Bits and Pieces

Tucson Bicycle Classic finale returns to Naranja Park Sunday
The Town of Oro Valley will host the final day of the Tucson Bicycle Classic this Sunday, February 22, at Naranja Park, with professional racing from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and free spectator viewing  . More than 600 cyclists are expected to compete on the 2.8-mile circuit course that features a rolling loop and uphill finish on Musette Drive. Food trucks and a finish-line beer garden will be available, and the day begins with a 5K on the same course at 7:15 a.m. Residents should plan ahead for road closures around Naranja Drive, Musette Road and Monterra Vista Drive, and note that there will be no vehicle parking inside the park. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Tommorrow...Off the Vine Wine Festival At Kriegh Park

The Town of Oro Valley will host the Off the Vine Wine Festival 2026 on Saturday, February 21, beginning at 12 p.m. at James D. Kriegh Par.  Founded to celebrate Arizona’s growing wine industry, the event brings together vineyard owners and winemakers from across the state, along with food vendors curated in partnership with Tucson Foodie, live music, artisan market vendors and family-friendly activities. The festival is a 21+ event, although children under 12 may attend with a legal guardian. The event will be held rain or shine, and tickets are required.

Bayless honored for sustained contributions to public safety and community events

Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council presented a Certificate of Recognition to resident and real estate professional Lisa Bayless in appreciation of her long-standing financial and personal support of the community. Over the past eight years, Bayless and her husband, Jeff, have contributed more than $665,000 to public safety initiatives and local events, including sponsorship of the Fourth of July fireworks, the Town’s 50th anniversary celebration, National Night Out, police ballistic vests and K-9 units, SnowV, Project Graduation, the Amphi Foundation and the Arizona Heroes Memorial. Councilmembers noted that her involvement goes beyond writing checks, highlighting her consistent presence at events and active partnership with Town staff. The plaque, signed by Mayor Winfield on February 18, 2026, recognized her impact on the quality of life in Oro Valley and her ongoing commitment to the community. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Council Meeting, 2-18-16, 24:59)

Some question OVPD use of license plate reader network

Two speakers raised concerns about the Town’s participation in the Flock Safety license plate reader network, a system that uses fixed cameras to capture vehicle license plate images and compare them against law enforcement databases. The technology is intended to help police locate stolen vehicles, identify vehicles connected to crimes, and share information with other agencies. However, the speakers questioned whether automated data collection creates broader surveillance risks, including tracking residents’ movements and sharing data across numerous outside agencies. One speaker cited constitutional privacy concerns and urged stronger safeguards such as warrant-based access, while the other asked whether alternative grant-funded tools might better balance safety and privacy. At the conclusion of Call to Audience, the Vice Mayor asked that police follow up with the individuals who spoke, and the Mayor acknowledged the referral to the Police Department. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Council Meeting, 2-18-16, 10:11)

State moves primary date to July 21; it shifts Oro Valley election timeline

The Arizona Legislature recently passed a bill moving the state’s primary election to July 21 this year, shifting the electoral calendar later in the summer. As a result, key deadlines for local races have changed: the window for filing candidate signatures in Oro Valley is now March 20–23, instead of the originally scheduled February 21–March. That adjustment affects the timing of the Oro Valley mayoral and council primaries, since candidates now secure their ballot status weeks later than under the prior schedule. For residents and prospective candidates, the new dates mean more time to gather required signatures but a compressed timeline between the close of the filing period and the July primary itself. The change stems from the recently enacted state election bill that redefined Arizona’s primary date for 2026.

Primary moved to July 21 under newly signed state law

Arizona’s 2026 primary election will now be held on July 21 following passage of House Bill 2022, which was signed into law by Governor Hobbs on February 6, 2026. The legislation permanently shifts the state primary to the second-to-last Tuesday in July and adjusts related election deadlines. For Oro Valley, this means the mayoral and town council primary will also take place on July 21. As a result of the new schedule, the candidate signature filing window has moved to February 20 through March 23. 

