Out With The Old. In With The New.

Out with the old. In with the new.
Tonight marks the dawn of a new era for the Oro Valley Town Council. Two new members will be seated. Two former members, both of whom have created controversy during their years on the council, will be gone.

An Era of Peace?
We expect this to be an era of peace, at least for the next two years. That’s when four seats on the council, including the mayor’s seat, will be up for reelection.

Reflections on Past Councils
This is the first time we can recall a council this peaceful. The councils chaired by Mayor Paul Loomis were full of characters who liked to argue with each other. It was actually quite funny. The councils chaired by Mayor Hiremath were marked by ongoing efforts by some majority members, led by Council Member Solomon, to target the three council members who didn’t agree with them. They were constantly harassed and bullied. Add to that the fact that one of those council minority members was continuously focused on the police department. It’s never a good idea to go after the police department in Oro Valley.

A Calmer Council Outlook
For at least the next two years, there will be no wrangling on the council. There will be no harsh words among council members. Nothing negative will be said about Town staff. There will be no “points of order” used by one council member, Solomon yet again, to harass Tim Bohen. There will be lots of seconding by Council Member Mo Greene. And we suspect many more bland council topics produced by a very passive Town Manager who, a year ago, replaced a town manager with an aggressive agenda shaped by the previous administration.

New Members Ready to Serve
The two new council members, Elizabeth Robb and Mary Murphy, are “ready to go.” They are both interesting people with very different backgrounds. They'll bring fresh perspectives to this council. Both have been attending introductory meetings with Town staff. These meetings are designed to familiarize them with all facets of Town operations. We recently spoke with both of them, and their level of enthusiasm is high. They are starting their four years on the council with open minds.

Wishing Them Well
We can only wish them well.

We hope they don’t step on any land mines.

Shake Up the Council: Massive Undervoting Signaled Strong Support for Newcomers

Most voters cast only two, and not three votes
In the 2024 Oro Valley Council election, the vast majority of voters made a deliberate choice: Instead of voting for the allowed three candidates, 70% chose to vote for only two. The two candidates they overwhelmingly supported were Mary Murphy and Elizabeth Robb, who together received 4,800 more votes than incumbents Tim Bohen and Mo Greene. This gave them a significant 30% voting advantage in a four-person race. It’s likely that some voters paired Greene with Murphy or Bohen with Robb in their selections, but most decided not to cast their third vote.

Demonstrating a desire for new leadership
The clear message from voters in 2024 was: "We want fresh thinking on the council." Although incumbent Mo Greene was re-elected, it seems to be more due to the availability of an additional seat and a lack of a strong newcomer opponent rather than strong voter support. Greene received nearly 2,000 fewer votes than either of the two newcomers, suggesting that his presence on the council is more a result of circumstance than a strong voter mandate.

Golf Course stance cost Bohen the election
Greene narrowly defeated Bohen by 556 votes, with 542 of those votes coming from the three precincts around the town’s municipal golf courses. Bohen, known for his critical stance on the financial transparency of the town's golf operations, evidently lost support in these areas. However, his position didn’t gain him additional votes elsewhere in the community, indicating that most voters are indifferent to the golf course issue. This outcome highlights a key lesson from this election.

A shift in voter sentiment from the 2022 Election
The 2024 Council election results are a stark contrast to those of 2022, when voters clearly supported the continuation of the current council's direction by re-electing the three incumbents—Barrett, Nicolson, and Jones Ivey—with a 4,700-vote plurality, an 18% advantage in a six-person race. The number of ballots with less than three council votes in the 2024 election was notably higher, with 70% of voters opting not to use their third vote, compared to just 15% under-voting in 2022.

The new members will be seated on council in early November.

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Editor Note: An “undervote” occurs in an election when a voter selects fewer candidates than the number allowed for a particular race. For example, if voters are permitted to choose up to three candidates but only select one or two, those unselected slots are considered undervotes. The undervote is calculated by subtracting the total number of votes cast for all open positions from the total number of votes that could have been submitted. In our analysis, we divided that number by the number of ballots cast to determine the percent of ballots that contained less than three votes.  

