $144,500 from Arizona State Parks for accessibility improvements at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve, $25,988 from Arizona Game and Fish for the Naranja Park Archery Range, and over $3 million for the Northwest Recharge, Recovery and Delivery System. Other applications are pending, such as $86,490 from the U.S. Department of Justice for police programs and $80,300 from the Tohono O’odham Nation for interpretive signage at Vistoso. In total, more than $4 million in requests remain under review, highlighting the importance of pending grants in supporting future projects. (Source Town Manager Executive Report To Council, September 2025)

Group formed to advocate for Oro Valley Performing Arts Center

At Wednesday night’s council meeting, Oro Valley resident Tony D’Angelo updated the council on efforts to bring a performing arts center to Oro Valley. He noted that community surveys for the OVPathForward general plan show strong interest, and a recent tourism stakeholder session ranked a performing arts center as its top “big idea.” D’Angelo announced the formation of the Oro Valley Performing Arts Center (OVPAC) exploratory board, a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit with nine local leaders. One board member has already funded a full market and feasibility study by a nationally recognized consultant, which will take 14 weeks to complete. The study will examine financial viability, economic impact, and community benefits, with findings to be shared publicly as the effort advances. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, Call To Audience, September 17, 2025)

Pusch Ridge Tennis event space opens

The Town of Oro Valley celebrated the completion of a new event space at the Pusch Ridge Tennis Facility with a ribbon-cutting this month. The project, finished in just three months, added two large shade structures, concrete pads, bleachers, picnic benches, and artificial turf. Councilmember Elizabeth Robb called the improvements “an investment in Oro Valley’s strong tennis culture,” while Tennis Director Jennifer Fuchs noted the facility has long been central to community life. The space will serve both players and spectators and provide a venue for tournaments, gatherings, and special events (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Council will study new fees and taxes at October 1 study session... State of Town Addess on October 30

At Wednesday's council meeting, Town Manager Jeff Wilkins highlighted several upcoming activities and initiatives. The Community Academy begins October 2 with a nine-class series offering residents a look inside town operations. Council will review proposed new fees and taxes at an October 1 study session, followed by a public forum on October 15.  Wilkins also noted the State of the Town address on October 30, with a free business expo hosted by the Chamber of Commerce from 9–11 a.m. and a ticketed luncheon to follow. (Source Town Manager Report To Council, September 17, 2025)

Bits and Pieces

Grant awarded for ADA improvements at Vistoso Trails
The Oro Valley Town Council approved Resolution (R)25-42 in August, authorizing acceptance of a $144,500 grant from Arizona State Parks to fund ADA improvements at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. The project will cover pathway repairs, new safety signage, and the construction of compacted decomposed granite ADA trails. The Town’s contribution is $8,734.36, or about 5.7% of the $153,234 total cost. LOVE reported on this grant application back in March 2024, and now the funding has been awarded.

YouTuber confrontation moves to Sahuarita...with success

In April, we reported that a “YouTuber” had come to Oro Valley to “bait the cops.” We did not name the individual or their website because we did not want to draw traffic to their site.  That person was at it again—this time in Sahuarita. And this time, however, it looks like it worked. In early August, an incident occurred at the Sahuarita Police Department when the individual was forcibly removed and arrested from a public area by the Chief of Police. This in follow up to what appears to be a terribly botched Sahuarita Police welfare check on a home a year earlier. A video of the arrest incident and of the botch welfare check is available online. 

May 2025 Crime Statistics

Town attorney contract renewed
The Town Council approved Resolution (R)25-35 in August to renew the contract with Mesch Clark Rothschild, P.C. for another year of Town Attorney services. The firm has represented Oro Valley since September 2021, when it was first selected following a competitive process. Since then, the contract has been renewed annually, making this the fourth extension. Under the agreement, the Town pays a fixed rate of $1,025 per council meeting, with additional legal services billed at $200 per hour for attorneys and $120 per hour for paralegals.

School resource officer assigned to Leman Academy
The Town Council approved Resolution (R)25-40, in August authorizing an agreement with Leman Academy of Excellence to assign an Oro Valley police officer as a full-time School Resource Officer (SRO). Leman was awarded a three-year School Safety Program grant from the Arizona Department of Education in 2023 to cover the cost of salary and benefits. The 2025–26 school year is the third year of this grant cycle. The grant reimburses the Town for salary and employee-related expenses, so this does not add costs beyond what is already budgeted.

