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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Bits and Pieces

Unusual fiscal year-end council meeting called to address funding gap for Naranja Drive path project 

The Oro Valley Town Council will hold a special Zoom meeting Monday—the very last day of the fiscal year—to consider an urgent funding amendment for the Naranja Drive Multi-Use Path project. The meeting addresses a $341,000 estimated project shortfall after construction bids came in higher than expected for the project. Council will decide whether to use leftover funds from other 2025 street projects to keep the Naranja path on track for a summer start and early 2026 completion. In order for these monies to be available for use in the next fiscal year, the leftover funds must be designated for multi-use path construction before the end of this fiscal year. Our guess is that the urgent meeting is needed so the funds can be designated for this use before the fiscal year closes.

Fourth of July festivities and new shade at the tennis courts

Oro Valley’s annual Fourth of July Celebration returns to James D. Kriegh Park on July 4, featuring live music, food trucks, a beer garden, family games, and fireworks, plus the town’s first-ever hot dog eating contest at 7:30 p.m. In addition, construction is underway on new shaded viewing and seating areas at the Pusch Ridge Tennis Facility, with completion expected in July—giving tennis players and spectators a cooler, more comfortable space for summer matches and community events.  Read even more about what is going on this this weeks's Town of Oro Valley "This Week In Parks and Rec”  bulletin. 

Interested in helping Oro Valley build its tourism base? Apply now for one of five seats on the new Tourism Advisory Commission

Oro Valley is launching a brand new Tourism Advisory Commission and is now accepting applications from residents who want to help shape the town’s future as a top destination for visitors. The five-member commission will advise the Town Council on everything from strategic marketing to special events, resort partnerships, and tourism budget priorities. If you have experience or a strong interest in hospitality, travel, marketing, or events—or just want to make a difference in how the town promotes itself—this is a great way to get involved. Members will serve three-year terms and the group will meet monthly for the first year, then quarterly after that. Applications are open now. Apply here or call by the Town Clerk’s Office at (520) 229-4700 for more information.  Read how all this came about in LOVE. 

 

Park painting project underway in Rancho Vistoso

Rancho Vistoso has started a summer-long painting project at Hohokam and Wildlife Ridge Parks, with crews repainting perimeter walls, restrooms, and ramadas to freshen up these popular community spaces. The work began June 9 and will continue through the season. Residents are encouraged to watch for “Wet Paint” signs and to avoid the areas being painted until the project is complete, helping ensure a safe and smooth update for everyone who uses the parks. (Source) 

Oro Valley Water: Smart water tips and a new bill payment portal now live

The latest Oro Valley Water Utility newsletter is packed with helpful updates for residents this summer. Most notably, the Town has rolled out a new online bill payment portal, making it easier than ever to manage your water account and pay bills securely from home. The newsletter also offers timely water-saving tips to help you conserve during the hottest months, including suggestions for efficient irrigation and reminders about monsoon season preparation. If you haven’t yet, be sure to check out the Water Utility website for more details and to explore the new portal—small changes can make a big difference for your bill and the community. (Source:  Town of Oro Valley "Behind The Meter) .

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A Grand Celebration of Naranja Park's Expansion

Community excited with new amenities
It was an opening like no other. Excitement buzzed as the community gathered to celebrate the expansion opening of Naranja Park. Smiles were everywhere, and the atmosphere was filled with joy. The park now boasts two new soccer fields, a beautiful splash pad, and newly added pickleball courts.

The "Pump Track" is a highlight
The highlight of the celebration was the pump track, Arizona's largest, swarming with enthusiastic BMX riders. This was the central spot for the festivities, drawing everyone from town council members and candidates Mary Murphy and Elizabeth Robb to the press and Recreation Director Roz Epting. Epting led the celebration, congratulating the hundreds who contributed to making this phase of the park’s development a reality.

Mayor Winfield excited "...to see park come to fruition"
Mayor Winfield was beaming as he stood at the podium to give brief remarks. His council's expansion financing creativity brought this expansion of the park to life. "This event marks a milestone for our community as we unveil the much-anticipated Naranja Park Expansion. It’s been exciting to see the vision of this park come to fruition,” said Mayor Joe Winfield.

Winfield should be excited. His council accomplished the expansion without new taxes, achieving what the Loomis (2008) and Hiremath (2017) councils could not. Both had proposed a secondary property tax to finance an expansion, but the residents soundly rejected both.

A big effort on the part of many over many years
The park’s creation has many heroes, tracing back to the original committee in 2000. Dick Eggerding, one of the early Naranja Park “what should we do with this gravel pit” committee chairs, was present and beaming with pride. His dedication and those of others has finally paid off, culminating in this beautiful park expansion.  The park also will have an independently financed "Heroes Memorial" of which Eggerding is Founder and Chairman. It is under construction. Donations accepted.

Significant construction work
This phase of the expansion of Naranja Park was no small feat. Over 23 months, Oro Valley Director of Public Works Paul Keesler and his staff oversaw this ambitious project. Nearly 1.2 billion pounds of earth (or 350,000 cubic yards) were moved to complete this project. Hundreds of new trees and plants have been added, including 477 trees, 204 shrubs, 42 succulents and cacti, and nearly 40 acres of native plant hydroseeding. All of this was completed three months early. Fifty-five saguaros will be planted this summer.

Investment and future plans
This phase of the park represents an investment of more than $20 million. While the majority of the park is now built out, the Town will continue to explore opportunities to add even more amenities in the coming years, pending new funding options.

Now is the time to celebrate! 

The park is open and ready for everyone to enjoy. Grab your swimsuit, check out the splash pad, bring your soccer ball and pickleball racket, and join the fun. Naranja Park is open – it’s time to party!

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Bits and Pieces

Council doesn’t like town staff five year financial projection message that “the future ain’t what it use to be”
Town Finance Director David Gephart’s message to council at last week's town council meeting was clear: There are going to be financial headwinds in Oro Valley’s future. 

