RTA Next comes to Oro Valley

Winfield chairs regional transportation effort
Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield serves as chairman of Pima County’s Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), which has funded dozens of road and transit projects over the past 20 years. In Oro Valley, the RTA financed improvements such as La Cholla Boulevard and Tangerine Road. The RTA’s work is supported by a ½-cent countywide sales tax that voters approved in 2006. That tax expires this year, even though many transportation needs remain. RTA Next is a proposal to renew the funding for another 20 years, and voters will decide its future in the November 2026 election.

Ortega outlines new 20-year regional transportation plan
Michael Ortega, Executive Director of the RTA, presented an update on RTA Next to the Oro Valley Town Council last week. He said the new $2.67 billion regional transportation plan is designed to fund roadway, safety, environmental, and transit improvements across Pima County beginning in 2027. Ortega said the plan includes funding specifically designated for projects and transit services benefiting Oro Valley.

Oro Valley projects included
The plan identifies two major Oro Valley projects scheduled for early construction:
• Lambert Lane — widening from Thornydale Road to Rancho Sonora Drive ($55 million).
• Shannon Road — paving from Lambert Lane to Tangerine Road ($26 million).

Ortega said the plan also provides $10 million for safety and active-transportation improvements and $5 million for arterial and collector pavement rehabilitation specifically in Oro Valley. In addition, it includes about $52 million regionwide for Dial-A-Ride and paratransit service, of which Oro Valley will receive a share. Ortega noted that while RTA Next includes funding for bridge and grade-separation improvements as part of regional projects, there are no new bridge projects identified within the town.

Ortega says Oro Valley will get its “fair share”
Responding to a question about how smaller towns benefit compared with Tucson and Pima County, Ortega said the RTA’s funding and project selection process is based on what he called “geographic equity.” The RTA’s half-cent sales tax is collected countywide, and the project list is structured so each member jurisdiction receives improvements reflecting both local priorities and regional use. Projects serving multiple communities—such as major road corridors and I-10 interchanges—are given higher regional value and more funding. In this way, all communities benefit from the regional tax, even if project amounts differ from town to town.

Ortega explains why RTA 1 fell short — and how RTA Next differs
Ortega said the original 2006 RTA plan did not generate enough revenue to complete all promised projects because the RTA used the University of Arizona’s “baseline” forecast, which assumed average economic conditions. That projection proved too optimistic after the recession, pandemic, and rising construction costs. For RTA Next, the Board chose the university’s most conservative, or “pessimistic,” forecast to create a financial cushion and avoid future shortfalls. A citizens’ oversight committee will present quarterly reports to the RTA Board to ensure revenue and expenses remain on track throughout the 20-year program.

RTA Next outreach coming to Oro Valley
Ortega said the RTA will continue community outreach in Oro Valley ahead of next year’s vote. On December 10, the RTA will host a public question-and-answer session in Oro Valley to give residents an opportunity to learn more about RTA Next. Ortega also plans to meet with the town’s Economic Development Committee and Bicycle Advisory Committee to discuss the plan’s potential impacts on local mobility and safety. He thanked Oro Valley staff for their work in coordinating these efforts and for “advocating on behalf of the community.”

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It Was A Rockin' Good Time

And the band played on…
By the time The Lexington Lab Band launched into Van Halen’s “Jump,” the crowd was thrilled, tired, and fully satisfied. The band’s return headlined Sunday's fifth annual Rockin’ 4 Heroes ceremony; an event inspired by the life of PJ Quinn and created to honor four hero groups: First Responders, Active-Duty Military, Veterans, and Gold Star Families. The event was free, lively, and packed with food trucks, community booths, and organizations representing local service groups. It was heartfelt, loud, joyful, and very Oro Valley.

A powerful opening before the ceremony began
The event opened with a patriotic punch. The Mariachi Voces de mi Pueblo delivered a stirring rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and just moments later, the sky announced its own salute: A flyover by two medivac helicopters, a moving reminder of service in action.