Another Fiber right-of-way license granted
The Town Council approved Resolution (R)25-38 in August, authorizing a right-of-way license agreement with Ripple Fiber Arizona LLC. The license allows Ripple to install and maintain fiber-optic cable within Oro Valley rights-of-way to provide fiber-to-the-premise service. It runs for an initial 10-year term with three optional five-year renewals. Similar agreements were approved with Wyyerd Fiber and Novos Fiber, making Ripple the third provider licensed since June. Ripple will pay the Town $0.89 per linear foot of conduit installed, with annual reporting to verify total footage.

June 2025 Crime Statistics

Town Manager’s August report to Council highlights Fall start of Naranja MUP and more

The August executive report included several notable updates. The Naranja Drive Multi-Use Path, a $3.99 million project that is 91% grant funded, is scheduled to break ground this fall and be completed by March 2026. The Northwest Recharge and Recovery Delivery System is also progressing, with more than seven miles of pipeline under construction and three recovery wells already drilled. When completed in mid-2026, this project will provide long-term water sustainability for more than 115,000 customers across Oro Valley and neighboring communities. The report also highlighted a record crowd of nearly 10,000 people at this year’s Independence Day celebration. (Source: Town Manager Executive Report To Council, August 2025)

Oro Valley employee guidance is not binding

Did you know that the town disclaims any information you receive in conversation, email, or a meeting with a Town employee? That such information is only preliminary and not binding? That it may not even be correct? According to the town, only a formal written determination from a Town Administrator is official. Staff comments or responses are not the same as legal documents, and the Town says that it cannot be held liable if informal guidance or information is wrong. As a result, you should independently verify information before relying on it. (Source: Town Disclaimer)

- - -

Bits and Pieces

Council approves new police agreement 

Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council unanimously (5-0 Vote) approved a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Oro Valley Police Officers Association. The Council’s vote followed several weeks of behind-the-scenes discussions after negotiations had reached an impasse in early May. While speakers praised the agreement as fair and competitive, the final version of the MOU and its supporting documents were not made available to the public prior to the vote, so no further details can be reported at this time. We reported regarding the various options being consider and will report the final agreement once we receive the materials.

Water rate increase approved—effective July 5

Also Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council unanimously approved increases to the town’s potable water base and commodity rates, effective July 5. The average residential customer using 7,000 gallons per month will see a monthly increase of $1.81, or about 3.6%. The primary driver is a sharp increase in the cost of Central Arizona Project (CAP) water. The Town continues to cash-fund its capital improvement program without issuing new debt, which also contributes to the rate hike. Reclaimed water rates remain unchanged, and the town notes that Oro Valley still offers some of the lowest water rates in southern Arizona for typical residential customers.

Council targets chronic building and litter violations with stronger enforcement tools

And Also Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council adopted Ordinance No. (O)25-03, changing how the Town enforces certain code violations. The ordinance reclassifies issues such as illegal construction, unpermitted electrical or plumbing work, and failure to remove accumulated litter from criminal to civil offenses for initial violations. This change allows Town code enforcement officers—not just police or legal staff—to issue citations directly, making enforcement faster and more efficient. To address ongoing noncompliance, the ordinance also introduces a mechanism to escalate repeat violations to criminal charges after three offenses within 24 months. A new maximum civil fine of $1,000 per day was also established.

Town stays on track to fully fund police pensions

And, once again, Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council unanimously approved fulling funding the town's Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) obligation. The policy is a continuation of prior year policies under Winfield's leadership. The contribuion reflects the most recent actuarial data, showing that the town’s police pension fund improved from 95% funded in FY 2023 to 98.6% in FY 2024. With this year’s additional budgeted contributions, staff expects to reach full funding—potentially exceeding 100%—by the end of FY 2025–26, assuming stable investment returns. The new policy maintains the town’s commitment to responsible, long-term pension funding.