Mary Murphy’s Vision for Oro Valley: Ensuring Fiscal Sustainability

Insightful perspectives directly from the candidates 

This is the last part of our series on the Sun City Candidate Forum held on June 12. Last week, we wrote about Mo Greene's council goals. Tuesday and Wednesday we featured the thoughts of Elizabeth Robb and Tim Bohen.  Today we feature the thoughts of Mary Murphy. For personal reasons, Murphy was not at the forum. So we asked her the questions asked the candidates. These are her responses.
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Mary Murphy’s vision for Oro Valley is one of fiscal sustainability, transparency, and community engagement, ensuring that the town’s unique character and quality of life are preserved while fostering sustainable growth and development. These are her thoughts and her words:

No property tax: Build revenues by working with local businesses

Murphy emphasizes the crucial role of the sales tax in providing Oro Valley’s revenue. She believes that fostering strong relationships with local businesses is essential to upholding the town’s high standard of service. “Sales tax plays a very important role in our Town’s revenue,” she states. “It is imperative that we have Council members who foster strong relationships with our local businesses in order to maintain our standard of living without reliance on a property tax, which I will never support!”

Tighten spending by prioritizing “Needs” and “Wants”
Murphy advocates for a balanced budget and a focus on prioritizing needs over wants to control spending. “By focusing on a balanced budget and prioritizing ‘needs’ over ‘wants’, we can control our spending,” she explains..

Maintain Oro Valley’s unique character-use land to the highest standards
Murphy stresses the importance of maintaining Oro Valley’s unique character by supporting only the highest standards for the limited remaining undeveloped land. Murphy has also made it clear that she has not accepted any developer or outside money, ensuring her decisions are made in the best interest of the community.

Look for annexations that “pay their own way”
Murphy emphasizes the importance of a rigorous cost-benefit analysis for annexations. “Any annexation must be considered on a rigorous cost-benefit basis. Only then can we make certain that any annexations enhance the quality, character, and financial health of the town.”

Engage the community in the journey
Transparency and collaboration are central to Mary Murphy’s vision for government. She plans to prioritize these values to ensure that residents can directly contact her. “Residents deserve representatives who will be easily approachable and available, and that is exactly what I plan to do,” she asserts. To achieve this, she plans to reintroduce “Council on Your Corner,” with monthly meetings around town, including in Sun City. Her initiative aims to give residents a direct voice in governance.

Conserve drinking water and use it wisely
Water conservation and wise water use are critical issues for Murphy. She advocates for continued education on water conservation and participation in regional recharge projects, as well as emphasizing xeriscape landscaping with native plantings. “Reducing our municipal turf areas, especially those watered with potable water, is key, and I am committed to working closely with my fellow council members to ensure that this happens,” she states.

Limit adding or increasing user fees to “controllable amenities”
While generally opposed to new user taxes, Murphy acknowledges that higher fees for non-residents using controllable amenities, such as the Community Center and The Aquatic Center, could be considered under certain circumstances.

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The Battle for Oro Valley: Which Three Candidates Will Secure Your Vote?

Four candidates seek three open seats

There are four candidates for three council seats. You will be voting for them in the July 30 primary. If you are a registered independent, be  sure to order either a Republican or a Democrat Ballot or you won't be able to vote unless you go the the polls. You can order your ballot by contacting the Pima County Recorder's Office at 520-724-4330.

Vote only for those you want in office

Now that you know how to vote, you need to decide for whom you are going to vote. There are three council seats so you can cast up the three votes. You're not required to do so. You should cast a vote for only those whom you want on council. Otherwise, if you vote for a person you don't want on council, you increase the vote count threshold for those you want on council.

LOVE's "Candidate Snapshot" can help you decide

We've created a "Candidate Snapshot"which summarizes each candidate.We created the snapshot based on research and based on our discussions with three of the  candidates. 

The candidates share common ground on issues such as water conservation, public safety, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement. They differ in their approaches to revenue diversification, growth management, specific water conservation initiatives, and their methods of collaboration and engagement.

While the candidates do agree on the following...

• The importance of water conservation and sustainable management of water resources. 
• The importance of maintaining strong public safety services and ensuring that police officers are well-compensated and supported. 
• The need for fiscal responsibility, though they have different approaches to achieving it 
• The importance of community engagement and collaboration with regional authorities and state agencies.

There is some divergence in their approach

• When it comes to fiscal responsibility, Bohen wants to focus attention on improving the efficiency of town operations and better prioritization of spending, while Greene, Robb, and Murphy are open to diversifying revenue through various means. 
• When it comes to growth management, Bohen emphasizes infill development, while the others are more open to strategic growth in areas with infrastructure and preserving the town’s character. 
• Regarding water conservation, Bohen proposes direct non consumption drinking water use reduction actions, while others focus on using technology, promoting responsible usage, and water harvesting.
• In the area of collaborating with other entities, Bohen focuses on direct engagement, Greene emphasizes strategic planning and grants, Robb highlights proactive partnerships, and Murphy emphasizes regional planning and resource sharing.

