Bits and Pieces

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

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

Don’t get fooled by “AI” voice impersonators

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

Oro Valley is home of High School Southern Arizona State Champions

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

Reader suggests Oro Valley annex for “real business” growth

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

Town grows by 36 acres

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

Town votes to settle Joplin law suit

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

Tropical Smoothie coming to Oro Valley 

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

Register for "CommunityAcademy"

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

Rothschild Contract "ReUpped"

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

New conservator over Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve

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

First Avenue Construction to cause delays starting September 25

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

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Council Guides Staff on Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve Master Plan: "Keep It Simple... Revegetation Is The Priority"

The Oro Valley Town Council provided direction last Wednesday regarding the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve Master Plan.  The direction was provided during a study session with town staff and with consultant to the project. 

Keep it simple

The council wants the Preserve to be a place for relaxation, nature, and reasonable exercise. They don't want it to be a park that attracts a large volume of traffic. The council agreed that they need to know the traffic impact of each option in order to provide further guidance.

Get revegetation started sooner rather than later

The most important aspect of creating the Preserve is to return the greens and fairways to their natural state. This means planting native plants and eliminating the invasive species that are taking over the area. This is called "revegetation." Removing as much of the Bermuda grass as possible is a challenge as that grass is much like a weed. It's hard to kill. The longer the town waits to revegetate, the more difficult and the more costly it will be to do so. The proposed plan is to rip out the greens and fairways and to apply a seed mix of grass and straw. Revegetation is part of Phases 1 and 2 of the consultant's implementation plan.

Do something about the pond

...but don't make it too complicated. The simplest alternative seems to be what the consultant noted as Option C (see panel right). This is a smaller pond with sloped sides to allow leisurely access. The pond would use reclaimed water. 

Note: There is a simpler option that neither the consultant, town staff, nor the council discussed. That option is to fill in the area and revegetate it. That would return that area to its natural state.

Get a handle on cost of creating and maintaining the Preserve

Council wants to know the cost of building and of maintaining all options so that they can make an informed decision. "We need some reasonable estimates for the construction and maintenance," noted Council Member Solomon. "Is this going to be something that is going to start taking a big percentage of the Parks and Recreation budget?" Parks and Recreation Director Diaz-Trahan replied that it would be less costly than maintaining similar acreage at Naranja Park. Regarding cost of implementing, staff consistently mentioned getting grants but has provided no details.

Allow both walking and biking

The cart paths on the Preserve are not sufficiently wide for both foot and bike traffic. Also, they are not wide enough to meet ADA compliance. Town staff does not think it can enforce a "no bike" policy. Most on Council don't want to keep bikers out anyway. Some path widening will need to occur in the future. In addition, the town will need to add special ADA paths to allow all to enjoy the Preserve experience.

Involve the entire community

Residents of Rancho Vistoso donated $1.8million to The Conservation Fund for the purchase of the property. Some council members suggested that the opinion of these people should be weighed more heavily that the opinion of those who live outside the area. Mayor Winfield did not agree. He expressed the view of a majority: The investment that the town will make in this property will vastly exceed the amount contributed. Therefore, the town should weigh the thoughts of all residents equally. Diaz-Trahan noted that most resident input has come from those who do live in the area.

Diaz-Trahan: All plans  have been vetted with the easement holder, The Conservation Fund

The Conservation Fund holds the conservation easement on the property. The easement limits defines the activities the town can allow on the property and what it can do with it. Diaz-Trahan presented this to the Council. She stated that she has vetted all pieces of the Master Plan with The Conservation Fund.