Oro Valley has more than fifty commercial sites available for development
The Town of Oro Valley’s economic development website lists over 50 sites available for commercial activity, including both land parcels and existing buildings. Specifically, there are 19 sites designated for high-tech and bioscience development, some located within Innovation Park’s expedited development zone. Additionally, there are over 30 commercially zoned sites ranging in size from under an acre to nearly 15 acres. These figures encompass both vacant land suitable for new construction and existing buildings available for adaptive reuse. Most of the existing buildings are along Oracle Road. Most f the vacant land is west of La Canada. [See Panel right]. (Source: ChooseOroValley.com )

No congressional funds for Oro Valley in 2026...Overreached in FY25?

Congressman Juan Ciscomani has no community project funding requests for Oro Valley in the FY2026 federal appropriations cycle. That’s a sharp contrast from last year, when he sought $17 million for Oro Valley bridge repairs—a figure that now appears far higher than necessary. According to the Town’s own FY26 Capital Improvement Program, total bridge-related spending over the next ten years is budgeted at just $7.2 million. That includes specific repairs to La Cañada, Rancho Vistoso, and First Avenue bridges, as well as ongoing annual maintenance. (Source)

Red light therapy, juice bars, and high-tech optics highlight May's business openings

Oro Valley welcomed several new businesses this month, with a notable focus on wellness and innovation. Two red light therapy studios—Diviti Adora and Red Light Method—have opened on Tangerine and Oracle, offering treatments that blend fitness with infrared light technology. On the tech side, Transformative Optics brings cutting-edge imaging system development to town, while Talon Analytics offers engineering solutions to Fortune 500 firms. Also new: Oranju, a fresh juice bar, and a branch of Tucson Federal Credit Union inside Walmart. (Source: The OV Edge)

- - -

Bits and Pieces

Council reaffirms OVCN 36-foot height approval

At this past Wednesday’s Town Council meeting, the Council voted to affirm its earlier decision to approve a 36-foot height for the future sanctuary planned by the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene. The reconsideration was brought forward by Councilmembers Robb and Nicholson. After public comment and discussion, the Council ultimately chose not to change course. A full LOVE article analyzing the discussion and vote will follow soon.

HB 2447 limits public hearings in cases where applications meet codified, measurable standards

At this same meeting, former Council Member Solomon, speaking against reconsideration, said that a “new state law just passed which places limits on local elected officials’ reviews and approvals of development plans.” We believe the bill to which he is referring is Arizona House Bill 2447.  The bill was signed by the Governor on March 31, 2025. The bill requires that cities and towns adopt procedures for administrative (staff-level) review and approval of development and design applications using objective, measurable standards. This means that if a proposal meets those predefined standards, it can be approved without requiring a public hearing or discretionary vote by a board or commission. While the bill doesn’t explicitly prohibit public hearings, it shifts more decision-making authority to staff, thereby reducing opportunities for public input in cases that are deemed compliant with objective criteria. (Article on April 21, 2025).

LOVE reporting on the 2026 fiscal budget starts soon

The Town’s fiscal year 2026 budget process is in full swing. We expect the Town Manager to issue his recommended budget later this month. The Town Council will then hold a budget study session on April 30 at 6 p.m. in Town Council Chambers, followed by another session on May 5 at 6 p.m. These meetings are especially informative, as each department manager presents their budget along with an explanation of why their requests are justified. As we’ve done for many years, LOVE will provide detailed analysis as the budget process unfolds.

Highlights from the April town manager report

Each month, the town manager issues a report to Council. This month the report notes that the town continues to move forward on key infrastructure and community projects. The Magee Road improvement project is underway with nighttime work scheduled through mid-May. The Oro Valley Town Court renovation is nearing completion, with a secure prisoner transfer area up next. Pedestrian safety upgrades are also beginning this month in the Marketplace area as part of a prior rezoning condition. The town also saw a sharp increase in traffic enforcement. Officers made 7,144 more traffic stops in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This was described in the report as a “significant increase” and part of a department-wide effort to reduce injuries and property damage from collisions.

Recreation fee increases in process…possible implementation in the fall

Parks and Recreation staff presented proposed fee increases for various facilities to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board this past Tuesday. Most community center membership and facility rental fees—some unchanged since 2013—would rise under the plan. Resident and non-profit users would pay lower rates than non-residents and for-profits. Staff will hold a Zoom community meeting on July 9 to gather public feedback. No action can be taken until the Town Council approves the changes.

