October Events: Oro Valley Historical Society’s 20th Anniversary Celebration

Join the Oro Valley Historical Society (OVHS) this month for a full slate of activities marking its 20th year. Most events are at historic Steam Pump Ranch unless noted.

October 4: partners on site
Gap Ministries and Interfaith Community Services (ICS) will be on site. ICS will collect holiday food donations. Think about what you would like on your own table and donate those items. Gap Ministries will accept new or gently used shorts and pants (sizes 6–16) for foster kids. Learn more: ICS food drive · Gap Ministries clothing drive.

Through October 11: “Restoring the Past” exhibit
Explore how Town staff, OVHS volunteers, and archaeologists uncovered the stories within Steam Pump Ranch’s buildings and grounds—what was found, how it was preserved, and what it reveals about more than a century of life at the Ranch.

October 11: guided walks and Heritage Garden
Take one of two guided, one-hour gentle walks around the property with a naturalist. Learn about local flora, fauna, geology, and the Heritage Garden—maintained by OVHS volunteers—featuring desert plants used by native peoples for thousands of years. Don’t miss the pit house representation.

October 11: Jim Click raffle vehicle on display
See the first-place prize in this year’s Jim Click Raffle up close—the Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige. Tickets benefit OVHS thanks to the Jim Click program: $25 for one ticket or $100 for five. Proceeds go to the selling nonprofit.

October 18: new exhibit opens
A new exhibit highlights OVHS itself—why it formed 20 years ago, who was involved, and how the mission has grown.

October 6 at the library
At 2 p.m. at the Oro Valley Public Library, Mary Conroy of the Empire Ranch Foundation shares the fascinating history of Empire Ranch and previews festivities planned for the November 1 Cowboy Festival in Sonoita.

October 25–26: OV Fall Art Festival booth
Visit OVHS at the Art State Arizona (formerly SAACA) Fall Art Festival at Oro Valley Marketplace, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. both days.

Free to attend; Donations welcome
There is no charge to attend OVHS events; donations are appreciated. Details and updates: ovhistory.org.
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Oro Valley Council to Consider Changing Town Attorney Reporting Structure

Council to weigh changes in Town Attorney reporting and oversight
Tonight, the Oro Valley Town Council will consider a resolution that changes who hires the Town Attorney and to whom the position reports. The matter comes forward at the request of Vice Mayor Barrett and Councilmember Nicolson. It is a public hearing. The matter is particularly relevant since the Town's Director of Legal Services is retiring. (We have also hear that another member of the legal team is retiring though we have found no public notice of this.)

Current model places Town Attorney under Town Manager
Under today’s structure, Oro Valley’s Legal Services Director serves as Town Attorney and reports to the Town Manager, who appoints and evaluates the Director. This arrangement keeps the attorney within the management chain, ensuring alignment with staff operations. Supporters say this promotes efficiency. Critics argue that it limits the attorney’s independence, since the Town Manager oversees performance. They also note that the Town Manager is not an attorney and cannot add value to or properly evaluate the professional operations of the department.

Larger Arizona cities rely on council-appointed attorneys
In many larger and more mature Arizona cities, the City or Town Attorney is appointed directly by the Council and reports only to that body. Cities such as Tucson, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Peoria, Gilbert, and Flagstaff follow this structure. The advantages are clear: Council receives unfiltered, independent legal advice on issues where staff may have a stake, and Council members can consult directly with their attorney without staff involvement. This structure strengthens transparency, accountability, and the separation of powers.

Council appointment could reduce reliance on outside counsel
The Oro Valley Town Council currently retains the law firm of Mesch, Clark, Rothschild. The firm is contracted to be present at all Council meetings to provide legal advice directly to Councilmembers during deliberations. The firm is retained by the council and reports directly to them.  From time to time, the firm has also been engaged for special projects. Shifting the reporting structure so that the Town Attorney reports directly to Council may reduce, or even eliminate, the need for this outside legal support.