There are three key areas of conservation easement requirements:

• Preserving land for outdoor recreation by or for the the education of the general public
• Protecting a relatively natural habitat of fish, wildlife plants, and ecosystem, and 
• Preserving open space for the scenic enjoyment of the general public 

Permitted uses of the property are:

• Low impact recreation activities that include but are not limited to:
  Walking, hiking, jogging, cycling, birdwatching, stargazing, archaeological efforts, education programs, nature photography, picnicking, and on-leash dog walking
• Construction of:
  Ramada’s, benches, picnic tables, water stations, bird blinds, exercise stations, ADA and non ADA trails and paths, and additional restrooms and parking areas that provide access to the area 

Remember: This is a Master Plan that will take many years to implement. The plan will be subject to review and funding by future councils as it becomes part of future annual budgets

The consultant has recommended four phases of the project. They did not define the timetable of each. Our guess is that it will be a decade before the master plan would be implemented completely. That time frame would span the terms of several Councils. No council is obligated to implement the plans of a prior council. Annually, the Council will decide if it want to do what is being suggested at that time in the Master Plan and if they want to fund it.  In essence, then, the Master Plan is guideline that may well change over time.  

Creating the Preserve is a long-term game

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Guest View-Rosa Dailey: Leadership That Turned A Problem Into A Nature Preserve

In a few short weeks a remarkable accomplishment will come to fruition. Through the collaborative leadership of Mayor Winfield and Vice Mayor Barrett of our current Town Council, and Mike Ford of The Conservation Fund, our Town will become the owner of the new Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. That will happen when The Conservation Fund transfers the title for more than 200 acres of land that was once the Vistoso golf course to the Town of Oro Valley. In all, the deal took 21 months to complete and became the land transaction Mike Ford regards as one of the most challenging of his more than two-decade career with The Conservation Fund.

Suffice to say that when a piece of land is in play in Oro Valley there is no shortage of opportunism. Despite a community commitment of more than $1.8 million, there were multiple delays and many disappointing tactics to navigate and endure, some caused by people who should know better and garner a higher moral compass in their capacity to serve.

Regardless of the obstacles, the leadership held. Mike Ford secured two of the three appraisals it took to work with the unreasonable property owner while respecting his fiduciary responsibility to the over 600 community donors who deserved a fair price in the purchase of the land.

Mayor Winfield and Vice Mayor Barrett authored a total of three unanimously supported council motions to keep the deal moving forward and provide the necessary Town backing. In doing so, they balanced their support for those of us who live in one of the 17 neighborhoods directly affected by the Vistoso property with their duty to do what is in the best interest of all citizens of Oro Valley. The ability to make the correct decision when honoring more than one obligation is a hallmark of effective leadership and the Vistoso deal proves this truth.

On July 8th you can take a walk in Oro Valley’s new nature preserve.

On August 2nd you can vote for the true proven leadership that made it happen and reelect Mayor Joe Winfield and Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett to the Oro Valley Town Council. 

Rosa Dailey

Oro Valley Resident

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Publisher Note: Rosa Dailey is a 15 year resident of Rancho Vistoso. She worked tirelessly for years to make the Vistoso Preserve a reality.

Bits and Pieces

Kreigh Park Easter "Eggstravaganza" tomorrow
Tomorrow, the town is hosting an Easter event. It is called the "Oro Valley Easter Eggstravaganza". It is an annual egg hunt that includes crafts, games, jumping castles, food trucks and other fun activities! Easter egg hunt divided by age groups: 9:30 a.m.: Ages 9-10 | 9:50 a.m.: Ages 6-8 | 10:10 a.m. : Ages 3-5 | 10:30 a.m. : Ages 0-2"

It is at Kreigh Park from 9am to Noon.

Town of Oro Valley is "flush with cash"
"With the Town now two-thirds of the way through the fiscal year, revenues continue to significantly outperform budget expectations. In addition, expenditure savings are anticipated in the Town’s major funds. The General Fund and Community Center Fund in particular, should end the fiscal year with substantially higher fund balances than projected." (Town Finance Director February 2022 Financial Update To Council)

Multi-Use Path heads toward Rancho Vistoso Blvd
The CDO multi use path runs from along the CDO, terminating at the Oro Valley Marketplace. There is a turnoff at the end that connects it to a  paved path that Pima County created along Big Wash. That paved path runs under Tangerine and heads north along the east side of Big Wash. At present, that paved path ends at a bit north or the Oro Valley Hospital. The Pima County Regional Flood Control District built that path. It is extending it this month with an added 3,100 linear feet. Next fiscal year it will complete the extension to Rancho Vistoso Blvd. (Source: Town Manager Executive Report, April 2022).  

