Victory at Last: Former Vistoso Golf Course Purchase Complete

The Conservation Fund announced its purchase of the 202-acre former Vistoso Golf Course property

Roughly two years ago, The Conservation Fund and its partners, including the Town of Oro Valley, residents and community leaders, and members of the organization Preserve Vistoso, set out to acquire and protect the property so it could be preserved as a wildlife sanctuary and public recreation destination. Thanks to the generous contributions of over 600 individuals in the community, over $1.8 million dollars was raised, and a challenging negotiation and successful acquisition are now complete.

“Support from the community was phenomenal,” said Mike Ford, The Conservation Fund’s Southwest Director. “We want to thank the Town of Oro Valley, led by Mayor Joe Winfield and Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett, as well as Preserve Vistoso and the hundreds of people who donated to this effort. Thanks to you, Arizona has gained another natural, cultural and recreational resource for all to enjoy.” 

“I want to thank the community for their generosity, as well as my colleagues on the Town Council, Town leadership, The Conservation Fund, and the other parties in this transaction that helped this purchase come to fruition. Preservation of this land will benefit the entire Oro Valley community for generations to come,” said Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield.

The former Vistoso Golf Course property is a crown jewel in Oro Valley. Mountain views and varied desert vegetation, wildlife such as mule deer, bobcats, and birds, and rock formations bearing Native American petroglyphs can all be found on the site’s grounds. When the Vistoso Golf Course ceased operations in 2018, many in the community envisioned a future nature preserve in its place. It has become a popular open space for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.

The Conservation Fund will temporarily hold the property, place a conservation easement on the land, and donate it to the Town of Oro Valley later this year. The conservation easement will ensure that the site will never be developed and will remain an asset for wildlife and the local community. The property will remain open for public access under The Conservation Fund’s interim ownership.

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About The Conservation Fund 

At The Conservation Fund, we make conservation work for America. By creating solutions that make environmental and economic sense, we are redefining conservation to demonstrate its essential role in our future prosperity. Top-ranked for efficiency and effectiveness, we have worked in all 50 states since 1985 to protect more than 8.5 million acres of land, including roughly 975,000 acres in Arizona. www.conservationfund.org

Source: The Conservation Fund Press Release, February 17, 2022

Vistoso Community Association Unanimously Approves Variance, Clearing the Way for Closing on Vistoso Golf Course

The following press release from Preserve Vistoso presents more good news regarding the Vistoso Golf Course. Preserve Vistoso and community members raised $1.8 million for The Conservation Fund to purchase the property  

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Vistoso Golf Purchase clears another barrier

"Jan. 28, 2022 - Congratulations!!! The final hurdle for the sale of the Vistoso property was completed last night as the Vistoso Community Association (VCA) Board unanimously approved a variance that was required for the sale of the 6.3 acres near the clubhouse to local Tucson developer Ross Rulney. As most of you know, the sale of the 202 acres of the Vistoso property as a nature preserve required that the entire 208 acres be sold at the same time.

 
Thanks to Mike Ford from The Conservation Fund (TCF) and the Oro Valley Town Council, Town Manager and Town Lawyer for facilitating the Vistoso property agreement on our behalf. And a special thanks to the VCA Board for its quick response to approve this last-minute requirement for the sale to be completed.

 
What’s next? Once the agreement is signed by all parties in the next few weeks, TCF will place a conservation easement on the 202-acre nature preserve to protect it in perpetuity. Mike Ford will update us once the agreement is signed. TCF is expected to eventually donate the property to the Town of Oro Valley.

 
Ross Rulney will own the property near the clubhouse that always has been zoned high-density residential. As with any planned development, the Town of Oro Valley will review the plans in open sessions with the surrounding communities having a voice in the proposed plans.

 
“It’s been a very long 3-1/2 years but the end is really in sight, '' said Gayle Mateer, President of Preserve Vistoso. “ We expect the closing to happen in the next couple of weeks. We are so grateful for the unwavering support from you, our members, to get us to this point.”
We’ll let you know when closing is complete. We’re almost there!

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Purchase of former Vistoso Golf Course Nears Completion

Due diligence completed
"The Conservation Fund has completed remaining due diligence and notified all parties of our ability to close on the property as soon as possible. The Sellers’s (Romspen) have signed and delivered all documents, and everything remains in full force and effect. In addition, a parallel agreement involving the purchase of the 6-acre Club House parcel has been signed and approved. Finally, the settlement agreement among the Town of Oro Valley, The Conservation Fund, Romspen, and the private purchaser has been executed.  

Suffice to say this has been a complicated transaction involving multiple parties, two separate escrow agreements, and a host of administrative approvals and legal details. Despite those logistical challenges, everything has come together as planned and we are in complete agreement as we proceed towards closing.  

Purchase of former Vistoso Golf Course expected by January 21st

Our original goal was to close on or before December 30th, but that date has been extended into early January. We have encountered some minor delays that have impacted timing, mostly related to capacity (or lack thereof), traditional end of year activities, holiday leave, and escalating health and safety restrictions common to business and government. However, there are no open issues between Romspen, and the parties and we will make a formal announcement as soon as possible contingent with closing.  

I expect to be able to confirm everything between now and January 21st. In the meantime, we appreciate everyone’s continued support, patience, and understanding. We continue to work with the Town and others relative to future planning and management of the property while under interim management by The Conservation Fund.  

Wishing everyone a happy and prosperous New Year.

Mike Ford 

Nevada and Southwest Director 

The Conservation Fund"

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Community Contributions to Purchase the Vistoso Nature Preserve Top One Million Dollars

The following is press release from the group Preserve Vistoso.

