Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary With Oro Valley Historical Society (Part 2)

Continuing our Semiquincentennial Series
In March, the Oro Valley Historical Society continues to "march on" with the second part of our three-part series celebrating 250 years as an independent nation.

At the Museum this month: America’s Semiquincentennial and Arizona Statehood” Exhibit
This exhibit is In the Pusch House Museum. It will be available for viewing until March 28 when we will begin the third part of our series “America’s Semiquincentennial and the Founding of Oro Valley”. The Museum, located at historic Steam Pump Ranch is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon. Self-guided tours are complimentary, and volunteers will be on site to provide additional information and assist with any questions.

March 14: Two guided walking tours of the ranch
On Saturday, March 14, our naturalist returns to guide visitors on two gentle walking tours of the Ranch to share stories about the plants, animals, and people who lived and still live on the Ranch. The tours start at 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. from the porch of the Pusch House Museum, and both end in the Society-maintained Heritage Garden. Participants will be able to view a replica of a Hohokam pit house as well as the plants now blooming in the garden. 

March 14 and March 28: Two donation drives with Gap Ministries
Also, on that day and again on March 28, Gap Ministries will be at the Pusch House Museum requesting donations for the local families they serve. Items needed are toilet brushes and plungers, toilet bowl cleaner, toilet paper, and air fresheners. Make a difference, and help a family in need.

March 16: Gardening program at the Oro Valley Public Library
Now, let’s march over to the Oro Valley Public Library at 10 a.m. on March 16 when we will sponsor Catesby Suter, a University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Master Gardener. Her presentation is entitled “Caring for Iris and Other Bulbs”. The history of iris cultivation, planting techniques, working with the soil, and dividing bulbs will be discussed. Yes, you can grow iris plants here, and Catesby will help you beautify your gardens with her knowledge! 

March 7 and 8: Visit us at the "Foodie" Festival
The Oro Valley Spring Foodie, Art, and Wine Festival returns to the Oro Valley Marketplace, sponsored by Art State Arizona, and the Oro Valley Historical Society will be there! Come visit us Saturday and Sunday, March 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Enjoy the food vendors, beer and wine area, family friendly fun, live music, and all the wonderful Arizona artists and creative businesses who will be there. We hope you will join us. History loves company!

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Meet Council Hopeful Chris DeSimone

LOVE has been 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 Chris DeSimone

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Meet Chris DeSimone

Chris DeSimone held a council campaign launch gathering in January. At that time, he shared his thoughts on the community, his reasons for running, and the experiences that have shaped his perspective.

A long-time resident
Chris DeSimone has lived in Oro Valley since 1995, when he and his wife moved into their first home in the Copper Creek neighborhood after initially living in Tucson near Swan and Pima. A native of New York married to a New England native, he raised his children in Oro Valley, where they attended Copper Creek Elementary and participated in local youth sports. DeSimone has been active in the community for decades, coaching American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) soccer and helping lead a local team to national competition. Professionally, he has built a career in local media and commentary, hosting a long-running radio and digital podcast program and writing a column for Inside Tucson Business, experiences he says have given him insight into how local government operates.

Wants to directly impact local challenges
For years, he had been interested in running but could not do so while working on FCC-regulated radio due to equal time rules. Now that his program is fully digital, that barrier no longer exists. More importantly, his focus has shifted from national politics to local impact. Conversations with residents, particularly seniors concerned about rising costs and affordability, and ongoing debates about development within Oro Valley’s existing footprint led him to believe local decisions were increasingly important. He concluded that working at the town level offered the most direct way to influence issues such as fiscal pressures, growth, and community direction.

Sees fiscal challenges, development tension, and need for efficiency
He expressed concern about growing fiscal pressures, noting that rising costs and property taxes are making it harder for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes, to remain in the community. He also sees ongoing tension around development, with many residents worried about building within the town’s existing footprint. In addition, he highlighted what he views as efficiency issues in town operations, suggesting that costs of government continue to rise even as services must be maintained. Finally, he raised concerns about maintaining public safety and quality of life, especially as crime and social pressures from surrounding areas may increasingly affect the region.

A hands on leadership style
He described his leadership style as hands-on and accessible, emphasizing direct engagement with residents and a willingness to meet people where they are rather than relying solely on formal channels. He said he intends to be visible in the community, holding informal conversations in parks and local businesses and encouraging open dialogue with residents on town issues. He also stressed a commitment to representing all residents, regardless of political support, and believes elected officials should actively experience the community and respond to concerns in real time.

You can learn more about Chris and sign his petition if you wish here.
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Meet Council Hopeful Rosa Dailey

LOVE is 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 Rosa Dailey. 