Town of Oro Valley signs interim agreement to takeover Vistoso Nature Preserve
Town Manager Mary Jacobs "signed a Cooperative Interim Land Management Agreement with The Conservation Fund this week, paving the way for the future acceptance of the property. This agreement describes our respective responsibilities during TCF’s interim holding period of the property and the donation terms. We are making final reviews of the Conservation Easement, which will be recorded prior to the transfer to the Town. TCF is keeping residents and stakeholders apprised of the progress they are making on the initial clean-up of the property, which will be completed later this month.' (Source: Town Manager Executive Report, April 2022)

Remediation of Vistoso Nature Preserve continues
Work continues on the Vistoso property.  According to The Conservation Fund: Work in the northern area of the property is underway and Brightview is on schedule to complete efforts to improve access along the cart path, trim vegetation, prune trees, and remove debris from the underpasses by April 22nd. To date, they have cleared over 1 1⁄2 miles of the cart path. The remainder of the path in its entirety along the upper portion will mowed by the end of next week." (Source" The Conservation Fund Press Release, 4-7-22)

Reduce your speed on Oracle, from Concordia to Tangerine Road
The state has reduced the speed on Oracle from Calle Concordia to Tangerine Road from 50 to 45 mph. This is because it is repaving that section of the road. The first step is remediation of curb and sidewalk ramps. The turn lanes and side streets will be milled and paved during the months of April and May, and the main lanes will be milled and paved during the months of June and July.  Please slow down.

Nature Preserve Preliminary Remediation Timetable

The following is a press release from The Conservation Fund, owner of the Town of Oro Valley Nature Preserve, regarding the timing of the remediation of the property. LOVE added headings for reader convenience.

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Preliminary schedule released

As many of you know, The Conservation Fund has contracted with Brightview Landscape Services to perform preliminary clean-up of the property on behalf of the Town of Oro Valley to address fire and public safety issues. Below is their preliminary schedule along with maps to show the various areas which are anticipated to be temporarily unavailable for public use to avoid conflict with equipment being used. These are subject to change.

Invasive plant removal and control will be a long term issue for the maintenance of the preserve

We are aware of the invasive species that occupy the property, including Buffelgrass and Fountain Grass. A coordinated effort will be necessary among all parties to adequately deal with long-term removal and eradication. 

Due to the time needed to fully resolve this issue and our interim ownership of the property, that is not within our current capability. 

Effective treatment and removal will need to be on a sustained continuous basis and additional public education is necessary before expending additional significant time and/or expenses. The Town is aware of the concerns being raised and will coordinate as necessary and appropriate once the property is conveyed on or after July 1st.

Please do not remove any material from the property 

Finally, we would like to remind everyone that removal of any material from the property, including plants, cactus, rocks, or sand or gravel is not allowed without permission from The Conservation Fund or the Town of Oro Valley. If you observe any suspicious activity, please contact the Police Department (Non-Emergency) number as follows:

• Call: (520) 229-4900 (Reception answers M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) 
• After-hours is the same number (Listen through all the prompts to get to dispatch)

Additional information forthcoming as developed 

Additional information will be forthcoming as developed. Again, thank you for your continued cooperation and patience as we work to improve site conditions. 

Please feel free to contact me at kkowalsky@conservationfund.org if you have any questions or concerns. 

Kirste Kowalsky 

Southwest Field Representative 

The Conservation Fund

Conservation Fund Details Vistoso "Oro Valley Nature Preserve" Remediation Activities

The following is a press release from The Conservation Fund, owner of the Vistoso Preserve. It was issued last week. We added captions as an aid for the reader.