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Oro Valley, AZ, Nov. 8, 2021 -- Preserve Vistoso (501c3) announced today it topped one million dollars of contributions to The Conservation Fund (TCF) to purchase the 202 acres of the Vistoso property in northern Oro Valley as a nature preserve. The fundraising campaign started on October 12 and the community based organization has until December 15 to reach its goal of $1.8 million in contributions.

Preserve Vistoso with its 1,900 members has been committed to saving the property since the Vistoso Golf course closed in late 2018. Since TCF reached an agreement with the property owner to purchase the property by year end, donors have been eager to contribute to save the property as a nature preserve. “Our community’s support to save a large parcel of Sonoran Desert in northern Oro Valley has been incredible,” said Gayle Mateer, “We are more than half way to reach our goal of $1.8 million, but we need support of the community and those who value saving part of the Sonoran desert as open space.”

If the fund raising goal is reached, TCF will acquire the property and place the nature preserve in a conservation easement in perpetuity that will be monitored by a Land Trust. That means the nature preserve will always be preserved as a Sonoran Desert. TCF is expected to donate the property to the Town of Oro Valley.

TCF is a nationally recognized conservation nonprofit501(c)( 3) organization creating solutions that make environmental and economic sense, redefining conservation to emphasize its essential role in the country’s future prosperity.

“A conservation easement ensures that the property must remain as a nature preserve in perpetuity,” Mateer said. “The property was a desert golf course and the desert is reclaiming the property. With six miles of paved paths, it is a perfect spot for anyone in our community to enjoy a walk or bike ride and enjoy the Sonoran desert.

Tom Weiskopf designed and opened the Vistoso Golf Course in 1995 with more than 70 percent of the property retained as Sonoran desert habitat. It has spectacular mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, more than six miles of paved trails, three restrooms and trail underpasses for major roads. The area was once home to a Native American village called Sleeping Snake, as evidenced by the petroglyphs that can be found on the property.

More information is available at preservevistoso.org
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Source: The group Preserve Vistoso Press Release

Vistoso Preserve $1.8 Million Fundraising Target Reaches Million Dollar Mark

"This deal is going to get done"

Mike Ford of The Conservation Fund (“TCF”) updated residents on the status of TCF’s purchase of the former Vistoso Golf Course. “This deal is going to get done.” Ford noted at a Zoom meeting hosted by the group Preserve Vistoso on November 5.

$1 Million raised to date for the purchase of the 202 acres

Ford said that $1 million had been raised to date to fund the purchase. The goal is to raise $1.8 million by the end of the year. Ford believes that the purchase of the land from Rompsen LLC will be completed at that time. TCF will create a conservation easement on the property. 

TCG will employ a third party to that the conservation easement is maintained  in perpetuity. TCF will then donate the land to the Town of Oro Valley where the land will become part of the town’s Parks and Recreation system.

Been a "long road" to get to this point

Ford detailed the path that has been taken to make this purchase a reality. Initially, Rompsen LLC, the property owner, rejected a fair market value offer made by TCF in summer of 2020. That discussion included six acres of land that is zoned for high density residential use.

Negotiations were restarted by the town last spring at the urging of Rancho Vistoso Residents.  Mayor Winfield, Vice Mayor Barrett, Town Manager Jacobs and town outside council Jonathan Rothchild led this

Unlike the  discussion, this discussion separated the six acres of land that is now zoned for his density residential use. The group negotiated on the remaining 202 acres. The fair market value for that property, as agreed to by Rompsen, is a bit less than the $1.8 million being raised. 

Ford stated that the six acres will be sold to a third party by Romspen. That party will develop the land consistent with current HDR zoning.

What Ford did not mention is that the town is a party to the agreement. The details of the town's commitment have yet to be revealed to the public.  

Your help needed
This will be a preserve for all to use, not just those in Rancho Vistoso.  You can help to make it so by donating to TCF. Click here to learn how to do so

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The Conservation Fund: Preserving Open Space Is Par For The Course In Oro Valley

Par for the course 

Mike Ford of The Conservation Fund has penned a lovely article on the saga of preserving the former Vistoso Golf Course as a nature preserve in perpetuity. In it, Ford extols the beauty of the former course. He notes that it is looking especially beautiful after our unusual monsoon season.

Thanks to those who helped

Ford  acknowledges the hard work of Oro Valley Resident Rosa Dailey. “I was first contacted by local leader Rosa Dailey in April 2020, who told me about the property and the groundswell of community support to see this open space preserved and not developed." Dailey had been working on finding a solution long before that. 

Ford also acknowledges the support of the group Preserve Vistoso as well as the support of Takebackov and LOVE.  And, the support of Mayor Winfield and Vice Mayor Barrett. 

The journey continues: From fundraising to a conservation easement

“Once the fundraising is complete and the 202-acre former Vistoso Golf Course is officially purchased, The Conservation Fund will protect the property with a conservation easement, which will legally protect this land for conservation indefinitely. After that, the property will be transferred to the Town of Oro Valley, and a qualified land trust will be named as the long-term property steward who will ensure it adheres to the terms of the conservation easement.”

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Agreement Would Convert Former Vistoso Golf Course to a Nature Preserve

Agreement would convert former Vistoso Golf Course to a Nature Preserve

Preserve Vistoso announced today that The Conservation Fund (TCF) will purchase 202 acres of the former Vistoso Golf Course. TCF will protect the property with a conservation easement as a nature preserve and community trail. The Town of Oro Valley is expected to become the eventual owner. TCF is a nationally recognized conservation nonprofit, 501(c)( 3) organization creating solutions that make environmental and economic sense, redefining conservation to emphasize its essential role in the country’s future prosperity. 