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Rosa Dailey is a longtime resident with strong family ties

Rosa Dailey is a 20-year Oro Valley resident who moved here to assist her ailing parents. Prior to relocating, she spent eight years as an insurance adjuster and 20 years as a technical writer for companies including Random House and IBM, culminating in work supporting a Steve Jobs-backed IT group involved in the Hubble Space Telescope’s first servicing mission. After later returning to NASA’s engineering directorate, she met her husband, Chris Dailey, an aerospace computer engineer who has contributed to major NASA missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope. In Oro Valley, Dailey focused on raising her twin daughters, both University of Arizona engineering graduates, while also supporting her husband’s career and leading a medical research nonprofit following her retirement from full-time work.

Behind the scene, Dailey’s actions have produced visible results for Oro Valley 
Dailey has been active in Oro Valley for many years. Her actions have resulted in two very visible community assets: The Aquatic Center and the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. She helped initiate the feasibility study that led to transforming the municipal pool into the Oro Valley Aquatic Center. Dailey also identified and worked with The Conservation Fund and Preserve Vistoso to turn the former Vistoso golf course into a nature preserve. Today, she remains actively involved in restoration efforts. Over the years, Dailey has assisted residents involved in rezoning efforts by offering guidance on how to get things done in Oro Valley. “I am always glad to help others in the community step up to make a difference.”

Dailey is now seeking a Town Council seat
Dailey is ready to take the next step in leadership for Oro Valley. Over the past five years, she has attended or watched regular Town Council meetings and study sessions on items such as budgets and strategic plans. Dailey has spoken at Council and neighborhood meetings to stay informed on town issues. She also participated in OV Path Forward sessions shaping the next 10-year plan and, based on community surveys on development, parks and recreation, and water sustainability, believes she has a strong understanding of resident priorities moving forward.

Plans to bring Her “Get Things Done” Approach to Council
Dailey believes that plans should lead to results. She describes her approach as collaborative and deliberative, preferring to listen, gather input, and build consensus before moving forward. Once a course of action is agreed upon, she emphasizes the importance of following through to completion. She expects to apply that same methodical style to council decisions and community issues.

Believes that Council decisions should reflect community values

According to Dailey, “The challenges that any 50-year-old community faces are always multifaceted. There are financial aspects as well as quality of life factors to consider. I think the most important considerations must reflect what our community values - public safety, the environmental stewardship of land and water, recreational amenities that meet the needs of residents of all ages, and growth that does not change the character of our special community.

You can learn more about Rosa Dailey and sign her nomination petition that will place her on the ballot here.

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Bits and Pieces

Arizona Heroes Memorial Celebrates Kuwait Liberation Day Tomorrow at 1pm

The Arizona Heroes Memorial at Naranja Park will host a ceremony tomorrow commemorating Kuwait Liberation Day. Since 1991, the United States has maintained a strong partnership with Kuwait, evolving from military liberation to ongoing cooperation in regional security. Hosted by VFW Post 12222 of Oro Valley, the event honors the courage and sacrifices made during the liberation of Kuwait, a small but strategically important nation in the Middle East. The ceremony offers residents an opportunity to recognize those who fought for freedom and to reflect on the enduring values of liberty and alliance. 

County suggest you mail your RTA Next election ballot by next Tuesday

The Pima County recorder's office suggests you mail in your RTA Next ballot by next Tuesday.  We are not sure why since the official election day is March 10. You can also drop of you ballot at various locations downtown. There is no convenient Oro Valley location for drop off.

Pima County Mail In "Envelop" requires raises privacy concerns 

Concerns have emerged over Pima County’s mail-in ballot system, where the design of the return “envelope” may create opportunities for fraud. Critics say the format could make it easier to manipulate ballots or compromise voter verification. This is because the ballot affidavit you sign requires your legal signature and is the back of the mail- in envelop.  There is also a line for your phone number. However, your phone number is not required and you can leave it off.  Be sure to mark the space with a line of you choose to do so.

There is a workaround:  You can put your completed mailer in manilla envelop and mail it to the address on the envelop. We were to to use the zip of 85702 instead of the one on the envelop. Of course, you will do this at your cost.

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Meet Council Hopeful Jake Herrington

LOVE has been 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 Jake Herrington. 

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Council Hopeful Jake Herrington Emphasizes Service, Financial Planning, and Smart Growth
Jake Herrington is one of several council hopefuls who have filed to seek a seat on the Oro Valley Town Council and are currently gathering signatures to qualify for the ballot. In a February interview with LOVE, Herrington discussed his background, town service, and why he believes now is the right time to serve.

