Inside Oro Valley’s Economic Playbook: What’s Working, What’s Not, and What’s Next (Part 1)

Economic development is essential to the long term financial viability of Oro Valley 

On Thursday, Mayor Winfield will deliver a “State of the Town” address. We suspect that a key focus of his remarks will be on the town’s economic viability.

Oro Valley cannot simply raise sales taxes to boost revenue. This makes economic development and careful fiscal management essential to the town’s long-term financial health. Over time, Oro Valley must continue to revitalize its economy to sustain the revenue needed for its services.

Oro Valley has tried many things in the past to spur economic development. Some things have worked. And some have not.

Oro Valley has long pursued diverse strategies to drive economic development, in its efforts to sustain financial viability. From accelerating business approvals to expanding housing options, the town has explored multiple pathways to attract businesses and residents alike. Some approaches, like developing sports tourism and maintaining a strong public safety record, have shown tangible benefits.  Others, such as efforts to streamline planning or create shovel-ready business sites, have encountered challenges. Here's what's been tried over the years. Click the links to learn more about each.

1. Streamlining development approvals
The EEZ (Economic Expansion Zone)
This strategy aimed to speed up development in Innovation Park by simplifying the approval process for businesses in Innovation Park; notably removing neighborhood meetings and Planning and Zoning Commission reviews. Although intended to reduce delays, it hasn’t led to noticeable new developments in Innovation Park, suggesting limited effectiveness.
Integrating the Planning and Zoning Department with Economic Development
Former Town manager Mary Jacobs made an organizational change that attempted to allign planning and zoning and economic goals by placing the Planning and Zoning Department under the Economic Development Department. This has created a situation in which planners also become mediators between developers and residents.

2. Preparing infrastructure for building
Shovel-Ready Lots in Innovation Park
By preparing land for quick business setup, the town hoped to attract companies ready to establish themselves. Despite the investment, the initiative hasn’t drawn interest from businesses, partly because available lots don’t meet the scale or accessibility requirements many businesses desire, such as highway access or larger parcels. After all, in reality, more of all is 10 miles from interstate 10 whether you travel west or south.

3. Housing expansion
Increasing rooftops
Based on the idea that more housing would attract businesses to serve a larger population, this approach has expanded Oro Valley’s residential community but hasn’t attracted significant business diversity beyond healthcare and other personal services. This trend highlights that more rooftops alone do not meet business attraction goals.
Adding multifamily dwelling units (apartments)
A similar approach focused on increasing rental options to attract employees for potential high-paying jobs. However, demand is currently lukewarm; For instance, the Linda Vista rentals have had substantial vacancies, suggesting that the need for upscale apartments may be overestimated.

4. Tourism and sports attractions
Use Parks and Recreation facilities to attract visitors to the town
Oro Valley has invested in sports venues to attract visitors, and while there’s limited town data, activities like aquatics events do bring non-residents to the area. Sports facilities have had success in driving local economic activity, particularly in hospitality and dining sectors.
Make Oro Valley a destination or visitors
Recently, Oro Valley took over as its own Destination Marketing Organization, aiming to bring more tourists directly rather than relying on regional efforts. Early efforts, including partnerships for sports events and planning public art tours, are underway, but it’s too soon to assess the overall impact.

5. Expansion through annexation
Annex for growth
Oro Valley has used annexation to incorporate nearby areas, both residential and commercial. Commercial annexations bring tax revenue and support public services, while residential expansions provide initial fees but may add long-term service costs without corresponding revenue.

6. Developing a knowledge economy
Incubate businesses
Through a partnership with the University of Arizona, the Oro Valley Innovation Center serves as a business incubator. The aim is to foster startups that remain and grow within the community, though progress is gradual due to the incubation timeframe and risk of external acquisitions relocating businesses.

7. Public Safety as an economic incentive
Maintain strong public safety
Oro Valley’s reputation for safety is a draw for both residents and businesses, exemplified, years ago, by Rancho Vistoso’s willingness to be annexed for dedicated police coverage. Public safety remains a foundational element of Oro Valley’s appeal.

8. Digital promotion and policy adjustments
Build an award-winning website for businesses to explore the town
The “Choose Oro Valley” website serves as a digital face for the town’s economic efforts, recognized for excellence in design and functionality, aimed at attracting potential investors and residents. We have no idea if this generation significant leads. But it appears to be a good start.
Amend the General Plan to switch from residential to a commercial and back
Historically, General Plan amendments allowed for changes in land use. These are changes that allow the land to be used in a manner that was not approved by the voters. These changes are made in response to whatever the current market supposedly supports. The approach has shifted under different administrations, with fewer amendments in recent years, reflecting an adherence to the voter approved 2016 general plan.

Here's what's really worked

Over the past decade, Oro Valley has experienced notable population growth. Combined with significant inflation and the taxation of internet purchases, this population growth has increased town sales tax and state shared revenues. Yes. We think that many people moved here did so because of the Town's terrific public service presence.  We have not seen, however any significant new businesses that offer . What we have seen is something that should've been anticipated: An increase in medical and personal service businesses.