“The [five year financial] forecast does not include really enough to keep the town functioning the way it ought to and keep service levels and … especially maintaining our capital assets.” As reported by LOVE, that is after issuing bonds to pay for needed public works projects.  Even worse, the projection does not include at lease one major future capital need: The funding of a new police facility.

The council's reaction? Two council members felt that the forecasts were overly pessimistic. Two focused on the challenge presented in the forecast of maintaining a maturing infrastructure, especially bridges, during times of higher inflation than historic norms. There was discussion of the many capital projects that were not included in the forecast simply because the town has no idea of some of these costs and how they will be financed.

Wilkins strikes again: Police Chief “informed” that financial projections include needed new police facility this year
The five-year projection does not include funds for a new police station. However, we did find it listed as a future "contingent project" in a future year in the town manager's 2024 recommended budget. It's contingent because, according to the town, it has yet to be defined and they don't know how they are going to fund it.

This is a surprise.

A new station has been included in the ten-year capital improvements plan for many years. The estimate ranges from $25 to $40 million. Town Finance Director Gebhart said that the town has no idea what facilities are needed.  

The police were not involved in the decision to not include a new facility in the projection. Instead of being part of the process, they were "informed" that it would not be included.

The Police Department reports directly to the council. The town manager has no role in their operation and no authority to exclude the police facility from the forecast.

Naranja Park Opens May 18
It’s finally here! The town will host a reopening event for Naranja Park on May 18. The event starts at 9am. “The event will include activity demos, giveaways for kids and adults and remarks from the contractor, town staff and elected officials. The ceremony will take place at the north end of the park near the skate park and pump track.” (Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Email) This marks the “mostly completion” of a park that started with a groundbreaking event on January 27,  2014. It been a long time,  with an investment of well over $30 plus million over the years, converting a gravel pit into a beautiful regional park.

“Behind the Scenes” with Oro Valley’s Public Works Department
The town’s Public Works Department plays a key role in building and maintaining the town's infrastructure.  Click this link to meet the people who make this happen.

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Bits and Pieces

Barrett: Should the town rename the Community Center Fund?

At last week's council meeting, Vice Mayor Barrett reacted to a comment made by Council Member Solomon. Solomon has repeatedly complains that half of the half percent Hiremath Community Center sales tax no longer goes to support golf only.  

"I usually listen to this argument and let it pass, but I don't feel like I can tonight," Barrett noted. "The community center fund sales tax was passed unilaterally by council on a four-to-three vote. This council, on a six-to-zero vote, expanded the use of that sales tax with the exact same authority that passed it to begin with; through the same mechanisms, and ordinances. So continually saying that the community center fund sales tax is just for the community center and the golf courses is just not the case.” That expanded use of these sales tax monies also now goes to funding Naranja Park and other park-related amenities. "It probably shouldn't even be called the community center fund anymore, because now that can be allocated to parks and recreation."

Tiny Bits

• Naranja will likely have its grand reopening in May (Source: Town Manager Wilkins)
• Ashley Furniture is now "Lounge By Levitz"
• Council voted to reduce town's Historical Preservation Commission" from seven to five members. Lack of resident interest in being on the Commission was the primary reason 

Big 50th Anniversary Celebration Saturday

The Town of Oro Valley invites residents and visitors alike to join us for the 50th Anniversary Community Celebration at James D. Kriegh Park this Saturday, April 13, 2024, beginning at noon and concluding with a fireworks finale at 9:30 p.m. JDK Park is located at 23 W. Calle Concordia. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release)

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Bits and Pieces

Caton appointed Scottsdale Assistant City Manager

Greg Caton has been appointed as Assistant City Manager in Scottsdale. He was Oro Valley Town Manager from July 2011 to 2016. Caton was an Assistant Town Manager for one year prior to that.

Since leaving Oro Valley, Caton served as the City Manager in Grand Junction and as the Assistant City Manager for the City of Durango. 

Caton holds a bachelor's degree in political science from Fort Lewis College in Durango and a master's degree in public administration from the University of Colorado at Denver. His appointment was announced by Scottsdale City Manager Jim Thompson on February 14. He will start May 6.

Oro Valley has 12% of remaining land awaiting development

Earlier this month, town planner Milini Simms briefed the Oro Valley Planning and Zoning Commission on the status of the town's land use. Land use is an important feature of the general plan. Simms noted that there's approximately 12% of Oro Valley's land that is yet to be developed. Half of the land has already been planned, while the other half has not. Existing zoning on the available land will allow for about 1,400 single-family residential units and 1,600 multifamily residential units. In other words, Oro Valley is going to continue to grow.

Town plans temporary closures as Naranja Park nears completion

As the Naranja Park Expansion Project nears completion, the Town of Oro Valley provides this update on the progress of this transformative effort.

• March 4-5: Naranja Park will be completely closed to widen and pave the park’s main intersection. 
• Starting March 4: The park’s south entrance at Naranja Drive will be closed for 4-6 weeks for Musette Drive bridge and storm drain work. Access to the Archery Range will still be available. 
• March 6: The park’s new north entrance at Tangerine Road opens, becoming the sole access point through mid-April. 
• March 6 through mid-April: The northern entrance will be the exclusive access point to Naranja Park during this period. The southern entrance will re-open in mid-April.

These temporary closures are crucial to completing the Naranja Park Expansion successfully, adhering to schedule and budget, as the Town strives to deliver an enhanced park experience for the community. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Take the OVPathForward Community Survey Today and get involved in future events

OVPathforward is conducting an online survey on life in Oro Valley. "The BIG Community Survey includes questions about public safety, traffic, development, views, and more" Here's the link.  In addition, you can meet with the OVPathforward team and share you thoughts on the following dates and locations:

• February 25 - Oracle Crossings Plaza (near Sprouts) from 12PM - 2 PM 
• February 27 - Noble Hops from 11AM - 2PM 
• February 28 - Copper Creek HOA at 7PM 
• March 2 - Farmers Market at Steam Pump Ranch from 9AM - 1PM 
• March 9 - Plaza Escondida (near Trader Joes) from 12PM - 2PM

There's ample opportunity to get involved. So do take advantage of that. (Source: OVPathfoward email)

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Bits and Pieces

Pusch Ridge Course lives on!

