Thursday, March 28, 2024

Bits and Pieces

Council focuses Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve Plan on revegetation and improving pond area 
Last week, the town council discussed the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve draft master plan in study session. George Radnovich, a consultant from Sites Southwest, discussed changes in the master plan, survey results, proposed projects, costing, and phasing. The council reached consensus on project priorities and direction, designating funds for cart path repairs, focusing on safety signage, and enhancing the visual appeal of the pond area without reintroducing water features. The council will discuss the plan at the April 7th council meeting. (Source: Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, Study Session of March 20, 2024

Save The Dates for Oro Valley’s 50th Birthday Celebration
Mark your calendar for the following dates: 
  • April 6: Parade from Ironwood High School to Library starts at 9am 
  • April 13: 50th Celebration at Kreigh Park
  • April 27: 50 Trees for 50 Years community tree planting at various parks, starts at 9am
In addition to these exciting opportunities, Oro Valley also invites you to explore the special features available on the OV 50th web page. (Source: Town of Oro Valley media release)

"Eggstravaganza" Saturday
"The Oro Valley Easter Eggstravaganza is an annual egg hunt that includes jumping castles, crafts, games, food trucks and other fun activities! Join us for a free, family-friendly event at James D. Kriegh Park with food trucks, arts and crafts, games and the Easter bunny! Click here to see egg hunt times and the event map." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Weekly Email)
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Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Oro Valley Ends "Visit Tucson" Destination Marketing Partnership

Town will do its own destination marketing
The town has been using Visit Tucson [see panel] as its destination marketing company. According to Town Manager Jeff Wilkins speaking at last week’s town council meeting this arrangement is over. He announced that the town will handle its own destination marketing. 

“Oro Valley is starting to transition and manage its own tourism strategy. We've started to work toward special events, especially in the sporting event area.”  He noted that the town will “…continue to purchase advertising space in certain publications, and also work on additional marketing [with Visit Tucson]…they would still communicate with us when they needed facilities and such. But we did express that we were parting ways as far as the agreement.”

Town has been using Visit Tucson for many years...value always questioned
The town has been funding Visit Tucson and its predecessor, MTCVB, for years. Residents have consistently questioned its value. Marana and Sahuarita have never funded it. The organization never demonstrated that it returned significant return for the investment to Oro Valley. The amount paid increased substantially when the town annexed Westward Look in 2021.  This annexation brought with it a Pima County agreement with Visit Tucson for destination marketing at Westward Look. The agreement entailed a cost of $250,000 solely for Westward Look. The cost was determined based on a percentage of bed tax revenue. The total funding in the town’s budget for Visit Tucson this year is $410,000.

It is unclear if Visit Tucson directly benefited Oro Valley
The last council update from Visit Tucson on its contribution to the town was in February of 2022. At that time, they claimed that they:
  • Delivered 26,500 room nights to Oro Valley hotels
  • Hotel occupancy at 55%...and revenues up about 16%
  • and they were were actively marketing the town
Visit Tucson has not updated the council since then.

Our guess is that it was a close to "break even" deal for the town
What we do know regarding Visit Tucson’s direct benefits to Oro Valley is based on their 2023 Annual Report. The only direct benefit noted in that report is Visit Tucson’s claim that it brought the US Artistic Swimming’s US Junior Senior Championship to the Oro Valley Aquatic Center in April of 2023; and that the organization was so impressed by the facility, they planned to return for the US Master Championships last October. 

Regarding the value of that to the town and other Visit Tucson events, our estimate indicates that the total revenue brought to the town by Visit Tucson barely exceeded the funds paid by the town to Visit Tucson. Specifically, it amounted to $556,000 compared to Visit Tucson's $410,000 fee. [See "About our estimate" at the conclusion of this article]

Decision appears to have been abrupt..updated
This past December, we asked Mayor Winfield when the next update to council from Visit Tucson would occur. He told us that it would occur around this time. Early last month at the council’s strategy study session, Vice Mayor Barrett reminded all that a full analysis of Visit Tucson’s contribution to the town was in order according to the council’s “…strategic leadership plan [iteCommunity and Economic Development staff completed the analysis and created a PowerPoint presentation for Council that summarizes the key findings of that analysis. Feel free to submit a records request for that presentation, which is entitled: Visit Tucson Annual Agreement Assessment.m] 1.4.1: A complete a comprehensive analysis of the return on investment and benefits derived from the town's partnership with Visit Tucson and bring options to council regarding the town's tourism and attraction plans.” 