Tomorrow we take a look at Oro Valley's current community and economic development plan, a plan that was put in place five years ago. It is a bit different from what the Town did historically.

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Councils Have Done Much To Build The Oro Valley Business Base But Results Have Not Happened

Economic Development continues at a slow pace

In March, the town issued seventeen single family residency permits. Also in March, there were few new business projects listed by the town. In total, businesses that are coming to Oro Valley are the same types of businesses that we reported in February.  We concluded then that most businesses that are opening in Oro Valley are focussed on serving the adult community (Read: "Oro Valley is an Adult Community")

Town Councils have tried to do much over the years to bring businesses to Oro Valley

"Rooftops strategy"

The Hiremath led councils embarked on a "grow the rooftops" strategy. The result of that strategy can be seen today with La Posada, a senior living that is is being built north of the CDO Wash, behind Home Depot. Yes. That project will bring more people to our community. But will it bring more businesses to the community or will it simply add to traffic in the area?

Two Economic Development Directors

The Winfield Council now has its second Oro Valley Economic Development Director. Neither the first Director nor the current Director have brought any significant business to our community with one exception, that being Leonardo Electronics. That company, however, has yet to break ground, though the project was announced in December of 2021. (Source: March Town of Oro Valley Economic Development Status Report.)

Easing requirements in economic enterprise zones

The Council, at the urging of former town manager Mary Jacobs and the then current Economic Development Director, eased the permitting codes ("EEZ"). That council approved blading the desert in Innovation Park to create "shovel-ready lots." The hope was that businesses would come to Oro Valley. After all, Oro Valley has an easier permitting process and land that is ready for construction. Well, that hasn't happened either.

A friendlier Planning and Zoning Department

Jacobs, under the Winfield Council, attempted to make it a bit easier for Developers to build in Oro Valley by putting the Planning and Zoning Department under the Director of Economic Development. The goals of Economic Development Department and Planning and Zoning Department are not the same. The Economic Development Department  seeks to build the commercial base of our community. The Planning and Zoning Department is supposed to make sure that whatever is built is built within code specifications. Their job is to protect the community, not to grow it.  Today, the Planning and Zoning Department tries to negotiate between residents and developers, rather than simply doing their code [and Genera Plan] enforcement job.

An example of this relates to the request of the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene [OVCN] to rezone land next to the church at Concordia and Buena Vista so that they can build a major sports complex. The residents are united against this proposal. They have been steadfast in their position that there is no compromise that will result in their supporting that facility in that area. Yet, many times, the Planning and Zoning Department has talked with the residents, urging some sort of compromise. That is not the Planning and Zoning Department's job. Their job is to process the application in the same manner in which all such applications are processed. 

"Choose Oro Valley" Website

The town created a website that won an award from the Arizona Association of Economic Development. That website is chooseorovalley.com. The focus of that site is to attract bioscience companies, like Roche. It is quite comprehensive. One can see available sites and buildings and tax incentives. It displays Oro Valley's key industries.

The site falsely states that "the population of Oro Valley is balanced across all age segments." We know it is not balanced. Any business with a serious intent is going to look at the 2020 Census Data, like we did, and see that that statement is false. Indeed, even the town’s own Parks and Recreation Master Plan acknowledges that “…the town exhibits an unbalanced distribution among major age segments.”  We are an over 55 community.  Putting false information on the web sit reduces the credibility of all the information on the site.

Shovel ready sites

The first of the two Economic Development Directors convinced the Council that the reason Oro Valley was not being selected by companies was that the town had no “shovel ready sites.” These are sites that are graded without a specific site plan.  So, the town approved blading the desert in Innovation Park to do just that. This happened in September 2020.

Working with the State of Arizona

The town also receives leads from the State. None of these have panned out to date. Many of these leads seem to have more of an industrial need. Something Oro Valley doesn't want. It's important to face reality. Everybody wants clean businesses in technology. What makes Oro Valley unique? We don't know.

From Oro Valley Marketplace to Oro Valley Village Center

Last year the Council approved a bold revisioning of the failed Oro Valley Marketplace. It is call the Oro Valley Village Center. It is being revisioned on the premise that the area needs to build its own population density in order to support businesses in the center. The vision is for hotels and apartments, adding more density to the town. Nothing has happened to the Center since the approval.

The “Business Incubator”

In December of 2020  the University of Arizona opened a “business incubator” in Innovation Park to house startup companies . The hope is that one of the startups will take hold and flourish in Oro Vally, It is too soon to tell if this initiative will pay off.

Council's recent "Economic Vitality" revisit produces nothing new

Last week the Town Council held a study session on its strategic plan. "Economic Vitality" is one area they discussed. As Vice Mayor Barrett noted, the study session was an update of the existing strategy. The session was not a discussion on how to replace it.  The focus of the plan is to do the same things that the town has been doing to meet the following goals:

• Support local businesses
• Attract employers in key business sectors
• Attract commercial businesses to our centers
• Increase visitors (Via $400,000 annually given to  "Visit Tucson" to generate 28,000 hotel room nights. That's $14.29 per night.