The Oro Valley Town Council approved the continued operation of the nine-hole Pusch Ridge golf course last night. The course had been on a three-year probationary period after reopening. The purpose of the probationary period was to determine if the course could be a financially viable entity. The three neighborhood associations that live around the course, the group Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf, town staff and Indigo Golf worked tirelessly together to build course use. They were successful in their efforts.

Centennial Mission to be restarted in about three weeks

The around the world Centennial Mission has been delayed. Oro Valley resident Tim Tarris returned home yesterday. He and co pilot Buchanan Bleeker made it to Lima Peru in their single engine Cesna. Then, after a four day delay, and with the inability to get overflight clearances from some South American countries, they elected to return. They plan to restart their trip in about three weeks.

Town seeks your input on planned Naranja Drive Multi-Use Path

"The Town of Oro Valley and Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will hold an in-person open house Tuesday, Feb. 13, to share information and seek public input on design concepts for a new multi-use path to be constructed along the north side of Naranja Drive between La Cañada Drive and First Avenue. Your public comments will help develop and evaluate design concepts and identify the preferred path alignment as part of the project assessment process." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Oro Valley launches "50 Businesses For 50 Years" Campaign

"To help celebrate the Town of Oro Valley’s 50th Anniversary this year, the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce has partnered with 50 local businesses for a special shop local campaign, which officially [launched] on Monday, Feb. 5, 2024. Throughout the year, fifty Oro Valley businesses will be highlighted for a period of two weeks. During that time, shoppers are encouraged to visit and support the highlighted business and enter the raffle. At the end of the two weeks, a winner will be announced from each business’s raffle box. To view the “50 Businesses for 50 Years” calendar and program details, visit orovalleychamber.com." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Oro Valley seeks participants for 50th anniversary celebration

"In April 2024, the Town of Oro Valley proudly marks its golden milestone, celebrating 50 years of history, growth and community — and you’re invited to be a part of it. Oro Valley's 50th Anniversary is a momentous occasion, and your participation and support will make it truly unforgettable." Opportunities to participate include:

• Participating in the April 6 parade (Entry Form)
• Showcasing your talents at the community celebration at Kreigh Park on April 13...Fireworks at 9:30pm (Entry Form)
• Sponsoring events
• Sharing your memories

(Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Town of Oro Valley Faces Three Lawsuits In St. Patrick's Day Tragedy (Part 2)

An independent engineer's report sees inherent danger to pedestrians and bicyclists in the vicinity of the W Naranja Drive park entrance

There is a report* that was filed with the lawsuits, authored by an independent professional engineer. The report asserts that roadway design of W Naranja Drive is inherently dangerous for pedestrians.  The engineer concluded that, "The road design ignored the needs of pedestrians at the intersection with the park entrance," especially those of children.  The report makes three main assertions

Assertion 1: Pedestrians must wait too long to cross the road safely
“During the noon hour of pedestrian would have to wait slightly longer than two minutes for an 18 second gap in traffic across Naranja Drive, " according to the report.  The report suggests that this timing gap is needed for pedestrians to safely cross a road in which cars are traveling at least 45mph. This waiting time is quite lengthy, especially considering that people, and especially children, are generally not patient enough to wait for two minutes to cross any road."

Assertion 2: The shared turn bicycle lane does not permit safe pedestrian travel

The road design is such that there is a shared turn-bicycle lane on the north side of the street. It is unsafe for pedestrians to use it, even though that would have been the only way to face oncoming traffic, as required by law.

Assertion 3: The Bicycle lane in which girls walked is too narrow to meet County standard

"The bicycle lane [in which the girls were forced to navigate] is only 5 feet wide. The Pima County Roadway Design Manual specifies a bicycle lane width of 6 feet." According to the report, those using this lane face "...a serious risk."

Report conclusion: Pedestrians obeyed the law, but the road design did not meet standards

“In my opinion, the three pedestrians were complying with Arizona law and acting prudently when hit by the vehicle. To walk facing traffic they would have had to cross Naranja Dr at Guava Dr. and walk eastbound in the westbound shared right turn lane and bike lane. This would be feasible in a bike lane but not a shared right turn lane bike lane. The intersection of Guava Dr and Naranja Dr is uncontrolled for Naranja Drive traffic and the vehicles travel at a high speed. It would have been difficult to cross the uncontrolled high speed intersection. They would have to wait more than two minutes for an 18 second gap in traffic. A recent study indicated pedestrians at uncontrolled intersections under estimate the speed of approaching traffic 70% of the time. It was not practicable for the three young women to walk facing traffic.

The road design ignored the needs of pedestrians at the intersection with the park entrance. Children walking to and from the park should be considered in the intersection design. There was no safe way to exit Guava Dr and walk eastbound on Naranja Drive. Additionally, several references indicate it is dangerous for bicyclists and pedestrians to travel in an unbuffered or unseparated bicycle lane on a high speed road."

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The Council met in Executive Session to discuss the lawsuits on October 4.  Executive Sessions are not open to the public. We suspect it will take some time for these suits to be resolved. We will inform you as we learn more. 

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*The information for this article comes from a preliminary report of Louis Rubenstein PE, F.ITE dated September 8, 2023. The plaintiffs in this case submitted this report in support of their assertions of liability. LOVE has not confirmed nor do we intend to confirm any of the representations made in this report.

Town of Oro Valley Faces Three Lawsuits In St. Patrick's Day Tragedy (Part 1)

This is serious business. $89.4 million in damages sought

The Town of Oro Valley has been served with three lawsuits. These relate to the tragic traffic accident that occurred at the intersection of Naranja Park and Naranja Drive on St. Patrick’s Day of this year. It was horrific. 

Olivia Villabos and her sister Avry were struck by a vehicle driven by Sabrina Garcia. The vehicle had exited Naranja Park at about 1pm and was headed eastbound. Olivia and Avry were struck as they walked with their back against traffic trying to get to their street. They were as far over on the road as you could possibly get and well off of the driving area. You can read LOVE’s reports on this.

