Bits and Pieces

Tomorrow night is "Safety Night" in Oro Valley
The Oro Valley Police Department will host its annual National Night Out event tomorrow from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Walmart Supercenter on Tangerine Road. The event promotes community safety and fosters positive relationships between law enforcement and residents. With a special emphasis on children’s safety, the evening will feature Halloween-themed fun, including costumes, candy, and prizes. 

Also This Weekend: Don’t miss the Oro Valley Fall Foodie Festival
The Oro Valley Fall Foodie & Art Festival is scheduled for this Saturday and Sunday. The festival will feature live music, artisan vendors, and various fall-themed activities. The event is located at the Oro Valley Marketplace from 10am-4pm on both days.

FireTruck Brewing closing is loss to our community
FireTruck Brewing announced the permanent closure of its Oro Valley location in August, citing challenges of the current market. This is a shame. The Oro Valley location opened to the public in early 2019, offering a selection of craft beers and a full-service restaurant. Over the years, they raised and donated thousands of dollars to support local disabled veterans, firefighters, children, and families in need. They hosted community events, including live music performances and annual crawfish boils that became local favorites. The restaurant, owned and operated by local firefighters, is now focussing on its original midtown location.

Are things getting better or worse when it comes to economic development
When it comes to economic development, questions remain. Besides FireTruck Brewing, what happened to Ashley Furniture or whatever it was called when it closed? And what’s the status of the new hotels and apartments planned for the Oro Valley Marketplace?

On the positive side… Look at what others are saying about Oro Valley
Oro Valley was highlighted as a hidden gem in a February travel website article, praising the town for its breathtaking desert landscapes, rich cultural history, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The article touts the town's unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, making it a standout destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation. The article emphasizes the town’s appeal to nature lovers, with its hiking trails, scenic vistas, and proximity to major natural attractions. Oro Valley is portrayed as a must-visit spot for those looking to explore the American Southwest’s lesser-known treasures. The only thing odd about the article is the title. It states that Oro Valley is "a slice of Mexico". We are anything but that.
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Behind the Badge: How OVPD Keeps Oro Valley Safe Every Day

Oro Valley’s top safety rating is the result of daily dedication and hard work... every day
The Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD) is a constant, sometimes unseen, presence in the community, working behind the scenes to ensure that life in Oro Valley runs smoothly. 

While their efforts don't often make headlines, they tackle serious issues every day. Based on our review of Town Manager Wilkins’ “Executive Report to Council” reports for this year, we have identified five key areas where the department’s impact can be seen most clearly.

Tackling drug and violent crimes
OVPD conducts a wide range of criminal investigations, from drug busts to violent confrontations. In August, after a surveillance operation involving multiple teams, officers arrested a fugitive carrying illegal drugs, cash, and even brass knuckles. It wasn’t just a routine arrest—it was a precise effort that removed a dangerous individual from the streets. A month earlier, officers responded to a domestic violence incident that quickly escalated. The suspect not only fled the scene but caused two car crashes while trying to escape. OVPD was able to detain him, bringing the situation to a close before anyone else was harmed.

Responding swiftly to school threats
When threats target schools, quick action is essential to keeping students safe. In September, OVPD arrested a 15-year-old student after investigating a threat made against Canyon del Oro High School. The situation could have caused widespread panic, but the prompt response minimized disruption. Similarly, in May, officers evacuated the U of A School of Veterinary Medicine when an alarming phone call triggered concern. The evacuation was precautionary, but OVPD ensured the safety of students and staff, defusing the situation before any harm could occur.

Supporting federal arrests thru local operations
Sometimes, OVPD’s work extends beyond local matters, as they often assist federal agencies. In September, officers worked with U.S. Border Patrol to intercept a vehicle near a local school that was suspected of transporting undocumented individuals. The proximity to the school led to a brief lockdown, but the cooperation between agencies resulted in a successful outcome. Just a month earlier, OVPD teamed up with U.S. Marshalls to track down and arrest a fugitive. That effort helped bring another suspect, wanted for shooting a Pima County Sheriff’s Deputy, into custody.