To date, these actions have failed to produce significant tangible results

Town Councils have done much to build the business base in this town. Perhaps it is the impact of the Pandemic. Perhaps it is the impact of the three-year economic meltdown that has happened since the Pandemic. Regardless, the town has yet to see results in their efforts to bring significant new business to the community.

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Bits and Pieces

Tech Parks' Startup Incubator, UACI Opens its Doors in Oro Valley 

In mid December, The University of Arizona Center for Innovation opened its new bioscience-focused startup incubator facility in Oro Valley. The new center is officially up and running and ready to support bioscience startups with the resources, programming, facilities and mentorship needed for startups to thrive. The incubator will offer companies access to shared laboratory equipment like an ultra-low freezer, biosafety cabinets and an inverted fluorescence microscope. Startups will also be guided through a 27-point roadmap for business enterprises designed to support bioscience discoveries and help translate them into marketable technologies.

The center’s first tenant is TheraCea Pharma, a UA drug technology spinoff that in early November was named winner of a “sponsored launch” competition for a slot in the incubator sponsored by BioSA. (Source: Innovation Center Press release)

Council approves pay increase

The Oro Valley Town Council approved a pay increase of 3% for all employees starting in January. This will cost the town $385,000 through June 30. It will permanently embed $888,000 in cost to next year's budget.  This amount does not include the added fringe benefit costs that are based as percent of salary. 

Previously, the Town Council requested the Town Manager to assess market and revenue trends and come back to provide an update and recommendation regarding potential salary increases." Town Manager Jacobs' assessment is that the town needs to do this in order to provide competitive wages; and that the town can afford it by not added open positions.

Is there anyone you know who has received a pay increase during Pandemic times? We know many who are living on less.

2020 in the rear view mirror

TakeBackOV published a quick retrospective on Oro Valley's 2020. Well worth watching.

Troon is back!

The town replace Troon, the company that managed the Town of Oro Valley golf courses, with Billy Casper Golf this fall. Troon announced the purchase of Indigo Golf, which was formerly called Billy Casper Golf. Read about the purchase. 

Bits and Pieces

UACI-Oro Valley Seeks Applicants
"Final call for startup applications! UACI has teamed up with the Bioindustry Organization of Southern Arizona (BIOSA) for another Sponsored Launch program! One biotech startup company will receive a sponsored year's admission at the brand-new biotech incubator, UACI at Oro Valley. Included with entrance into the program and space at the new location, the startup will also be awarded a cash prize of $5,000. The total package value is $15,000 and is funded by the generous support of BIOSA. Interested applicants should not delay. Deadline is approaching." (Source)

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Oro Valley Covid-19 case rate: 8 per 1,000 residents

We are eight months into the Covid-19 nightmare.  As of yesterday, there have been 400 cases of Covid-19 in Oro Valley, according to the state's statistics, That's a case rate of 8 per 1,000 residents. That is remarkable. Oro Valley has a high proportion of older citizens, including a number of senior care facilities.

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October 29: Winfield "State of the Town Address"

Mayor Winfield will give the annual "State of the Town" talk next Thursday at 8:30am. You can watch it free via livestream. You have to signup and register to watch it at this link. The talk is sponsored by the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce.

"The 2020 Oro Valley State of the Town event will be like no other! We’re going virtual, expecting between 750 and 1,000 viewers for a combination live and pre-recorded address by Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield. Don’t miss out on your chance to reach this broad audience at a major, annual, community happening!" (Source)

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Bits and Pieces

Taking left hand turns legally

Oro Valley Sergeant Amy Grant posted a video on nextdoor.com on the legal way to take a left hand turn in Oro Valley. No. It is not legal to go proceed across Oracle Road to take a left hand turn and to stop in the median while you are doing so. This is a practice we seen about a thousand time. The video is worth watching.  It could save your life.

UACI at Oro Valley Update
"Monsoon season may be here, but the rain has not stopped us from building our bioscience incubator in the town of Oro Valley. Construction is on schedule for the University of Arizona Center for Innovation at Oro Valley. This soon-to-be thriving home for biotech startups, including the winner of the UACI Sponsored Launch Fueled by BIOSA, is set to open late Fall 2020." (Source: Innovation Center Update 9-23-20)

Jacobs To Position 2021 Budget to "Weather The Storm"

2020-21 budget goal: Position the town to "weather the storm"
Developing a 2020-21 budget is indeed a challenge for the town's new CFO, David Gephart. The goal of the budget, which will be provided to council in a week, is: "...to position the town to be able to weather a longer storm should that happen and to also have some contingency dollars available in case the early predictions [of economic recovery] do not come through as planned."

"The total proposed budget will be 3% less in 2021"
In a LOVE interview last week, Town Manager Mary Jacobs told us that "The only reason why it doesn't feel like it's going to be as bad next fiscal year is that we did so well this fiscal year." One factor is that the town is completing its first full year of on-line sales tax revenue collection. "We expect a very sharp drop off in sales tax revenues for the first six months of the year." By the end of the fiscal year, she believes that the town will be collecting sales tax revenue at the pre Covid-19 shutdown level. 