Though no one in the town was driving the vehicle that struck Olivia and her half sister, the town is being sued on a different basis. It is being sued on the basis that plaintiffs believe that the town should have known that an accident like this was simply “waiting to happen.“

We based this conclusion on our reading on the filings of the three lawsuits and the documents that were submitted with those filings. Documents filed with the suit claim that prior to the accident town staff was aware of the danger to pedestrians in the area of the Naranja Park entrance. The Town did nothing about this. 

Claim: Town negligent in its duty to provide safe passage for pedestrians as required by Arizona Law.
“Olivia, Avry and Emily, and the two dogs and strollers were traveling eastbound on Naranja Drive. Because there was no other available space for these minors to walk, they were on the only side of the road where they could walk. This design by Oro Valley and its agents/engineers is contrary Arizona law. Arizona law requires that pedestrians walk against traffic. It is not possible in the street design. The Town of Oro Valley did not take the proper steps to comply with its duty to keep its roadways reasonably safe for pedestrians. Had the Town of Oro Valley done so, the tragic event of March 17, 2023 would never have happened”. (Source: Adrian Claim Page 3).

The claim references Arizona statute 28-796: That pedestrians must walk lonely facing traffic if no sidewalks are provided.

Claim: Town ignored complaints of the unsafe condition of the roadway for pedestrians prior to the accident
“The lack of a shoulder was an intentional construction mistake at Musette Drive and West Naranja Drive.” the shoulder on the north side of the road disappears as the right turn lane is adjacent to the guard rail. This design defect does not allow for space for a sidewalk or even a shoulder for pedestrian use. This may seem trivial, but the mistake is fatal, because pedestrians are thereby forced to walk in the direction of traffic on the south side of the road. pedestrians can only walk on the south side of the W. Narada Dr. in this highly traffic area of the town.” (Source: Adrian Claim Page 4)

Claim: Many design defects making this a dangerous pedestrian roadway
The suit points to other defects in the design, such as a lack of crosswalks, and the lack of an ability to take safe passage when you’re walking on the south bottom of the road because of the sharp drop off into a wash. It also knows that now the town seems to recognize these defects by planning the multiuse path along Naranja Drive.

Claim: Town never acted to improve pedestrian safety as Naranja Park grew
The notice of claim recognizes the significant building that has taken place at Naranja Park. ‘However, as Narada Park grew, simple, safety measures were not put in place for Pedestrians. A traffic control crosswalk was not installed at the entry of the park. The town did not even use marked crosswalk at the entrance of this park. Traffic signals, or even yield signs change the behavior of motorists that travel in and out of the park... a crosswalk would have been a cheap fix to alert drivers that pedestrians travel through this area frequently, and that they should be given the right of way.” (Source: Adrian Claim Page 9)
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Follow for more tomorrow when we report of the inherent danger for pedestrians in the area.

Bits and Pieces

$90 million lawsuit against town commences on tragic Naranja Park entrance death

The Town of Oro Valley has been noticed that it is being sued in the tragic death of Olivia Villalobos and injury to her sister Avry on St. Patricks Day.  “The Town received notice of claims for the accident involving the two young girls hit while walking on Naranja Drive near the park. There are three separate claims totaling over $90 million. The claims have been forwarded to our insurance company who should appoint an attorney to represent us. We’ll plan for a brief executive session on October 4 for the topic.” (Source: Wilkins email to council, 9-14-23). Read about this most tragic accident here.

Don’t get fooled by “AI” voice impersonators

Criminals are employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for voice impersonation, a concerning development. One common scam involves imitating a family member, like a grandchild, who claims to be in distress and urgently needs cash cards. It’s crucial not to be deceived by this. Instead, independently verify the situation with your friends and family before taking any action.  For more information visit the Safe Circle web site.

Oro Valley is home of High School Southern Arizona State Champions

Bet you did not know that “Other than Salpointe Catholic in 2013, three of the last four Southern Arizona State Champions came from Oro Valley. That includes Pusch Ridge Christian Academy, Ironwood Ridge and CDO. CDO and I-Ridge are part of the Amphitheater Unified School District.” This year’s CDO’s football team looks good enough to challenge for another state title. (Source)

Reader suggests Oro Valley annex for “real business” growth

Oro Valley, along with the rest of Southern Arizona, struggles to attract substantial businesses that can generate high-quality employment opportunities for the community. While retail jobs are beneficial, they often come with lower wages. What steps can be taken to address this challenge? This from one of our readers: “The central issue revolves around the high land costs in Oro Valley, particularly with Venture West and Kai owned properties. In contrast, lands in Casa Grande, Eloy, and the outskirts of Chandler are more budget-friendly. To tackle this, Oro Valley should contemplate annexing 500 acres on its western fringe, converting it into a Tech Park conveniently situated around a 10-minute drive from I-10.”

Town grows by 36 acres

The Town Council voted last week to annex 36 acres of land at La Canada and W Moore. The land is zoned for low density residential use. (See panel right)

Town votes to settle Joplin law suit

Some time ago, we reported on an incident at Naranja Park involving 17-year-old football player Elijah Joplin, who suffered a severe eye injury following a collision with a light stanchion positioned near the field's out-of-bounds line during an event sponsored by Victory Fundraising. It's worth noting that the Town of Oro Valley provided the fields and, to the best of our knowledge, delineated the field boundaries. Adding to the complexity of the situation is a $2 million insurance policy that is being distributed among the parties involved. Joplin subsequently filed a lawsuit against the town and others. In July, the council convened an Executive Session, and last week, they voted to approve what we believe to be settlement documents. (Source: LOVE’s outstanding research sleuth)

Tropical Smoothie coming to Oro Valley 

Last week, the Town Council unanimously granted a "conditional use permit" for a Cafe Tropical Smoothie Drive-Thru at the Canada Crossroads Center, situated at the Southwest Corner of La Canada and Lambert Lane. Samith Patel, the proprietor and operator of this establishment, selected this location because of the presence of various existing restaurants within the center, such as Harvest, Cafe Torino, and Subway. During the meeting, the Council deliberated on modifying the specific details of the proposed facility, with a particular emphasis on minimizing the potential for cars to idle in front of patrons dining outside at Harvest or Cafe Torino.