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From One Concert to a Community Movement: Rockin’ 4 Heroes Marks Six Years

Rockin’ 4 Heroes’ Impact On Stage and Beyond
In the fall of 2021, several hundred enthusiastic music fans, lawn chairs in tow, gathered at James D. Kriegh Park to join Oro Valley residents Michael and Bonnie Quinn, who organized a free concert to thank and publicly honor the first responders at Golder Ranch Fire District and the Oro Valley Police Department. These first responders compassionately cared for their son, PJ, during his final year battling cancer. What unfolded was an unforgettable afternoon filled with tears, tributes, and electrifying music from a world-class touring cover band that brought attendees to their feet singing and dancing to iconic hits by Chicago, Earth, Wind & Fire, and other rock classics.

Fast forward a few short years to fall 2025, when thousands once again eagerly set up their lawn chairs at the same park for the same purpose; To honor all Heroes who serve and protect, including First Responders, Active Military, Veterans, and Gold Star families, while enjoying another high-energy afternoon of world-class classic rock music with family and friends.

As Rockin’ 4 Heroes enters its sixth year, its message of gratitude has resonated well beyond Oro Valley, drawing support from across Arizona and out of state and bringing throngs of concertgoers back to where it all began at James D. Kriegh Park.

The mission continues long after the music ends
While the annual free concert is Rockin’ 4 Heroes’ signature public celebration, its lasting impact lies in the scholarships and funding initiatives that directly support Heroes and their families. The Hero Fund and the Rockin’ 4 Heroes Concert are made possible by the generosity of business sponsors, individual donors, and grants. As an all-volunteer nonprofit with minimal administrative expenses, Rockin’ 4 Heroes ensures that resources are directed toward initiatives that directly benefit Heroes.

Scholarships to inspire and encourage a new generation of heroes
In 2024, the Rockin’ 4 Heroes Jacob Dindinger Memorial EMT Scholarship at Pima Community College was established. This permanent endowment funds two full EMT scholarships each year. Oro Valley benefits directly, as one of the first scholarship recipients recently joined the Golder Ranch Fire District to serve the community.

Going beyond the GI Bill for student veterans
Last year, Rockin’ 4 Heroes launched a $50,000 Veteran Student Endowment through the University of Arizona Foundation to support student veterans and Gold Star family members. This endowment provides financial assistance for academic and non-academic expenses beyond what the GI Bill covers, including childcare, housing, and unexpected emergencies, allowing student veterans to remain focused on their education.

Law Enforcement Support Fund for continuing education
In another initiative to support those who protect and serve, six Oro Valley Police Department officers were awarded benefits last year from the Rockin’ 4 Heroes Fund to support their continuing education goals while serving the community. This fund is available to law enforcement officers throughout Southern Arizona.

Join the Rockin’ 4 Heroes mission
Beyond its financial support initiatives, Rockin’ 4 Heroes partners with numerous organizations that serve its four Hero groups at local events such as Strength & Shield’s Blessing Breakfast and the North Tucson Firefighters Annual Archery Shoot Out and BBQ. To honor the Gold Star community, Rockin’ 4 Heroes last year presented a local Oro Valley Gold Star mother with a commemorative Honor and Remember flag in memory of her son, U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Taylor Galvin.

Rockin’ 4 Heroes welcomes community participation, support, and partnerships. Whether you would like to become a sponsor, get involved, or have a representative speak to your group, contact Info@Rockin4Heroes.org. Stay tuned here for ongoing news and updates about the 6th Annual Rockin’ 4 Heroes Concert on November 8, 2026.

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Meet Council Candidate Hopeful Dan Karlsberg

This week, we are presenting information about the individuals who plan to seek one of the three open Town Council seats in the upcoming primary election. Each candidate is currently gathering the more than 500 signatures by mid March.  Today, we feature Dan Karlsberg

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Council Candidate Dan Karlsberg Shares Views on Growth, Finances, and Community Priorities 
Dan Karlsberg is one of five candidates seeking signatures to get on the ballot for a seat on the Oro Valley Town Council in 2026. In a wide-ranging December interview with LOVE, Karlsberg discussed why he is running, what he sees as the town’s key challenges, and how his professional background shapes his approach to public service.

Longtime resident, financial advisor, and commission chair
Karlsberg has lived in Oro Valley for more than a decade. He and his wife are raising three children, whose educational paths have included both Oro Valley public schools and local private schools. He said those experiences as a parent have shaped how he views quality-of-life issues in the community.

Professionally, Karlsberg is a financial advisor in his firm, Freedom Trail Wealth. In January, he was elected chair of the Oro Valley Budget and Finance Commission, where he reviews town finances and long-range forecasts. He is also active in church- and school-related financial committees, roles he said have reinforced the importance of careful budgeting, transparency, and long-term planning.