The Senate bill referenced during the reconsideration discussion was SB 1162. It was mentioned by Councilmember Nicholson as one of the reasons for bringing the item back for discussion. Nicholson explained that the bill could have implications for how height-related zoning decisions are reviewed or challenged in the future.

Parks and Recreation receives two grants

According to Town Manager Wilkins in his report to the council Wednesday the town's Parks and Recreation staff secured a $30,000 grant to assess the Proctor-Lieber House at Steam Pump Ranch and another grant from Arizona Game and Fish to support a new shade structure for the archery area at Naranja Park. 

10th annual ‘Roundup at the Ranch’ adds 10K distance and afterparty May 17

"Lace up your shoes and get ready to round up some fun! The Town of Oro Valley invites community members of all ages to participate in the 10th Annual Roundup at the Ranch 5K/10K Run/Walk on Saturday evening, May 17, 2025." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

- - -

Bits and Pieces

320 Luxury Apartments designed for Oro Valley Marketplace...First public review next Tuesday
The Oro Valley Planning and Zoning Commission will meet next Tuesday to consider an architectural design for the proposed HSL Encantada 320 luxury apartment complex at the Oro Valley Marketplace. This review is a required step before construction can proceed. The focus will be on how well the proposed architecture aligns with the town’s established design principles and the existing Marketplace design plan.  The site is near the southwest corner of Tangerine Road and Water Harvest Way, placing it in a high-visibility location that will become an important part of Oro Valley’s commercial and residential landscape. While the Town Council approved the Master Development Plan in November 2023, the architectural specifics are subject to separate approval to ensure compatibility and design quality.

Town waiting on larger grants

The Town of Oro Valley is counting on grants to provide significant funding for many of our capital projects. The town has requested more than $22 million in grants in the past year and a half and was awarded a little over 3 million as of the end of February.  About half of the requested grant amount is waiting for approval. One of these is the grant for bridge repairs in Oro Valley.  Another portion is funding for planning of a new police facility. Hopefully, at least some of this money will come through. (Our previous grant status report)

(Phony survey says that) Oro Valley Is America’s Safest and Wealthiest Retirement Town

There "buzz" in town about a survey that claims Oro Valley is the safest and wealthiest retirement community in the United States. It’s even being referenced as people consider the development of 2025 General Plan. The survey was created by a website called GoBankingRates.com.  Our research tells us that this survey really isn't worth much and that it certainly should not be relied upon for town planning purposes.  Here's why.

GoBankingRates.com is a marketing site that publishes surveys and rankings designed to draw attention and generate business leads for financial products like mortgages, credit cards, and retirement accounts. While the survey uses data from credible sources, such as the U.S. Census and Bureau of Labor Statistics, the way that data is combined and weighted is unclear and uses median retirement income rather than true wealth. It ignores factors like home equity, debt, and regional cost of living differences. Add to this the fact that every survey they do looks the same, possibly AI-generated writing. It may be fun to read, but it should not guide serious town decisions.

Kohls closes 27 stores this weekend... Oro Valley spared

Retailer Kohl is closing 27 stores nationwide. Oro Valley is not on the list. Kohls business is "off." The retailer's sales declined 9.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024 and 7.2% for the year.   The company emphasized that these closures are necessary to support its long-term growth strategy.

Bits and Pieces

Former council member supports OVCN height request 

Former Oro Valley Council Member Steve Solomon spoke in support of the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene’s (OVCN) request to increase the height of its new sanctuary during a Planning and Zoning Commission hearing on Tuesday. Solomon emphasized OVCN’s positive impact on the community, highlighting its role in hosting town events and charitable initiatives. He referenced the annual Feed My Starving Children event, where “7,000 local residents came to OVCN to volunteer to package over a million packets of meals for starving children.” Solomon urged decision-makers to focus on facts rather than emotions, stating that the building height request aligns with zoning laws and precedents, adding that “disapproval of this request would require compelling facts solely related to the height.” Solomon, a congregant of the church, was the last audience speaker. Shortly thereafter, the commission unanimously denied the request.

One day, BofA building may be able to display colors on its logo… will Target be next? 

