Board Of Adjusment Grants Variance For Building In Front of Oro Valley Hospital

January request for town to vacate land adjacent to property never given so...
In January, we reported that the Phillips Company asked the Oro Valley Town Council to vacate three small pieces of right-of-way at intersections along Tangerine Road. The company had purchased adjoining parcels at Rancho Vistoso Boulevard, First Avenue, and Innovation Park Drive from ADOT after the state abandoned plans for freeway interchanges. Town staff told Council that the three excess right-of-way parcels were not needed for future road use. Still, Council members said they could not consider giving up the land without a site plan and more detail. So, they did not approve vacating these adjoining parcels.

Applicant changes course... sought setback variance so they can  build a medical facility
Undeterred by this, Phillips Company shifted direction. Instead of seeking a right-of-way vacation of the adjacent town property, Phillips filed a request with the Board of Adjustment for a variance to develop the 1.19-acre parcel at Tangerine and Innovation Park Drive, across from Oro Valley Hospital. The property is zoned Hospital in the Rancho Vistoso PAD. Because the lot is much smaller than the zoning assumes, the code’s standard setbacks (100 feet in front, 75 feet in back, and 50 feet on the sides) left no buildable area.

Variance request details
Phillips asked the Board of Adjustment for reduced setbacks to allow construction of a 7,700 square-foot medical office for one of the three sites. They wanted:

• 30 feet front setback (Tangerine side)
• 25 feet rear setback
• 42 feet side setback (Innovation Park side)
• 10 feet side setback (west, adjacent to town-owned right-of-way and a wash)

The company also sought relief from the 660-foot access separation rule to permit a gated, emergency-only exit onto Innovation Park Drive.

Board of Adjustment approved request last week with one condition...
On September 23, the Board of Adjustment reviewed the case. Town staff recommended approval, finding that the parcel’s unusual size and shape created a genuine hardship under the five variance criteria set by state law. Golder Ranch Fire had no objections. After discussion, the Board approved the variances, with the added expectation that the applicant continue coordinating with Oro Valley Hospital on emergency access,

It is up to town staff to enforce that condition

Town staff cannot change or override the Board’s decision, but they are responsible for enforcing it. If the applicant does not follow through with coordination with Oro Valley Hospital, staff can require proof before issuing permits, withhold final approvals or occupancy, or pursue zoning violations. In short, while Council plays no role, staff ensures that the Board’s conditions are met.

What about the other two parcels?
The Rancho Vistoso Boulevard and First Avenue parcels were part of the original January right-of-way vacation request but have not returned for Council or Board action. As of now, the only Phillips parcel with an approved path forward is the Innovation Park site.

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This article follows up on our January report about the Phillips Company’s request for right-of-way vacations along Tangerine Road, updating readers on the company’s new approach and the Board of Adjustment’s recent decision.

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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.

Bits and Pieces

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

YouTuber confrontation moves to Sahuarita...with success

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

May 2025 Crime Statistics

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

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

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

June 2025 Crime Statistics

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

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

Oro Valley employee guidance is not binding

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

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While We Were Away...

Sidles and Adler retire

Longtime Town of Oro Valley employees Margie Adler and Tobin Sidles retired this August. Adler, who served as the town’s economic development specialist since 2015, was recognized for her dedication to helping local businesses and for delivering regular economic updates to the community. According to Mayor Hiremeth, Margit was "...the face of small business for Oro Valley." Sidles, the Town’s Legal Services Department Director, retired after 35 years of service and was honored with the State Bar of Arizona’s 2025 John Belatti Public Lawyer Career Achievement Award for his commitment to public service and ethical legal practice. Both leave behind strong legacies in their respective fields.