Agreement should be final by year end

The property transaction should be final by year-end, contingent on the community raising $1.8 million for TCF to complete the purchase. Last year, community members conducted a successful pledge drive, but TCF’s offer to purchase the property was rejected. Now that an agreement was reached, there will be another opportunity for the community to raise the funds. 

Goal of a “preserve” is at hand

“Our community’s goal to preserve the property is finally close to becoming a reality,” said Gayle Mateer, president of Preserve Vistoso, a 1,860-member community 501(c)(3) nonprofit. “After the Vistoso Golf Course closed in 2018, we formed Preserve Vistoso so the community would have a voice in saving the property as a nature preserve and community trail. Now as a community we need to secure the funds to complete the purchase to save some of the last remaining large parcels of Sonoran desert in Oro Valley as open space.” 

…and it will be spectacular

Tom Weiskopf designed and opened the Vistoso Golf Course in 1995 with more than 70 percent of the property retained as Sonoran desert habitat. It has spectacular mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, more than six miles of paved trails, three restrooms and trail underpasses for major roads. The area was once home to a Native American village called Sleeping Snake, as evidenced by the petroglyphs that can be found on the property. 

Thanks to the community for the support

“Our community would not give up,” Mateer said. “Our volunteers persistently raised the issue of preserving the property with Town Council members and Town management. Preserve Vistoso membership grew as more community members supported our efforts to preserve the property for community use. TCF has been our valued and trusted partner. We also applaud the involvement of Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield, Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett, Town Council members, Town Attorney and Town Manager in negotiations for the purchase. Their support and direction were critical to our success.”

 (Source: October 13, 2021 press release of the organization "Preserve Vistoso")

Fundraising for the Preservation of the Former Vistoso Golf Course Begins Today!

Agreement reached… Now its time to raise funding

The Conservation Fund (TCF) will begin accepting donations toward the purchase of the 202 acres of recreational open space that was once the fairways of the former Vistoso Golf Course. The fundraising will occur over the next 60 days with the purchase projected by the end of December 2021.

It’s been a long road

As those who have been following this saga know, the purchase of the property proved quite challenging and required a strategic partnership approach. The Conservation Fund entered into discussion with golf course owner Romspen LLc in May of last year. Last November, the Town of Oro Valley agreed to join the negotiations. Last month, the sale of the property was agreed upon. 

• TCF will purchase the 202 acres. 
• An outside developer will purchase the six acre parcel that is zoned for residential use. 
• The town will enter into a Global Settlement Agreement to resolve any remaining issues.

The Benefits of Donating to a Nationally Recognized Non-Profit

There are many benefits to TCF’s involvement. Their reputation is above reproach as one of the top-rated conservation organizations in the county, with a 4-star rating by Charity Navigator, an A+ rating by Charity Watch, and as an organization that achieves the standards of excellence of the Better Business Bureau.

TCF’s platinum level accreditation with the Land Trust Alliance ensures with a high degree of certainty that your donations will allow the purchase of the former Vistoso golf course to join TCF’s impressive legacy of land preservation in Arizona and throughout the country. With your tax-deductible contributions, 202 acres in Rancho Vistoso, Oro Valley will join the 1 million acres TCF has conserved in Arizona, and 8.5 million acres they have conserved within the US. In Oro Valley our motto is: It’s in our nature and very soon we will have the nature preserve to prove it!

A Conservation Easement makes all the difference!

Once the 202 acres of the former Vistoso Golf Course is purchased, TCF will protect the land with a conservation easement. Think of it as a deed that will forever follow the land allowing certain recreational uses while prohibiting other activities such as development. Imagine never having to fight off another developer! 

While the Town of Oro Valley is expected to be the eventual owner of the property, a qualified land trust will be named as the long-term property steward who will ensure it maintains adherence to the terms of the conservation easement. 

The conservation easement is one of the most value-added features of working with The Conservation Fund to purchase the recreational open space of the former Vistoso golf course. We donate and they do all the work from purchase to protection.

Your help is needed to fund the Purchase

The Conservation Fund has established a goal of raising $1.8 million by December 2021. A designated pledge form will direct all donations exclusively towards TCF’s purchase of the land and establishment of a conservation easement.

Tax-deducible charitable contributions may be made by check, wire transfer, securities transfer, and qualified charitable distribution.

You can view and download the 2021 Romspen Vistoso Project Pledge Form here.
 
All donors should direct questions to: 

Kirste Kowalsky, Arizona Field Representative, kkowalsky@conservationfund.org, 480-332-3012 

Mike Ford, Senior Nevada and Southwest Director, mford@conservationfund.org, 702-655-8167

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Source: Oro Valley Resident Rosa Dailey

Bits and Pieces

Conceptual agreement reached on Vistoso Preserve 

All parties to the sale of the former Vistoso Golf Course and its conversion into a permanent preserve have formed a conceptual agreement. “As there is now no disagreement on any issues of substance, the parties will be working through contracts and legal documents with the goal of completing the deal no later than by close of next week.” (Source: Reader's email)

Once the agreements are signed, fundraising will begin.  LOVE will keep you up to date as we learn more.

Oro Valley Marketplace changes and the water challenge are featured on this week's Jim Horn Oro Valley Podcast talk with LOVE

We are Jim Horn’s Guest on his Oro Valley Podcast this week. We talk about two topics: The proposed changed to the Oro Valley Marketplace and “Water”. We discuss two questions: Are the changes proposed to the Marketplace something the town needs? Can Oro Valley remain an oasis of plentiful water when the rest of the West isn’t? Get updated on the Marketplace proposed changes here. Listen to Jim’s podcast here.