Tuesday, the Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended allowing Bank of America to follow the town’s sign code (Chapter 28) instead of the more restrictive Rooney Ranch Sign Code, which was established in 1998. The final decision now rests with the Town Council when it takes up this matter at next Wednesday's meeting. If approved by the council, the bank will be able to display its official logo colors instead of the current variation. This raises the question—will Target make a similar request? Years ago, Target was denied permission to use its signature red color on the trademark balls at the store entrance.

UPDATE: The town council unanimously approved the Bank of America request. This approval applies to that property only. Other businesses will have to apply for such change on their own if they wish.

Rockin' 4 Heroes 2025 date

The 2025 Rockin’ 4 Heroes Annual Concert will be held during Veterans Day Weekend in Oro Valley. Bands and other concert-related information will be forthcoming. "For now, save this weekend for us and consult our website or Facebook event page. Stay tuned to LOVE, our website and our various social media platforms for updates! We can’t wait to see you again!" (Source: Rockin' 4 Heroes email)

Big bridge repair grant is still in limbo 

Grants are an important source of revenue for the town. We last reported in October that Oro Valley was pursuing significant funding for infrastructure repairs. Not much has changed since then. In his January executive report to the council, the Town Manager noted that the largest of these grants is “…in a waiting period for the Town of Oro Valley Bridge Repair Project.” This grant totals $7 million. Town Manager Wilkins added, “The good news is that our project remains in a strong position for a final Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations bill. However, it is likely we will not have any additional information to share until mid-March.” (Source: Town Manager Executive Report To Council, January 2025)

The grant is sponsored by Congressman Ciscomani, who, alongside Mayor Winfield, publicly celebrated the project’s inclusion in the bill. However, it remains uncertain whether the funding will survive the final approval process. If it doesn’t, the town will need to find another grant source or fund the project itself—a financial burden that Wilkins described as a “big nut to crack.” 

State seems to be a very poor source of economic development leads

In December, the town received one economic development opportunity from the state. According to Town Manager Wilkins:  “Oro Valley was included in state-wide searches by one prospective business in December 2024. The Town was unable to respond as the project was zoned heavy industrial and required rail service.” (Source: Town Manager Executive Report To Council, January 2025). We cannot recall the town receiving any economic development lead from the state in the past two years which was even close to being something suitable for the community. 

- - - 

Oro Valley Police Department: A Year of Safety, Achievements, and Holiday Tips

OVPD's commitment to community safety and gratitude
As the year comes to a close, the Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD) extends heartfelt thanks to the community for its unwavering support. This appreciation spans kind words, meals delivered to the station, artwork from children, and the significant volunteer hours contributed by members of the Citizen Volunteer Assistants Program (CVAP). OVPD acknowledges the essential role of community involvement in making Oro Valley one of the safest places to live.

Recognition as a leading safe city in Arizona
In 2024, Oro Valley was recognized as the second safest city in Arizona by SafeWise.com, based on FBI crime statistics. The town notably held the lowest violent crime rate in the state. This achievement underscores OVPD’s dedication to public safety and reflects its commitment to maintaining a high quality of life for all residents.

Advancements in accreditation and safety programs
OVPD’s Emergency Communications Center reached a milestone by achieving accreditation through the Arizona Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ALEAP), becoming only the second agency in Arizona to do so. The rigorous process, accomplished in under a year, demonstrates the department’s focus on excellence. Additionally, the Dark House Program continues to provide peace of mind to residents traveling during the holiday season by offering regular checks on vacant homes.

Securing grants for enhanced service
The department successfully secured federal and state grants totaling approximately $380,000. These funds supported various initiatives, such as overtime pay, safety equipment, and recruitment efforts. Notably, the grants facilitated traffic safety enforcement and the procurement of ballistic vests, ensuring that budget constraints do not hinder critical services.

Successful community events and outreach
The annual National Night Out at Oro Valley Marketplace, featuring over 50 displays and record attendance of more than 6,000 participants, highlighted OVPD's strong community ties. The department's Community Resources Unit also conducted multiple programs, including Citizens Academies, crime prevention talks, and Dispose-A-Med events that collected significant amounts of unused drugs, showcasing their proactive approach to engagement.

Promoting holiday safety and responsible celebrations
As the holiday season approaches, OVPD reminds residents to stay vigilant against crimes like burglary and purse-snatching, especially in busy shopping environments. The department also urges responsible celebrations, noting that impaired driving poses risks to everyone. OVPD emphasizes that enjoying the festivities safely ensures a happier holiday for all.