A cautious approach

"We're still early in the process. We will have some additional reserves available in the budget for contingency if we're far off. We'll be very carefully monitoring both expenditures and revenues on a monthly basis. I'll be holding off on some of our projects [until] I feel comfortable that our projections are coming in as we planned because that will still give us an opportunity to make additional cuts. We want to moderate the impact on services to the community." 

Shifting economic development focus

The Covid-19 pandemic will alter the business landscape. The town will experience a pause in economic growth, perhaps until next year.  The town's economic development focus will need to shift.  Jacobs identified two areas where a shift in focus may be appropriate.

"One thing that we can do is to focus on industries that are not going to suffer, like Biotechnology. That's our niche." The University of Arizona Incubator is moving forward. "We can look at how we can help those startup companies and attract other companies as well." 

The second area is in-store retailing.  Oro Valley has focused on attracting  retailers to the community. Its been a long-term strategy. Times have changed. Long before the shutdown, consumers were shifting spending to online shopping.  Oro Valley, like many communities, has empty store fronts. 

The crisis has accelerated that consumer buying shift to online.  Jacobs believes that the town should consider "... code changes that would broaden potential uses to primary employers in some of our other commercial areas so we can see some reuse in shopping spots... because 'brick and motor' is a problem and there is a lot of space out there."

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While We Were Away

Colorado River Restrictions Begin In 2020
Arizona and Nevada will see a restriction of the water they can take from the Lake Mead starting in 2020. This is because water levels in the lake are projected to be just below a trigger restriction level. This happens even though 2018-19 saw an increase in water levels due to heavy snow fall in the Rockies. Arizona will lose 7% of its allotment. This is about the amount that Arizona has be voluntarily not taking since 2015. Not to worry. Town water chief Abraham has assured LOVE that river water restrictions will have no impact on Oro Valley's water supply. Read about that here.

Oro Valley Police Open Substation
The town cut the ribbon on the "Daniel G. Sharp Police Department Substation and Evidence Facility, located at 500 W. Magee Road". The police will use the facility in a variety of ways. The cost of the facility was approximately $7million. (source)

Kids Concert Series Starts Saturday
The first of eight kids concerts will be held Saturday in town council chambers. It is sponsored by the town and by the Music and Dance Academy. We know that this was a favorite of Bill Adler. He originated it and funded it. His legacy continues.

Former Platinum Fitness Facility Getting A Makeover
The building that housed Platinum Fitness (Northwest Corner of Oracle and Ina) is getting a huge makeover. 10,000 squared feet of the facility will have a restaurant with outdoor seating. There will also be upstairs offices. The facility is 30,000 square feet in total. (Source)

Traffic Accident Tragedy
The deaths of Margory and Richard Brown on August 21 remind us all of how precious is our time together. The were killed in a traffic accident at the intersection of Tangerine and La Canada. Margory is the mother of Laurel Clark. Laurel was one of seven astronauts who died in 2003 on the return of the Challenger space mission. One could not write a story more sad.

OVIL Breaks Ground Wednesday
The Oro Valley Innovation Lab ("OVIL") is breaking ground tomorrow. "UACIOV will operate a business incubator in Innovation Park, near Roche Diagnostics (formerly Ventana Medical Systems), with the mission to support and conduct bioscience research and programs and provide space for educational and training programs for translational scientists." (Source) Mayor Winfield will be speaking at this event. Read more here.

Mystery Lights Over Pusch Ridge
Nexdoor.com neighbors have been discussing strange light sightings in and around Pusch Ridge. Some suggest it is aliens. Others think it might be from a planet. Our guess is that the pattern of lights described and the ability of the lights to stay stationary for long periods tells us that it is a drone. Also, it does seem to us that the Pusch Ridge wilderness would be a good place for "droning".

Concert, this Friday night at Steam Pump Ranch: 5 PM
Oro Valley’s historic Steam Pump Ranch is proud to offer a Friday Night Concert Series on select first Fridays throughout the year. They are family friendly with fun activities in the grass for children, food trucks, Sonoita Vineyards Winery, patio heaters for colder months and lots of fun. Come join SAACA and the Town for the FREE Steam Pump Ranch Concert Series!

Live music: (Old Time Rock ‘n’ Roll dance tunes)
Sept. 6 “Your Money's Worth" performing hits from the 60s and 70s
Nov. 1 “Hot Lizards” performing dance tunes from the 60s, 70s and 80s
Feb. 7 “Wendy & the Boys” Wide range of music from Motown to country, rock ‘n’ roll to blues.
March 13 Connie Brannock’s “Tiny House of Funk” Cactus Country Soul, Rhythm, Jazz & Blues
(Source: Town of Oro Valley)
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April 3 “Hot Lizards” performing dance tunes from the 60s, 70s and 80s

Website supporting keeping golf opens
A website in support of keeping 36 holes of golf opened on August 6. The site is orovalleythrives.com. Apparently, the owner of the site doesn't have the courage of their convictions. They have chosen to mask their identity. You can view their registration information. It has a one year lifetime.

