Rockin’ 4 Heroes Celebrates Oro Valley’s True Guardians

Rockin’ 4 Heroes: Who We Are
Rockin’ 4 Heroes stages a free annual tribute concert that brings Oro Valley and its surrounding communities together in mutual respect and recognition of our four hero groups. This nonprofit has been well covered in LOVE, providing insight into why Michael and Bonnie Quinn started Rockin’ 4 Heroes. Now we’ll ‘get into the weeds’ a bit and look into what the ‘4’ in the name really means.

What Does the ‘4’ Represent in Rockin’ 4 Heroes?
At the time of this writing, the outcome of the 2024 presidential election is unknown. The angst of this uncertainty has many folks asking the question: ‘Who and what can we count on anymore?’ An answer can be found within the Rockin’ 4 Heroes’ mission: We honor and support the men and women who selflessly protect us. Our four hero groups consist of First Responders, Active Military, Veterans, and Gold Star families. These groups always ‘have our six.’

What is a Hero?
The definition of a hero is “a person who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities, as in ‘war hero.’” Today, a “hero” is often viewed as someone we look up to. Many young people admire cultural heroes like pop singers, actors, or professional athletes. However, the heroes to whom Rockin’ 4 Heroes pays tribute are individuals who selflessly serve and sacrifice to protect our liberties and freedoms. They choose to put themselves in harm’s way to protect and care for us at home and abroad, often at great detriment to their own well-being.

Who Are Our ‘Hero’ Groups?
Over time, LOVE and Rockin’ 4 Heroes will spotlight many groups and individuals who fall into the multitude of hero categories. Examples include active-duty military personnel who serve our country on land, sea, air, and even in space in a rapidly changing and technological world; Gold Star families—not just mothers—who lost a loved one in service to our country; and military reservists and first responder special ops teams, who are ready at a moment’s notice to help when harm arises, as seen with the recent hurricanes that hit the southeastern part of our country. Included in the definition of ‘heroes’ are firefighters, police, emergency dispatchers, paramedics, and others who serve all of us. Many of these groups go unrecognized. We invite you to stay tuned as we highlight their stories here.

What Happens with Donations Given to Rockin’ 4 Heroes?
The Rockin’ 4 Heroes annual concert on November 10th is a wonderful opportunity to join a growing community that pays tribute to these four groups. After the music stops, the Rockin’ 4 Heroes “Hero Fund” contributes net proceeds to organizations that align with its mission, allowing us to aid hero groups year-round. Our commitment and anticipated growth of opportunities to help our heroes depend on increased sponsorships and individual donations. We invite you to join us in this endeavor too.

Rockin’ 4 Heroes’ Future
While we can’t predict the outcome of the election by our concert date on November 10th, we can say that Rockin’ 4 Heroes remains committed to assisting and paying tribute to our four hero groups in a unique way. We also know that these heroes will continually protect and serve their communities, states, and country. For that, we are grateful and remain passionate about expanding Rockin’ 4 Heroes statewide to support our many hero groups, demonstrating just how large (and meaningful) the number ‘4’ has become!

Will Oro Valley Secure Millions in Federal Grants for Key Projects? Find Out What’s Still on the Line

Town focuses on additional funding sources
During the council’s review of the 2025 budget, Town Finance Director David Gephart highlighted two new funding sources the town plans to explore this year. The first is the potential for increasing fees on various town activities, which would contribute additional funds to the general fund.

Grant funding sought to supplement capital costs
The second are grant funds to supplement the capital fund. Each month, the town manager releases a report summarizing grant funding progress for fiscal year 2025. As of the latest report, the Town has applied for $19.1 million in grants, with $7.6 million declined, $11.2 million still in process, and around $234,000 accepted so far.

Nineteen grant applications
Applications have been submitted to thirteen separate funding sources, with the largest request of $18 million from “Congressionally Directed Spending.” This federal funding is allocated by Congress for local projects, including Oro Valley’s officer safety plan, a police station design, and the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve restoration. These applications are currently under review.

Big LaCañada bridge repair project request denied
One of the grant applications that was denied was for $7.2 million for the La Cañada Bridge at Cañada del Oro Wash. Interestingly, the Town’s capital improvement budget only lists two La Canada bridge projects totaling $3 million: Bridge deck repair and a mill overlay from the bridge to Lambert Lane.

Possible reasons for grant denial
We are seeking information from the town on why this project was declined. It’s possible that the request didn’t align with federal priorities, as HIP funds typically support high-impact, safety-focused projects on major highways and railway crossings. Large requests often face stiff competition, especially if local matching funds (20%) fall short or the project exceeds program limits.

Two major grant requests are pending

Two major grant requests are still pending: $3 million for a new police station design and $7 million for what the Town Manager describes as “Town of Oro Valley bridge repair.” That grant would cover multiple bridge repair projects in the 2025 budget.