But if you are involved in a traffic accident
In the event of a minor traffic accident, OVPD advises drivers to exchange essential information, including names, addresses, vehicle registration numbers, and driver’s license details, as required by Arizona law (A.R.S. 28-663A). It is also important to offer reasonable aid to anyone injured by calling 911. Even for minor accidents, contacting OVPD to document the incident is recommended, as insurance companies often request a police report number during claim processing. In Oro Valley, it is acceptable to call 911 for any police assistance, ensuring that details are accurately recorded and protecting against potential disputes.
- - -

Source: Oro Valley Police Department crime fighter newsletter, November 2024

Will Oro Valley Secure Millions in Federal Grants for Key Projects? Find Out What’s Still on the Line

Town focuses on additional funding sources
During the council’s review of the 2025 budget, Town Finance Director David Gephart highlighted two new funding sources the town plans to explore this year. The first is the potential for increasing fees on various town activities, which would contribute additional funds to the general fund.

Grant funding sought to supplement capital costs
The second are grant funds to supplement the capital fund. Each month, the town manager releases a report summarizing grant funding progress for fiscal year 2025. As of the latest report, the Town has applied for $19.1 million in grants, with $7.6 million declined, $11.2 million still in process, and around $234,000 accepted so far.

Nineteen grant applications
Applications have been submitted to thirteen separate funding sources, with the largest request of $18 million from “Congressionally Directed Spending.” This federal funding is allocated by Congress for local projects, including Oro Valley’s officer safety plan, a police station design, and the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve restoration. These applications are currently under review.

Big LaCañada bridge repair project request denied
One of the grant applications that was denied was for $7.2 million for the La Cañada Bridge at Cañada del Oro Wash. Interestingly, the Town’s capital improvement budget only lists two La Canada bridge projects totaling $3 million: Bridge deck repair and a mill overlay from the bridge to Lambert Lane. 

Possible reasons for grant denial
This grant request was rejected by US Senators Kelly and Senima. (So much for their support of Oro Valley!). No reason was given as to why this grant request was declined. It’s possible that the request didn’t align with federal priorities, as HIP funds typically support high-impact, safety-focused projects on major highways and railway crossings. Large requests often face stiff competition, especially if local matching funds (20%) fall short or the project exceeds program limits.

Two major grant requests are pending

Two major grant requests are still pending: $3 million for a new police station design and $7 million for what the Town Manager describes as “Town of Oro Valley bridge repair.” That grant would cover multiple bridge repair projects in the 2025 budget.

..one a "possibility pending congressional action"

This bridge repair funding was touted as "on target for funding" in September—so much so that Mayor Winfield and Congressman Ciscomani, who is running fore reelection, held a press conference in the median of the LaCanada Bridge on it. Nonetheless, the political landscape in Washington makes getting this grant far from certain. The funding must navigate through the House, the Senate, and finally be signed by the sitting President when it reaches that stage. In this election year, nothing is guaranteed. 

Grants are an important source of funding future capital projects.  LOVE will continue to monitor these grant requests and report back throughout the year on this potential funding source for the Town.
- - -

Article updated: 10/19/24

Bridge Repair Funding... Police Communication Staffing... and Other Good News From the August Town Manager Report To Council

The Town Manager’s Report: A Snapshot of Oro Valley’s Progress
The monthly Town Manager’s "Executive Report To Council" is always very informative. It includes a highlight page from the Town Manager, a bunch of statistics, and a report from each of the major departments. Here is a sample of some of the good news from the August report.

Federal funding received for bridge repair
The town received $685,000 in federal funding for the repair of the Honeybee Wash Bridge on Rancho Vistoso Boulevard. This grant allows for much-needed repairs to begin in Spring 2025, ensuring safe travel for residents. While routine, this type of funding is essential for maintaining the town’s infrastructure and addressing key areas that need attention.

Finally, a fully staffed Police communications civision
Another positive development is that the Oro Valley Police Department’s Telecommunications Division is now fully staffed for the first time since 2019. This marks an important recovery in the department’s operations, which had been strained due to long-term staffing shortages. With a full team in place, the department can now better manage workloads and improve response times, leading to more efficient service for residents.