Oro Valley Historical Society membership meeting next Thursday

The Oro Valley Historical Society is holding a membership meeting at the Pusch House at Steam Pump Ranch on Thursday, September 30 at 2:30pm. After the meeting, attendees are welcome to tour this month’s exhibit and enjoy some refreshments.

Fall "Pavement Preservation" schedule available

The town has released its plans for this fall’s pavement preservation schedule. Work starts in late October. This is a program started years ago to refresh our town’s street’s long before they have to be replaced. The program truly does extend the life of our streets. It’s why the condition of our roads is so good. Read what’s going to be done and where here. 

Lots of scams

There are many different kinds of "scams". Seems like more than ever. Visit this FTC link to learn more. We receive emails routinely about being charged for a Norton Security subscription. We have no such subscription. We simply delete the message and we suggest you do the same.

Vistoso Preserve Becoming A Reality

Vistoso Nature Preserve to become a reality

Last night, the Oro Valley Town Council met in executive session to finalize next steps regarding the conversion of the former Vistoso Golf Course into a preserve. The council unanimously approved the following resolution:

"...to proceed with a settlement agreement of all disputes [between the town and property owner] Romspen that facilitates The Conservation Fund's purchase of the 202 acres of the former Vistoso Golf Course; that the town council will allow the town to be a party to the resolution of all claims with Romspen and be party to the negotiation to the conservation easement between The Conservation Fund and Romspen, including any consideration acquired by the town; that staff is directed further to the settlement agreement, to involve a third party regarding the purchase of the six acre property owned by Romspen, currently zoned multi family residential."

End of a long journey

Residents are hopeful that his  resolution ends a four year nightmare for the residents of Rancho Vistoso.  Speaking on the motion, Oro Valley resident Rosa Dailey speaking to council observed: "You are going to be known as the council that brought conservation to Oro Valley in a very big way." 

According to Dailey:" This is the end of a long journey."

Mission Accomplished

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Update On Negotiations To Purchase Vistoso Golf Property

The following is a press release from the organization, Preserve Vistoso

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April 26, 2021-- Mike Ford, Southwest Director of Conservation Acquisition for The Conservation Fund (TCF), provided Preserve Vistoso board members an update on progress to purchase the Vistoso  from Romspen Investments. Ford said that the Town of Oro Valley Attorney Jonathon Rothschild and Town Manager Mary Jacobs invited TCF to reengage in discussions for a purchase agreement with Romspen. Any deal is contingent on an appraisal of the property to establish Fair Market Value (FMV). Romspen attorney Pat Lopez agreed to contract for an updated appraisal

Ford said the deal being considered is for TCF to purchase the 202 acres zoned recreational at FMV and place a conservation easement on the property to protect it in perpetuity as open space. Terms of the deal including the purchase price and conservation easement language will be released publicly once the deal closes. The purpose of a conservation easement would be to define exactly what would be allowed and what would be prohibited. It would allow hiking trails, trail heads and parking areas, but ball parks and amphitheaters, for example, would not be allowed on the property.

 In a separate agreement, the six acres where the former club house and parking lot exist, currently zoned high density residential, would be sold to a private developer. Any development of the property would be subject to all existing zoning constraints including building height limits of 35 feet. Ford said that the developer would be known to our community and the plans would be compatible with the 202 open space acres.

If the FMV offer is accepted by Romspen, TCF would hope to close the deal by year end.  While TCF intends to eventually donate the property to the Town, TCF would also select a third party conservation land trust as a steward of the property to protect the natural habitat. 

"This is great news for our community," said Gayle Mateer, President of Preserve Vistoso. “TCF has remained willing to re-engage in the process even after the initial offer to Romspen was rejected last September. Mike Ford's leadership and the Town of Oro Valley's support have made an agreement on the property a possibility. We are cautiously optimistic that Romspen will accept the deal and we can end our three-year nightmare of uncertainty about the property."

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Bits and Pieces

Marana Town Manager Get’s $200K. Will Oro Valley’s Town Manager Jacobs be left behind?
Marana’s former police chief, Terry Rozema, is now the town’s new town manager. He is getting $200,000 in his new job. This plus perks like a car and nice benefits. (Source: Arizona Daily Star) Oro Valley’s Town Manager Jacobs currently earns less. Will she be left behind?

Did you know that the town already borrowed for the “turnkey” community center?
Former Mayor Hiremath assured us that the clubhouse at the purchased El Conquistador County Club was “turnkey”. As it turned out, it was far from that. The 2021 Parks and Recreation Plan has funds recommended for inclusion to fix up the place. Bet you did not know, however, that the town issued a bond for $2,000,000 in late 2016 to pay for energy improvements. The bonds have a 15 year life.

Reconsideration of Kai-Capri General Plan Amendment avoided need for public hearings
The “original” council discussions of the Kai-Capri amendment required notice of public hearing. According to the town, the reconsideration that happened last week did not require public notice. As such, except for LOVE and the site Takebackov.com, the general public didn’t even know there was further consideration of the amendment. The Mayor did take public comment but the meeting was dominated by speakers garnered by the applicant and the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce. This, once again, gave the Mayor a false impression that the public did not care about this amendment. The amendment failed to be approved. But, we guarantee, it will be back in some form in the next year or two

PAC "Oro Valley Strong" financed by current and former town council members
A current and former Oro Valley council members are funding a PAC called "Oro Valley Strong".  The PAC has raised more than $3,000. Contributors include: 

• Council Member Mo Greene ($1,020.80 from his 2020 campaign 
• Former Council Member Joe Hornat ($250) 
• Former Council Member Bill Rodman ($250) 
• Former Council Member Dick Johnson ($250) 

Several other contributors are Oro Valley residents who are always disparaging current council leadership and new member Bohen. Expect them to position candidates for 2022. That is their prerogative. The PAC was founded by Oro Valley resident Don Cox. A recent PAC organization filing shows that Oro Valley resident Tom Plantz is now the chairperson. Cox is a former member of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

The group Preserve Vistoso encourages all to voice support for a future preserve to council
The group Preserve Vistoso is recommending residents to speak during the “call to audience” section of Oro Valley Town Council meetings. The hope is that they will voice their support of the town’s sought purchase of the former Vistoso Golf course. Things to discuss could be the willingness of the Vistoso’ community to financially participate in the purchase; as well as their support of some the the annual maintenance cost of what will be a natural park preserve.