Longtime resident with business and nonprofit leadership experience
Originally from Baltimore, Herrington has lived in Pima County for more than 35 years and in Oro Valley for 15 years. He and his wife live in Copper Creek. His daughter attended Copper Creek Elementary, Wilson, and Ironwood Ridge High School. His son is a Marine Corps veteran, and his daughter is a registered nurse. His father served in the Army, and he has additional family members in military and law enforcement.

Herrington built his career in real estate and property management, working his way from entry-level roles to management over more than three decades. He currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer for PPEP inc (Portable Practical Educational Preparation), a Tucson-based nonprofit that operates workforce development programs, charter schools, housing, and medical equipment distribution programs. He oversees property, transportation, insurance, and budgeting. He and his wife also own a commercial real estate company.

Former Planning and Zoning chair with record of town service
Herrington served two terms as Vice Chair of the Conceptual Design Review Board before it was eliminated and later served two terms on Oro Valley’s Planning and Zoning Commission, where he was elected chair. He has also served on the Copper Creek HOA board for more than a decade, attended the Town’s Citizen Academy, and spoke at sessions in his role as Planning and Zoning chair. He believes that his experience on the town’s commissions has given him a practical understanding of town processes and how decisions affect residents and businesses.

“A Voice Of The People”

Herrington said he decided to seek a council seat after discussing the commitment with his family and determining he could give the role his full effort. He emphasized that he does not view himself as a politician and has no ambitions beyond serving the community. He described himself as wanting to be “a voice for the people,” including residents and business owners who may not have time to attend meetings.

Focuses on financial planning, growth strategy, and economic opportunity
Herrington said Oro Valley faces long-term financial pressures and must plan carefully for future revenue needs. He believes the town must determine whether it will remain primarily a bedroom community or pursue smart growth that broadens the tax base. In his view, “expanding the pie” allows more participants to share the tax burden rather than a smaller group absorbing rising costs.

He expressed support for strategic commercial annexation and views Oro Valley’s public safety services as a key asset in attracting annexation targets. He also said the town should more actively recruit educational institutions, regional partners, sports leagues, and events that could utilize parks, aquatics, golf, and resort facilities to generate revenue.

Describes himself as a hands-on, “big tent” leader
Herrington said he prefers to understand a task before supervising others in it, having worked his way up from entry-level roles throughout his career. He characterized himself as a “big tent” leader who seeks broad input, listens before forming conclusions, and considers issues from multiple perspectives before voting.

If elected, he said he hopes to be remembered as someone who gave his full effort, asked thoughtful questions, and listened carefully to residents before making decisions.

Learn more about Jake Herrington 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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Council Explores Changes That Might Attract Big-Box Retail

Council initiates discussion on attracting "Big-Box" Retail
For some time now, Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett and Councilmember Josh Nicolson have discussed the need for Oro Valley to attract at least a medium-sized, if not a large, big-box retailer. At their request, Town staff presented an update at last week’s Council meeting outlining current recruitment efforts. 

The discussion made clear that there are several challenges

Oro Valley could face in attracting these retailers, including assembling sufficiently large parcels, addressing potential infrastructure and grading costs, pursuing General Plan amendments or rezoning if required, and possibly negotiating incentives. None of these issues were described as insurmountable, and to a large extent they fall within the policy authority of the Town Council. However, each raises questions about timing, process, and ensuring that public involvement remains central to any decision.

Unknown if there are any Big-Box Retailers in the pipeline
Staff did not identify any specific medium or large big-box retailer as currently engaged or under review. Community and Economic Development Director Paul Melcher emphasized that the Town maintains confidentiality regarding potential projects and explained that staff’s goal is to keep approximately three “qualified leads” active at any given time. He stated that four qualified retail leads are currently in the pipeline. However, no specific large big-box retailer was named during the discussion, and no project in that category is presently before the Council for consideration.

Staff claims of a direct outreach strategy seem contrary to prior council discussion
Community and Economic Development Director Paul Melcher explained that the Town conducts “cold-call outreach,” meaning staff contacts targeted retailers directly and provides site information, recruitment materials, and pre-application assistance. He did not specify which retailers have been contacted. At a prior Council meeting, in response to a question from Councilmember Nicolson, Melcher said staff has not contacted Costco directly. No specific retailer was identified as currently engaged.

Staff foresees land size constraints and entitlement uncertainty
Staff outlined several structural challenges. Medium to large retailers typically require 18 to 22 acres or more, high traffic volumes, and locations at major intersections — conditions that are increasingly difficult to meet in Oro Valley, where most readily developable commercial land has already been built. Remaining parcels may involve costly grading, drainage or wash constraints, infrastructure extensions, multiple property owners, or the need for General Plan amendments and rezoning. Staff noted that timing is often critical in site selection, meaning uncertainty in the entitlement process can put Oro Valley at a competitive disadvantage when retailers compare locations.