Progress on Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve
In terms of environmental progress, the restoration of Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve is moving forward with partnerships and funding applications. The town is working with organizations like Tucson Audubon to restore native habitats and control invasive species. Although much of this effort is still in its early stages, it reflects a commitment to preserving the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Successful community events and engagement
Community engagement remains a focal point for the town. The Fourth of July event at James D. Kreigh Park saw over 10,000 attendees, making it one of the year’s most significant gatherings. Additionally, as part of the town’s 50th Anniversary celebration, there are plans to rename West Lambert Lane Park with input from local youth. Events like these show the town’s ongoing effort to bring residents together and create shared experiences.

Oro Valley’s steady progress
Overall, the August report offers a snapshot of steady progress in Oro Valley. With infrastructure projects, staffing improvements, and community-driven initiatives underway, the town is taking measured steps to maintain and enhance its services. While no major changes are taking place, these updates reflect consistent efforts to meet the needs of residents and support the town’s future growth.

- - -

Bits and Pieces

“Lift Plant” Sewer Line replacement in Valley Vista as County sues developer...residents forced to use porta potties and wash stations!

In February, we wrote about subsidence affecting two homes and the sewage lift station in Valley Vista. This development is built on the edge of Big Wash. Two significant events have occurred since then. First, in April, Pima County sued Pulte Homes and all parties involved in building the property in a “placeholder lawsuit.” The suit reminds Pulte that Pulte is responsible for remedying any defects found in the lift station. Second, a few weeks ago, one of Pulte’s subcontractors, Hunter Construction, began replacing the sagging sewer lines in that section of Valley Vista. On Tuesday, residents in the area of the lift station found porta potties and wash stations in the street. There’s one set of these for every two homes. Residents have been informally told they will have to use these facilities until the project is complete. There is no announced timetable for the project’s completion.

FOPRG to focus on water conservation
Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf (FOPRG) are dedicated to enhancing the Pusch Ridge Golf Course while addressing water usage concerns. Over the past few years, the course has grown in popularity, with rounds played increasing significantly from 3,875 in 2019-2020 to an anticipated 19,000 in 2023-2024. Despite this success, the use of potable water remains a challenge.

To tackle this, FOPRG has introduced a new mission focusing on water advocacy. They aim to educate the community on water-saving techniques through newsletters featuring tips, strategies, and events. Additionally, they plan to collaborate with the Town and Indigo to implement water conservation measures, such as reducing turf, using drought-resistant grass, and improving water usage audits. This dual approach seeks to balance the recreational benefits of the golf course with sustainable water management practices. (Source: FOPRG Newsletter)

Red Lobster is no more

Red Lobster closed its Oro Valley location earlier this month. The chain has been facing significant financial challenges nationally, including high lease and labor costs, and substantial losses from promotions such as the expanded all-you-can-eat shrimp deal. Earlier this month they filed for bankruptcy. The company plans to use the bankruptcy proceedings to restructure its finances, optimize its real estate footprint, and pursue a sale of its assets. Despite these challenges, Red Lobster intends to keep some of its locations open and operational during the restructuring process.

Oro Valley Receives Federal Grant for Stormwater Improvements
The Town of Oro Valley's Stormwater Utility has secured $210,990.75 in federal funding for Fiscal Year 2024/2025 through the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs (AZDEMA) and FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. This grant will enable essential upgrades to the box culvert outlet structure on Sierra Wash at Via Mandarina, addressing localized erosion concerns and enhancing community safety and infrastructure resilience.

Town Manager Jeff Wilkins emphasized that the funding will maximize the utility of Stormwater Utility Fee dollars, aiding the finalization of the fiscal year budget. The project, set for completion within FY 2024/2025, will proceed following Town Council endorsement. The federal grant, complemented by a $70,330.25 local match from the Stormwater Utility Fee, highlights Oro Valley's commitment to infrastructure maintenance and proactive risk mitigation. This grant marks the second DEMA allocation for Sierra Wash improvements, following previous funding in 2019. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Courts Remodeling Project on Time… and potentially under budget
Judge Hazel, the presiding magistrate of the Oro Valley Court system, provided an update on the remodeling of the Town court at the TMRB study session last month. Last year, LOVE reported on the need for this remodeling. Nothing has changed regarding that need since then. "We are now entering the construction phase. Phase one includes the attorney meeting room and the jury assembly room. Everything is going as planned, and a year from now, everything will be completed," Judge Hazel stated during a recent Courts Study Session.

