Bits and Pieces

Arizona Heroes Memorial Celebrates Kuwait Liberation Day Tomorrow at 1pm

The Arizona Heroes Memorial at Naranja Park will host a ceremony tomorrow commemorating Kuwait Liberation Day. Since 1991, the United States has maintained a strong partnership with Kuwait, evolving from military liberation to ongoing cooperation in regional security. Hosted by VFW Post 12222 of Oro Valley, the event honors the courage and sacrifices made during the liberation of Kuwait, a small but strategically important nation in the Middle East. The ceremony offers residents an opportunity to recognize those who fought for freedom and to reflect on the enduring values of liberty and alliance. 

County suggest you mail your RTA Next election ballot by next Tuesday

The Pima County recorder's office suggests you mail in your RTA Next ballot by next Tuesday.  We are not sure why since the official election day is March 10. You can also drop of you ballot at various locations downtown. There is no convenient Oro Valley location for drop off.

Pima County Mail In "Envelop" requires raises privacy concerns 

Concerns have emerged over Pima County’s mail-in ballot system, where the design of the return “envelope” may create opportunities for fraud. Critics say the format could make it easier to manipulate ballots or compromise voter verification. This is because the ballot affidavit you sign requires your legal signature and is the back of the mail- in envelop.  There is also a line for your phone number. However, your phone number is not required and you can leave it off.  Be sure to mark the space with a line of you choose to do so.

There is a workaround:  You can put your completed mailer in manilla envelop and mail it to the address on the envelop. We were to to use the zip of 85702 instead of the one on the envelop. Of course, you will do this at your cost.

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RTA Next: A 20-Year Transportation Decision Now Before Voters

Ballot includes two related propositions
If you are a registered voter, you will receive a ballot by mail that includes two related propositions. Both measures concern something called RTA Next. One would authorize continuing the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) program that has funded road and transportation projects across Pima County for the past 20 years. The second would continue the one-half-cent sales tax that funds those projects. Both propositions must pass for RTA Next to take effect. If approved, the new plan would begin on July 1. If either fails, the current RTA program will expire, and any future proposal would likely return to voters at a later date in revised form.

RTANext will build road and transportation projects throughout the county
The Regional Transportation Authority funds a range of transportation projects intended to address needs that extend beyond individual jurisdictions. Under the proposed RTA Next plan, funding would support roadway and multimodal corridor improvements, arterial and collector road rehabilitation,

intersection and school safety projects, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, wildlife crossings, environmental mitigation projects, and transit services. Transit funding includes bus service, dial-a-ride and paratransit programs, express routes, and other regional transit enhancements. The plan also includes funding for debt service and administration. All projects are financed through a voter-approved one-half-cent sales tax collected countywide. If renewed, the tax is projected to fund approximately $2.67 billion in transportation improvements over the next 20 years.

Oro Valley’s participated in the 2005 RTA program
Within this structure, the Town of Oro Valley participates as one of the jurisdictions eligible to receive RTA funding for projects that meet regional criteria. Under the original RTA program, projects in Oro Valley included the widening of La Cholla Boulevard and major improvements along La Cañada Drive, both important regional corridors. In addition to roadway improvements, RTA funding supports regional transit services operating in Oro Valley, including dial-a-ride and other transit connections that supplement the Town’s locally funded transit system. The Town remains responsible for its own local transit services, neighborhood streets, and routine maintenance.

Proposed projects will affect Oro Valley
RTA Next identifies specific transportation projects to be funded over the next 20 years. Projects affecting Oro Valley include the proposed connection of Shannon Road to Tangerine Road. Other proposed regional projects that would affect Oro Valley residents include widening First Avenue between Ina and Orange Grove, constructing a new interchange at Tangerine Road and Interstate 10, and widening Tangerine Road between Oracle and La Cholla. Final scheduling and delivery of these projects would occur over the life of the plan.