Oro Valley's Economic Opportunities Must "Show The Money"

Last week in "Here's Some Whine To Go With Your Cheese," we wrote about whining that some in the business community did at a recent Economic Development Forum that was hosted by the Town of Oro Valley and The Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce.  It was a forum in which business had the opportunity to make a contribution to Oro Valley's 2015 general plan.

We felt that we needed to dig deeper. After all, "There were approximately 47 members of the business community in attendance at the forum, along with town staff, several council members and some "Your Voice Our Future" committee members.  Certainly, there must have been more than complaining.

We found that there was. We asked for, we received and we reviewed a summary of and detailed notes from that meeting.  Here's what we learned.

The business community made some unique recommendations.  Some were even bold!

When asked, for example, how Oro Valley could create a downtown, one team suggested that the town look into Las Vegas' "Container Park.".  What is that, you ask?

It is a gathering place that was created through the leadership of the Las Vegas business community.  "The Container Park is the work of Downtown Project, the $350 million private redevelopment agency." (Source)

This is an inner-city project that was created to rejuvenate downtown Las Vegas. Essentially. It is a park that uses shipping containers for shops and entertainment activities. There are 40 shops and every shop is in a shipping container.

Innovative? You bet. Something Oro Valley could use to create a downtown? Who knows. Bold? Yes.  Led by the business community. You bet.

Other ideas from the forum included:

• Education: thee theme of developing and fostering a relationship with Pima Community College and The University of Arizona came up frequently. "
• Annexation: Designate the fullest possible utilization for undeveloped State lands."  
• Jobs: Create meaningful (our term for professional level) job growth and diversifying Oro Valley's employment base.  Here, the "business incubator" concept we've previously explored was mentioned.

Clearly, the forum was a worthwhile endeavor.

What was missing?

Tucson's "Heavy Hitters"  The money people.

For it is money and the prospect of making more money that drives economic growth.

Yes. One of the  County's "heavy hitters", Diamond Ventures, attended.  HSL Properties (La Encantada at Steam Pump Ranch) didn't come.

These are land people.  And, in addition, there were many real estate people.

There should be far more to Oro Valley's economic growth than more homes.

Indeed, Oro Valley needs to attract significant businesses.

Yet, no one from the venture funding community attended. None were invited.  There was no one from the Arizona Desert Angels investment group.   They weren't invited.   Two banks attended. Others were invited who failed to attend. No one from University of Arizona came, though they were invited.

Many of the things that happen Oro Valley take place out of view of the public. So, the fact that someone or a particular group didn't attend a meeting doesn't mean that the town is not in contact with them. Indeed, there may be some very significant dealings that are taking place of which we have no knowledge. Criticizing the town's outreach efforts to the business community as insufficient because it doesn't have broad enough coverage would be wrong.

Still, it would be good for the Tucson, county and State  community to take a stronger interest Oro Valley, an interest beyond the obvious benefit of simply buying a piece of property intended for one use and then having it rezoned or re-planned for a more profitable use.   That is not creative.  That is lazy schlock.  But that has been Oro Valley's history of business and economic development.

There are moneymaking, business opportunities galore in Oro Valley.

The Las Vegas business community built something of substance and value for themselves and for the community. It was something well beyond a "real estate" grab. Would you agree that it's time for the business community to build something wonderful in our town?
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Bits and Pieces

Five Hats In The Ring-- Oro Valley Incumbents Seek Reelection

As of yesterday, the 4 incumbents on the Oro Valley Town Council and 1 other Oro Valley resident have organized for this years mayoral and council elections:  "... the following individuals have returned their Statement of Organizations: Satish I. Hiremath Joe Hornat, Mary Snider Patrick J. Straney Lou Waters."  (Source: Oro Valley Town Clerk's Office)

You know the incumbents. Patrick Straney is known in the Rancho Vistoso community, having served in various capacities in the HOA. He has also been a member of the Mayor's Ambassador Group.

More on the elections Monday in "If Not You, Then Who?"
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Rancho Vistoso Race A Bit Contentious

This from one of our bloggers:

"This is the first time in years that I can remember a race for the Board of Director seats within the Rancho Vistoso community. Anyone notice the "Vote 4 Bill & Brad" signs or get a flyer on their door?

In an apparent effort to marginalize those efforts by Bill and Brad, the [local advertising circular] published a vague opinion piece written by two candidates (one incumbent, one former Board member) who served the Association for years and now insinuate the community will fall apart without them. The article, however, failed to mention any of their accomplishments or future goals.

On the other hand, challengers Bill Daniels and Brad Schauf have a website detailing their plans on how to improve Rancho Vistoso by making sure HOA dues are spent wisely, ensuring transparency and exploring fresh ideas that will benefit the community. Both were instrumental in securing bids for a landscaping contract that will ultimately save homeowners more than $800,000. And what a novel idea: they are seeking input from the community.