Register for "CommunityAcademy"

"Would you like to learn more about local government and help shape Oro Valley’s future? Then we invite you to register for Oro Valley’s Fall 2023 Community Academy, which will have a special focus on the upcoming Townwide planning efforts. For 26 years, the Town has been hosting this free, informative and award-winning series. Please register by Oct. 1 to reserve your spot." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release) This is the 26th anniversary of the Academy.

Rothschild Contract "ReUpped"

Last week's Town Council's decision to continue employing Jonathan Rothschild and his law firm as external legal counsel raises some eyebrows, given that the firm was initially engaged during the tenure of the previous town manager. It's noteworthy that Rothschild maintains close ties with the Tucson development community.

New conservator over Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve

Archeology Southwest is now responsible for the easement that protects the 202 acres of the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. Their job is to insure that the land remains as open desert forever. The Conservation Fund had been the administrator.

First Avenue Construction to cause delays starting September 25

The Town “…will remove and replace the asphalt on First Avenue beginning at the Cañada del Oro River bridge and extending east to Oracle Road starting Sept. 25 through Oct. 3. Traffic will be restricted to one lane in each direction during construction hours, which are from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. Speed will be reduced to 25 mph. Drivers are asked to find alternative routes during construction hours to avoid long delays.” (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

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Some Thoughts Until September

Here’s what to look for this summer
Every other year LOVE takes a summer break. It happens when there is no town election. Fortunately, this year, there is none….though we do expect a “doozy” next year as there will be three council seats up for election.

While we are away, however, we continue to follow Oro Valley happenings.We will do that again this year. We will report events to you when we return in September. We do have a list of  things to keep an eye on while we’re away. 

Here are some of the things we expect to be reporting about in September

Making the Naranja Park entrance pedestrian safe now

This is our number 1 priority. The current pedestrian situation is completely unacceptable. The town has said that they are planning to do some things. We figure that they should have done a lot by September 12, our return date.

Any decision the council made regarding plans for the Vistoso TrailsNature Preserve

The town has completed a Master Plan study on to build the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. At one point, the study’s findings became so challenging that the lead outside consultant on the project quit. To many residents in the area, the final plan, which will be reviewed with council, is too elaborate and far more invasive to life for those who live around the golf course.

Jeff Wilkins

Jeff Wilkins will have completed his first quarter as Oro Valley Town Manager. We wil (try to) interview Wilkins to report his first impressions of our town.

Outrageous Giveaway 2

The Council may consider yet another investment in the Oro Valley Marketplace (aka Oro Valley Village Center). This one for about $12 million. They are under no obligation to do so; but town staff has been in negotiations with the developer and center owner Town West for 18 months to do just that. It will be very interesting to see how Council handles this.
 

The “Big Sports Complex” Affair

Then, of course, there is the matter of the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene (OVCN) wanting to obliterate the lifestyle of those who live in the “Original Oro Valley.” The project is a major sports complex at their Concordia/Buena Vista location. It requires council approval of zoning changes to make this a reality. We don’t know when the next hearing is on this; but it is a huge problem for those who need to protect the lovely lifestyle that area affords.

The Oro Valley Housing Survey

Town staff has completed a survey of town housing needs. Many believe that the survey questions biased responses to favor more apartments…more congestion in Oro Valley… a more “balanced”community.  Regardless, the allure of federal funds that will become available to the town as it grows to subsidize low income housing will become very alluring. You ought to be concerned if you want Oro Valley to remain a single family residential community. As one resident wrote: “Federal funds may dictate “Section 8” to achieve the - financially attainable housing - which is not a fit for this community.” Beware: That from which you wanted to escape by moving to Oro Valley may follow you here.

Use of potable water on town owned parks and the Pusch Ridge Golf Course

The town continues to use potable water for irrigation at Riverfront and Kreigh Parks, at the Pusch Ridge Golf Course, and in serving CDO high school. Reclaimed water would be a better solution. We think, but we don’t know, that the cost of bringing reclaimed water to these facilities is prohibitive. The town has discussed further treating the reclaimed water, purifying it, and inserting it into the potable water supply. It’s all talk at this point but something does need to be done.

We will also keep an eye on other things like

…the July court appearance of Sabrina Garcia, the person who was driving the car that killed a teenager and her half sister on St. Patrick’s Day. It happened near the entrance to Naranja Park…thus, our obsession with getting the town to do something to improve pedestrian safety now.

Meanwhile, enjoy your summer.

We certainly do plan to do so

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Near Term Fix For Pedestrian Access At Naranja Park Entrance “In the Works”

What is being considered will make a huge difference in pedestrian safety

Last week, we reported that town staff is considering actions to improve pedestrian safety at the Naranja Drive entrance to Naranja Park. At that time, we stated that we would report what we learned about this as we learned it.  Our latest information is based on a March 5 memo to the Oro Valley Town Council from Public Works Director Paul Keesler. 

Considering a “Gravity block retaining wall system” to separate pedestrians from cars on the south side of Naranja Drive

A gravity wall is a physical hard surface wall. Such would run along those sections on the south side of Naranja Drive where “pedestrians must use the hard shoulder due to the presence of a guardrail or steep adjacent slope.” There are four of these areas on Naranja Drive. Keesler’s memo does not specifically identify the park entrance area as one of these sections. But it is one.  It is where the tragic March 17 accident occurred. Had a gravity wall been in place, the teens would not have been hit by the car because they would have been on the pedestrian side of the wall.

Construct a pedestrian connection for the “pinch point” on the north side of Naranja Drive this summer

There is a section on the north side of the Naranja Drive entrance where the town installed a vehicular right-turn lane. When they did that, the town eliminated the pedestrian walkway since they paved over it. The town did not make any allowance to accommodate the fact that pedestrians could no longer walk there. This summer, staff will construct “…a temporary pedestrian connection … from east of the right-turn lane into the Archery Range parking lot.” Had this been place on March 17, the teenagers could have used it to safely get to the unmarked crosswalk back to their grandparent’s home on Pomegranate Dr. They would never have been on Naranja Drive at all.