Negative impact on Oro Valley and regional transit services if RTANext fails
Probably of greater immediate importance is the funding of certain transit services operating in Oro Valley. Currently, the Regional Transportation Authority funds most of the cost of Sun Shuttle dial-a-ride and other regional transit services serving the Town. If RTA Next is not approved, that funding authority will expire after June 30, and RTA-funded transit services would be required to discontinue. It is not known what it would cost for the Town of Oro Valley to replace those services, or whether it could do so quickly, as additional funding, vehicles, drivers, and state-level approvals would be required. No formal cost estimate has been released.

Expecting low voter turnout...so your vote will count
Turnout for the March 10 election is expected to be relatively low, with estimates suggesting that approximately 20–25% of eligible voters may cast a ballot. At that level, the outcome of the RTA Next propositions will be determined by a relatively small share of the electorate. Ballots must be received by 7:00 p.m. on March 10.

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Bits and Pieces

Council links reported closure of Berger Performing Arts Center to potential Oro Valley Performing Arts Center
Last week, local media outlets have reported that the Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind will close the Berger Performing Arts Center on its Tucson campus effective June 30, citing funding and the closin of its Speedway location.  That reporting came after the Oro Valley Town Council had discussed the potential impact such a closure could have during last week’s strategic planning study session. At that time, Council members raised concerns about the possible loss of Berger, noting that the theater is widely used by Oro Valley-based groups and would cost tens of millions of dollars to replace. They also linked the issue to Oro Valley’s own discussions about a performing arts center, saying that the loss of a regional venue could shift demand to Oro Valley and affect the urgency and scope of any local project. Council members emphasized that the Town is not pursuing its own feasibility study, but intends to stay engaged with a nonprofit conducting a study and remain part of the broader regional conversation.

Council hires town attorney with Prescott Valley experience
This past Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council approved the employment contract for its new Town Attorney, a position that now reports directly to the Council rather than through the Town Manager. The Council selected Steven Zraick, a long-time Arizona attorney whose career has focused on municipal and public-sector law. Zraick most recently served as Deputy Town Attorney for the Town of Prescott Valley, where he advised elected officials, staff, and boards on day-to-day legal matters. Public records indicate that his legal work has been centered on local government rather than private practice, a background that aligns with the Council’s stated interest in strengthening its direct legal oversight.  The town attorney is responsible for providing legal advice directly to the Town Council, managing the Town’s legal department, representing the Town in legal matters, drafting and reviewing ordinances, resolutions, and contracts, and ensuring that Council actions comply with state law and the Oro Valley Town Code.  In his role, he may or may not replace the outside legal council at council meetings. 

Water impact fee shortfall flagged, changes to come before Council
Town water officials reported to the Water Utility Commission last week that the Water Resource & System Development Impact Fee, which is paid by new development to help fund growth-related water infrastructure, is projected to fall short in fiscal year 2026–27. Staff told the Commission that projected expenses of about $2.3 million exceed expected impact fee revenue of roughly $1.2 million, creating a gap tied largely to growth-related debt for major water projects. According to staff, current impact fees were set years ago and no longer reflect rising infrastructure costs. Staff said the next step is to prepare an updated impact fee analysis and bring a proposed fee adjustment to the Town Council later in 2026, following the state-required notice and public hearing process.

You can sign candidate nomination petitions online
Arizona voters can sign candidate nomination petitions online using the Secretary of State’s E-Qual system. Visit this link and select “Sign a Candidate Nomination Petition.” Log in with you Arizona driver license or state ID and date of birth to see which candidates they are eligible to support. The system allows you to review and sign petitions electronically, eliminating the need for in-person signature gathering and making it easier to participate in the local election process.

Stormwater Utility fee going up over three years
The Oro Valley Town Council approved a phased increase to the stormwater utility base rate on January 14. The increase will take effect July 1, at the start of the new fiscal year, and will be implemented over three years. The base rate will rise from $4.50 to $6.50 per equivalent residential unit (ERU) once fully phased in. Town staff said the additional revenue will support stormwater system maintenance, regulatory compliance, and flood control, noting that the stormwater rate had not been increased since 2016.