In communities like Tucson, Scottsdale, and Tempe, the Council-appointed attorney serves as the independent legal advisor to the governing body. Outside legal counsel is used only for highly specialized matters, not for routine Council meetings or day-to-day advice. This streamlines services, reduces duplication, reduces cost and ensures Council has a single, direct source for legal guidance.

Move would put complete public safety alignment under Council oversight
Currently, the Police Department and the Oro Valley Municipal Court already report directly to Council. Adding the Town Attorney to this reporting chain would complete the cycle and further emphasize public safety as central to the Town’s mission. All that is needed is a Council majority vote to make the change.

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A look back
Oro Valley’s “two Tobins” and how Oro Valley came to use both inside and outside counsel

In 2012, Oro Valley employed two attorneys on staff — Tobin Rosen as Town Attorney and Tobin Sidles. Rosen was Town Attorney. He attended Council meetings and provided legal advice directly to Council. Sidles worked under Town Attorney Rosen. His duties included civil legal work and municipal prosecution. Their complementary positions reflected the Town’s recognition of the broad legal workload: General counsel for Council and staff alongside a prosecutorial function. When Rosen announced his retirement in late 2012, Mayor Hiremath and his a council appointed Sidles as Interim Town Attorney. In 2013, the town council amended the  Town Code (Ordinance O13-15, May 15, 2013) to formally create the position of contract Town Attorney. This new role reported directly to Council, with responsibilities limited to advising Council at meetings and on special projects Council brought in an outside contract attorney for Council meeting legal advice, never replacing Rosen's position in house. Sidles moved into the role of Legal Services Director.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It is up to town staff to enforce that condition

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

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

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

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Take Ten: Tell Us How You Want To Shape Oro Valley's Public Safety Future

Residents have told us that Public Safety is critical element of life Oro Valley 
Oro Valley residents have long valued safety within our community. Residents have told us that it is essential that we uphold this commitment over the next decade.  

Four key priorities
Through a series of surveys, meetings, and engaging online discussions, residents identified the following key priorities for public safety:

• Maintain a highly visible police force with quick response times
• Improve traffic, school, and pedestrian safety
• Continue to provide crime prevention programs 
• Be prepared for emergencies like flooding or wildfires

Resident voices are reflected in the community’s next 10-year action plan
The 60% draft plan OV Path Forward plan reflects the voices of residents. The plan establishes goals, policies, and actions that will guide Oro Valley into the future. 

Here are just some ways the plan aims to maintain and improve safety in our community over the next 10 years:

• Increase visibility of police along roadways. 
• Target speeding, red-light violations, and distracted or aggressive driving behaviors to enhance road safety and reduce traffic incidents. 
• Enhance and sustain the school resource officer program to ensure a safe educational environment. 
• Continue and evolve community safety programs based on crime trends and needs. Increase education about emergency preparedness. 

Take Ten... tell us what you think about public safety

It’s time to ensure the draft plan captures the true values and priorities of our residents. And your thoughts are a critical part of shaping these plans. Take ten minutes to tell us what you think about the Public Safety element of the draft plan. Let’s work together to keep our community safe and strong!

And, if you want opine on the other topics and elements please do so.  They are all important visions and action regarding what you want Oro Valley to be in the future. 

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Bits and Pieces

Grant will fund ADA trail and pathway repairs at Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve

The Town of Oro Valley has secured a $144,500 grant from Arizona State Parks to enhance accessibility at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. The funding will support repairs to sections of the former golf cart path, new safety signage, and the construction of an ADA-compliant trail around the planned pond. The Town’s share of the project cost is $8,734—just 5.7% of the total $153,234 investment. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Town publishes easy-to-read 2026 budget summary

The Town of Oro Valley has released its Know Your Town’s Budget summary for Fiscal Year 2025/26. The two-page document gives residents a clear overview of the $151.5 million budget adopted in June, showing where the money comes from and how it is spent. The summary highlights priorities such as capital improvements, public safety, recreation, economic vitality, and financial responsibility. Town Manager Jeff Wilkins said the summary helps residents see “where their money goes, what they pay, and how the budget keeps our community thriving” (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Rockin' 4 Heroes establishes endowment for veterans at UofA