Studying adding other safety measures for those crossing Naranja Drive to the park like a HAWK light and crosswalks

There is no pedestrian controlled traffic light or a marked crosswalk at the park entrance. Town staff had decided against this for two reasons. One is that staff decided that it it would not be used very much. Second, and of much more importance, staff recognized that "The crossing would not end on a pedestrian facility on the south side of Naranja Drive, such as on a sidewalk or MUP system".  

Staff is now reconsidering this decision. The gravity wall retaining system, which they will hopefully build, will create the “pedestrian facility” that does not now exist.

Studying a change in speed limit

Keesler’s memo states the staff is studying the speed limit for the park entrance section of the park. The current speed limit is 45 mph. There is a “cautionary” speed limit of 35mph as eastbound drivers approach the park entrance. There is no such sign as for westbound drivers. Keesler memo states “ Speed should be set on a thorough data- based evaluation, that is based on the 85th percentile speed profile.” We are not sure what that means. Frankly, the area needs to be designated similar to a school zone, marked and speed limited as such.

You need to act

Please contact any of the town council members to voice your support of improving pedestrian safety at the park entrance now. Let them know that waiting for a long term multi-use path solution simply will not do.

Still No Short Term “Fix” Announced For Pedestrian Safety At Naranja Park Entrance

Long term solution in sight… but no short term fix

Tomorrow night, the Oro Valley Town Council will approve an agreement that should be a long term fix to the problem of pedestrian safety at the entrance to Naranja Park. The plan is for that solution will be in place by the fall of 2025. In the meantime, despite the concerns of many, the town has announced nothing to improve pedestrian safety from now until then.

ADOT will build the path

The long term fix is an agreement with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to build a ten foot wide multi-use path (MUP) on the Northside of Naranja Drive. The two mile path path will run from LaCanada to First Avenue. Pedestrians using the path on that side of the road will be relatively safe. Hopefully, there will be some sidewalks and pedestrian controlled traffic lights so those  on the south side can safely cross to the MUP and the park walk-in entrance.

No cost to town

"The total project cost is estimated at $3,656,434 and is funded by federal Regional Transportation Alternatives Grants (RTAG) in the amount of $3,448,017 or 94.3% of the total project cost. The required local match will be funded by the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) funds in the amount of $208,417 or 5.7% of the total project cost." (Source: Staff Request to Council, 6-7-23) The council approved a resolution last November to receive the RTA funds. It is because of a federal funding requirements that ADOT will build the MUP.

Project has started but completion is a long way off

“ADOT advertised for a design consultant on May 8, 2023, and anticipates making a selection by May 29, 2023. The next steps will include a Project Assessment or Design Concept Report, clearances for environmental, right-of-way and utilities, and 30%, 60%, 95%, and 100% design submittals (as applicable). The schedule estimates that construction will be advertised in mid-August 2024 and start in November 2024. Construction is tentative to be complete in the summer to early fall of 2025.” (Source: Staff Request to Council, 6-7-23)

No fix in the works to improve pedestrian safety has been announced… one is in the works

The town has not announced any plan to improve pedestrian safety in the area.  However, we have learned that there is plan afoot to do something. We will inform you of this as we learn more.

 - - -

The Naranja Drive St. Patrick's Day Tragedy: Here's What Happened

There was nothing the teens could do to avoid the tragedy ... The car was driving in the shoulder lane...headed right at them

There was nothing they could’ve done to avoid the tragedy that was about to befall them. A 3,300 pound car traveling east at 43 mph in the right shoulder of Naranja Drive, clearly over the fog line, struck them on St. Patrick’s Day this year. That's two months go today.

They were walking east, almost at the intersection of Naranja Drive and Pomegranate. The car came up from behind them. Only one of them saw it coming. It happened so fast. One of the victims "...observed a small black car that seem to move over and then came back towards her as it got closer at which time it hit them."

They were no brakes applied.

Police conclude that the driver was distracted by something

...possibly the open “Maps app” on their phone. or perhaps the driver “zoned out” after getting only a few hours of sleep after a night of "drinking."

Regardless, for some reason, the driver, Sabrina Garcia, didn’t see the teens until it was too late. The passenger side of her car was well into the designated pedestrian lane (shoulder). It was only inches from the where the land ends and the dirt begins.

At or just after the moment of impact, based on our reading of the Oro Valley Police Department detail incident report, 13-year old Olivia Villalobos was killed and her sister Avry incurred life threatening injuries.  A dog Olivia was pushing in the carriage was also killed at that moment; and a dog that Avry was walking was hit so hard that it landed in the wash, on the other side of the guard rail, dying from critical injuries. A friend who was walking with them, Emily, was just a few steps away, in the dirt on the south of the curb. She did not get hit.

Tremendous family suffering

The police report documents the human suffering on the part of the family. It is heartbreaking. This was the worst day of their lives and then some. Imagine, your child goes out for a walk with her friend and sister and her pets and she doesn’t come back. Devastating.

As Olivia‘s mother, Casey Lutz, said in response to a posting we made online:

“Olivia was just a baby girl trying to enjoy a day walking to the park with her sister and her old, VERY old (hence the stroller) dog, and she was killed, and her sister left with such severe injuries she will never be the same again. None of our lives will be the same again. Be safe out there guys.. it's just crazy… I won't be driving down that road again but maybe [safety improvements] will save your children from being killed..it is a park after all …Olivia would want the kids to be safe.”

Not one mother. Not one father. Not one grandparent. Should ever suffer this tragedy.

- - -

Note: Police have filed two charges against Garcia. She is currently set for arraignment on June 7 at 9am in the Oro Valley Magistrate Court. You can listen to court proceeding here. Click on the "live audio courtroom" link.