Naranja Drive path construction begins this fall

Construction of the Naranja Drive Multi-Use Path is scheduled to begin in mid-September 2025, following the Oro Valley Town Council’s unanimous approval of final funding on June 30. The 1.75-mile, 10-foot-wide paved path will run along the north side of Naranja Drive from La Cañada Drive to First Avenue, providing safer access for walkers, cyclists, and joggers. Nearly 91% of the project’s $3.99 million cost is covered by federal and regional transportation grants, with the Town contributing $341,000 through local project savings. The Arizona Department of Transportation will oversee the work, which is expected to be completed by March 2026. Town leaders say the new path will improve safety and connectivity for the community (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Napier announces candidacy for Mayor

There is an important election coming up this summer. It is an election for the mayor of the town. There are also three council seats that are up for election. Thirty-year  Oro Valley resident Mark Napier has announced that he will be running for council. In his August 13 Facebook announcement Napier notes: "Oro Valley has provided so much for my family and me over the years: Safe neighborhoods, beautiful open spaces, good parks, and an incredible sense of community. This is why I am running for Mayor in the August 2026 election - to ensure we preserve our community character and values, while responsibly and strategically planning for our future." (Source)

A few notable updates from the July town manager "Executive Report To Council"

Several smaller updates stand out in the July 2025 Town Manager’s Executive Report. The Town Council approved right-of-way license agreements for new high-speed internet providers, paving the way for expanded service in Oro Valley. Only two new short-term rental licenses were issued in June, with the vast majority of these rentals being single-family homes. Every available segment in the Town’s Adopt-A-Road program is now spoken for, reflecting strong community participation. Transit ride numbers increased slightly to nearly 68,000 rides in fiscal year 2024/25, though monthly usage appears to be leveling out.

Drones overhead? Know your rights

Oro Valley police addressed common concerns in the July 2025 CrimeFighter newsletter, reaffirming that drone flights over private property—such as backyard and rooftops—are legal under federal jurisdiction. As Oro Valley lies in Class G airspace, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) holds controlling authority over drone operations, and the town does not impose additional airspace restrictions. While police oversee public safety in flight situations, they don’t regulate drone operations. The only limits are standard FAA rules: drones must fly below 400 feet, avoid sustained flights over people or moving vehicles, and refrain from capturing images inside private yards without consent. Homeowners uncomfortable with overhead drones are encouraged to reach out to OVPD for guidance. (Source: OVPD Crimefighter, July, 2025)

Pusch Ridge Golf Course seeks Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program Certification

The Pusch Ridge Golf Course has joined the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, launching a comprehensive process to enhance wildlife habitat, promote conservation, and improve environmental stewardship. This signals a commitment to protecting the natural resources that make the course unique, benefiting not only golfers but also residents and wildlife. Achieving certification will mean the course meets high standards for habitat management, water conservation, and chemical safety. It will place Pusch Ridge among a select group of environmentally responsible courses in the region and show Oro Valley’s leadership in balancing recreation with conservation. The project will also offer new volunteer opportunities for those who want to support sustainability and help shape the future of the golf course. (Source: Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf media newsletter, 07-29-25)    

Draft of OV’s Path Forward coming later this fall

Residents can expect the full draft of OV’s Path Forward—Oro Valley’s next 10-year action plan—to be released later this fall, offering the first comprehensive view of proposed goals, policies, and action steps developed with input from more than 100 residents during Phase 2 earlier this year . The initial 30% draft was completed by May 2025, and now includes 31 goals, 78 policies, and over 255 action items organized into themes such as sustainability, land use, parks, and public safety. The draft marks a point when the community can review, refine, and ensure that the final plan reflects residents’ priorities before it goes to a public vote in November 2026.

Oro Valley secures $3 million for water sustainability

The Oro Valley Water Utility has secured the full $3 million grant from the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona to support the Northwest Recharge and Recovery Delivery System (NWRRDS). This grant was fully anticipated by the town and it's planning so it's no surprise. This regional project—done in partnership with Marana and the Metro Water District—will allow Oro Valley to store and recover renewable water supplies, significantly reducing groundwater pumping and helping stabilize aquifer levels. For residents, this means improved water security, better water quality, and less risk of land subsidence. The grant also eases long-term costs for customers by offsetting infrastructure expenses without requiring repayment. Once completed in mid-2026, the system will provide reliable renewable water to over 115,000 customers across northwest Tucson. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

The OVHS has had a very busy summer 

The Oro Valley Historical Society marked its 20th anniversary with a summer full of projects and community milestones. The Society launched a new website with the help of Red Coyote Services and dedicated volunteer Lynn Zoyiopoulos, rejuvenated the Heritage Garden with Home Depot’s support, and—thanks to a major Chamber of Commerce Foundation donation—installed eight new interpretive signs at Steam Pump Ranch. OVHS volunteers completed updates to the Procter-Leiber family tree, advanced the digitization of the Society’s historic records, and expanded outreach by meeting with other regional historical groups. They also hosted the Tucson Paranormal Society for a special museum investigation and celebrated Jim Williams, who received a national award for his book, “Oro Valley: The First Fifty Years.” All of this activity sets the stage for a full fall calendar, new exhibits, and collaborative events at Steam Pump Ranch. (Source: OVHS August 2025 Update).