By the time the ceremony began, Oro Valley's Keight Park’s east field was filled with first responder booths, food trucks, and attendees. Many others gathered outside the fences, seated on chairs and blankets, finding shade on a warm November afternoon.

Heroes filled the audience: Oro Valley Police, Golder Ranch Fire, Marana Police, Tucson Fire, Rural Metro Fire, Arizona Rangers, Tohono O’odham Nation, Arizona Department of Public Safety, University of Arizona, Civil Air Patrol, City College TNT Program, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army (including the National Guard), U.S. Air Force, and Gold Star family members.

Retied General Ted Maxwell and former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Richard Carmona honored armed services, with all branches represented except the U.S. Marines, who were in Las Vegas celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps.

Oro Valley’s Chief Riley awarded the Community Hero Award
One of the ceremony’s biggest moments was the presentation of the Community Hero Award to Oro Valley Police Chief Cara Riley. Introduced by Rockin’ 4 Heroes organizers and Golder Ranch Fire Chief Tom Brandhuber, Riley was recognized for 30 years in law enforcement, including 21 years with the Oro Valley Police Department. Her career includes leading patrol, motors, K-9, SWAT, negotiations, and the Community Action Team.

Riley accepted the honor with humility and shared that the award also belonged to her sister, who supported the Quinn family during their most difficult days.

A new car for firefighter Julian Mills
Then came another lovely moment.

Julian Mills, a first-year firefighter with the Tohono O’odham Nation Fire Department, drives more than 120 miles round trip from Tucson to Sells for each shift. His current car; a 2000 Buick Century with more than 120,000 miles;  has done its best, but the road has clearly won. Thanks to the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program, along with support from GEICO, Caliber Collision, and Enterprise, Mills was selected to receive a fully restored Chrysler Pacifica. Mills was in mandatory training, so his mother accepted the keys on his behalf, to cheers, applause, and a few happy tears.

Raffle raises support for the Heroes’ Fund
After the band stopped playing, the raffle began, with proceeds gointg to the Heroes’ Fund; a fund created by Rockin’ 4 Heroes founders Mike and Bonnie Quinn. As Bonnie told the crowd:

“Because we have very supportive donors and sponsors, we’re able to not just stage this free public tribute, but we’re also able to fund our Hero Fund.”

Scholarships and support created by the Heroes’ Fund
The Heroes’ Fund continues to make a lasting impact. To date, it has established:
• The Jacob Dindinger Memorial EMT Scholarship at Pima Community College, a fully endowed scholarship that funds two EMT students per year in perpetuity.
• The Veteran Student Gap Fund at the University of Arizona, providing financial support to veteran students and Gold Star family members for education costs not fully covered by the GI Bill. This fund also assists law-enforcement officers continuing their education while serving.  

Support that lasts beyond the music
Rockin’ 4 Heroes lasts an afternoon. The Heroes’ Fund works all year. Donations help train EMTs, support veterans in college, and ease education costs for first responders who serve first and study second. Giving is easy and meaningful at Rockin4Heroes.org. Your gift would be a powerful way to say thank you long after the music ends.

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Bits and Pieces

Running For Office? Your candidate packet awaits 

Oro Valley residents thinking about running for mayor or Town Council in 2026 can now pick up a Candidate Handbook from the Town Clerk’s Office at Town Hall, 11000 N. La Cañada Drive. Appointments can be made by emailing Mike Standish at mstandish@orovalleyaz.gov or calling 520-229-4700. Three council seats and the mayor’s seat are on the ballot. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, qualified to vote, and have lived in Oro Valley for at least one year before the election. Nomination papers can be filed March 9 – April 6, 2026, with between 525 and 1,050 signatures required. The Primary Election is August 4, 2026, and newly elected officials are expected to be sworn in shortly after the General Election on November 3, 2026. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Council to seek public input on proposed new taxes