Handling serious traffic incidents
What starts as a routine traffic stop can quickly escalate into something far more dangerous. In February, officers pulled over a vehicle for a basic violation, but what they found was far more serious—firearms and narcotics that the passenger had tried to discard during the stop. Another incident in March saw officers respond to a pedestrian being critically injured by a vehicle. Both cases are reminders that traffic-related incidents often involve split-second decisions and can carry significant consequences.

Proactively engaging the community
Not all of OVPD’s work happens in the field—some of their efforts focus on educating and empowering the community. In March, the department hosted a Fraud School, partnering with local organizations to help residents, particularly seniors, recognize and avoid common scams. Community engagement goes beyond events, too. In January, OVPD used social media to gather public help in locating a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run. With input from the community, officers were able to identify and arrest the suspect.

Working every day to make us safe
These examples highlight just a portion of the important work OVPD does on a daily basis. Their ability to respond to a wide range of issues—from public safety and criminal activity to community outreach—helps ensure Oro Valley remains not only a safe place to live but also one where residents can actively contribute to their own security.

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How A New Arizona Law Could Change Non HOA Neighborhoods

HB 2720 and its impact on Oro Valley zoning regulations
House Bill 2720 was a key topic of discussion at the Oro Valley Town Council’s study session last Wednesday night. This new state law, effective since September, requires all Arizona municipalities, including Oro Valley, to address the use of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in their zoning codes. While Oro Valley has allowed guest houses, which are similar to ADUs, the town must now align its regulations with the state's standards, and the council discussed how to approach these necessary changes. The discussion revealed both practical considerations and concerns over potential impacts on local neighborhoods.

The requirements of HB 2720
HB 2720 mandates that all municipalities adjust their zoning codes to accommodate Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These units are secondary housing structures on single-family home lots, and the new law provides specific guidance on their size, placement, and amenities. Notably, the state law permits ADUs to include kitchens and allows them to be built to the maximum height permitted by the property’s zoning district. Additionally, the law prevents municipalities from enforcing certain design standards, leaving the architectural style of ADUs up to individual property owners. The town must also update its code to reflect new regulations on short-term rentals of ADUs, ensuring property owners live on-site if they rent out the ADU for short-term stays.

Minimal impact of homes governed by homeowner associations

The impact of the changes in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) under HB 2720 on Homeowner Associations (HOAs) is minimal because the new state law still allows HOAs to enforce their own rules regarding ADUs. This means that while municipalities like Oro Valley must align their zoning codes with the state’s requirements, individual HOAs can continue to regulate or restrict ADUs within their communities. 85% of Oro Valley homes are part of a homeowner association.

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Challenges Oro Valley faces in implementing HB 2720
One of the primary challenges facing Oro Valley’s town staff is balancing the state’s new requirements with the community’s desire to maintain its unique character. The town’s current regulations are more restrictive than the state’s standards, particularly regarding the height of structures and placement in relation to the main home.  Implementing these changes by the state’s January 1 deadline puts further pressure on the town to update its zoning code quickly, while also trying to inform and involve residents in the process.

Council concerns over aesthetic impact
One of the major concerns voiced by the Town Council on Wednesday was how the new ADU standards could affect neighborhood aesthetics in non-HOA areas. Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett expressed frustration over the lack of design oversight, noting that “a 30-foot ADU could be built in front of a single-story home, which would dramatically change the appearance of that neighborhood.” She also highlighted the risk of these structures being built with no requirements for matching architectural features such as rooflines or window styles, which Oro Valley’s code previously regulated.

Density and rental concerns
The possibility of increased density also came up during the discussion. Council Member Steve Solomon pointed out that while most homeowners may not take advantage of the ADU option, "the fear of someone building multiple rental units is overblown." He explained that the law still requires property owners to live on-site if the ADU is rented as a short-term rental, which limits the potential for commercial exploitation. However, concerns remained about whether this on-site residency requirement would be enforced or if it would result in unintended consequences, particularly in areas without HOA governance.