Water cost increase proposed for next July
At its January 12 meeting, the Water Utility Commission reviewed staff’s water rate analysis for FY 2026–27 and affirmed the recommended water rate changes for consideration by the Town Council. The recommendation includes an increase to potable water base rates only, with no changes to usage-based rates or reclaimed water rates; most residential customers with a 5/8-inch meter would see a $1.86 monthly increase. The Commission also reviewed the Groundwater Preservation Fee, for which no change is proposed. In addition, commissioners discussed the Water Resource & System Development Impact Fee, noting that projected expenses exceed revenues and that proposed changes would be brought to Town Council later in 2026 following the required notice and public hearing process. The amount of the proposed increase was not specified at the meeting.

November Financial Update: Town finances largely on track, construction sales tax trails budget
The town's General Fund revenues are tracking below budget through November 2025, largely due to weaker construction activity. Expenditures remain generally on budget due in part to vacancy savings. Community Center Fund continues to outperform expectations, the Highway Fund is tracking close to budget but may require continued capital fund support, and both the Water Utility and Stormwater Funds are trending positively. To address the General Fund shortfall, staff has taken cost-control measures including extended vacancies, reduced operating budgets, reconsideration of excess pension payments, and potential capital spending reductions, while noting that future transportation funding will depend on the outcome of the March RTA Next election [since the town is dependent on the RTA for public transportation] (Source: Budget and Finance Commission Meeting,  01-20-26)
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Bits and Pieces

Council rejects two of three new taxes
Wednesday night, the Oro Valley Town Council took action on three proposed new taxes. Council approved a commercial use tax, but voted not to approve the proposed telecommunications tax or the proposed commercial rental tax. LOVE will provide a more detailed summary of the Council discussion and votes in next Tuesday’s article.

Arizona State School for Deaf and Blind to move to Copper Creek facility
It looks like the Copper Creek Elementary School Building, which Amphi is closing at the end of this school year, won’t be vacant for long.  The Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (ASDB) plans to move its Tucson campus into the Copper Creek facility under a proposed multi-year lease with the Amphitheater School District. ASDB officials have said the move would allow the state agency to rightsize Tucson operations moving to the existing school campus rather than maintaining the larger, older facility on Speedway in Tucson. 

"The goal of this move is: (1) long-term sustainability of the agency and the Tucson campus, so that students continue to receive exceptional education opportunities; and (2) decrease operational/overhead costs, in order to have more resources for students and teachers."

According to ASDB, staff and students will move to the facility this summer.  The fall semester will begin at that location. The site will be repurposed for specialized education.  The move provides certainty to the  town and to the residents of Copper Creek that the facility will continue to a well maintained facility. Read more about their decision to move to Oro Valley here.

Town receives land gift... will likely be added to trails system
Also Wednesday, The Oro Valley Town Council approved a gift agreement to accept two parcels of undeveloped desert land adjacent to Honey Bee Canyon Park. Deputy Town Manager Chris Cornelison explained that the donation consists of roughly 33 acres of natural desert, offered at no cost, with property taxes current. The land is zoned as open space under the Rancho Vistoso PAD and includes existing informal trails. The land will be held by the Town for possible future inclusion in broader parks and trails planning efforts. The next step is for staff to complete standard due diligence, including title review and preparation of the deed, with no obligation for the Town to make improvements or incur expenses related to the property. mmCouncil members expressed support, noting that the donation complements Honey Bee Canyon Park. The Council unanimously approved the resolution, with a 6–0 vote.  