..one a "possibility pending congressional action"

This bridge repair funding was touted as "on target for funding" in September—so much so that Mayor Winfield and Congressman Ciscomani, who is running fore reelection, held a press conference in the median of the LaCanada Bridge on it. Nonetheless, the political landscape in Washington makes getting this grant far from certain. The funding must navigate through the House, the Senate, and finally be signed by the sitting President when it reaches that stage. In this election year, nothing is guaranteed. 

Grants are an important source of funding future capital projects.  LOVE will continue to monitor these grant requests and report back throughout the year on this potential funding source for the Town.
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Once Again, Amphi School District Seeks Voter Approval to Continue To Exceed State Spending Limits, with Oro Valley Residents Bearing a Disproportionate Share

Amphi School District Override Discussion Sparks Debate
Superintendent Todd Jaeggar of the Amphi School District addressed the Oro Valley Town Council on October 3 to outline the need for Propositions 412 and 413. These measures, on the November ballot, aim to supplement the district’s funding for facility improvements and classroom resources without further raising taxes, since it is a continuation of a previous voter approved override.  Jaeggar explained that current state funding allocations are not sufficient to meet certain operational and facility needs, which the propositions are intended to address.

Details of Propositions 412 and 413
Proposition 412 would allow the district to sell $84 million in bonds over a ten-year period, supporting projects such as updated air conditioning systems and increased campus security. Proposition 413 proposes a 13.5% budget override to sustain programs such as art, music, physical education, and smaller class sizes. Jaeggar emphasized that these initiatives are key to maintaining the district’s resources without an increase in the local tax rate.

A Pattern of Supplemental Funding Requests
The two propositions on the 2024 ballot are not the first time the Amphi School District has sought supplemental funding through bonds and overrides. In fact, over the past decade, every bond and override measure presented by the district has been approved by voters, demonstrating consistent community support for these funding efforts. This includes a $70 million bond in 2013, a 10% maintenance and operations (M&O) override in 2014, a $58 million bond in 2017, and a 3.5% increase to the M&O override in 2019, bringing the total to 13.5%. The district has used these measures to address capital improvements, fund specialized programs, and sustain its educational offerings.

Oro Valley’s Disproportionate Contribution
Due to the higher property values in Oro Valley, residents are likely to pay a disproportionate share of any additional funds that the bond and override measures would generate. As one of the more affluent areas within the Amphitheater School District, Oro Valley comprises a disproportionate portion of the district’s total property tax base. This means that property owners in Oro Valley contribute a substantial amount of the total property tax revenues that the district receives, which the district then allocates toward various educational needs throughout its service area.

Advocacy Concerns Raised by Council Member Bohen
During the presentation, Council Member Tim Bohen questioned whether Jaeggar’s remarks leaned into advocacy, which is restricted by Arizona election law for public officials. Bohen suggested that Jaeggar’s tone appeared to endorse the propositions indirectly. Jaeggar defended his presentation, asserting it was factual and in line with state legal guidelines, which allow superintendents to provide information on ballot measures without explicitly supporting them.

Examining the Impact of Increased Spending
While Jaeggar described the potential benefits of Propositions 412 and 413, questions remain about whether surpassing state-set spending limits is the best course of action. The proposals enable additional funding through property taxes over the state limit, raising questions about long-term financial sustainability and potential impacts on taxpayers. As the November election approaches, voters should weigh whether spending yet more money on Amphi’s “needs” will truly improve student performance or simply pour more funds into a model that has yet to yield consistent results.

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Bits and Pieces

Celebrate the season opener at Pusch Ridge Golf

Come one come all for a day of fun and camaraderie at the Pusch Ridge Golf Tournament on October 24, honoring beloved groundskeeper Rick Messina. Whether you’re ready to golf in the morning or afternoon shotgun tournaments, or simply want to enjoy a Boston-inspired lunch with friends, this event has something for everyone. Sign up now to be part of this community gathering, enjoy exclusive Pro Shop discounts, and connect with fellow golf enthusiasts. Don’t miss out—register today! 

The Loop trail reopens early following levee improvements

The Loop trail along the Cañada del Oro Wash has reopened ahead of schedule after completion of the Pima County Regional Flood Control District’s levee augmentation project. This project, initiated after the 2020 Bighorn Fire, involved building new flood walls and removing sediment in key areas to improve flood protection and enhance safety. The improvements ensure compliance with FEMA regulations and provide a smoother path for trail users to enjoy. (Source: Oro Valley Media Release)

Get ahead of scams, teen driver safety, and community programs with OVPD​

The October Oro Valley Police Department 2024 CrimeFighter Newsletter dives into a new, unsettling email scam, offers crucial tips for National Teen Driver Safety Week, and explains how the Neighborhood Watch program strengthens community safety. The newsletter also presents the "OV Safe Return Program" for vulnerable individuals and provides answers to common legal questions about political signs and safe driving. If you're interested in staying informed about these topics and more, check out the full newsletter for practical advice and important updates from the Oro Valley Police Department!