On Wednesday, Rockin’ 4 Heroes held a press conference at the University of Arizona to present a $50,000 endowment for a new Rockin’ 4 Heroes Veteran Student Endowment, aimed at helping UofA students who are military veterans and Gold Star family members with expenses beyond what the GI Bill covers.  The endowment provides support for both academic and non-academic needs. Previously, the nonprofit had created the Jacob Dindinger Memorial EMT Scholarship at Pima Community College, awarded twice yearly in honor of a young EMT who lost his life on duty. 

Reminder to mark your calendar as Historical Society marks 20 years on October 18

The Oro Valley Historical Society will celebrate its 20th anniversary on Saturday, October 18, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Steam Pump Ranch. Guests can tour the Pusch House Museum and Heritage Garden, enjoy refreshments, and join a ribbon cutting at 3 p.m. to recognize a Chamber Foundation grant that funded eight new interpretive signs across the property. Founders, past presidents, volunteers, donors, and town officials will be present to mark this milestone  (Source: Oro Valley Historical Society email)

Pusch Ridge Golf aims for Audubon certification with community support...Volunteers needed

Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf, working with the Town of Oro Valley and the El Conquistador Golf team, have launched efforts to achieve Audubon Certification for the Pusch Ridge course. The certification process, already underway with 16 identified projects, focuses on water conservation, wildlife habitat, and environmental education. Volunteers are needed to help with projects such as building birdhouses, cataloging plants and wildlife, and creating signage. A fundraiser tournament on November 7 will support these efforts, with registration fees and sponsorships helping cover costs. Organizers emphasize that certification would add environmental value and prestige to this Town asset   (Source: Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf Newsletter)

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Save the Date: November 9 — Rockin’ 4 Heroes Returns to James D. Kriegh Park

Rockin’ 4 Heroes returns to Oro Valley November 9
The 5th Annual Rockin’ 4 Heroes concert will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at James D. Kriegh Park in Oro Valley. This free community event honors first responders, active military, veterans, and Gold Star families. Gates open at 1 p.m.; the opening ceremony begins at 2 p.m. No tickets or registration are needed—bring a chair. Free parking is available. Please note: No pets are admitted (K9 working dogs will be present).

Event at a glance
When: Sunday, November 9, 2025 — Gates 1 p.m.; program 2 p.m.
Where: James D. Kriegh Park, Oro Valley
Cost: Free admission; no registration or tickets
What to bring: A chair

Click to enlarge

Honoring heroes in the opening ceremony
The ceremony starts at 2 p.m. and includes a “Recycled Rides” car gifting to a first responder (in partnership with GEICO Insurance and Caliber Collision), presentation of a surprise Community Hero Award, recognition of Navy veteran and Oro Valley resident Capt. Jack Bewley, a Hero Line on stage with representatives from all hero groups, and a flyover.

Music from mariachi to classic rock
Pre-show music and the National Anthem will be performed by Mariachi Voces de Mi Pueblo at 1:40 p.m. Headliner Lexington Lab Band returns at 2:45 p.m. with 1980s classic rock covers.

Family activities and hero booths
Stop by to meet Smooch the Donkey from TRAK and Ari, the Oro Valley Police Department wellness dog. Kids’ games and prizes will run throughout the afternoon. Visit hero booths from local police and sheriff departments, firefighters, and the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. Static displays will feature fire, rescue, and police vehicles.

Food trucks and refreshments
Enjoy Fork ‘n Fire, HiFalutin, Malta Joe’s Pastizzi Express, Haus of Brats, Nautical Bowls, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, Grandma Tony’s Pizza, and Wild West Kettle Corn. Beer and wine tents will be on site.