That analysis and those option were never presented to Council in a public session. However, the Community and Economic Development staff completed the analysis and created a PowerPoint presentation for Council that summarizes the key findings of that analysis. The town tells us that it was discussed with each council member during their monthly briefings from the town manager. We have requested that document.

So why the change?
So we do not know why the town made the decision. Nor do we know what will be the future plans. We have ask both the town and Council Member Nicolson, the liaison to Visit Tucson, for an explanation. We'll let you know what we learn.
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About our estimate
In their annual report for 2023, Visit Tucson claimed to have generated $23 in revenue for every dollar invested system-wide. This translated to an average of $9.43 million generated for Oro Valley. Assuming that all of this revenue was returned in bed tax and sales taxes, totaling 5.9%, these additional revenues would amount to $556,000, slightly surpassing the $410,000 the town pays Visit Tucson.
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Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Vistoso Trails Apartments To Proceed Despite Residents' Opposition

Fate Sealed Long Ago
In 2022, the town negotiated a deal to transform the former Vistoso Golf course into open space. In the process, then-town manager Mary Jacobs and Town Council Attorney Jonathan Rothschild negotiated a “settlement agreement” that would result in apartments being built on a small portion of that land. They argued that such an agreement was necessary for the 202 acres of open space to become a reality.

Resident opposition fails
The council approved the settlement agreement in a 2021 Executive Session. Residents were never informed of the deal. Two years later, just last week, many residents attended a public hearing. They voiced unanimous opposition to the apartments. With one council member's exception, their pleas were ignored. Apartments will be built.

Residents who live near the Vistoso Trails Reserve are "Collateral Damage"
As Oro Valley resident Chuck Davis noted at the meeting: "Almost everybody won… everybody except for the three or four hundred residents within about 500 feet of this property. We are the collateral damage.”  Indeed, Davis is right.  Former town manager Mary Jacobs and Town Council Attorney Jonathan Rothschild negotiated the deal on the Preserve. Their interests were not represented. 

The problem was that the deal to create the Reserve was complicated
There was urgency to get it done because there were lots of moving parts: Preserve Vistoso fundraising for the purchase, a town financial contribution for the purchase, the involvement of developer to assume ownership of the six acres under discussion, and the need to retain the interest and commitment of The Conservation Fund. 

and needed be be acted upon quickly
There was also urgency spurned on by the continuing possibility of large scale development of the entire former golf course. According to resident Rosa Daley, writing in LOVE: “When the over 200 acres of the closed Vistoso golf course drew developers like flies, the Winfield administration was able to swat them away and serve the residents who deserved to have the land remain recreational.” 

And that resident dissatisfaction was inevitable
The Council saw the agreement in a December 2021 Executive Session. They were given little time to assess it. Speaking to the residents at last week's meeting, Council Member Tim Bohen said that resident disapproval of the apartments was an inevitable consequence of the agreement. Regarding the negotiations:  Council members "...were never in the room. We were brought proposals and asked to vote in a majority for it." Our guess is that the council was told that this was the best deal for all.  And they bit.

Regarding the apartments, town staff interpretations rule
Bohen shares resident frustration that their pleas would go unheeded. "We represent you," he noted "but so much of what impacts you is decided by town administrator rulings that we have no control over. This might be a bitter experience, but hopefully, you'll gain a better understanding of how your town government truly operates. The town’s administrators wield a significant amount of authority, and it's not unwarranted for you to question how they employ it.”