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It's the "Town of Oro Valley Nature Preserve"

As part of our on-going communication, we want to update the public regarding current actions associated with our interim management of the former Vistoso Golf Course, which we are informally referring to as the “Town of Oro Valley Nature Preserve.” 

We have recently contracted with Brightview Landscape Services to perform preliminary clean-up work of the property in concert with the Town’s direction and input.

Fire and public safety issues remain the initial priority

...including creating a clear, consistent, and sustainable buffer adjacent to existing cart paths and behind the homes that border the property. The current Scope of Work with Brightview involves the following preliminary improvements to the 202-acres as follows:

• Remove sand and debris from all cart paths.
• Trim small shrubs, grasses, and weeds to no more than 5 feet of height from the ground level and within a 5 feet distance on either side of the cart paths.
• Trim trees impacting the cart path to a height of 8 feet using arborist standards.
• Remove sand and debris from within the underpasses.
• Remove noxious weeds from the periphery of the property, and behind homes within 30 feet distance from the property line or common walls. 
• Cut and remove desert broom to ground level. 
• Buffelgrass and fountain grass will be cut to a height of 3-4 inches, with some cuttings to remain as mulch. 
• Mechanical equipment and hand tools will be used for tumble weed abatement reducing all tumble weeds to small particles. 
• Minor amounts of debris will be evenly dispersed on-site. Large mounds will be removed for aesthetics.

Note: Large sections of the Cart Path will be closed during work hours to avoid conflict with equipment being used. Brightview will provide up to 2 weeks advance notice, along with maps, indicating temporarily closed sections. 

Work is expected to begin in April and continue through the end of May / early June

During this timeframe, we remind all residents and visitors that no other work is allowed or authorized on the property without first obtaining approvals from the Town or The Conservation Fund. However, the property will remain open for passive recreational visitor use and enjoyment, subject to the temporary closures as described above.

We look forward to completing this important interim step as we continue to work with the Town towards the donation and transfer of the property on or after July 1, 2022. Additional information will be forthcoming as developed.

Questions?

Again, thank you in advance for your continued cooperation and understanding. Please feel free to contact Kirste Kowalsky (kkowalsky@conservationfund.org) if you have any questions or concerns in the interim. 

Mike Ford 

Nevada and Southwest Director 

The Conservation Fund

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Vistoso Preserve: As Remediation Begins, Property Open For All To Enjoy

The following is a press release from The Conservation Fund, owner of the Vistoso Preserve. It was issued yesterday. We added captions as an aid for the reader.

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Purchase is now complete

Thanks to the generous contributions of over 600 individuals in the community, over $1.8 million dollars was raised, and the negotiation and successful acquisition of the former Vistoso Golf Course is now complete. 

TCF to help fund some initial remediation

Last week, prior to closing, we met with Town of Oro Valley officials and discussed an interim management plan to address immediate life safety and ADA issues. The Conservation Fund made an initial financial commitment towards beginning that work in close coordination with the Town.

Initial focus: Creating a sustainable buffer behind homes that border the property

Before starting we want to have a cogent and consistent plan and focus on the issues of highest priority. Fire and public safety issues are the immediate priority and creating a clear, consistent, and sustainable buffer behind the homes that border the property, and along established paths, is at the top of the list. We have a follow up meeting with the Town on Thu 2/24 to discuss next steps.

The property is "open for visitor use and enjoyment"

During the interim ownership period The Conservation Fund will be managing the property as if it is part of the Town’s Parks and Recreation Department. The guidelines for interim management will be virtually identical to other property under current ownership by the Town. As such, we are advising all residents and visitors that no work is allowed or authorized on the property without first obtaining concurrence from the Town or The Conservation Fund. However, the property is open for visitor use and enjoyment.

Community involvement in remediation welcome once a plan is in place

We sincerely appreciate the concern and work some residents have performed previously and we don’t want to discourage anyone from volunteering to assist in the future. The Town will welcome community involvement and volunteer participation but before any further work is advanced there needs to be a cogent and consistent plan that aligns with long-term management of the property as an open space and natural area. We will remain actively involved and all future actions will be coordinated directly with the Town being thoughtful and deliberate about the future of this unique property.