Town seeking applicant for stormwater commission

The town is seeking an applicant for one position on the stormwater commission.  Applicants must be residents of the Town of Oro Valley. The open position is a two-year term. 

"The SWUC makes recommendations to the Town Council on issues relating to flood control, stormwater quality management, the issuance of bonds for stormwater activities and the prescription of service charges. The SWUC meets on the third Thursday of the month at 4 p.m. Due to COVID-19, meetings are currently being held online via Zoom. 

Residents who are interested in applying for this position can contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 520-229-4700 or apply online by visiting the Boards and Commissions Opportunities webpage. (Source)

Wish us luck...

We're getting our second Covid-19 vaccine shot today. We heard that some have reaction to it. Our hope is that we won't and that, in two weeks, we'll have significant protection against this blight. Have you got your shots yet?

Council Special Session Provides No Information On Status of Negotiations To Purchase Vistoso

The Oro Valley Town Council met in executive session last night to discuss and take "possible action regarding the former Vistoso Golf property.". 

Then, the council held a special session. At that session, the council unanimously approved having the town attorney and manager proceed with whatever they had agreed to in the executive session.

Council provided no information on what that action is.

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Annual Cost of Maintaining "Vistoso Preserve Park"

Main mission: Walking paths that can be legally and safely used by residents

The town is pursuing the purchase of the former Vistoso Golf land.  Some residents have opined that the town in doing this without knowing what the cost will be to maintain this park.

To some extent their claim is true. 

That is only because the town has not yet decided exactly for what the property will be used. Will it be solely a path park? Will there be more?

The "bare bones" use of this land is that it will be a walking path system. The town does have an estimate of what that will cost. Other, more costly uses have been "floated" such as adding recreation areas, maintaining the former irrigation pond, opening the restaurant, and adding an amphitheater. These are all ideas that will be future considerations.  

The property already has walking paths

The 208 acre property already has paths, some paved, that residents are already using for walking.  They are trespassing in doing this since it's now private property.

The rest of the property is overgrown golf fairways and greens that are reverting to a natural state, which is a good thing except for the invasion of noxious weed species. There is erosion of some paths at wash crossing locations. There are also three rest rooms.  All that's really needed is to add ADA compliance to some areas of the path and to remove growth that hinders walking.  

There are also some buildings on the land, including a restaurant. They are all usable but their maintenance and future use is really a diversion because they could be closed with no impact on the paths.

Estimated annual cost of maintaining walking paths ranges from $54,000 to $258,000, depending on scope of facility

A PROS Consulting report commissioned by the town (see note) estimates that it would cost $258,000 annually to maintain the property as a natural open space conservation park. The concept they present in their report (page 36) is beyond the "bare bones' of simply having walking paths. It also includes use of the building on the premises by the Vistoso Community Association and some "light touch recreation."

The group Preserve Vistoso and local Vistoso residents believe that the town's study presents many options that are "...neither required or desired to achieve the goal of a nature preserve and trail.The vision is to restore the property to its natural desert state and provide a walking path using the existing cart path. The initial work and associated costs are modest with the potential to enhance the property over time, using concepts outlined in the study the town commissioned. This natural evolution of the property would be the same as is currently being planned for the town’s other parks in the 10-year plan." (Source: Email from the group, Preserve Vistoso). They have received estimates from a major landscaping company that annual maintenance of the property will be about $54,000 annually.''

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Note: The Town of Oro Valley commissioned PROS Consulting to do a feasibility study of incorporating this land into the town’s parks and recreation system. PROS is the firm that is working with the town to create a Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The study was provided to town council in October. It was conducted prior to Romspen’s LLC rejection of an offer for private ownership.

Vistoso Residents: Only Town, Romspen and The Conservation Fund Should Negotiate Vistoso Land Deal

Monday we wrote about Vistoso resident demands that Council Member Steve Solomon be excluded from council actions regarding the town's potential purchase of the defunct Vistoso Golf Course. Yesterday, we posted an email to council supporting this contention. Today, we post a second email from a different residents.  This email highlights the distrust of some in Council Member Solomon and in the group Preserve Vistoso.

We have removed identifying information regarding the writer in order to promote harmony in the community. This email was sent to council after the council's decision to seek a land purchase.

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Hello Town Council Members,

We are writing to follow up on the Town Council meeting conducted on 11/18/20, specifically agenda item #2 – DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE CLOSED VISTOSO GOLF COURSE PROPERTY. We were in attendance and unfortunately our request to speak during the meeting (from our land line) must have not been detected by TOV [Town of Oro Valley] staff. Thus, we are writing to provide our input.

[We]  have lived in Vistoso Highlands ... [for] years. We would like to begin by sincerely thanking those Council members who have persevered to uphold the Rancho Vistoso resident’s unwavering choice to purchase the former Vistoso Golf Course (the 202 acres at FMV as green space, in perpetuity). The ONLY parties required to negotiate and finalize this agreement are the Town of Oro Valley, Romspen and The Conservation Fund (TCF). All other non-essential parties MUST stand down. Otherwise, the success of this action will be put at risk.