Tomorrow, Sun City is holding a candidate forum. This is something they've done for years. However, we've learned that this time the forum is not really a forum and that it is not open to the public, so we're not sure whether will be able to report on it or not. If we can will let you know what we learn.

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Meet Council Candidate Mary Murphy

Meet Mary Murphy

"I am running for council to serve and protect our wonderful community," declares Murphy in our communications. "I have a bachelor's degree, experience in Biomedical Research, and was a Licensed Practical Nurse for 15 years before moving to Oro Valley." Murphy is a stay-at-home mother of two. She has served on the Town’s Board of Adjustment.. 

Murphy is a champion of first responders
"I am proud to be married to a Desert Storm veteran who has had a successful thirty plus years in law enforcement. During that time, he also served for twenty years in the Marine Corps Reserve. So, I've witnessed firsthand the sacrifices these men and women make to serve and protect our communities. Many people don't realize the comfort they receive from these heroes until they actually need it."

Murphy “walks the talk” 

She supports first responders, citing her volunteer role as the Executive Director of First Responders and Military Affiliations for Rockin’ 4 Heroes. You will also see her at related events. Two weeks ago, “I had a fantastic time at the Guns and Hoses kickball charity event to support Project Graduation (keeping our community's graduates safe) at Riverfront Park on Saturday. It was a beautiful day to celebrate safety in our wonderful community.” You will see her at next fall's Rockin’ 4 Heroes... November 10 at Kreigh Park.

"I am a very vocal advocate for the Arizona Heroes Memorial which is being built in Naranja Park. I cannot wait to see this very special project come to fruition soon! I was honored to be asked by the Board to speak at the groundbreaking ceremony last year. I will have a brick honoring my father-in-law and my husband. Both were officers in the Marine Corps. And I would encourage you to consider supporting the memorial by creating a brick in honor of a loved one."

Government for the People 

"Accessibility in local government is essential," Murphy notes, expressing her commitment to being readily available to meet with residents through initiatives like "Council on Your Corner." Additionally, she underscores the importance of supporting local businesses and maintaining disciplined fiscal policies, echoing her vow to keep property taxes out of Oro Valley.

Championing the good 

She also believes that "accentuating the positive" can make an enormous difference in our town. She proposes initiatives akin to the "Spotlight on Youth" awards, celebrating those residents who positively impact our community, fostering a culture of reciprocal gratitude and service. "I love the idea of doing a Spotlight on community members to make a positive impact much like we do for a wonderful 'Spotlight on Youth' community awards," she remarks.

Preserving Oro Valley’s character and appeal

Murphy prioritizes protecting the character of Oro Valley. "Protecting Oro Valley's beauty, parks, and amenities is important to me as it preserves our community’s heart and soul for current and future generations.”

Enthusiastic about Oro Valley's future

Murphy brings a focus on community service, an unwavering advocacy for first responders, and a commitment to accessible governance. Her goal is to champion and safeguard Oro Valley's unique character and appeal for generations to come.

Want to learn more?

You can learn more about Mary Murphy.  Visit her campaign web site. 

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Bits and Pieces

Zinkin steps back

Former council member and community activist Mike Zinkin has decided to step back from Oro Valley politics. He will not be running for council in August.  "Since 2005, I've been actively involved in Oro Valley affairs, and now it's time for me to step back and allow new voices to emerge as vigilant observers."  Mike does plan to continue his focus on the massive waste of water that Town uses to irrigate two parks and a golf course. "I will continue to critique the excessive misuse of Oro Valley's drinkable water. This waste is avoidable."  (Source: Email to LOVE)

No end in sight for Town's waste of drinking water

At the moment, it seems that the town council is not focused on this drinking water waste. They're not going to consider extending the reclaimed water system to these southern areas of the town.  We think they're waiting to see what the State is going to do regarding purification of this water and its reintroduction in the drinking water system. In the meantime, over the years (and there will be many of them), the town is going to continue to waste many millions of gallons of drinking water. "With the end of 2023, it's clear that throughout the year, the Town squandered 74,275,000 gallons of our drinking water on their properties. To put this in perspective, this amount could have supplied over 10,600 homes, considering the average household's monthly usage of 7,000 gallons. For comparison, the Canada Hills Community Association comprises about 3,100 homes." (Source: Zinkin Email to LOVE)

Tarris' "Centennial" Trip begins Sunday

Oro Valley resident Tim Tarris and Buchanan Bleeker are on their way around the world in a single engine plane, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first flight around the world. Love will follow the 32 plus day event. Read more about Tim's exciting adventure Tuesday.