Mike Ford

Nevada and Southwest Director The Conservation Fund

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Vistoso Golf Purchase Delayed

The following is a press release from the the Town of Oro Valley that was released Friday. The text is the town's. The headings are ours.

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A five party agreement

In December 2021, the Town of Oro Valley agreed to a joint transaction with Romspen Vistoso LLC, The Conservation Fund and developer Ross Rulney that is intended to result in the preservation of 202 acres of the former Vistoso Golf Course as open space and passive recreation in perpetuity. In addition to the 202 acres, the former golf course also includes a 6.3 acre parcel formerly used for clubhouse operations. As a condition of the sale, the agreement requires that both the 202 acre and 6.3 acre parcels be sold simultaneously.

Procedural issues to be resolved

The initial closing date was December 31, 2021 but was extended to January 21, 2022 due to the parties waiting on documentation from the Pima County Assessor that verifies the future use of the 202 acres will not be subject to a tax recapture issue as specified in state law. Pima County officials are actively working on this matter with completion expected in the near future.

Mr. Rulney has agreed to purchase the 6.3 acre parcel for a future multi-family residential development; however, through the due diligence process, an issue has arisen that must be resolved in order for Mr. Rulney to finalize the purchase.

A solution to this issue has been identified, but it requires the Vistoso Community Association (VCA) Board of Directors to consider a variance to a legal classification designation of “Commercial” within the 1996 land tract declarations (related to private CC&R’s) for the 6.3 acre clubhouse parcel to a classification that is consistent with current Town zoning. A variance request has been made by Mr. Rulney to the VCA Board, and the Town supports this request.

Anticipated closing moved to mid February

Due to these outstanding issues, the parties have agreed to an additional extension to February 16, 2022, pending satisfactory outcomes. The terms of the agreement preclude the Town of Oro Valley from providing additional information at this time. The Town and the other parties in this transaction appreciate the patience of our residents as we work cooperatively to bring this purchase to fruition.

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Source

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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Vistoso Golf Course Property Fund Raising Goal Achieved

Purchase of the former Vistoso Golf Course

It is my pleasure to announce we have reached our fundraising goal! This monumental milestone will now allow us to acquire and protect the former Vistoso Golf Course property. The key to the fundraising success was attributable to the financial support and generosity from the entire community. In approximately 5 weeks, over 400 individuals contributed towards our goal and the overwhelming support is testimony to the importance of this effort.

Thank you, residents, and friends of Oro Valley!

So, what happens now?

Over the next 30-days we will complete our remaining due diligence in furtherance of closing on or before December 30th. We do not anticipate any issues of substantive challenge and we will make a formal announcement when we officially close and record.

We will also be processing all current donations and pledges, including converting gifts of stock and other securities to cash, directing the collective proceeds to an escrow account. Those that have donated will receive formal acknowledgement from The Conservation Fund for tax purposes associated with your specific contribution. 

Upon closing, the property will be protected in perpetuity. The Conservation Fund will become the interim owner and we will continue working with the Town of Oro Valley towards the eventual donation and transfer for long-term management and ownership -- subject to a conservation easement.

Please accept our sincere thanks for your collective trust and confidence. Your financial generosity, and the valuable input we have received throughout the process, will enable us to create a legacy for everyone.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mike Ford

Nevada and Southwest Director

The Conservation Fund

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(Source: Press Release, November 23, 2021, The Conservation Fund)

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.

Bits and Pieces

Horn Launches "Unsung Hero" Podcast

Oro Valley resident Jim Horn has a new podcast called: "Oro Valley's Unsung Heroes." Jim interviewed Oro Valley Police Officer Alex Carillo, whom we covered yesterday in LOVE, in his first podcast. 