Police gain access to statewide investigative data system
Wednesday, the Town Council unanimously approved an agreement allowing the Oro Valley Police Department to participate in a state-supported law enforcement records management and analytics system. Police staff said the system will give OVPD access to data from other law enforcement agencies that do not share the same records platform, improving investigations and officer safety by providing more complete background and contact information. The system will be funded through a one-year state grant administered by the Arizona Department of Administration. In response to council questions, staff said the system meets all criminal justice data privacy standards and that the Town is not required to continue participation if grant funding ends

Council adopts state-mandated zoning code changes
Also Wednesday, the Town Council approved updates to the zoning codes required by recent State of Arizona law changes. We previously reported on these changes. Planning staff explained that the amendments formalize administrative approval for certain non-discretionary development and design review applications, clarify who may appeal administrative decisions and under what conditions, allow earlier submittal of grading and drainage plans, and correct minor code errors. The discussion also addressed a change requiring conditional use permits for building height increases in private school and parks and open space zoning districts, placing final approval authority with the Council. Council members noted that while many of the updates are state-mandated, staff worked to retain local oversight where possible. Changes had been previously approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Phased stormwater rate increase approved... will support system maintenance
Later in the meeting, the Council approved a phased increase to the stormwater utility base rate, adopting Resolution R26-02. The increase raises the residential base rate by 67 cents per month, from $4.50 to $5.17, effective July 1, 2026. Two additional increases were also approved, another 67 cents effective July 1, 2027, bringing the rate to $5.84, and a final increase effective July 1, 2028, bringing the base rate to $6.50, a total $2 increase over three years. Commercial properties will see proportional increases based on impervious surface area. Staff said the stormwater base rate has not been adjusted since 2016, a point previously reported in LOVE, and that the phased approach was designed to limit impacts on residents while ensuring the utility can fund operations, meet regulatory requirements, and maintain required reserves. The storm utility fee is part of your monthly water bill.

Ballots for RTA Next all-mail election coming soon
An all-mail election is coming up on March 10 for Pima County voters to decide the future of regional transportation funding through the RTA Next plan. Proposition 418 asks voters to approve a new 20-year regional transportation plan covering roadway, transit, and safety projects across the region. Proposition 419 asks voters to continue the existing half-cent sales tax that funds the Regional Transportation Authority, with no increase in the tax rate. Ballots will be mailed automatically to registered voters beginning February 11 and must be received by 7:00 p.m. on March 10. There will be no in-person voting; participation is by mail only.
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Bits and Pieces

Free document shredding Saturday 

The Town of Oro Valley will host a free document-shredding event for residents on Saturday, November 22, at the Oro Valley Marketplace. Shredding runs from 8 a.m. to noon, or until the trucks fill up, with all materials destroyed onsite. The Town encourages residents to use the service as a simple way to reduce the risk of identity theft. Questions can be directed to Constituent Services Coordinator Jessica Hynd at 520-229-4711. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release) 

Ambitious thinking? A 5.8% annual nominal growth rate needed to support the RTA NEXT's 20-Year revenue goal

To meet the revenue levels projected in the RTA NEXT plan, the region’s taxable sales would need to grow about 5.8 percent each year for the next 20 years. RTA NEXT described this assumption as conservative, combining normal economic growth with inflation. Based on the current distribution of taxable transactions, Tucson would supply the largest share of those dollars at 45 percent, followed by Marana at 15 percent, Sahuarita at 9 percent, and Oro Valley at about 8 percent. The remaining 23 percent would come from the rest of Pima County.  This growth rate includes both inflation and real sales growth. [Source: LOVE Research]

Oro Valley bed tax revenues reached peak levels in 2025

Oro Valley’s bed tax revenues are now at their strongest level in eight years. The bed tax is a 6 percent tax applied to the cost of any room stay under 30 consecutive days, including hotel rooms and short-term rentals. Collections rose from $1.47 million in FY 2018 to $2.52 million in FY 2025, an increase of more than $1 million, despite the pandemic drop to $1.03 million in FY 2020. Town staff believes this growth reflects the rebound in travel. Other contributing factors include higher room rates, the 2021 annexation of Westward Look, and the introduction of registering and taxing short-term rentals. These factors expanded the Town’s lodging tax base. Early FY 2026 results show the upward trend continuing. (Source: Oro Valley Tourism Advisory Commission Meeting, 11-17-25)

RTA says: Good roads bring visitor

At Monday’s meeting, the Town’s Tourism Commission heard from RTA representative Steve Huffman, who emphasized that transportation infrastructure plays a direct role in attracting visitors. He noted that good road access is often a traveler’s first impression of Oro Valley, and highlighted how completed and proposed overpasses improve regional travel for visitors arriving from airports or nearby communities.  He added that RTA investments in bike paths, multi-modal access, transit service, and wildlife linkages also enhance mobility and the overall visitor experience.