Sales tax rebate incentive discussed... lessons from the Oro Valley Marketplace experience
The discussion also acknowledged that incentives can be part of large retail recruitment, including infrastructure reimbursements, permit fee reimbursements, expedited review, and potentially sales tax–based incentives through an Economic Development Agreement. Any agreement must comply with Arizona’s Gift Clause and demonstrate a clear public benefit. Oro Valley has prior experience with retail tax incentives, most notably with the Oro Valley Marketplace project nearly two decades ago, which included a sales tax rebate component returning a portion of sales tax revenues to the developer over a defined period. Despite that arrangement, the Marketplace struggled financially for years, raising broader questions about the effectiveness and risks of retail tax incentive agreements.

Pre-Entitlements Proposed — Public Input Emphasized
The most significant policy concept discussed was whether the Town should consider “pre-entitling” certain commercial parcels for medium or large retail uses. This could involve initiating General Plan amendments or rezoning in advance of a specific retailer applying, and potentially negotiating Economic Development Agreements earlier in the process. Staff suggested that this approach could provide greater certainty and reduce timing risk for developers. Vice Mayor Barrett cautioned, however, that the Town must not short-circuit public input, emphasizing that community participation remains critically important in Oro Valley. Mayor Winfield indicated that any proposal involving pre-entitlements would need to return to Council as a separate agenda item for full discussion.

The last time staff recommended any pre‑entitlement action was a few years ago at Innovation Park. Council approved a measure to allow developers to grade sites early to attract “shovel ready” projects. To our knowledge, that effort produced no results.

No Action Taken; Further Discussion Likely
No formal action was taken. For now, staff will continue recruitment efforts. Any specific retailer proposal, incentive package, or change to the entitlement process would require future Council review and public input.

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Sea Change: Efficiency Will Be A Factor In Determining 2027 Budget

First step toward a program-level efficiency review
The Town of Oro Valley Council has taken a first step in ensuring that town operations are efficient. Last week, the council unanimously approved a measure directing staff to return with a defined scope of work and timeline to review town programs, including their costs, revenues, and participation levels, as part of the upcoming budget process.

Barrett, Nicholson, and Murphy: An efficiency review is needed
Vice Mayor Barrett said the item is“a follow-along on our recent tax conversation” and that she wanted to discuss “what are some methods or ways that we could kind of look for some of those efficiency opportunities as we go through some of this budget process.” She said the goal was not “to necessarily reduce the service levels that our community experiences, but there may be more efficient opportunities to provide that same level of service.” Council Member

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Nicholson described efficiency as “like miles per gallon on your truck… like miles per dollar,” and added, “We don’t have an infinite money supply… It’s the taxpayer’s money.” Council Member Murphy tied the issue to her earlier vote on taxes, stating, “That’s why I didn’t vote for the taxes is because we had not had an independent operational efficiency audit, to my knowledge, ever.”

Third-party audit discussed, but staff outlined an internal approach
The council initially discussed whether a third party should be hired to review operations. Town Manager Jeff Wilkins said an outside effort could cost “over $100,000… It could be 150, even,” depending on scope. He said staff could instead compile key information internally, including “a list of the programs, the cost of the program, the revenue that that program may bring, the users that might be overall users as well as unique users.” 

Staff push back: They are already "cutting costs"

This assignment will be challenging for staff for four reasons. First, it comes at a time when departments are building their budgets under an existing process and timeline. That process that does not include a challenge to town programs and activities.  Second, According to Wilkins, pulling this together requires coordination across departments during the budget process. Apparently, this coordination is not part of the normal budget process. Third, staff thinks that town operations are already efficient, so they likely view this request as a waste of time. Fourth, there is a difference between town staff and council members of what the term “efficiency" means.  Staff defines efficiency as cutting costs…

But "cost cutting" is not "efficiency".. It is the result of "efficiency"

Efficiency comes from reexamining what needs to be done and eliminating what does not. It means thinking differently than town staff's approach of incremental spending cuts and staged hiring freezes (see panel above right). It means reassessing priorities, identifying the activities that deliver the greatest public value, and concentrating resources there. It means streamlining processes. It means questioning all activities to insure that they serve a necessary purpose. It means challenging organization structure and layers of management. It means using tools, including artificial intelligence, to replace routine, lower-level work such as basic coding, data entry, basic document review, financial reconciliations, permit intake screening, and draft communications.

What this could lead to in the 2027 budget cycle
Last week's council conversation suggests that the coming 2026-27 budget discussions may focus on program value in addition to program cost. Council members said they want clearer information about what the town does, what it costs, and who it serves. If that information is developed in a usable way, it could shape broader discussions about program priorities, including whether some programs should be modified, expanded, reduced, or discontinued.

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