Horn intends future podcasts. "The Oro Valley Podcast will continue to do a series on the unsung heroes in Oro Valley. The series will feature those first responders that have helped to save lives in our community that would have otherwise been lost. The first responders devotion to duty and commitment to help our citizens is often overlooked. The Unsung Hero Series will highlight those achievements."

Hardy roundabout closed April 20 and 21

The town will be closing the Hardy and Northern Ave roundabout on April 20 and 21 for surface treatments. This is midweek so be sure to use an alternate route those days.

Did you know?

Oro Valley Police are involved in the building development review process. They provide recommendations about how projects can be designed to deter or prevent crime. (Source: 2020 Oro Valley Police Annual Report)

Shaffer Dry Cleaning Closing

Shaffer Dry Cleaning is closing its Rooney Ranch store on April 21. They told us that there was simply not enough business to justify keeping the location. We suspect their business is a victim of the pandemic. People stayed home. They didn’t need to dress to travel to work. Thus, less laundry to be cleaned. Shaffer offers a “door to door” service by calling 520-318-3538 or visiting shafferdrycleaning.com to sign up.

Vistoso Residents opine on the abandoned Vistoso Golf Course. Part 1. Talk of development on the 6th and 14th holes.

 

During the Call to Audience portion of the March 17th Town Council meeting, several Rancho Vistoso residents spoke about the Romspen/Vistoso Golf Course debacle. LOVE is presenting two of those speeches. The first one is below. We will publish the second one tomorrow.
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My comments are related to the former Vistoso Golf Course. My husband and I have lived on the 6th hole for almost 20 years. We, the community, are trying to respect the April 1st resolution deadline, but we continue to be frustrated with the lack of meaningful transparent updates regarding the status.

Since the golf course was abandoned, the 6th hole and fairway has been a target for partial development. We have heard rumors that there is a sitting member of council that continues to support and advocate for partial development of this area, the 6th hole and fairway, along with the 14th hole.

The Rancho Vistoso community has shown their commitment to the Town of Oro Valley and continued to attend these bi-weekly meetings in an attempt to resolve the Romspen abandonment of the golf course property. It has been 3 years in total. The Town is the only entity with the leverage and power needed to resolve this issue.

We have 3 questions:

1. What is the status of the fair market value appraisal of this property?

2. Is the Town of Oro Valley committed to move to condemnation timely if Romspen fails to negotiate a final resolution based upon fair market value?

3. Is the Town of Oro valley committed to engage the Conservation Fund in order to obtain a conservation easement and to raise the necessary financial support for this property?

Thank you for the opportunity to speak.

Theresa Moreau

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Editor's comment: Who is the sitting council member who is advocating for partial development on the abandoned Vistoso Golf Course? Could it be council member and developer, Steve Solomon? That would be interesting because while running for re-election last year, Solomon posted campaign signs in Rancho Vistoso containing the words, “Preserve Vistoso.”

Jacobs Tries To Provide Clarity To The Status of Former Vistoso Golf Property Purchase Negotiations

Town Manager Mary Jacobs stated the following during her Town Manager’s report to council of March 17. We have provided heading for reading convenience.

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The Conservation Fund has never been excluded from negotiations

“For this evening’s update on Romspen on the potential purchase of the Vistoso Golf Course, I wanted to correct some apparent misinformation. The Conservation Fund has never been excluded from negotiations They did their own appraisal last year and they remain engaged in the process. The Conservation Fund provided to the town and to Romspen the parameters by which they can participate in the purchase of this property. And we held our most recent meeting with Mike Ford of The Conservation Fund just last week.

Negotiations are pending Romspen's response

The ball has been in Romspen’s court now for many weeks. Unfortunately, due to personal tragedy that occurred in the family of one of the Romspen negotiators, the town is extending some grace to their team through this very difficult time. So we do hope to hear from them in the near future and, of course we will report back to the community.