Raffles, auction, and merchandise
Adult activities include a 50/50 cash raffle and a live auction featuring items such as an e-bike and a vacation lodge stay in Williams, Arizona. Visit the merchandise tent for the all-new “Legends of Rock” limited-series T-shirts.

Community partners
Presenting Sponsor: HSL Properties. Platinum Sponsors: Town of Oro Valley, Bezalel Builders Inc., and Pima County Attractions & Tourism. Media partners: KVOA and KHIT 107.5 FM.

For details and any updates, visit rockin4heroes.org.

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Oro Valley Council's Focus Rezoning of Town Centre Land Is A Future Money Maker

Council initiates new zoning process for Town Centre land
The Oro Valley Town Council voted last week to initiate a general plan amendment to land that the town owns on Oracle Rd. The land is adjacent to and south of Town Centre. It is on the east side of Oracle Road where Pusch View Lane ends. The amendment would set new limits on building heights, reduce the scope of residential development, expand open space and recreation uses, and allow for additional commercial frontage along Oracle Road. The amendment affects areas designated as 3 and 4.

Barrett sought to protect views and preserve commercial use
Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett requested the Council take up this item. She noted that the existing zoning for the property still allowed a 75-foot hotel, which she believed would be out of scale with the area and could affect mountain views. She also expressed concern that removing the current ground-floor commercial requirement might result in Area 3 being developed entirely as residential, contrary to the Town’s past strategic vision of encouraging commercial activity along Oracle Road.

Adds commercial frontage along Oracle Road
As part of the amendment, the Council directed staff to create new commercial areas along Oracle Road. Labeled as Areas 5 and 6, these sites are immediately south of Area 2. That area includes retailers like CVS and Jersey Mikes. The intent is to extend the existing commercial frontage, taking advantage of the visibility and access along Oracle. Councilmembers viewed this as an opportunity to strengthen the Town’s commercial base while leaving the larger back portions of the property for open space and recreation.

Amendment addresses resident concerns voiced in 2019
The land has seen rezoning in the past. In 2019, the Council approved a rezoning of Area 4 to allow for 77 single-story homes on small lots with strict height limits and large areas of open space. The 2019 rezoning created quite a bit of community reaction where concerns were voiced about the loss of open views, increased traffic, and the scale of new development at the base of the mountains. Nonetheless, the rezoning was approved. According to Barrett speaking at that time, she favored limiting heights and preserving views in order to protect the scenic quality of Oro Valley’s mountain backdrop.

Town acquired this land as a gift, after failed Richmond American project
The Town came to own Areas 3 and 4 in 2020, when the Rooney family donated the property following a failed effort to develop it. Richmond American Homes had received approval in 2019 but found that the costs of extensive grading and large retaining walls made the project financially unworkable. After that collapse, the family transferred the land to the Town, leaving it to Council to determine the long-term future of the site.

Town could sell some of this land, generating millions for general fund
Mayor Joe Winfield commented during the discussion that the Town could “sell the property, let developers do their job,” and then use the proceeds to support the Town’s general fund. The Town has authority to sell property it owns without voter approval so long as it is not restricted for a public purpose and the sale is approved by Council.

Assuming that Area 4 is rezoned largely for open space and recreation, the amount of land the Town could sell is reduced to the Area 3 and the new Area 5. Together, these areas total roughly 20 to 30 acres with direct frontage on Oracle Road. Comparable sales along Oracle Road suggest commercial frontage can bring $400,000 to $600,000 per acre, while interior mixed-use parcels trade for $150,000 to $300,000 per acre. Based on those figures, the value of the marketable land falls to an estimated $15 million to $20 million, with the balance of Area 4 providing community benefit as open space rather than direct revenue.

From initiation to community review
The Council’s action only begins the rezoning process. Next, Town staff will hold neighborhood meetings to gather community input. The proposal will then move to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a public hearing and recommendation. A final decision rests with the Town Council, which will consider the plan again after these reviews and before any future development or possible sale of the property.

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