Oro Valley destination marketing just getting started

It’s been three months since Oro Valley took over its destination marketing from Visit Tucson. The town appears the Town is just beginning to establish foundational steps. The town has joined Destinations International to enhance its destination marketing efforts and access key industry resources. The Town is planning in-person public art tours and has an upcoming meeting with a tour bus operator for logistics. It hosted two Leisure Travel Stakeholder Meetings to finalize a vision statement and ensure alignment on a new request for proposal (RFP). Additionally, the Town has responded to RFPs for various sports events, including the Tucson Bicycle Classic and OV Tri, scheduled from February to April 2025. (Source: Town Manager Wilkins October Report To Council)

Progress Report on Valley Vista subsidence issues 

"There are two sections of street being repaired. The first section, repairing some surface defects on Lauterbrunnen Lane is complete. Although this was repairing surface defects only, Pulte made the decision to conduct the robust repair being utilized at the subsidence zone. The more critical of the repairs, within the subsidence region of the intersection of Kalalau Drive and Romsdalen Road are currently underway and expected to be complete by mid-October." (Source: Town Manager Wilkins October Report To Council)

Tomorrow is "Second Saturday" 

Tomorrow, head to Steam Pump Ranch from  9am to 1pm for “Second Saturday,” featuring historical tours, live music, and the Oro Valley Farmers Market. 

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It Sounds So Innocent (Part 4): Resident Reflects On The Disaster OVCN Has Been For Her Community

Long-term resident reflects on the devastating impact OVCN
Denise, a long-time resident of Oro Valley, shared her concerns about the significant growth and expansion of the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene. She did so at the September 28 town hosted neighborhood meeting.

Living just two streets away from the church, she reflected on how the once small, neighborhood-oriented church has evolved into a much larger institution, creating ongoing challenges for her community. Denise expressed frustration with the continual discussions surrounding the church’s expansion and questioned whether the town is truly listening to the concerns of the neighborhood.

He is what Denise said
"My name is Denise. I live on Meadowbrook Place, which is just two streets south of the church. I was born and raised in the same house. I’ve been a long-term resident of Oro Valley, and I’ve seen a lot of changes.

I went to CDO, attended some of the school meets at the pool. And now you have the church. You could see the original little church that it was back in the 80s with a small little parking lot. That was a cute little neighborhood church, and it was approved as a cute little neighborhood church.

I find it odd that for years we’ve been talking about this church and how they want to expand and take up all this land in our residential neighborhood. And we’re still talking about how they want to develop this, change this, and get it approved within the permits.

But I’m really wondering if you’ve even seen the signs in the neighborhood. Is anybody listening to us? Because it’s quite clear that we don’t want it.

Now the existing sanctuary was small. That’s fine. But you’re going to something the size of CDO. It’s not a small neighborhood church anymore.

So my question is: the town of Oro Valley, council members, and you guys are supposed to represent us too. So we keep talking about this over and over again. And it just seems like, who are we talking to? We’re just talking to a wall."

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The next steps in the review process are critical

The next step for the OVCN project involves OVCN submitting detailed designs to the town for formal review. This includes a comprehensive traffic study and a drainage plan to ensure the development meets all town requirements. The staff will then review it and require changes to meet town code. Then, there will be another neighborhood meeting. There may be revisions that result from that meeting. After that, the project will go before the Planning and Zoning Commission. If, and only if, the Commission rejects the request, then OVCN has 20 days to appeal it to the town clerk, who will then schedule for council review at their next meeting.  Note that, under current town code, those who oppose the project have no appeal right to the town council. (Source: Town Code section 22.9.c)

 and eventually, we suspect, to the Town Council for final approval.

So, stay tuned for more.

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It Sounds So Innocent (Part 3): Residents Voice Major Concern Over Entire OVCN Project

Residents voice concerns over OVCN expansion
Residents voiced concerns in five areas regarding the proposed expansion of the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene (OVCN) at the September 26 town-hosted neighborhood meeting. These five areas are in addition to the height variance concerns we noted in yesterday's article.

Traffic impact from the new parking lot
One of the concerns raised by residents was the potential increase in traffic caused by the new parking lot, which will accommodate around 600 vehicles. Residents questioned how the added traffic would affect the surrounding neighborhood, particularly during peak times for church services and events.

In response, Paul Oland, representing OVCN, noted that traffic studies had been initiated, but final results were not yet available. He assured residents that the church would work with the town to mitigate traffic impacts, but no specific solutions were presented at the meeting. Town staff also mentioned that the study would be reviewed once complete.