By a 4–3 vote, the Oro Valley Town Council agreed Wednesday night to post notice of intent to adopt three taxes: A phased-in Commercial Rental Tax; a Telecommunications Tax; and a Use Tax. This step begins a state-required 60-day public notice and comment period, ending with a potential Council vote on January 14, 2026 to approve or reject any of the taxes. If enacted as proposed, Oro Valley’s 0% commercial rental tax would phase up to 2.5% over three years, the telecommunications tax would increase from 0% to 2.5%, and a new 2.5% use tax would be added to align with neighboring jurisdictions like Tucson and Marana. Councilmembers Barrett, Murphy, and Nicholson opposed moving forward, citing concerns over timing, business impacts, and the need for more cost-saving reviews of town operations. Staff will post a public notice of these proposed taxes on the town website on November 15. The council will make a decision on each of the three taxes at it's January 14 meeting. 

Where there is a will, there is a way

At Wednesday’s Council meeting, several residents expressed concern about the new no parking signs installed along Calle Buena Vista and parts of Calle Concordia. She said her household was not notified about the change and has seen no parking issues near their home in the past four and a half years. While she supports signage near OVCN to address overflow parking, she believes the signs further south are unnecessary, unsightly, and out of character with the neighborhood. Despite all the signage, which she described as an eyesore, we noted that church attendees were still parking on Calle Buena Vista this past Sunday [see panel right]. 

As written: New Use Tax would legally apply to individuals as well as businesses

If adopted, residents have been told by town staff that Oro Valley’s proposed use tax would apply mainly to businesses and not to residents. Businesses would be required to report out-of-state purchases where no local sales tax was paid. These are captured on regular tax filings submitted through the Arizona Department of Revenue, which may also conduct audits to ensure compliance. Town staff has repeatedly stated that the use tax would not be enforced on individual residents, and there are no plans to audit personal purchases. However, as technology advances, future governments may find it easier to track and enforce such taxes more broadly; though doing so would likely raise questions about privacy and require higher-level policy changes.

Film producer urges creation of Oro Valley film commission

Hollywood film producer Mark Headley spoke during Call to Audience segment of Wednesday's council meeting. He talked about the economic benefits of attracting movie production to the town. Drawing on his years of experience in the industry and Arizona’s past success as a filming location, he recommended the creation of a local film commission. Headley said such a commission could be inexpensive to set up and would complement efforts by the Arizona Film Office. He added that film productions typically leave about one-third of their budgets in the communities where they shoot.  Locally, both the Tucson and Marana film commissions. Film Tucson reported last year that filmmaking in the Tucson region generates between $9 million and $12 million annually in economic impact (hotels, restaurants, crews).

Council approves funds for police headquarters purchase and repairs

Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council unanimously approved reallocating $5.45 million from the Capital Fund contingency to cover the purchase and immediate repairs of the new police administration facility at 13101 N. Oracle Road. The purchase, completed for about $3.8 million, will be followed by an estimated $1.65 million in improvements, including HVAC replacement, roofing, stucco and parapet repair, and termite treatment. Vice Mayor Barrett noted she would have preferred some of the funding to be addressed during the next budget cycle but acknowledged the allocation was necessary. The motion passed 7–0, ensuring the building can be secured and preparations begun for future police operations.

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Rockin' 4Heroes Celebrates Sunday at Kriegh Park

Rockin’ 4 Heroes Concert Is This Sunday
The 5th Annual Rockin’ 4 Heroes concert is happening this Sunday, November 9, at James D. Kriegh Park, 23 Calle Concordia in Oro Valley. Gates open at 1 p.m. and the Opening Ceremony begins promptly at 2 p.m. Admission is free and lawn seating is open—bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the show.

Full afternoon of music and community
The event opens with Mariachi Voces de mi Pueblo at 1:40 p.m., followed by a 30-minute Opening Ceremony and a headline performance by the Lexington Lab Band. Visitors can explore over 40 booths, grab food from local food trucks, enjoy a beer and wine tent, and enter a raffle featuring local news anchor Sean Moony and a 50/50 drawing. The event concludes by 5 p.m. Free parking is available at CDO High School, with a designated accessible lot and golf-cart shuttle service provided by Oro Valley’s American Legion.