Says timing and family stage make service possible now
Karlsberg said his decision to run reflects timing as much as ambition. With his children older and his business more established, he said he now has the capacity to devote the time required to serve effectively. He described his candidacy as a way to give back to a town he considers an exceptional place to live and to model civic responsibility for his children.

Sees long-term financial planning, growth decisions, and water reliability as key issues
Karlsberg said Oro Valley does not face an immediate financial crisis, but he believes the town must plan now for longer-term challenges. He pointed to the expiration of one-time federal and state funding, the need to balance revenue generation with responsible spending, and concerns about relying too heavily on internal fund transfers. He also cited growth and annexation decisions, economic development, permitting efficiency, and long-term water reliability as issues that require deliberate, forward-looking policy choices rather than short-term fixes.

Committed to supporting public safety

In discussing public safety, Karlsberg said that maintaining strong police and emergency services is a core responsibility of the town: "We are very fortunate to have an incredible, committed police force." While he supports reviewing overall spending for efficiency, he does not view public safety as an area for reduction. He described reliable public safety services as foundational to resident confidence, property values, and economic vitality.

Describes himself as independent and focused on timely decisions
Karlsberg described himself as independent and not aligned with any current political faction. He said he sees value in listening to former and current leaders, weighing different perspectives, and avoiding a status quo approach. His stated goal is to make timely decisions that reflect resident priorities while keeping the town financially sound.

If you want to learn more about Dan follow his campaign on facebook: Dan Karlsberg for Oro Valley. If you wish, you can sign his petition here.

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What you can do next...
We are providing these profiles so that, if you are approached for a signature, you will have some context about the person seeking your support. You are also free sign a petition for a candidate here. All those signing either in person or on line must be a registered voter and a resident of Oro Valley.

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Meet Council Candidate Hopeful Rhonda Pina

This week, we are presenting information about the individuals who plan to seek one of the three open Town Council seats in the upcoming primary election. Each candidate is currently gathering the more than 500 signatures by mid March.  Today, we feature Rhonda Pena.

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Council hopeful Rhonda Pina emphasizes “Premium Core Services,” Fiscal Responsibility, and Strategic Economic Development
Rhonda Pina is one of five candidates seeking a seat on the Oro Valley Town Council in 2026. We asks her to provide us more information on her, her candidacy and what she wants to accomplish on council. We are sharing that with you.

Former councilmember with extensive public, private, and civic leadership experience
Pina is a second-generation Tucsonan who has lived in Oro Valley for nearly 15 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, a Certificate in Human Resources Management, and an Arizona Department of Education Substitute Certificate (PreK–12).

In the professional arena, Pina currently serves as Deputy Director for Workforce Development in Pima County’s Community and Workforce Development Department, which includes oversight of the Kino Veterans Workforce Center. Prior to that, she spent 29 years in the financial services industry as a Vice President in commercial and retail banking at Wells Fargo Bank and Bank of America.

Her previous service on the Oro Valley Town Council and her current role on the Board of Directors for the Tucson Airport Authority add to a broad record of civic involvement. Additional leadership and commissioner roles have included the Greater Oro Valley Arts Council (Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance), the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce, Oro Valley Rotary, the Amphi Foundation, the Pima County Employee Merit System Commission and Law Enforcement Council, the Pima County Small Business Commission (where she served as vice chair), the Pima Animal Care Center Advisory Committee, and Commerce Bank of Arizona (Southwest Heritage Bank).

Returning to council “…with a purpose”
Pina describes her candidacy as a return to council “with a purpose,” focused on delivering what she calls “premium core services.” Those services include public safety, water resources, road maintenance, park amenities, and support for the business community. In her view, each core service reinforces the others, and maintaining them at a high level is essential to the town’s long-term stability and attractiveness.

Governance approach centered on preparation and due diligence
Pina’s approach to town governance emphasizes preparation, prudent due diligence, respectful communication, and independent thought. Decisions, she indicates, should reflect both short- and long-term impacts and be guided by the best interests of residents and businesses.

Her background in fiscal management, employer engagement, and workforce development — combined with decades in private-sector banking — informs her focus on responsible financial oversight and strategic planning.