Council has been kept apprised of the status of discussions

And I did just want to clarify again: The Mayor and council motion from November 18 specifies that Mr. Cohen and I were given the task “In an effort to negotiate the sale of the former Vistoso Golf Course, zoned open space golf for fair market value on or before April 1.” We were also further instructed to keep the council regularly informed on the status of these efforts. As you know, in any negotiated real estate transaction the party offering to purchase can not force the seller to sell their property nor dictate the purchase price. It is a process of negotiation and sometimes these things take longer than any one of us would personally prefer. Myself included.

As I mentioned last week, the town council is being kept fully abreast of all discussions and developments in the negotiation and this elected body has provided appropriate direction in executive session in accordance with the provisions of state law. Information regarding the town council’s ability to use executive session and the confidentiality of those negotiations has been posted to the town’s website per the Mayor’s request of two weeks ago.” 

[End of Jacobs' statement]

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Vistoso residents respond

Vistoso residents reacted to Jacobs' statement during the call to audience segment of the meeting. There comments focused on continued confusion as to whether the town has obtained an appraisal of the property. Jacobs statement did not answer that question.

Editorial: Whose Town Is This Anyway?

A pattern of questionable behavior

There is a pattern of behavior that has emerged in our town over the past year that, for some, begs the question: “Whose Town Is This Anyway?” Is it the town council’s town? Is it town staff’s town? Or is it the resident's town?

Last week and in several prior weeks we have posted facts regarding events that have happened that raise this question. We will reference them here so that you can consider what it all means.

Bad Behavior Toward Constituents
We’ve posted regarding three situations where the town has so rankled residents or their representatives that they have sent scathing letters to the Mayor.

Last Monday, we reported some Rancho Vistoso residents are asking that the town fire Town Manager Mary Jacobs because of her behavior regarding negotiations to purchase the former Vistoso Golf Course. According to those who have worked tirelessly for three years to make this so, Jacobs has excluded the key element of the purchase, The Conservation Fund, from discussions. Apparently, she has done so in a dismissive manner. These residents have been left out of any discussions when they were the ones who brought the solution to the town.

Then Wednesday, a guest view discussed the dismissive treatment that that town accorded the Oro Valley Historical Society. The society are supposed to be partners in discussions regarding the future of Steam Pump Ranch. They too have been ignored, as we reported in November.

Finally, there is the “resignation” statement that Ford of The Conservation Fund ("TCF") released. We posted their statement Friday. TCF is the source of funding for the purchase. They’ve been left out. They know how to do these deals. They, like the residents of Vistoso, have been dismissed by the town.    

Town Manager has made mistakes that have caused problems

As we wrote in February, inaction a year ago caused the crisis regarding the Pusch Ridge Course.  Town Manager Jacobs knew in April that HSL was not going to lease the course. She did not tell the council this until September.  By then, the course was closed and residents in the area were left out of discussions. It was only their concerted effort that got action.

As we wrote in December, Jacobs failed to post a critical public hearing on a general plan amendment. This resulted in a hurriedly scheduled public hearing on December 30, when no one was paying attention. That hearing only happened because LOVE noticed the town that they were required by law to hold a public hearing before year end.

Temporary taxes that have an eternal life 

The town has failed to reduce taxes that were supposed to be temporary.  The most recent is the half cent sales tax to pay for golf. We posted a visual on this this past Tuesday. This half cent sales tax is "Golfs' Eternal Flame." It was supposed to go away within five years. At that time, golf was projected to be self sufficient.  It isn't. The tax is still there. 

We've not forgotten a second tax that was supposed to be temporary. That's the 2 percent the Hiremath Council added to the utility tax.  Hiremath, in a classic 'sleight of hand', claimed it was needed to pay for four police positions. It was only going to be temporary. That was eleven years ago. 

Behind closed door meeting
One of our readers spoke to us regarding what seems to be an extraordinary number of executive sessions that council holds. The town has held so many executive sessions that Mayor Winfield asked Town Manager Jacobs to post a notice on the state's guidelines for holding these meeting. This notice is in regards to the former Vistoso Golf Course land purchase.

All of this when considered together does make one wonder. Whose town is this anyway?

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