Council Member Murphy: “Celebrate our amazing heroes”
“As the proud wife of a man who has spent his entire career in law enforcement and the military, it is my honor to serve as the volunteer Executive Director of First Responder and Military Affiliations for the local non-profit, Rockin’ 4 Heroes,” said Council Member Mary Murphy. “This high-quality annual concert event is an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate our amazing heroes.”

Event born from loss
“The Rockin’ 4 Heroes mission was born from both grief and gratitude,” said Bonnie Quinn, who founded the nonprofit with her husband. “Michael and I wanted to thank the community of First Responders who served our son so well in the final year of his battle with cancer. We were blessed that many good people wanted to help carry out this mission alongside us, and that the public in general is very receptive to saying "Thank you" to these heroes who serve us every day.”

Donations power scholarships and training
The concert is free to attend, but donations are accepted at rockin4heroes.org.  All proceeds go to the Hero Fund, which supports several programs including the Jacob Dindinger Memorial EMT Scholarship at Pima Community College, a fully endowed scholarship that funds two full EMT scholarships every year. The Fund also established a $50,000 Veteran Student Endowment at the University of Arizona this past spring. That endowment has provided training stipends to six Oro Valley Police officers to support professional development.

See you Sunday
Bring your family, your friends, and your thanks. The weather looks good, the music will be great, and the cause couldn’t be better. See you Sunday at Rockin’ 4 Heroes. 

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Oro Valley Trails Plan is 60% Complete — Your Voice Still Matters

Oro Valley Trails Connect Master Plan continues to take shape
Oro Valley’s OV Trails Connect Master Plan is the Town’s first comprehensive effort since 2010 to evaluate, upgrade, and expand its network of unpaved trails and paved paths. The Town’s trails and paths are a key feature of our community, used by residents and visitors alike. Once approved by the Town Council, the plan will serve as a guide for maintaining and expanding Oro Valley’s trail system. 

How the process began
The study began in early 2025 with surveys, stakeholder meetings, and “trailside chats” that gathered input from hundreds of residents about how they use and value local trails. Earlier discussions focused on developing a shared vision and identifying key priorities such as connectivity, maintenance, and safety.

Public input shapes the 60% draft
Since those initial discussions, Town staff and consultant Kimley-Horn have broadened public involvement through additional meetings with residents, stakeholders, and regional partners. According to staff, participants have provided comments on the Town’s paved path and unpaved trail assets, as well as feedback on the draft vision and guiding principles.

Four areas of focus
The plan is now organized around four focus areas, each representing a key part of Oro Valley’s trail and path network:

• Unpaved trails:  Natural-surface trails such as those in Big Wash, Honey Bee Canyon, and other open-space areas.
• Multi-use paths (MUPs):  Paved paths located along or separate from major roadways, including those on La Cholla, Tangerine, and Naranja.
• The Loop within Oro Valley: The portion of the regional Pima County Loop system that runs through the Town.
• Paths at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve: The paved paths within the Preserve, including its main concrete trail network and access points.

In the draft, each focus area include proposed improvements and priority action tables that link community feedback to specific projects.

Amenities and partnerships added to the discussion
The plan gives attention to accessibility and user comfort, calling for amenities such as restrooms, benches, shade, and ADA-compliant trailheads. It also begins to outline strategies for partnerships, volunteer programs, and grant funding to support long-term maintenance and future expansion.

Challenges that remain
Even with the progress reflected in the 60% draft, several challenges remain unresolved. The plan still does not specify how proposed improvements will be funded or maintained, offering no dedicated funding source or staffing plan for ongoing upkeep. Coordination with the State Land Department on future trail easements—especially in areas north of Big Wash—remains undefined. While the document outlines safety and etiquette goals, it lacks detail on enforcement and accountability. Environmental considerations, such as habitat protection and trail impact assessments, are addressed only broadly, with no clear standards or procedures. Finally, the plan does not yet establish measurable performance goals or timelines to track whether future trail expansion and maintenance efforts achieve their intended results.