Personal Experience: 

1. [We] attended a Preserve Vistoso (PV) sponsored Zoom call on July 7, 2020 in support of The Conservation Fund (TCF) with the goal to participate in the pledge drive. As follow up to this PV Zoom call, we received the attached PV Survey (note 2 attachments – one is the original email dated July 17, 2020. The survey is also separately attached for ease of reference). In summary, we were requested to make significant monetary pledges while the questionnaire clearly is driving to support partial development. Thus interpreted -- we were requested to make a considerable financial pledge to have the property developed behind us – 6th and 7th holes? Imagine how my [We]  felt? 
2. As of the 11/18/20 Town Council Meeting, Michael Bilodeau, PV President, still continues to deny and spread the false narrative that TCF was not yet involved as of July 17, 2020. This somehow is being used to justify the distribution of the attached survey/questionnaire. This is a blatant misrepresentation - TCF was involved and is the reason we participated in the PV Zoom call. Also, please note, the Pledge form distributed on July 17th clearly reflects TCF (this further contradicts/refutes Michael Bilodeau’s claim TCF was not yet involved). [Insert follows below]
3. 
   We would like to add that whether TCF was involved or not, PV is a 501(c)(3) and was participating in behavior to the detriment of certain members of the community without full disclosure that partial development was in fact their true mission. The bigger question is “with whom was PV with working regarding the potential development of the parcels on the 6th and 7th holes”? My husband and I attempted to ascertain the motive and facts behind the PV survey. We feel we need to impart the “information/rumors” we subsequently learned which implicate a sitting member of council. The “rumors” indicate there was a targeted 6-acre parcel in this area for development that may have influenced Romspen’s decision to decline the TCF FMV [fair market value] offer for all 202 acres. While these are rumors, we believe where there is smoke there is fire. 
4.  Thus, to date, we are still withholding our pledge commitment. Our pledge will only be made to TCF. 
   

Council Member [Solomon] Feedback

1. Councilman Solomon needs to consider “recusing himself” from further involvement in this matter. 
2. Councilman Solomon’s comments during the Town Council meeting were alarming and clearly revealed questionable motives (particularly development) with respect to some portion of the property. Is this related to the specific portion highlighted by the PV survey (holes 6 and 7 – including the targeted “6-acre parcel”)? Clearly, he has been working with PV for some time. It was very disconcerting to hear he had already formed and met with his “hand selected committee” that could resolve this matter in 30-60 days. When pressed by residents for his strategy and plan, he had none. 
3. [We] were very uncomfortable when Councilman Solomon’s motion was discussed. Did his motion set the stage for the compromise and development of the targeted 6-acre parcel? Please note he referred to “his hand selected committee that would include himself, PV leadership and Romspen” and that they could resolve this issue quickly with a handshake and resolution within in 30 – 60 days. Please note he indicated they had already been meeting which further supported the quick resolution. 
4. Again, could this have possibly been a reason that Romspen declined the TCF FMV deal/offer? 
5. As stated above, we request Councilman Solomon recuse himself from further involvement in this matter. 

Request for Resident Communication

We would like to request (if possible) that the Town of Oro Valley communicate directly with the Rancho Vistoso residents with respect to information and updates regarding status and future actions of the golf course resolution. This approach will provide the required transparency needed to ensure that all information is fully distributed/communicated to all residents. This will avoid residents having to rely on Preserve Vistoso, an organization that clearly has “some” explaining to do. 

Respectfully,"

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Publisher note: The group Preserve Vistoso asserts that it has always operated to ensure that the Vistoso property remains open space. Please read our November 24th posting regarding Preserve Vistoso's explanation of their activities.  The group asserts that their goal has always been to create a permanent conservation easement on the property. 

Vistoso Residents: Bar Solomon From Town's Vistoso Land Negotiations

Yesterday we wrote about Vistoso resident demands that Council Member Steve Solomon be excluded from council actions regarding the town's potential purchase of the defunct Vistoso Golf Course. The following is one of  two emails to The Oro Valley Town Council stating their position in more detail. Tomorrow we will publish the second email. 

We have removed identifying information regarding the writer in order to promote harmony in the community. This email was sent to council after the council's decision to attempt the land purchase.

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"Dear Town Council Members:

It was with relief and anticipation that your 7-0 vote to initiate the process to purchase the defunct golf course from Romspen at fair market value was received. Relief, that the council voted down Councilman Solomon's motion to act as our sole agent in a murky, backroom negotiation with Romspen. Anticipation, that the town is now on board with the community in actively seeking a permanent conservation easement for all of the property. The Rancho Vistoso neighborhood has been adamant that we want conservation and limited use for walking and cycling in a natural setting. No development. 

Those of us on the Zoom conference were aghast to learn that Councilman Solomon had been acting as an unauthorized "town agent" to give Romspen a premium and likely a path towards development in order to sell. One is left wondering what his motivations were .... His lack of transparency in responding to inquiries about the framework of his deal was alarming for a town council member. His boasting of "major, $100 Million deals" was telling. He's just a wheeler-dealer; a retired developer that wants back in the game. A Romspen "Fixer". 

For those reasons, I ask you to demand a recusal of Councilman Solomon from any further dealings in the matter of the defunct Vistoso Golf Course property. 

Solomon's opportunistic "Preserve Vistoso" signs stapled onto his re-election signs signaled his intent to support conservation. He talked conservation up during his campaign. Now his actions demonstrate his true intent, which is to create value for Romspen at the expense of our community. He wants to divide our community into winners and losers, depending on where you live around the old course. This is exactly what Mike Ford, The Conservation Fund (TCF) stated in his final communication to us. He said THIS MUST NOT HAPPEN. Mr. Ford knew well the perils of dividing the community with partial development. That is why TCF insisted that their effort to create a conservation easement be for all 208 acres, nothing less. Partial development would tear at the social and financial fabric of our neighborhood. The fear of partial development is palpable and needs to be taken off the table. 