You want to be in pictures?

Oro Valley resident Mark Headley, an actor and producer, believes the town should explore becoming a film-friendly community. He has introduced the idea to both the Town Council and the Tourism Commission, noting that smaller film productions are seeking new, affordable, and cooperative locations. Headley says Oro Valley offers strong assets, including striking desert scenery, open space, historic buildings at Steam Pump Ranch, vacant commercial sites that could serve as temporary studios, and more than a thousand hotel rooms. He adds that film crews often leave a significant share of their budgets in the communities where they work. The challenges, he notes, include Arizona’s lack of major film-industry tax incentives and the absence of local film infrastructure. Certainly, more work is needed to determine whether the concept is a feasible way to increase town revenues.

Highlights from last night's town manager's report to Council

Town Manager Jeff Wilkins briefed the Council on several upcoming community activities and transportation updates, including an RTA Next open house scheduled for December 10, where residents can learn about Propositions 418 and 419 ahead of the March 2026 vote. He noted that the popular holiday ornament hunt begins November 28, featuring wooden ornaments crafted by CDO High School students. Wilkins also reminded residents of the ongoing construction at the Oro Valley Marketplace, assuring the public that full access will remain open through the holidays. Additional updates included progress on the Naranja Multi-Use Path, Movies on the Lawn starting December 6, the Pickalicious Jingle Jam pickleball tournament December 12–14, the Festival of the Arts and tree lighting on December 6–7, Snow OV on December 18, and the upcoming Hot Cocoa Run on January 1.

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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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RTA Next comes to Oro Valley

Winfield chairs regional transportation effort
Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield serves as chairman of Pima County’s Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), which has funded dozens of road and transit projects over the past 20 years. In Oro Valley, the RTA financed improvements such as La Cholla Boulevard and Tangerine Road. The RTA’s work is supported by a ½-cent countywide sales tax that voters approved in 2006. That tax expires this year, even though many transportation needs remain. RTA Next is a proposal to renew the funding for another 20 years, and voters will decide its future in a March 10, 2026 election.

Ortega outlines new 20-year regional transportation plan
Michael Ortega, Executive Director of the RTA, presented an update on RTA Next to the Oro Valley Town Council last week. He said the new $2.67 billion regional transportation plan is designed to fund roadway, safety, environmental, and transit improvements across Pima County beginning in 2027. Ortega said the plan includes funding specifically designated for projects and transit services benefiting Oro Valley.

Oro Valley projects included
The plan identifies two major Oro Valley projects scheduled for early construction:
• Lambert Lane — widening from Thornydale Road to Rancho Sonora Drive ($55 million).
• Shannon Road — paving from Lambert Lane to Tangerine Road ($26 million).

Ortega said the plan also provides $10 million for safety and active-transportation improvements and $5 million for arterial and collector pavement rehabilitation specifically in Oro Valley. In addition, it includes about $52 million regionwide for Dial-A-Ride and paratransit service, of which Oro Valley will receive a share. Ortega noted that while RTA Next includes funding for bridge and grade-separation improvements as part of regional projects, there are no new bridge projects identified within the town.

Ortega says Oro Valley will get its “fair share”
Responding to a question about how smaller towns benefit compared with Tucson and Pima County, Ortega said the RTA’s funding and project selection process is based on what he called “geographic equity.” The RTA’s half-cent sales tax is collected countywide, and the project list is structured so each member jurisdiction receives improvements reflecting both local priorities and regional use. Projects serving multiple communities—such as major road corridors and I-10 interchanges—are given higher regional value and more funding. In this way, all communities benefit from the regional tax, even if project amounts differ from town to town.