Top priorities: Public safety, fiscal responsibility, and strategic economic development
Pina identifies three primary priorities: strong public safety services, fiscal responsibility, and strategic economic development. Her prior council record, she notes, includes support for policies and ordinances intended to benefit the entire town. She links her combined public- and private-sector experience to effective council leadership.

Pina’s focus is on addressing fiscal challenges while preserving the environment and amenities that make Oro Valley a desirable place to live and work.

Learn more about Rhonda Pina by visiting her campaign website. You can also follow her on facebook.

What you can do next...

We are providing these profiles so that, if you are approached for a signature, you will have some context about the person seeking your support. You are also free sign a petition for a candidate here. All those signing either in person or on line must be a registered voter and a resident of Oro Valley.

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Bits and Pieces

Jesse James Ivey laid to rest

We are deeply saddened to share that Council Member Joyce Jones-Ivey laid her beloved husband, Jesse, to rest on Wednesday. During this time of profound loss, we extend our heartfelt condolences, prayers, and unwavering support to Council Member Jones-Ivey and her family. May they find comfort in cherished memories, strength in the love that surrounds them, and peace in the days ahead.

Historical society seeking board member
The Oro Valley Historical Society is seeking a new member to serve on its Board following the announcement that Sue Chambasian is stepping down. President Bob Kellar is inviting volunteers who want to help shape the Society’s future to consider taking part in the decision-making process. The Board meets once a month at the Oro Valley Public Library, typically for two to two and a half hours, with several additional hours of preparation. The Society hopes to identify a candidate by its annual Board meeting on March 26, 2026. Those interested are encouraged to contact the president directly to learn more. (Source: Oro Valley Historical Society email)

Upcoming features on council hopefuls

Six individuals are currently gathering at least 525 signatures to qualify for one of the three Town Council seats on the ballot this fall. In the coming days, we will publish daily features on each potential candidate. These profiles will provide a clear look at their backgrounds, reasons for running, and priorities for Oro Valley, giving readers an opportunity to learn more about the people seeking to represent them.

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RTA Next: A 20-Year Transportation Decision Now Before Voters

Ballot includes two related propositions
If you are a registered voter, you will receive a ballot by mail that includes two related propositions. Both measures concern something called RTA Next. One would authorize continuing the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) program that has funded road and transportation projects across Pima County for the past 20 years. The second would continue the one-half-cent sales tax that funds those projects. Both propositions must pass for RTA Next to take effect. If approved, the new plan would begin on July 1. If either fails, the current RTA program will expire, and any future proposal would likely return to voters at a later date in revised form.

RTANext will build road and transportation projects throughout the county
The Regional Transportation Authority funds a range of transportation projects intended to address needs that extend beyond individual jurisdictions. Under the proposed RTA Next plan, funding would support roadway and multimodal corridor improvements, arterial and collector road rehabilitation,

intersection and school safety projects, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, wildlife crossings, environmental mitigation projects, and transit services. Transit funding includes bus service, dial-a-ride and paratransit programs, express routes, and other regional transit enhancements. The plan also includes funding for debt service and administration. All projects are financed through a voter-approved one-half-cent sales tax collected countywide. If renewed, the tax is projected to fund approximately $2.67 billion in transportation improvements over the next 20 years.

Oro Valley’s participated in the 2005 RTA program
Within this structure, the Town of Oro Valley participates as one of the jurisdictions eligible to receive RTA funding for projects that meet regional criteria. Under the original RTA program, projects in Oro Valley included the widening of La Cholla Boulevard and major improvements along La Cañada Drive, both important regional corridors. In addition to roadway improvements, RTA funding supports regional transit services operating in Oro Valley, including dial-a-ride and other transit connections that supplement the Town’s locally funded transit system. The Town remains responsible for its own local transit services, neighborhood streets, and routine maintenance.

Proposed projects will affect Oro Valley
RTA Next identifies specific transportation projects to be funded over the next 20 years. Projects affecting Oro Valley include the proposed connection of Shannon Road to Tangerine Road. Other proposed regional projects that would affect Oro Valley residents include widening First Avenue between Ina and Orange Grove, constructing a new interchange at Tangerine Road and Interstate 10, and widening Oracle Road between Oracle and La Cholla. Final scheduling and delivery of these projects would occur over the life of the plan.