Note: Per the Police Report: Garcia's version of what happened is that  "..when she turned [from Naranja Park east toward first avenue], she recalls seeing people walking on the shoulder of eastbound Naranja Dr. She advised that she was in her lane about to pass the teenagers when she observed the dog stroller suddenly turn to the left 'like she was going to cross the road'. [The investigation concluded that there was no reason Olivia would have done this as she was going to turn right onto Pomegranate to go home]. [Garcia] said the next thing that she noticed was that there was 'legs in the air'. Sabrina told [the reporting officer] that she then came to a stop and called the police. [The reporting officer] asked her how fast she thinks she was going and she said approximately 20mph. [The reporting officer] asked her if she was distracted while driving and she stated no."

Source: The source of this report is the Oro Valley Police Department "Detail Incident Report". The report is replete with details regarding the scene.  We have chosen not to repeat the ugliness of it all. You are welcome to read the report. Though we caution, you do so at your own risk because it is upsetting. 

Kristy Diaz-Trahan Celebrates A Decade of Service and Extraordinary Change As Oro Valley Parks Leader

Diaz-Trahan celebrates a decade with Oro Valley 

Kristy Diaz-Trahan joined the Town of Oro Valley as the town's Director of Parks on February 4, 2013.  That's ten years ago. 

My, how things have changed... from then...

At that time, the town had completed the rehabilitation of the town pool. The town had two major parks: Kreigh Park, which the town got for free from the County; and Riverfront Park, which the town had built a few years prior. The town also had the county bond purchased Steam Pump Ranch. The town had several multi-use paths.

...To now... A decade of major change

Diaz-Trahan has overseen tremendous change in the town's parks facilities and programs. Today there is much more to Oro Valley's Parks and Recreation system. There is a community center building that houses an exercise facility, meeting rooms, golf retail, and a restaurant.  There are also two locations for tennis courts. Town has converted some of these to Pickleball courts.  There is a resturant. There are three town owned golf courses that comprise 45 holes. Naranja Park, which was a gravel pit when Diaz-Trahan joined, is being built into a regional park.  Diaz-Trahan is overseeing the conversion of the Vistoso Golf Course into the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. Over the decade, the town has done much to increase its multi-use path and trails system.

Making Oro Valley's parks and recreation a source of economic vitality

When Diaz-Trahan joined the town, the focus of Parks and Recreation had been changed by then Mayor Hiremath. The focus had been to provide facilities and programs primarily for Oro Valley residents.  Hiremath wanted the town's parks facilities to be a revenue source for the town.  The thought was to use the facilities to bring those who live outside of Oro Valley into the community to spend their dollars. As reported in LOVE from our interview with her in March of 2013, Diaz-Trahan bought into that concept. She has implemented it. Today's majority council has retained that philosophy by not making any change to it. Thus, the creation of Naranja Park into a huge regional sports facility under their leadership.

Spending change from $2.8 million in 2013 to $15.4 million today

All of these changes have consequences in terms of the spending on Parks and Recreation by the town. The total Parks spending in 2013 was $2.8 million. The 2023-24 requested Town Manager Recommended Budged [TMRB] is $15.4 million. That is a five times increase. Total staff was 47 in 2013. The 2023-24 TMRB number is 69 staff. 

Rising to the challenge

It is hard to imagine that Diaz-Trahan anticipated all of the change that town councils have visited upon the parks department. None of these changes were envisioned in the town's 2006 or 2016 General Plans. The golf courses, tennis courts, and community center came about through a happenstance purchase from HSL Properties when it shed itself of these facilities for $1million in 2015. The Winfield Council decided to buildout Naranja Park through a $25 million bond offering in 2019. The town virtually had the Vistoso Property delivered to it so that the town could maintain and protect it in perpetuity in 2022. 

Nonetheless, Diaz-Trahan has risen to the challenge of helping to envision and create these facilities; and then to manage and operate them.

Add to this the major changes and increases in program offerings that Diaz-Trahan has authored and attendant increase in resident participation.

Congratulations Kristy....It's been an awesome decade of change

- - -

Arrest Made in Naranja Drive Pedestrian Collision

"Arrest made in Naranja Drive pedestrian collision 

Oro Valley (April 27, 2023)- Oro Valley Police Department has completed their investigation regarding the pedestrian fatality collision that occurred on Naranja Drive on March 17th. As a result of the investigation, the driver of the vehicle, Sabrina Garcia was arrested for one count each of Causing Death by Moving Violation and Causing Serious Physical Injury by Moving Violation. 

After making use of all available resources, including the town’s legal department, it was determined that the charges filed are appropriate given the facts of the case. Our collision reconstruction revealed that speeding, impairment, and phone usage were not factors in this collision. 

The tragic loss of a young life has long lasting emotional impact on the entire community, and we share in that loss. Our hearts go out to all of the family and friends of the young victim of this tragedy."

(Source: Oro Valley Police Department Media Release)

Being charged with a "Class 1" misdemeanor

Both of these offenses are Class 1 misdemeanors. Thus, the case will be heard in Oro Valley Town Court. If guilty, the individual's driver's license will be suspended for a period of up to one year, restitution of up to $100,000 may be awarded, and the individual will be required to attend driving school.

Detailed report pending

LOVE will publish the investigation report once it is issued by the Department.

- - -

Town Acts To Improve Safety On Naranja Drive...But Residents Want More Now

Teen's death on Naranja Drive spurs action
On March 17, a teen girl was killed by a motorist on Naranja Drive. Her dog was also killed and another teen was injured in the accident. The location of the incident is where Naranja Drive intersects with Pomegranate Drive. That is at the entrance to Naranja Park. The Police Department is working on their investigation. That report will be available this week. We will publish it for all to read.