Ortega explains why RTA 1 fell short — and how RTA Next differs
Ortega said the original 2006 RTA plan did not generate enough revenue to complete all promised projects because the RTA used the University of Arizona’s “baseline” forecast, which assumed average economic conditions. That projection proved too optimistic after the recession, pandemic, and rising construction costs. For RTA Next, the Board chose the university’s most conservative, or “pessimistic,” forecast to create a financial cushion and avoid future shortfalls. A citizens’ oversight committee will present quarterly reports to the RTA Board to ensure revenue and expenses remain on track throughout the 20-year program.

RTA Next outreach coming to Oro Valley
Ortega said the RTA will continue community outreach in Oro Valley ahead of next year’s vote. On December 10, the RTA will host a public question-and-answer session in Oro Valley to give residents an opportunity to learn more about RTA Next. Ortega also plans to meet with the town’s Economic Development Committee and Bicycle Advisory Committee to discuss the plan’s potential impacts on local mobility and safety. He thanked Oro Valley staff for their work in coordinating these efforts and for “advocating on behalf of the community.”

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Bits and Pieces

Colorado River Reservoirs Still Strained

As of August 10, the seven major reservoirs in the Colorado River system are only 39% full, holding 22.5 million acre-feet of water. That’s slightly less than a year ago, when they were at 41%. The two largest reservoirs, Lake Mead and Lake Powell, remain at just 31% of capacity each. Since the Colorado River is Oro Valley’s primary source of water, these persistently low levels highlight the continuing challenges of long-term water supply. (Source)

Community Academy returns this fall

The Town of Oro Valley’s Community Academy begins October 2 and runs through November 5. This year’s program offers nine classes, including new sessions on water and tourism. The Academy gives residents an inside look at how the Town operates, and many graduates later go on to serve on boards and commissions. Registration is available here.

Community Center Fund: Financial results for year even stronger than anticipated

In our September 3 report, we noted that town staff projected that the Community Center Fund was on track to add about $750,000 to reserves, ending fiscal 2025 with a $2.6 million balance. Final year-end results came in even better. Revenues reached $12.1 million, or 113% of budget, while expenses were 2% over plan. The fund added $1.1 million to reserves and closed the year with a $2.9 million balance. (Source: Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of September 9, 2020)

Oro Valley Welcomes New Economic Development Manager

Sarah Denman has been introduced as the Town’s new Economic Development Program Manager, following Margie’s retirement. In her role, Denman will oversee the Town’s Business Retention and Expansion Program, co-manage the Shop Oro Valley campaign with the Chamber of Commerce, and assist businesses with site analysis, permitting, and resources. She brings experience from working with the City of Tucson, Pima County, Sahuarita, and AmeriCorps. Denman, who moved to Southern Arizona in 2020, holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Arizona and looks forward to supporting Oro Valley’s business community. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Jankowski Named Outstanding Professional of the Year

Deputy Parks and Recreation Director Matthew Jankowski has been honored as the 2025 Outstanding Professional of the Year by the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association. The award recognizes his leadership and innovation since joining Oro Valley in 2018, where he has overseen major growth at the Community Center and Aquatic Center, secured nearly $1 million in upgrades, and helped bring a $1 million grant to develop a skate and bike park at Naranja Park. Jankowski also serves as Vice President of APRA and was recently appointed by Governor Katie Hobbs to the Arizona Outdoor Recreation Coordinating Commission. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Council Approves Broadband Partnership

Last week, the Oro Valley Town Council approved an intergovernmental agreement with Pima County to join the Regional Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Project. The initiative will build a countywide fiber optic ring that enhances public safety communications, supports next-generation 911 services, and opens the door for expanded broadband access. Oro Valley will contribute $200,000 in FY 26–27 and provide in-kind support such as permitting and inspections. In return, the Town gains access to more reliable fiber infrastructure, improved digital equity, and long-term opportunities to attract businesses and expand internet service. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council meeting of 9-03-25)

RTA Next Plan of $3Billion Vote scheduled for March

The Pima County Board of Supervisors has unanimously referred the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) Next plan to the March 2026 ballot. The plan is the result of years of meetings and negotiations among community and business leaders, including contributions from Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield, who served as chair of the RTA Board, and Town Manager Jeff Wilkins, who provided technical input. Supporters describe the measure as a balanced plan that will benefit Oro Valley as well as the broader Pima County community. More information about the projects included in the plan is available at the RTA Next.