We believe that the best way forward is just what your 7-0 vote calls for - a full conservation easement in perpetuity. It may be a long, hard path to walk but just knowing that the council will stay the course to that conclusion will sustain us. 

Councilman Solomon's motion for creation of a task force included a seat for Preserve Vistoso, (PV), leadership in the deal making. He unwittingly confirmed what many of us have suspected for some time. His comments appeared to be in line with a PV survey that circulated last spring polling residents as to their stance on potentially developing some of the property in order to conserve other areas around the course. I saw the survey. It clearly showed the golf course property right behind our home as available for development. I note that none of the PV leadership's homes were near the areas they thought would be agreeable to Romspen for development. Conservation would take place near their homes. After I saw the survey form, I quickly rescinded my five figure pledge to PV. I then spoke directly to Mr. Ford by phone. He was aware of the survey and told PV to cease sending it out, as it as divisive; it would tear the neighborhood apart and TCF would not be a party to it. The form disappeared quickly. Unfortunately, a seed of doubt has been planted in our neighborhood. What were PV leadership's real intentions? What are they going forward? Are they for creating a conservation easement for ALL of the defunct golf course, or just those areas behind their homes? Is PV really just a self-serving entity? 

I would like to see the Preserve Vistoso leadership offer the community a clarifying statement, so we can better understand their motivations and survey mis-step. Perhaps they can re-affirm their role as a strong, collective voice for our neighborhood regarding the future of the old course. 

The council's rejection of Councilman Solomon's motion to create a task force to codify his murky deal also gives PV an opportunity to step away from him. Instead, they could provide our neighborhood with the much needed clarifications on where they stand on the future of the defunct golf course. While only the town council speaks for us in legally binding matters, PV can be our voice and gathering place to hash out and communicate to you our collective desires in these matters. They are not our negotiators. 

I know the hard road to town ownership of this land will be successful. We have the votes and the will of the people behind the effort. [We] will re-pledge our donation to the purchase of the land if the council stays the course towards a fair market value for the property. Many others in Rancho Vistoso will do the same. As Mayor Winfield said, "We can find the money". We can take the time, too. 

Most importantly, you have the power to just say NO to re-zoning the property. If Romspen sees that the council majority is in favor of a full conservation easement and has not opportunity to develop the land, they will finally sell at fair market value terms. The property has been abandoned. It is subject to condemnation. They will sell when they see our resolve. 

Our neighbor, [name deleted], has asked to sign onto this letter. [Information regarding neighbor deleted for privacy purposes.

[We] and many others share the opinion that Councilman Solomon must recuse himself from this agenda item. We hope the entire town council agrees.

Sincerely"

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Vistoso Residents Want Solomon and The Group Preserve Vistoso Barred From Town's Vistoso Land Negotiations

Residents want Solomon to recuse himself...

Residents of Rancho Vistoso have asked the Oro Valley Town Council to remove Council Member Steve Solomon from any discussions regarding the town's potential purchase of the former Vistoso Golf land from owner Romspen LLC. As LOVE reported in November, the council has authorized the town manager and town council to negotiate with Romspen to purchase the property. 

...because Solomon has been involved in previous discussions with Romspen, the landowner, that would have resulted in development of some of the property

Rancho Vistoso residents are seeking Solomon's recusal from discussions because Solomon, starting in March, inserted himself into activities with the group Preserve Vistoso , activities that could have resulted in residential development of some of the property. These residents, like many in Rancho Vistoso, want no development of the property. Rather, they want the property to become a natural preserve.

Council Member Solomon's activities with Romspen and the group Preserve Vistoso continued at least until the council meeting of November 18. At that meeting, Solomon put forth a motion that would have the town join with a small "working group" he had formed with Romspen's representative to, as he put it, "quickly resolve" the purchase. The working group was to also include Preserve Vistoso and the Vistoso Community Association ("VCA") to, supposedly, represent the residents. 

Residents vehemently rejected Solomon's proposal at the November council meeting. Now, they are fearful that any Solomon involvement could result in a "deal" that would see some of the property developed; in particular, a six acre plot on the far east side of the golf course. This would disadvantage residents living in that area.

Residents: The group Preserve Vistoso and the Vistoso Community Association should not be involved

These residents assert that only the town can represent the interests of all residents. The group Preserve Vistoso represents only some members of the community. In addition, only a small part of the land is under the auspices of the Vistoso Community Association  ("VCA"),  the governing master homeowners association. 187 of the 208 acres of the former golf course are under town control. Thus, it is up to the town to take the lead role in resolving this land's use. And the town has acted to do just that.

The residents believe that the group Preserve Vistoso has not been operating for the benefit of all. They point to a questionnaire that the group sent out that asked respondents whether it was agreeable that a six acre plot mentioned previously be developed (Panel Right). 

The group Preserve Vistoso asked this question in mid July during the time when they were soliciting donations for The Conservation Fund (TCF).  This was at a time when The Conservation Fund ("TCF") was negotiating a land purchase at Fair Market Value with Romspen. TCF will only purchase the land if the land will have no development. They will place the land in a Conservation Trust, protecting the land in perpetuity. 

Residents: The actions of Council Member Solomon and the group Preserve Vistoso may have interfered with the negotiations between TCF and Romspen

We have been told by residents that Council Member Solomon has been in contact from time to time with Peter Oelbaum, managing director of Romspen. Solomon is a sitting Oro Valley Town Council member.  Romspen sought an active general plan amendment that would result in significant property development. This is an amendment that Solomon would be opining upon. Perhaps his involvement held out some hope to Romspen that development was possible.