Hazel emphasized being a steward of the town’s investment. Total bids for the project came in a million dollars less than planned. "That doesn’t mean it’s going to come in that way. That’s why we have to be vigilant throughout the whole process," she cautioned during the Courts Study Session. (TMRB Council Study Session, May 9, 2024)

Timetable for the Oro Valley Marketplace revisioning “Revealed’
Town staff projects that the hotel to be built at Oro Valley Marketplace will go online in February 2026. They anticipate that the Tangerine Road apartments will be available for occupancy in May 2027, and the Oracle Road apartments will be available for occupancy in May 2029. (TMRB Study Session May , 2024)

Enjoy Disc Golf at Pusch Ridge Course
The town is offering disc golf at the Pusch Ridge Golf Course from 7am to 7pm until September 22.

Bits and Pieces

Barrett and Bohen "get it."  Oro Valley’s stewardship requires balancing the financial impact of buildout and the sustainability of maintaining a maturing infrastructure

In January, LOVE reported on an independent study of the town's financial future. This study focussed on the impact of a "buildout" on Oro Valley's future. That study concluded that the town's budgets will remain sustainable through the expected residential buildout in 2034. However, the projected financial margin is very tight, leaving limited resources for long-term maintenance and unforeseen costs. Then, a few weeks ago, we reported regarding the town's five year financial projection. This was prepared by staff. That report projected that the town will face financial challenges starting in 2026, necessitating at least $11 million in bond funds to cover shortfalls for major highway projects and rising pavement preservation costs. 

The study and the five year projection address different time frames regarding the town's financial future; but both do emphasize the need for careful planning and spending as the town continues to mature. Given what we observed in the two day TMRB study session last week, two council members, Bohen and Barrett, "get it." And Nicolson is not far behind.

Town Grant Update: $18.1 Million in Progress, $213K Awarded

Town Manager Wilkins added a section in his May report to the council. That section discusses the status of grants sought by the town over the past six months. The report lists eight grants in progress, totaling $18.1 million. $213K has been awarded to date. Most of the pending dollars requested are for three public works bridge projects. $4.5 million is sought for public safety, including a $3 million request for the design of a police station. The town will file a $2 million grant request for the Vistoso Nature Preserve revegetation project in the next fiscal year. (Source: Town Manager May Report to Council, page 32)

Town Financial Update through February: Revenues rise, expenditures driven by capital Projects

"The Town continues to perform as expected from a Townwide financial perspective. Total Townwide revenues are up $7,399,890 through February 2024 in comparison to February 2023. Meanwhile, total Townwide expenditures are greater than February 2023 by $6,388,977. Capital is the primary driver of the increase in spending from the prior year, as it accounts for $4,875,207 of the $6,388,977, or 76%. Personnel and O&M also continue to outpace last year’s outflows through February. Total estimated Townwide Fund Balances through February 2024 are $84,981,826, which is about $4.2 million less than the Town carried into the fiscal year. This reduction in fund balance is primarily a function of the large capital projects being executed and the continued spend down of ARPA and Parks and Recreation bond monies." (Source: Town Manager May Report To Council, page 31) 

Let’s hear it for CDO’s… An Arizona sports leader

The Canyon Del Oro High School sports teams have had an impressive year, showcasing their talent and dedication. While both the baseball and softball teams narrowly missed winning the 3A Arizona State Championships this past week, their effort and skill were commendable. Last fall, the football team triumphed, securing the 3A State Championship. Congratulations to all the athletes for their hard work and for being outstanding representatives of Oro Valley. Your community is proud of your achievements and spirit.

Get ready to rock at OV Battle of the Bands, May 17

"This free concert, which runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m., on Friday, May 17, at the Riverfront Park Amphitheater (551 W. Lambert Lane), features three bands comprised of students from local high schools. The bands will bring their musical talents to a live audience with a three-song setlist...Admission to the concert is free and food trucks will be on site with items available for purchase. It is recommended that attendees bring a lawn chair or blanket." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release).