Time to get involved
The 60% draft marks the first time Oro Valley’s OV Trails Connect Master Plan has been presented as a complete document for public and advisory review. Following input from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the draft will go to the Town Council in mid-November for additional feedback. Staff and the consultant will then refine the plan and share a final version with residents and regional partners early next year. The Town expects to bring the completed plan back to the Board and Council for approval in the spring of 2026. 

Because Oro Valley’s trails and paths are an essential part of the community’s quality of life, supporting recreation, health, and connection to nature, we encourage you to review the plan, share you thoughts to help shape the future of this community asset. 

“Throughout this process, the community is invited to www.OVTrailsConnect.com to sign up for the Trails Stakeholder Group, stay informed about the latest materials and information, and reach out to Senior Planner Kyle Packer (kpacker@orovalleyaz.gov) with comments and questions.”

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Resilience and Forward Looking Governance Define Oro Valley’s “State of the Town”

“As I prepared this year’s remarks, two ideas stood out: Resilience and forward-looking governance. Resilience is the ability to adapt, to absorb shocks, and to keep delivering the quality of life our residents expect. Forward-looking governance means anticipating tomorrow’s needs and making disciplined, strategic decisions today. Together, these principles form the foundation of every success story in Oro Valley.” 
Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield’s seventh State of the Town address

Thus began the remarks of Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield in his seventh State of the Town address, last Thursday, Winfield delivered his remarks at an event sponsored by the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce at the El Conquistador. 

Oro Valley’s multi pronged approach to fiscal resilience
Winfield said Oro Valley’s continued growth and stability reflect a commitment to fiscal resilience. During his seven years as mayor, the town has maintained a balanced budget through conservative budgeting, prudent reserves, and fiscal restraint, saving nearly $4 million over the past two years by delaying non essential projects and adding only one new full time position, a police officer. The town also secured several state and WIFA grants totaling about $3 million for improvements at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve, Naranja Park Archery Range, and Steam Pump Ranch.

“Strategic investments are another critical way to build financial resilience,” he said, “and it’s through forward looking governance that we’re poised to seize opportunities early.” He explained that the town’s long term strategy combines targeted annexations, business recruitment to reduce retail leakage, pursuit of grants, and strategic bonding when appropriate. When needed, the plan also includes modest new revenue sources such as telecommunications, commercial use, and commercial rental taxes already used in neighboring jurisdictions. Winfield described these actions as part of a balanced, long term plan to protect essential services and sustain Oro Valley’s quality of life.

Focused on forward looking governance
“Forward looking governance means anticipating tomorrow’s needs and making disciplined, strategic decisions today. Together, these principles form the foundation of every success story in Oro Valley. Strategic investments are another critical way to build financial resilience, and it’s through forward looking governance that we’re poised to seize opportunities early.” He provided examples:

• “When this council chose to invest $33 million to fully fund the Public Safety and Personnel Retirement System, it was a bold decision that will save taxpayers an estimated $20 million through 2038.”
• The Northwest Recharge, Recovery, and Delivery System, a $40 million project that will deliver 4,000 acre feet of renewable water annually, enough for about 12,000 homes.
• “We’ve also purchased and are now beginning the phased renovation of a new police station, a practical, cost effective way to meet community needs while living within our means.”

Involving the community
“Forward looking governance also means planning now for the future we want. The most effective way to do that is to engage the public in the processes that will guide and shape our community.” Winfield called for continued public participation in shaping Oro Valley’s future. He praised the community’s involvement in both the Trail Master Plan and the Path Forward 2026 General Plan, noting that to date more than 9,000 community comments have guided the general plan’s development.

Regional transportation planning is essential
Winfield, who serves as chair of the Regional Transportation Authority, said the next RTA plan will guide 20 years of transportation improvements across Pima County. He said this long term planning demonstrates the kind of leadership he calls forward looking governance, anticipating future needs rather than reacting to them. The plan’s focus on safety, mobility, and connectivity also supports the region’s resilience by ensuring communities can adapt and thrive as conditions change. Winfield encouraged residents to stay informed and engaged ahead of the March 2026 vote, noting that regional partnerships like the RTA are key to Oro Valley’s ability to plan responsibly and build a stronger, more connected future.