Then, in July, the group Preserve Vistoso sent out the questionnaire on development of the six acre parcel.  Perhaps, this reinforced Romspen's impression that the community might be amenable to development of some of the property. 

Taken in this light, it makes sense that Romspen rejected the TCF offer. TCF can only offer fair market value for conservation land. Land that can be used for residential development would be far more valuable. Thus, it would be wise for Romspen to reject the offer and see if a better deal would be forthcoming.

Solomon has denied personal benefit from his involvement

Council Member Solomon, in the November council meeting, stated that he had no personal interest in the transaction. He stated that he has been acting on behalf of his constituents.

The group Preserve Vistoso asserts that it has always operated to ensure that the Vistoso property remains open space

Please read our November 24th posting regarding Preserve Vistoso's explanation of their activities. In it, they provide an explanation of their activities which, they assert, are to create a permanent conservation easement on the property.

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Tomorrow and Wednesday we will post two email communications sent to council by residents. These emails substantiate and provide further detail regarding the assertions in this article.

Preserve Vistoso Thanks Council For Attempting Land Purchase

Yesterday, LOVE reported that the The Town of Oro Valley was going to negotiate to purchase the former Vistoso Golf land from Romspen, the owner, with the intent of converting the the land to a permanent town amenity.

The following is statement from the group, Preserve Vistoso. They have been working tirelessly to bring this amenity to our community. We have titled key areas for reading convenience.
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Preserve Vistoso thanks town council for their unanimous action

"Preserve Vistoso is pleased that the Oro Valley Mayor and Town Council listened to our 1,300 members. Although open Town Council meetings have been prohibited due to Covid-19 restrictions, Preserve Vistoso members communicated to Town Council via emails, letters and open Zoom meetings that we want to retain the recreational zoning and save the Vistoso property as a nature preserve and community trail.

At last week’s Town Council meeting Mayor Winfield proposed that the Town initiate communications with Romspen to negotiate the sale of the former Vistoso Golf Course to keep it zoned as open space. The Council voted unanimously to support this motion. We thank the Town Council for approving this action and we look forward to hearing updates on their progress as they engage with Romspen.

Setting the recored straight: "No side deals ever"

During that meeting a few residents made disparaging and inaccurate comments about Preserve Vistoso. We know that volunteer community boards can face criticism, but it is unfortunate that the Preserve Vistoso board was accused of somehow engaging in backroom efforts to pursue a separate deal. Those comments aren’t true and should not detract from the dedicated efforts of our members and our board to let the Town Council know that we want to protect this beautiful desert property.

Here are some facts

• Preserve Vistoso is a 501c3. We publicly supported The Conservation Fund (TCF) and its efforts to buy the property. Our members pledged more than $1.5 million to help TCF purchase the property. This included more than $200,000 in pledges from our board. We also fully supported TCF offering Fair Market Value for the property.
• Preserve Vistoso has never pursued or proposed any side deals with Romspen. We are not working on any other offer. Prior to our partnership with TCF, we distributed Romspen’s development plans to secure input from a few members of our community. Based on community comments, the Preserve Vistoso board agreed to oppose Romspen's proposed development plans. Suggesting that reviewing Romspen's plan meant that we were going to propose a side deal with Romspen is totally inaccurate. 
• As a community driven organization, we send out regular updates to our members and have an email address available for members to ask questions. We have a website that identifies our board members. We participate at Vistoso Community Association (VCA) board meetings, which is open to all Rancho Vistoso members and we provide information for the VCA monthly newsletter. The public is invited to learn more about us at preservevistoso.org. 

Our commitment is to ensure that the Vistoso property remains open space and is protected by a permanent conservation easement.

Preserve Vistoso "
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Town To Attempt Fair Market Value Purchase Vistoso Golf Property By April 1

Town to attempt purchase of Vistoso Golf Property 
Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council unanimously passed a motion to actively engage in negotiations to purchase the former Vistoso golf course 208 acre plot. The purchase target date is April 1. Mayor Winfield noted that there is potential monetary support from grants such as the State’s “Water and Conservation Fund". Whatever the town pays would be matched dollar for dollar by that fund. 

Purchase for an elusive "Fair Market Value"

The motion stipulates that the town purchase the property at fair market value (FMV). Romspen, the property owner, has already rejected a FMV proposal from The Conservation Fund. That value is based on the land as it is currently zoned.

Romspen has a different view of the FMV of the property, one, we believe, that values the property as it will be if it is rezoned for home lots as Romspen has requested.

We suspect that the difference between these values is in the many millions of dollars range.

Council rejected proposal to join a negotiating group formed by Council Member Solomon

The motion passed after council rejected (5-2) a motion that would have engage the town with a smaller group, led by Council Member Solomon. At the meeting, Solomon said that he has been in contact with a Romspen representative and that he has devised a framework that, he believe, could result in a resolution of this issue in 60 days. He declined to state what the framework entails.

Members of that group would have included Solomon the Vistoso Community Association, Preserve Vistoso, Romspen and the town’s manager. The town’s involvement would have been more as a facilitator and observer and not as a purchaser. I think we have a real breakthrough here,” Council Member Steve Solomon stated in reference to this approach.   

Eminent Domain is a long a costly process

Another alternative discussed at the meeting, one that appears tabled for the moment, is the town’s condemnation of the property. According to town attorney Gary Cohen, condemnation would require several years to occur and the purchase price would be indeterminate until a later date, if it became a matter for a jury to decide.

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