Will Oro Valley Get Caught Up In RTA Politics When RTANext Comes To A Vote?

RTA Next goes to voters in November

In November, Pima County voters will be asked to approve RTANext—a 20-year extension of the half-percent sales tax that funds countywide transportation improvements. The current voter-approved Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) plan expires in June 2026.

Past RTA investments have supported Oro Valley

The current plan has already delivered significant benefits to Oro Valley. The town has received at least $83.1 million in RTA funding for major road improvements, including the widening of La Cañada Drive and La Cholla Boulevard, and the construction of wildlife crossings on Oracle Road. RTA has also supported local transit needs, contributing $157,662 toward new Sun Shuttle vehicles and helping fund ongoing fixed-route and Dial-a-Ride services. In FY 2024–25 alone, Oro Valley is budgeting $381,448 as its local match to replace 12 Sun Shuttle vehicles, leveraging additional state and federal grants. These investments have improved traffic flow, enhanced safety, and provided essential transportation services to residents.

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RTANext would fund additional Oro Valley related projects and its Dial-a-Ride service

The RTA Next plan also outlines several new infrastructure and transportation improvements that involve Oro Valley. 

• Shannon Road new roadway starting at Tangerine and continuing well beyond town limits to the south ($23.43 million)
• Widening Lambert Lane from La Canada to well beyond town limits to the west ($50.16 million)
• Intersection upgrade at Tangerine and First Ave ($3.13 million)
• Sidewalk on Naranja Drive, from La Canada to First Ave

RTANext also includes support for Oro Valley’s transit system. The draft plan and accompanying materials confirm that the Sun Shuttle Dial-a-Ride service—covering communities like Oro Valley—will continue to receive RTA funding through the proposed new 20‑year extension.

 

Director’s removal raises governance concerns

Two weeks ago, however, the board that oversees RTA funding voted to fire Executive Director Farhad Moghimi. Moghimi served as Executive Director of both the Pima Association of Governments (PAG) and the RTA for approximately 13 years. Then, in an unusual move, the board asked him to help draft the criteria for hiring his replacement. That decision raises questions. After all, he was removed for reasons that included poor leadership, financial mismanagement, and a lack of transparency. Why should the individual deemed unfit to lead be tasked with defining the qualities of the next leader? Many would say the appropriate course was for Moghimi to say goodbye—and for the board to take full responsibility for charting the agency’s future.

A split vote and Winfield’s opposition

Moghimi was terminated on a 5 to 4 vote. The reasons cited included failure to control project cost overruns, delayed financial reporting, inflation of funding shortfall projections, and a management style that contributed to high staff turnover and allegations of staff being silenced through non-disclosure agreements. Apparently these reasons did not convince Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield, who sits on the board. He was one of the four board members who voted against removing Moghimi. Winfield explained that he opposed the termination due to concerns over legal exposure and noted his respect for Moghimi’s understanding of legal and regulatory requirements.

RTA politics may reshape RTA priorities

We suspect, but cannot confirm, that there may be other reasons Winfield chose not to support the firing. Moghimi’s removal was driven in large part by Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and others who have expressed dissatisfaction with how RTA funds have been distributed. According to the Tucson Sentinel, Romero criticized Moghimi at an April board meeting for demonstrating “hatred” toward the City of Tucson and voiced concerns over a $143 million shortfall that threatened to delay or eliminate several of Tucson’s remaining RTA-funded projects. Editorial commentary in the Sentinel further described the move to oust Moghimi as an effort by Romero and her allies to bring in leadership more aligned with Tucson’s priorities. While not stated outright, the implication is clear: Those who voted for Moghimi’s removal may hope a new director will take a different approach to project selection and funding allocations. In that light, a voter rejection of the RTA Next measure in November could jeopardize the very projects that benefit Oro Valley—projects that were carefully negotiated and included in the draft plan.