If you haven’t cast your ballot, you might want to visit ImproveRanchoVistoso.com and evaluate the new guys so you can make an informed decision. Or better yet, attend the annual meeting on March 27th.  Decide for yourself which candidates offer the most to the community.

Meeting location:1495 E Rancho Vistoso Boulevard at Sun City in their Social Hall in the Papago Room. Time: 6 p.m. "
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Senior Care Facility In Innovation Park?  Give Us A Break!

Are you sitting down?

There is a Senior care facility planned for Innovation Park.

"The proposed development consists of 177 beds (82 assisted living and 95 independent living), 11 buildings and 230,000 square feet of floor area. The project will be following the Economic Expansion Zone (EEZ) review process, which entails administrative review and approval of the architectural and site designs."  (Source: Oro Valley Press Release)  You can learn more about this project by attending next Wednesday's open house (see upcoming events) and clicking here.

As one of our bloggers wrote: "The retirement development planned in Innovation Park may be consistent with zoning - although we still don't have assisted living in our code. But, do we really want to take light industrial space ( incubator, perhaps ) - and house retired people?"

Maybe they'll get jobs a Securaplane.
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Miller Urges Caution:  Pima Animal Control Facility To Be Bonded At $506 Per Square Foot

Miller Addressing Attendees

If we're not careful, voters will approve a Pima County bond next year for the expansion of the Pima County Animal Control facility for millions over what a facility of this type should cost. This we learned last night at County Supervisor Allison Miller's Town Hall at the Oro Valley Library Branch.  Miller showed costs of other commercial-type new construction buildings that are in the low $100's per square foot.

We also learned that lavish spending is quite common in Pima County. Did you know, for example, that the county, with some federal funds, funded a lavish emergency response center?  There are chairs that can be adjusted at the push of a button.  There are built-in fans to make the occupant comfortable. There are stainless refrigerators for each community.  There are rooms full of computers.  And you approved it with a 2004 bond offering.

Did you know that county supervisors can, on a majority vote, use bond funds for uses other than the purpose for which you voted?  And, that they can do so legally.

Miller's point: Be careful before approving county bonds in a county that already has 2.5 times the debt of all other Arizona counties combined.
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Burns' Statement On "Domestic" Incident

Last night, TV 4 reported of a domestic incident involving Council Member Brendan Burns.  The incident occurred well over 2 weeks ago and involved violating a then standing protective order.  Here is Council Member Burns' statement as published by TV 4;

"I am saddened that my divorce and recent personal struggles have become public matters. As is often the case in these emotional situations, I have regrets, but much of the substance of the protective order is untrue, and my wife has already dismissed it voluntarily. My focus is now on my family and healing my relationship with my wife so we can be better parents to our three, young children. My family hopes for your prayers and understanding as we continue the healing process and we humbly ask for privacy out of respect for our children."


Council Member Brendan Burns (Source
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Miller To Discuss County Issues Relevant To Oro Valley

Pima County Supervisor Ally Miller will be hosting a Town Hall at 6PM tomorrow in the Oro Valley Branch of the Pima County Library.  "As your representative on the Pima County Board of Supervisors, it is critical I hear your thoughts, concerns, and comments on current issues facing our County," notes Miller in a press release.

Supervisor Miller will present her thoughts on several different areas: Roads maintained by Pima County, which includes La Canada; Pima County debt; and Economic Development.  These are all of importance to those of us living in Oro Valley.

There are also some specific county-involved matters that are of importance to Oro Valley residents. Here's our list of things we'd like to hear about:

• Funding to complete Steam Pump Ranch.  Funds to complete the ranch were supposed to have come from the county in a prior bond funding. The bonding never materialized. All we have now is a beautiful plan and a dust pit ranch.  What is the county's vision of Steam Pump Ranch?  Will they help or should Oro Valley plan to "go it alone."
• Partnering with Oro Valley to create a business incubator in Innovation park.  An incubator is a facility for start ups businesses. There is one, for example, that the University of Arizona operates on the far east side.  Oro Valley's Innovation Park is a prime location for this type of facility.  What will the county do to partner with Oro Valley?
• Oro Valley’s roads are in good shape because Oro Valley maintains them.  What role will the county play in rebuilding Tangerine Road into major East-West road?  What role will it play in continuing to rebuild LaCholla as a new Oro Valley North-South road?
• Completing a spur from the CDO shared-use trail, under Oracle, to Catalina State Park is on the planning horizon.  Our understanding is that this is a project that is the responsibility of the county. Where does this project stand?

What items of direct relevance to Oro Valley would you like to ask Supervisor Miller?

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Bits and Pieces

Night Work On Michigan Left Continues

Night construction of the Oracle and Ina intersection continued this week. We experienced it twice this week.  It would be a good idea to avoid the intersection at night because traffic can be backed up as they continue to pave the intersection.

Beware Of Caller ID Spoofing

Caller ID spoofing is an illegal activity that allows a caller to masquerade as someone else by falsifying the number that appears on the recipient's caller ID display.  It is being used to con county residents into paying fees to they don't owe. The caller ID displayed on your phone is not necessarily the real ID of the caller. So, beware.