The town does not consider that road and that area imminently dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians
According to town Public Works Director, Paul Keesler, that road does not pose an imminent risk to bicyclists and pedestrians. Note, that Keesler is referring to Naranja Drive in total and not to the entrance to Naranja Park, which is where the accident happened:

“Naranja drive, much like many other two lane arterials and collectors within Oro Valley (Shannon, Moore, west Lambert, Buena Vista, for example) does currently provide safe and separate pedestrian travel corridors via paved and soft shoulders. In fact, Naranja Drive between La Canada to First Avenue offers more paved shoulder than many other similar roads within Oro Valley, as well as providing the maximum soft shoulder the surrounding terrain allows. Combined with State Statute 28-735 Overtaking bicycles; civil penalties where vehicular traffic must exhibit caution and space passing a bicycle, these two-lane collectors and arterials do not exhibit a history of frequent pedestrian versus automobile collisions. Yes, providing separated multi-use paths is even safer and better for the traveling pedestrian community, but to make the claim that Oro Valley streets without adjoining MUP’s [Multi-Use Path] or sidewalks pose an imminent risk to the public is not supported by data." 

Public Works Director Keesler:  Town acted immediately to address situation

"This incident was immediately addressed within the Town’s internal Traffic Safety Committee (TSC). The TSC is a consortium that is composed of members from Engineering, PD, Planning, Legal, GRFD, and Safety Management." 

According to Keesler, the town has initiated the following actions:

• Increased Police patrol 
• Added this section of Naranja to the Police traffic complaint hotline – the traffic unit has added it to their list of complaints that they actively work 
• Speed trailer present next week 
• Increased speed enforcement stops to provide education to motorists 
• Continue to work on the MUP, processing this through the Federal system to get under construction
• Will be conducting a speed study next week to confirm the proper posted speed limit. Posting an artificial speed limit that is too high or too low for the design of the street can actually pose additional hazards/problems. That is why the Town adheres to setting speed limits that correspond to the use and design of a particular street. 

Site of the incident is the entrance to Naranja Park.. inherently dangerous to pedestrian travel

We don't know the details of the accident. We are awaiting the police report to learn that. However, we do know that the accident occurred east of the entrance to Naranja Park. The panel at right is a picture of that area, viewed from Pomegranate. 

As you can see from the panel, there is a narrow paved shoulder between the eastbound travel lane and a guard rail. Any pedestrian walking in that area has no escape route if danger is imminent.

There is no pedestrian walking shoulder on the north side of Naranja Drive [see panel below left]. This is because there is a guard rail that abuts an entrance lane to Naranja Park. There is a travel lane for bicycles and a sign that tells drivers to beware of such.  There is no such warning regarding pedestrians. In addition, it appears that the town paved over a soft shoulder where once pedestrians could walk in order to create this exit lane. A pedestrian walking in that area is has no access option.

Finally, there is no cross walk nor is there a pedestrian controlled traffic light. Nor are there any signs to alert drivers to pedestrians going to and from the park. Add to this a 45mp speed limit, which is far too fast for this section of Naranja Drive.

Our conclusion: A pedestrian walking along the roadway in that area has no option to seek safety from traffic regardless of which side of the road they are on.

In comparison, pedestrian access to Riverfront Park access is far safer

The town knows how to create a safe park entrance.  The pedestrian access Riverfront Park is excellent. There, the town built multi-use paths and added pedestrian-controlled traffic light for crossing the roadway.  This access is first-class.

Pomegranate Drive residents want more action now

We asked the council what had been done to improve pedestrian/bicycle safety on Naranja Drive because we saw no changes on that road since the accident. We also listened to three residents who live on Pomegranate Drive.They spoke in the "call to audience" portion of last weeks Town Council meeting. They addressed their concerns about pedestrian safety on that road and made suggestions as to things that could be done immediately. Resident Dr. Diane Stephenson called for an immediate reduction of the speed limit. Another called for markers to be installed to demarcate the turnoff lane into the park, where the accident occurred. There is no pedestrian safe area there. A third decried a rather dismissive email received from Keesler discussing the long term solution of a planned multi-use path.

There is so much more that the town must do to make this entrance pedestrian safe now.

- - -

Bits and Pieces

Not everyone is happy with plans for Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve

This Tuesday, the Planning and Zoning Commission viewed the latest set of plans and options for the transformation of the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve from the former Vistoso Golf Course. The commission entertained audience comments. 

All of the commenters lived in the area. These concerns include the location of the parking lot off Vistoso Highlands drive and its impact on increasing traffic; too many trails; the design of a restored pond; security and privacy in relation to homes abutting the preserve; preventing use of the preserve by dirt bikers. One speaker said the plan was turning the preserve into an amusement park. Another said that the plan was grandiose. Others said that they were not included in the design process. One wanted to know how their objections would be further considered. The Parks and Recreation staff will present the plan to the council in a study session on March 15.

No audience speaker mentioned two important concerns of all residents: The cost of building this, the source of this money, and the cost of maintaining this facility.

ChatGPT is bonkers over Oro Valley 

The website ChatGPT is the "rage."  Ask it a question. It will reply with a full response, one that seems as if it were written by a human. Some futurists see it, or something like it, as the next step in freeing people for the tedium of actually having to research and  write something of their own. CHATGPT can only reply with internet information which it can cobble together. The panel at right is its description of Oro Valley.  Sort of accurate. Sort of not. The ChatGPT response reads like it was written by one of our town's public relations people.

Water rate increase on the horizon

Every year at this time the Town of Oro Valley Town Council approves a motion to provide notice to all of a water rate increase. This starts the clock of an increase with goes into effect this August 1. This Wednesday, the council will likely approve that motion as it is on the consent agenda. The water utility is proposing an increase in the cost of both potable and reclaimed water. For the average potable water user: "The financial impact of the proposed base and commodity rate increase for a customer with a 5/8-inch meter using 7,000 gallons is $2.11 per month." The council will hold the first public hearing on the proposed rate increase in April.

Naranja Park Splashpad design survey results

“Thank you to everyone that participated and provided feedback regarding the Naranja Park splashpad design! We had over 950 surveys submitted and 69% of those votes were in favor of... drumroll please... option B. This option includes the slide. As a reminder, while it's not pictured, the design will include shade and seating. Comments that were submitted regarding safety have been noted and will be shared with the design team. We anticipate the splashpad opening in late spring/early summer of 2024.” (Source: Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation weekly email)