Failure of the ballot measure would delay or perhaps "kill"some road projects Oro Valley

All of this places Oro Valley in a somewhat unusual position. The town is relying on RTA Next to fund some transportation projects. Fortunately, none of the Oro Valley projects a critical.  If the ballot initiative is not approved by voters in November, those projects will go unfunded. Existing RTA funding will expire in June 2026, which would jeopardize funding of public transportation services like the Sun Shuttle. In addition, rejection of the measure could lead to a reshuffling or restructuring of the project list—potentially causing Oro Valley to lose some of the improvements that are currently included in the RTANext plan.

So, what happens to RTA funding matters to you.  
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How RTA is funded

The RTA is funded through a dedicated half-percent sales tax approved by Pima County voters in 2006. This tax applies to most goods and services that are also subject to the state sales tax, including retail, restaurants, construction, and utilities. Over the past 18 years, the tax has generated more than $1.6 billion in revenue to support roadway, safety, transit, and environmental projects across the region. The current tax will expire in June 2026, unless voters approve its extension through the RTA Next ballot measure.

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Here's Your Chance To Shape RTANext

Shape the future of the Regional Transportation Authority
In November 2026, you will vote on whether to continue the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA). The RTA, approved by voters 20 years ago, funds major road projects in Pima County but cannot continue without your approval. Now is the time to get involved in deciding what the RTA will focus on in the future. Here's a brief overview of its role and how you can participate.

What is the RTA?
The RTA improves transportation infrastructure across Pima County. Funded by a half-cent sales tax approved in 2006, it has supported $2.1 billion in projects, including road expansions, safety improvements, and transit services. To date, over $1.6 billion has been invested, benefiting communities like Oro Valley with key projects such as the widening of La Cholla Boulevard and Tangerine Road. Both projects have improved traffic flow, safety, and accessibility.

What is RTANext?
RTANext is the proposed successor to the current RTA plan, expiring in 2026. This new 20-year plan will invest $2.46 billion in transportation projects, continuing to enhance safety, connectivity, and sustainability. Public input will shape this plan, ensuring it addresses the region’s needs. Oro Valley could benefit from projects like the proposed widening of Lambert Lane and improvements to Shannon Road, along with transit initiatives that expand accessibility.

Mayor Winfield: Your involvement matters

“Quality roads and transportation are critical to our success as a community and as a region,” according to Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield. “With the previous RTA plan coming to an end, we’ve been working on our region’s plan for the next 20 years, and it’s time for the public to weigh in. As the Vice Chair of the RTA, I’d like to personally invite residents of Oro Valley and all of Pima County to share their input on the draft RTA Next plan, which will come before voters as soon as 2025. The plan includes roadway, transit, safety, bicycle, pedestrian and  environmental improvements throughout the region over the next 20 years. To learn more about the plan and share your feedback, you can take the online survey, or you can attend one of the many upcoming RTA Next Open House meetings and share your thoughts in person. For details on both opportunities, visit RTAnext.com. And thank you for taking the time to participate in this important process.”

How to Get Involved
Oro Valley residents can shape the future of the RTANext plan through the following actions:

• Attend Open Houses
  Review and provide feedback on the draft plan. Visit the RTA Next Events page for details.
• Complete the Draft Plan Survey
  Share your input online via the Draft Plan Survey
• Schedule a Presentation
  Request an RTA presentation for your community group on the Schedule a Presentation
• Submit Comments Online
  Provide direct feedback through the [RTA Next Contact page

Engage now to ensure your voice helps shape Oro Valley’s transportation future!

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