Negative impact on Oro Valley and regional transit services if RTANext fails
Probably of greater immediate importance is the funding of certain transit services operating in Oro Valley. Currently, the Regional Transportation Authority funds most of the cost of Sun Shuttle dial-a-ride and other regional transit services serving the Town. If RTA Next is not approved, that funding authority will expire after June 30, and RTA-funded transit services would be required to discontinue. It is not known what it would cost for the Town of Oro Valley to replace those services, or whether it could do so quickly, as additional funding, vehicles, drivers, and state-level approvals would be required. No formal cost estimate has been released.

Expecting low voter turnout...so your vote will count
Turnout for the March 10 election is expected to be relatively low, with estimates suggesting that approximately 20–25% of eligible voters may cast a ballot. At that level, the outcome of the RTA Next propositions will be determined by a relatively small share of the electorate. Ballots must be received by 7:00 p.m. on March 10.

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Council Lists Criteria as Oro Valley Weighs Tourism Strategy

Draft tourism plan reviewed by Town Council
The Oro Valley Town Council held a study session last week to review a draft Leisure Travel Destination Management Plan, a long-range strategy intended to guide how the Town approaches tourism over the next decade. Presented by consultant CSL International, the plan reflects earlier input from residents, stakeholders, the Tourism Advisory Commission (TAC), and Council members. The draft emphasizes leisure-based tourism (outdoor recreation, wellness, arts and culture, events, and culinary experiences) rather than business or convention travel. The plan frames tourism as a way to enhance resident quality of life rather than simply increase visitor volume.

Council sets criteria for what will be done
Much of the discussion centered not on the overall vision, but on how the plan’s recommendations would be prioritized, funded, and phased. Council Member Mary Murphy outlined three criteria she was using to evaluate the draft plan: Whether recommendations put residents first; whether the fiscal impact and long-term financial responsibility are clear; and whether there is accountability in what the Town is

being asked to do. Other Council members agreed with those criteria. Council Member Elizabeth Robb then added three additional considerations: The need for clear sequencing; whether the Town has the capacity and staff to carry out the recommendations; and whether proposed actions are sustainable over time. Together, these six criteria will likely shape future Council discussions about the plan.

Visit Tucson discussion clarified scope and intent
Council members also discussed why Oro Valley ended its formal relationship with Visit Tucson and what that decision means going forward.  That discussion was not about reopening the decision, but about making sure the draft plan is evaluated with a clear understanding of what Oro Valley does and does not intend to do going forward.

The discussion made clear that the Town does not intend to replicate Visit Tucson’s role or scale, particularly its convention, meetings, and large-group sales functions. Instead, Oro Valley’s approach is focused on smaller-scale, leisure-oriented tourism that aligns with the community’s character and existing assets. 

Council members emphasized that the plan is not about building a destination marketing organization comparable to Visit Tucson, but about developing a strategy tailored to Oro Valley’s size, priorities, and fiscal capacity.

Aspirational ideas are not near-term actions
The draft plan includes a set of longer-term “big ideas,” such as expanded cultural venues, enhanced event programming, and new destination-defining spaces. Council members emphasized that these concepts are aspirational and do not represent approved projects or commitments. Any such ideas would need to return to Council with detailed cost, feasibility, and operational information before moving forward.

TAC review reflected more caution than Council summary
Several of the concerns raised by the Tourism Advisory Commission (TAC) closely mirrored the evaluation criteria Council members said they were using during the study session. TAC reviewed the plan the previous week. The TAC comments on the draft plan was presented to Council as having been completed and incorporated into the materials, and that description was accurate as far as it went. 

However, the TAC’s January 26 discussion reflected a more mixed and cautionary review than was conveyed in the summary presented to Council. While commissioners offered technical and prioritization comments that were incorporated into the draft, several also said they were uncomfortable moving forward with the plan as written and questioned whether the Town is prepared to implement it at this time. Those commissioners raised concerns about staffing capacity, cost, and the pace of moving ahead following the Town’s decision to end its relationship with Visit Tucson. The commission did not vote to reject the plan and took no formal position, as its role is advisory, but the individual concerns expressed went beyond technical edits and were not fully reflected in the high-level summary presented to Council.

Next steps
Because the item was a study session, no action was taken. Staff will compile Council feedback and use it to revise the draft plan. Any future decisions related to funding, governance, or implementation will return to Council as separate agenda items.

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