Noise pollution
Several residents expressed concerns about noise levels from ongoing church activities, particularly during outdoor events. One resident mentioned, “The noise from church events already reaches our homes. With more people, this will get worse.”

Oland acknowledged these concerns and assured the residents that the new facilities would focus on indoor activities, reducing outdoor noise. However, he did not provide any specific noise mitigation strategies during the meeting. Town staff did not comment on the noise issue but indicated that noise levels would be monitored to comply with town regulations.

Flooding and drainage issues due to increased paved surfaces
Some residents raised concerns about potential flooding and drainage problems that could arise from the increase in paved surfaces, such as parking lots and new buildings. A resident asked, “With all the new asphalt, what’s going to happen when it rains? Will there be flooding in our streets?”

Oland responded by stating that a detailed drainage plan would be prepared as part of the project’s design and that the church would ensure compliance with Oro Valley’s stormwater management guidelines. He reassured residents that the drainage plan would address their concerns, though no specific details were provided at the time. Town staff confirmed that the drainage study would be part of the formal review process.

Lack of transparency on future expansions
Several residents expressed frustration over a perceived lack of transparency regarding future plans for the church. One resident asked, “Is this project just the start of something bigger? Are we going to see more buildings going up in the next few years?” This concern reflected broader worries about continuous expansion by OVCN.

Oland responded by saying, “There are no plans for future expansion at this time. Our focus is on completing the current project to meet the immediate needs of the congregation.” He reassured residents that the height variance was not part of a long-term expansion plan, but he did not offer specific guarantees about what might happen in the future. Town staff did not comment further on the issue of transparency.

Property value decline due to the project
Another significant concern voiced by residents was how the new facilities and increased activity at the church might impact property values. One resident asked, “How will this project affect our property values? Will all this new construction drive them down?”

In response, town staff stated that the project’s compliance with existing zoning laws and its design considerations, such as landscaping and noise mitigation, were meant to minimize any negative impact on neighboring properties. Oland added that the church had taken steps to ensure the new buildings would blend in with the neighborhood to the best extent possible, though he did not directly address the specific impact on property values.

Yes. The request for height variance on the proposed expansion seems so innocent, but it is ever so complicated.  Tomorrow, one resident explains how something that was so simple at the beginning has turned out to be such a nightmare for their community.

It Sounds So Innocent (Part 2): Residents Question Motive and Need For Height Variance

Residents raise concerns over height variance for OVCN expansion
At the September 26, 2024, open house, Oro Valley residents voiced significant concerns about the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene's (OVCN) request for a height variance to build a 40-foot-tall sanctuary. The meeting, hosted by the town’s planning department, allowed residents to ask questions and express their worries about how the variance would impact their neighborhood.

Impact on views and property values
Several residents questioned how the proposed height of the sanctuary would affect their scenic views and property values. The 40-foot structure would exceed the current zoning limit of 24 feet, leading one resident to ask, “How is this going to impact the property values and the view for the neighbors?” Town staff acknowledged the concerns but noted that the height variance request was within the bounds of what the zoning code allows for certain structures like auditoriums.

Skepticism about the necessity of the height...Concerns about basketball courts in the sanctuary

Residents questioned whether the requested height was genuinely necessary for a sanctuary, with some expressing skepticism about the church’s intentions. One resident directly asked if the height was being justified for an “all-purpose room,” noting, “We were told it would have two basketball courts, and that’s why you need the extra height.” In response, Oland stated, “The height is necessary to support the sanctuary’s stadium-style seating, not for basketball courts.” He emphasized that the building is intended for worship services, and while the church might offer recreational programs, its primary purpose remains religious.

Granting a variance may set a precedent for future expansion
Another major worry among residents was whether the height variance would set a precedent for further expansions in the future. Several people asked if the request was part of a larger, long-term development plan, raising concerns about the potential for continuous construction projects. One resident remarked, “Is this part of a bigger, longer project? And if that’s the case, all the numbers we see tonight would be moot.” Oland reassured residents that the current request was not connected to any future expansions and that the church’s focus was solely on meeting the needs of its growing congregation.

Tomorrow we explore the many resident concerns expressed in other areas
In addition to the height variance, residents raised many other questions during the meeting. These included concerns about increased traffic from the new parking lot, noise levels from ongoing church activities, and potential flooding issues due to increased paved surfaces. Michael Spaeth informed residents that while these areas were part of the entitlement for the land and did not require approval, the neighborhood meeting provided an opportunity for residents to shape what was being done. In the next article, we will dive deeper into these concerns and provide a detailed look at the broader discussions that took place during the meeting.

Tomorrow: Residents believe proposed expansion ads risks to the community