“Resilience is something we live”
As he closed, Winfield said Oro Valley’s strength lies not in any single leader, but in the collective effort of its residents, businesses, and public servants. Thinking back to the impact of the pandemic, Winfield noted that “resilience isn’t something we just talk about. It’s something we live...Resilience and forward looking governance are not abstract concepts,” he said. “They guide how we plan, spend, protect, and serve. Oro Valley’s strength has never come from any one individual, it’s come from all of us.”

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Bits and Pieces

Ciscomani says federal grants for Oro Valley bridge repairs is back on track
During his remarks introducing Mayor Joe Winfield at Oro Valley’s State of the Town Address, Congressman Juan Ciscomani indicated that federal funding for Oro Valley bridge repairs remains active, despite earlier setbacks in the congressional appropriations process. LOVE reported in June that these funds were not included in the latest spending bills, but Ciscomani told the audience that the project has again passed committee review and that he remains committed to securing the funds. He praised Mayor Winfield and town staff for submitting high-quality applications and said he looks forward to “getting that funding down here for those bridges very soon.”

Coming Tuesday: Our Report on Winfield's “State of the Town” Address

Mayor Winfield’s delivered his 2025 State of the Town address to a packed El Conquistador resort ballroom yesterday. His remarks covered everything from new businesses and tourism growth to future annexations and water security.  His message was clear: Oro Valley’s success depends on resilience and forward-looking governance.  We’ll share highlights, insights, and key takeaways from his remarks—don’t miss our full report Tuesday on LOVE.

Today is the last day to share your voice on the latest draft of OVPathForward

Today is the final day to give your feedback on the 60% draft of Oro Valley’s Path Forward 2026 General Plan — the document that will shape how our community grows, invests, and protects what we value most for the next decade. This plan influences everything from how we use our land and water to the types of housing, parks, and businesses that define our town’s future. Your input ensures the plan reflects what matters to you — not just today’s priorities but those of future residents as well. Visit OVPathForward.com and make your voice count before midnight.

Deputy Town Manager Cornelison earns international professional credential 

Oro Valley Deputy Town Manager Chris Cornelison has received the prestigious Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). The ICMA program recognizes local government leaders who demonstrate high standards of integrity, professional competence, and a commitment to continuous learning. Cornelison, who began his career with the Town in 2010 and has since served in several key management roles—including Interim Town Manager from 2022 to 2023—becomes one of more than 1,300 credentialed local government managers worldwide. A University of Arizona graduate with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public administration, Cornelison continues to mentor students as an adjunct instructor and professional advisor to the university’s ICMA student chapter. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Town earns national recognition for financial excellence

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has named the Town of Oro Valley a Triple Crown winner for fiscal year 2024, recognizing outstanding achievement in financial transparency and reporting. The Triple Crown honors municipalities that earn all three of GFOA’s top awards in the same year—the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, the Popular Annual Financial Report Award, and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. Oro Valley has achieved this distinction for 13 consecutive years. Finance Director David Gephart credited the town’s finance team for their professionalism and dedication to maintaining accuracy and public trust through clear, comprehensive financial reporting. (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Camp under the stars tomorrow night right here in Oro Valley

Families can enjoy the fun of camping without leaving town this weekend at Family Camping at the Ranch, hosted at historic Steam Pump Ranch tomorrow night. The overnight event includes tent setup lessons, grilled hot dogs, and a movie on a giant inflatable screen, followed by s’mores around the campfire. In the morning, campers will be treated to an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast before packing up. It’s a simple way to experience the outdoors, meet other families, and create lasting memories—no long drive required. Families can sign up for Family Camping at the Ranch through the Oro Valley Parks & Recreation website, PlayOV.com. The event notice in the town’s newsletter includes a registration link labeled “Click here” that directs users to the online registration page. At least one participant must be 18 or older to register and attend. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation email).

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