Firefighters endorse Murphy for Council

The North Tucson Firefigthers union has endorsed Mary Murphy for town council. They note in their January 20 letter: "You have proven to put public safety at the top of your priority list, and we thank you. Your advocacy for and the understanding of public safety issues is commendable. We believe your experience and authentic desire to better your community makes you a strong candidate for this position. Additionally, your commitment to making sure our town is safe has been unwavering. We look forward to working with you in the needs of the community." (Source: January 20 letter to Mary Murphy)

50th Anniversary Celebration in progress

"The Town of Oro Valley proudly announces its upcoming 50th Anniversary on April 15, 2024. The Town invites residents to join in a year-long celebration filled with exciting events and collaborations with local businesses as we reflect on half a century of history, growth and community.  From community events to historical and arts exhibits, a diverse range of activities has been planned, including a 50th Anniversary Parade on April 6 and a special community celebration on April 13."  Learn more here. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Council Election Campaigns Begin (Updated January 5, 2024)

Update as of January 6

There  six people have picked up candidate packets for the election from the town clerk. They are: Harry "Mo" Greene, Mary Murphy, Tim Bohen, Elizabeth Robb, Sarah Lee-Davisson and Mike Zinkin. Zinkin has informed us that he will not seek a council seat. Greene, Murphy and Bohen are running. We have no confirmation on the status of Davisson and Robb.

Council Candidates are collecting signatures to get on the ballot
2024 Oro Valley Town Council election is underway. There are three council seats for election. These seats are held by current council members Bohen, Greene,and Solomon. Greene and Bohen have announced for reelections. There is a third candidate, Mary Murphy, a former member of the town's Board of Adjustment. 

LOVE plans to cover the election from start to finish

...as we did the when these seats were up for election in 2020. We herby offer each candidate the opportunity to used LOVE's Guest View program to introduce themselves and communicate directly with you. We will also provide links to their web sites (right column) as they become available to us.

468 Signatures required to get on the ballot
Candidates must submit at least 468 valid elector signatures in order to be on the ballot. The signatures ("nomination papers") must be submitted by April 8.  Unlike previous elections, we expect that all candidates will use online as well as in-person signature gathering. 

You can sign an online petition for a candidate, starting the process here. Online requires a valid drivers license or your entering in personal data. Once you have done this, you will be presented with a list of all candidates in the state who are seeking to get on the ballot for other elections. Scroll until you find the Oro Valley election.  You are allowed to sign the petition of up to three Oro Valley candidates. And we encourage you to do so.

Positive campaigns by all candidates...
The 2020 election for these council seats was  marred by dirty tricks. The tricksters were current council members Solomon and Greene. They hired a political consulting firm. They mailed glossy "hit pieces" on candidate Bill Garner. Greene solicited the help of former police chief and former mayor candidate Danny Sharp. Sharp in a glossy mailer was in police uniform when he asserted that Garner was anti-cop. The town issued a letter to Greene to remove that picture. (link to 7-14-20), 

Wait. There's more. Solomon also went so far as to slap stickers on his campaign sign, saying that he was going to "Preserve Vistoso". This implied that that Solomon was endorsed by the group, "Preserve Vistoso". He was not. In fact, Solomon was anything but supportive.  He was one of the people who wanted to parse the entire golf course for development.

Would be "a breath of fresh air"
New candidate Mary Murphy has pledged that she is going to run a positive campaign: "I look forward to running a very positive campaign focused on ways in which I can best serve our wonderful Oro Valley community!" We know that candidate Tim Bohen will do the same. We don't have any confidence that Greene will do the same, the third announced candidate.  We suspect that he will focus his election efforts on going after Bohen, if Solomon is also on the ballot with him. We hope that that will be a failed strategy because we don't think people should be elected because they've slammed the other candidate.

Campaign Financing: "You are judged by the company you keep"
Special interest contributions have dominated campaign funding of pro-growth candidates since 2010. In 2020 we wrote Big money buys access, referring to the substantial special interest funding of the last Solomon and Greene campaign. Since then, both have voted in favor of every proposed rezoning, most of which have been rejected by the council majority.  This, as opposed to Tim Bohen's 2020 campaign which was much more modest in funding and all contributions came from residents. Will the same happen in 2024? In Bohen's case, we know it will.  We suspect Solomon,, if he runs, and Greene will do as they did then.  We have no idea of Mary Murphy's campaign financing plan. In any event, we will be watching when the first meaningful campaign finance reports come out in June.

More to follow as we learn more
Our plan is to keep you informed of any developments as they happen during this 2024 council election season. So stay tuned for more.

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