County To Put Off Bond Elections Until 2015 At The Earliest

County Administrator Chuck Huckleberry has concluded that a county bond issue, one filled with "dream" projects, is simply not feasible at this time.  He says that the county is no looking to 2015 or 2016.  This delays county funding of one of Oro Valley's dream projects, a business incubator.  (Source)

Oro Valley Is, however, moving forward with a feasibility study of the incubator.  The town has issued a request for proposal for the study. Sealed proposals will be received until September 27, 2013 at 4:00 pm.

Town Offering Community Academy

The Oro Valley Community Academy is a series of sessions designed to acquaint residents with the town's governance. Attendance at the Academy is a requisite for participation on an Oro Valley volunteer board or commission.

"A series of six classes will be held on Thursday evenings, 6 - 8 p.m., Oct. 10 - Nov. 21, 2013. All classes take place at Oro Valley Town Hall, 11000 N. La Cañada. Space is limited."  Click here to register.

Oro Valley receives national award for graphic design

"The Town of Oro Valley received an Award of Excellence in Graphic Design for its 2013 Marketing Brochure from the City-County Communications and Marketing Association (3CMA). This national award, which seeks to recognize "projects and concepts that showcase creative talent and design that also perform essential communication functions," was announced at the 3CMA National Conference on Sept. 5, 2013." (Source: Oro Valley Press Release)

Click here to view this award winning brochure.

Congratulations to town communications director Misti Nowak and her support team.

Oro Valley seeks volunteers for Water Utility Commission

Oro Valley is seeking to fill two positions on the water utility commission.  The term of the appointment is for a two year period beginning January 1, 2014.

"Interested parties should have knowledge and/or interest in water-related issues.  Applicants must be residents of the Town of Oro Valley and customers of the Oro Valley Water Utility."

 The application for the positions is available online.   Applications must be submitted by November 1.  (Source: Oro Valley Press Release)
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Bits and Pieces

GCU Bids Revealed

Last week, we learned what Oro Valley, Tucson, and Marana offered Grand Canyon University to induce them to locate in their communities.

Oro Valley offered land near Naranja Park for $1.8 million and was going to charge an additional $3 million for grading and utility improvements.  Marana proposed about 130 acres near Linda Vista Blvd and a half-mile from I-10 for a price ranging between $24,000 and $34,000 an acre.  Tucson offered the El Rio Golf Course for about $257,000 per year for 50 years. (Source)

Oro Valley Chamber President Dave Perry complemented the town for making a bid at the town council meeting this week, noting that the location of a University in Oro Valley would be a seminal event.

A neighborhood group successfully scared away Grand Canyon University from Tucson. The City of Tucson and its residents, never miss an opportunity to choose poverty and pipe dreams (Rio Nuevo) over economic prosperity. Their success helps cement Tucson as one of the poorest cities in the country.
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Town To Fund Business Incubator Feasibility Study

Town Of Oro Valley is soliciting bids for a feasibility study for the business incubator.   Study cost is estimated from $20,000-$30,000.  The town will host a bidder's conference this monday, September 9, in the Kachina Room at town hall. (Source: Oro Valley Bid Solicitation)
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"OV Aquatic Center receives Outstanding Facility Award

The Oro Valley Aquatic Center was named recipient of the 2013 Outstanding Facility Award for Populations 25,000 – 100,000 by the Arizona Parks & Recreation Association (APRA).  Facilities were judged on several criteria, including: impact on leisure opportunities for the service area, innovative features, aesthetics and unique methods of financing the project." (Source: Oro Valley Press Release)
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Oro Valley 2013 Revenues Exceed Budget

The Town Of Oro Valley's 2013 revenues for three major funds exceeded budgeted amount.

• General Fund revenues came in 5.5% over budget. "The overage was due primarily to Local Sales Taxes (specifically the construction sales tax category) and License & Permit revenues due to increased development activity seen during the fiscal year."  Retail tax collections exceeded budget by almost 5%.
• Highway Fund revenues "...totaled $2,648,329, or approximately $168,000 over the budgeted amount of $2,480,005."
• "Bed tax collections for the fiscal year totaled $788,796, down approximately $6,000, or 0.8%, from last year....Total actual revenues for the year came in over budget by $14,289, or 1.8%."

(Source: Town Finance Director Lemos' report to the Oro Valley Town Council on September 4.)

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Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce Has Active Quarter

The Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce submitted its quarterly report to the Oro Valley Town Council on September 4.  "The Chamber President and staff attended Business Retention Site Visits with the following businesses: Ideal Rehabilitation, Carrabba’s, Pusch Ridge Apartment Homes, Vistoso Drug, Personal Training Institute, B2 Salon and My Gym Children’s Fitness Center....12 Town officials took advantage of the free Chamber breakfasts, luncheons and mixers."
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CDO Multi-Use Path "Connector" To Be Completed By End Of Year

"The Town received bid proposals for the CDO Shared Use Path on August 23, 2013, and anticipates having an executed construction contract by September 25, 2013. Subsequently, construction is expected to begin by October 7th, with an anticipated project completion date no later than December 31, 2013." (Source: Chris Cornelison, Oro Valley Constituent Services Coordinator/Management Assistant)
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September HiVE Deployments

The Oro Valley Police Department will be in force on the following days on Oracle, between Magee and Suffolk:

• September 11, 2013,  7 - 10 a.m.
• September 12, 2013,  4 - 7 p.m.
• September 23, 2013   7 - 10 a.m. 
• September 24, 2013   4 - 7 p.m.