HOA and enforcement challenges
Council Member Tim Bohen raised concerns about the enforcement of the new rules in areas without HOAs. “While HOAs can regulate ADU design and placement, non-HOA neighborhoods will have no similar protections," Bohen said. This could lead to inconsistent development standards across the town, creating tension between HOA and non-HOA areas. Bohen suggested that the town consider additional outreach to non-HOA communities to make sure residents are aware of these changes and how they could affect their neighborhoods.

The risk of losing local control
Another concern was the gradual erosion of local control over zoning regulations. Council members expressed frustration that, despite Oro Valley's history of careful zoning, the state’s mandate significantly limits the town’s ability to shape development. Mayor Winfield commented, "We’ve always been committed to preserving the character of Oro Valley, but with this law, our hands are tied in some important ways. It’s a slippery slope when the state takes more control away from municipalities."

Timetable for implementing HB 2720
Town staff will need to act quickly to meet the January 1, 2025 deadline for implementing HB 2720. According to the timeline discussed during the study session, the town plans to finalize the necessary code amendments by December, allowing for time to inform residents and gather feedback. Public hearings are scheduled for November, and residents are encouraged to participate in these discussions to help shape the town’s approach to implementing this new state law. The town is particularly focused on notifying non-HOA neighborhoods to ensure residents are fully aware of how the ADU regulations may affect them.

FOPRG to Honor Rick Messina
“The Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf partnered with the El Conquistador Golf team to create a tranquility garden at the top of the fourth hole in honor of Rick Messina, our beloved groundskeeper, who we lost last summer. Many generous Friends donated succulents of all varieties that have been planted, while others contributed funds for colorful pots and flagstone. Our community is abundant with thoughtful and generous humans.” (Source: FOPRG Newsletter)


2024 Oro Valley External Financial Audit in Process
According to Town Finance Director David Gephart: “Our auditors were here the first week of this month for fieldwork, and they finished up on Thursday afternoon. There were no real findings or issues; just a couple of minor follow-up items we’re working on with them. We’re in the process of drafting our [annual report] and look forward to completing and wrapping up that process for the last fiscal year.” (Source: Budget and Finance Commission Meeting, 10-15-24)

Winfield to Deliver Oro Valley’s 23rd Annual State of the Town, Oct. 31
“Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield will deliver his sixth State of the Town Address on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, at El Conquistador Tucson, a Hilton Resort. The luncheon, a ticketed event hosted by the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce, will begin at 11:30 a.m. Mayor Winfield will reflect on the Town’s successful initiatives, projects, and partnerships over the past year—including the celebration of Oro Valley’s 50th anniversary—while sharing his vision and optimism for the Town’s future.” (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Update on the “Shot Clock”
Several weeks ago, we discussed the state-mandated shot clock on zoning requests that the town must implement by January. That article was based on a study session with the Planning and Zoning Commission. This past Wednesday, at the Oro Valley Town Council meeting, the council emphasized the need for a clear definition of when an application is deemed “administratively complete” to ensure consistency. The council raised concerns about the new timeframe potentially limiting the ability to address resident feedback thoroughly, while also considering a six-month cap on applicant-requested extensions to avoid indefinite delays. Additionally, council members noted that changes to legal protest requirements under the new law might increase the number of rezoning cases requiring a council vote, potentially amplifying resident input. As the January implementation deadline approaches, the council aims to refine these amendments to maintain a balanced rezoning process that meets state requirements and local needs.

Things to do this weekend

Well, it's getting cooler thank goodness. Tonight, there’s a Parents’ Night Out at Steam Pump Ranch, where kids can enjoy games and crafts while parents take the evening off. Might be fun to take a movie at Steam Pump Ranch tomorrow night at 6 o'clock. "The movie will be shown on the lush lawn at the ranch and attendees are welcome to bring blankets and chairs. This event will feature the 1993 Halloween themed family comedy, Hocus Pocus and a few spooky crafts for the kiddos." It is free to all. And Sunday there's a concert sponsored by the southern Arizona arts Council (SAACA).  It runs from 4 to 6 PM and we think it's at Riverfront Park. (unfortunately the website does not list specific location.)  Enjoy!

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
This grant request was rejected by US Senators Kelly and Senima. (So much for their support of Oro Valley!). No reason was given as to why this grant request 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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Article updated: 10/19/24

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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