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Oro Valley Land Giveaway? Balancing Public Property and Private Profit

Turning public land into private gain
What is the easiest way to make a windfall profit in Oro Valley? Just ask the town to hand over land for next to nothing. Believe it or not, that can happen if the town owns a right-of-way (ROW) next to your property—one that it no longer needs or plans to use. If the town agrees to vacate it, state law says they can’t charge you more than what they originally paid—usually a minimal amount, far below market value. Once it’s yours, you can combine it with your existing property and sell it at full market price, potentially making a significant profit.

Our guess is that this is exactly what Chris Phillips of Phillips Company LLC hopes the town will help him do. Phillips isn’t new to Oro Valley—he’s a resident and has done business with the town before. As manager of DC La Canada LLC, he once owned the dirt lot next to the town’s community center parking lot. In 2022, he traded that land for another piece of property.

Expanding property through town land acquisition
Several years ago, Phillips acquired three state-vacated ROW's at public auction. He now wants to acquire three town owned ROWs that are adjacent to these lots  [Panel Right]. Speaking at last week’s town council meeting, Paul Keesler, Director of Public Works, sought advice from the town council. He said that Phillips wants to combine the three vacated ROWs with vacated land he acquired from the state. The stated reason is to create larger, more developable properties.

Town staff says the land is not needed for public works purposes
Keesler explained that the requested ROW parcels were originally intended for grade-separated interchanges that are no longer needed, and the town has no objections to vacating them, provided that council approval is obtained. He noted that the existing 300-foot ROW along Tangerine Road is sufficient to accommodate future infrastructure needs, including road expansion, drainage, and slope management, making the requested parcels unnecessary for town operations.

Council made it clear: Town must have a compelling reason to vacate land it owns
At the town council meeting, Vice Mayor Barrett expressed strong reservations about vacating the right-of-way (ROW) parcels, stating, “I think we should not give up vegetated natural open space that’s owned by the people of Oro Valley… without an understanding of what will happen to it and what the reason for it is.” She emphasized the importance of protecting the town’s natural open spaces and was hesitant to support the request without clear public benefits. Barrett indicated she might consider the proposal if the applicant provided a detailed site plan showing how the development would generate revenue or improve infrastructure. However, she remained concerned about enlarging the applicant’s property for potential resale or speculative purposes. She stressed that any decision should align with the town’s long-term interests and preserve its open spaces. All council members agreed with her.

These will be very difficult lots to develop
While the town does not oppose the ROW vacation, two key town officials emphasized the significant hurdles the applicant would face in making the land suitable for development.

According to Paul Keesler, Director of Public Works, developing the combined parcels will be challenging due to significant elevation differences, steep slopes, drainage issues, and zoning compliance requirements. He explained that the land sits 10 to 20 feet below Tangerine Road, necessitating extensive grading and drainage solutions, while the site’s natural vegetation and slopes would require costly mitigation efforts. Keesler also pointed out that the preliminary site plan sketches submitted by Phillips do not even remotely meet town code requirements, meaning the project would likely require variances or amendments.

Town Planning Director Bayer Vella echoed these concerns, stating that he is “under no pretension whatsoever that these parcels will be able to achieve code compliance. They won’t. Each one would require numerous exceptions…These are very, very challenging parcels to develop, and that’s probably an understatement.”

Next steps in this ROW vacation process
The next step is for the applicant to submit a detailed site plan that includes a discussion of what it will take for the project to be code compliant. The proposal should also include how the development will benefit the town and its residents.

Our guess is that town council will never hear about this again. However, if they do, there will be a public meeting in which residents can participate.
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