(Source: The Oro Valley Police Department Press Release)
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Do You Know This Woman?

"The Oro Valley Police Department obtained updated photos of the check fraud suspect from the media release on August 26, 2013. OVPD is still asking for the public’s help in locating these suspects. If you have any information on the whereabouts of the suspects, please call 911, 88-crime or (5520) 229-4920."

(Click On This Picture To Enlarge It)

(Source: The Oro Valley Police Department Press Release)
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Caton To Unveil $94 million 2013-14 Budget Tonight

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Tonight night, the Oro Valley Town Council will consider a conditional use permit for a 27 large single-family residence subdivision in Rancho Vistoso and hold a public hearing on a ordinance amendment that would allow liquor to be sold at Steam Pump Ranch.

In addition, town manager Greg Caton will present the Town Managers Recommended Budget for  2013-14.   Here are some highlights:

• The recommended budget is $93.9 Million, a decrease of 1.6% from 2012-2013
• "The Town Council has made financial decisions the last three years that have put the Town on a sustainable financial path."
• "The Town has reduced staff considerably over the past five years. In FY 2008/09, the adopted budget included 389 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions. The Recommended FY 2013/14 Budget includes a total of 330 authorized FTE positions"
• "This year we are fulfilling the commitment to step and merit pay increases for employees. The Recommended Budget includes $567,000 to implement these increases for all eligible employees in FY 2013/14."

  

  Page VI of Recommended Budget

• "Since the Town has more to benefit from a culture supportive of health and wellness, we have added funding ($20,000) to the health and wellness program."
• "The Recommended Budget includes $1 million for the pavement preservation program in the Highway Fund, which maintains the current condition of our streets and roads. The amount of maintenance expected to be delivered remains at a level which will not allow our roadway infrastructure to deteriorate."
• "The Recommended Budget includes the replacement of eight (8) police vehicles, one (1) general administration vehicle, one (1) truck for Development and Infrastructure Services (DIS) operations, one (1) utility vehicle for Parks and Recreation, and matching funds for one (1) grant-funded Transit vehicle for a total budgeted cost $483,000. The Water Utility will replace two (2) vehicles per the replacement schedule totaling $44,000. In addition, the Recommended Budget includes $108,000 set aside as a reserve for future replacement of the new vehicles purchased during FY 2012/13."
• For Naranja Park: "First, grants will be pursued for further improvements to the archery range, and the Recommended Budget includes $20,000 to assist with matching funds. Second, $40,000 has been allocated to update the Naranja Park Master Plan. It is anticipated that the update will span two fiscal years, with the total project cost estimated at $80,000."
• "An amount of $350,000 has been allocated in the Recommended Budget to construct" a police evidence storage facility
• The recommended budget includes  about $600,000 in technology investment
• "The Town is considering the development of a business incubator/bioscience accelerator in order to further promote Innovation Park and strengthen the Town’s foothold in the bioscience and high-tech industry. An amount of $30,000 has been budgeted for an Economic Feasibility Study of this concept."
• "To extend the Town’s rebranding effort, $10,000 has been allocated for banners to hang from light poles along the Town’s main corridors."
• "To further promote arts and culture in Oro Valley, the Town will continue its partnership with the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) to provide programs such as the concert series and other related events."
• "An amount of $70,000 has been included in the Recommended Budget to build a ramada structure" at Steam Pump Ranch
• "An amount of $30,000 has been included in the Recommended Budget to conduct a formal community survey. The last time the Town conducted a community survey was in 2008. General Plan"As the Town prepares to update its General Plan for approval by voters in 2016, the Recommended Budget includes $206,500 to be allocated primarily for outside consultant assistance and public outreach efforts in this area."

A recommendation to return the utility tax to 2%, which was voted upon by the citizens, from 4% which was voted by the prior council, is not included in the budget.

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"UA buys Sanofi-Aventis facility for $3 million"

We've added a feature to the blog.

You'll notice on the left a new item called: "More Oro Valley News". It updates whenever a news piece is found on the web about Oro Valley. You select something from the list and a new page will take you to the article.

Here's one article that just posted and its good news: UA buys Sanofi-Aventis facility for $3 million. Click here to read all about it.

According to the article, UA plans to use the facility for several purposes; one of which is as an incubator for new businesses. I visited the UA incubator that is in the former IBM facility on the east side. I've worked with some of the start-ups that are there. They are linked to the Arizona Desert Angels, which is an investment source of financing.

Having a similar facility in Oro Valley is a big deal and good news.