In the End… Zoning rights trump the General Plan
There will be 132 apartments built on 8.7 acres,  The approval for these was a complicated deal last week, requiring four motions. Only Councilmember Tim Bohen voted against it. Council approval was inevitable.  The landowner is entitled to build apartments on over six acres due to the property's zoning as high density residential. According to town staff, no other document, not even the 2016 general plan's land designation of the property as medium-density residential, holds precedence. As town Planning Director and Town Engineer Bayer Vella noted in the meeting: The General Plan “…cannot and does not override a zoning right. The zoning right is high density. That can't be swept aside.”
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Thursday, March 21, 2024

OV’s Path Forward: Let’s Talk Parks and Recreation

What do you like best about Oro Valley's amenities?
Over the past 4 months, residents often responded with our high-quality parks, trails, biking, and other outdoor recreational amenities. Enjoying OV’s natural beauty and being active is highly valued by the community.
 

What else can the Town do to improve or maintain this value?
For a town of its size, Oro Valley offers a broad range of events, programs, and facilities to support its residents. But there is always more that can be done. Looking ahead, the need for more sports facilities, including pickleball and improvements to aging infrastructure is anticipated. 

What types of outdoor amenities do you want in OV?

So far, a community garden, special places to rollerblade or skateboard have all been suggested. Please join the online conversation to add your ideas! Everyone’s voice is needed to ensure the measurable actions included in the next 10-year plan, known as OV’s Path Forward, turn the community’s vision for the future into reality.

Did you know expanding Naranja Park and completing the Parks and Recreation Master Plan stemmed from a 10-year plan? OV’s Path Forward is the best opportunity to spark action and produce real results in the community.

Join the conversation today!
Information about parks and recreation is now available on www.OVPathForward.com. On the “Where OV Plays” page, learn more about OV’s Parks and Recreation by reading the background report or watching a video. But don’t stop there! Please explore all the “Learn and Discuss” pages to share your priorities and expectations for traffic, views, housing, economic development, public safety and more.

Your participation is critical to establishing the vision, values, and goals for Oro Valley’s future. Please check www.OVPathForward.com often to make your voice heard. 
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Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Meet Council Candidate Mary Murphy

Meet Mary Murphy
"I am running for council to serve and protect our wonderful community," declares Murphy in our communications. "I have a bachelor's degree, experience in Biomedical Research, and was a Licensed Practical Nurse for 15 years before moving to Oro Valley." Murphy is a stay-at-home mother of two. She has served on the Town’s Board of Adjustment.. 

Murphy is a champion of first responders
"I am proud to be married to a Desert Storm veteran who has had a successful thirty plus years in law enforcement. During that time, he also served for twenty years in the Marine Corps Reserve. So, I've witnessed firsthand the sacrifices these men and women make to serve and protect our communities. Many people don't realize the comfort they receive from these heroes until they actually need it."

Murphy “walks the talk” 
She supports first responders, citing her volunteer role as the Executive Director of First Responders and Military Affiliations for Rockin’ 4 Heroes. You will also see her at related events. Two weeks ago, “I had a fantastic time at the Guns and Hoses kickball charity event to support Project Graduation (keeping our community's graduates safe) at Riverfront Park on Saturday. It was a beautiful day to celebrate safety in our wonderful community.” You will see her at next fall's Rockin’ 4 Heroes... November 10 at Kreigh Park.

"I am a very vocal advocate for the Arizona Heroes Memorial which is being built in Naranja Park. I cannot wait to see this very special project come to fruition soon! I was honored to be asked by the Board to speak at the groundbreaking ceremony last year. I will have a brick honoring my father-in-law and my husband. Both were officers in the Marine Corps. And I would encourage you to consider supporting the memorial by creating a brick in honor of a loved one."

Government for the People 
"Accessibility in local government is essential," Murphy notes, expressing her commitment to being readily available to meet with residents through initiatives like "Council on Your Corner." Additionally, she underscores the importance of supporting local businesses and maintaining disciplined fiscal policies, echoing her vow to keep property taxes out of Oro Valley.

Championing the good 
She also believes that "accentuating the positive" can make an enormous difference in our town. She proposes initiatives akin to the "Spotlight on Youth" awards, celebrating those residents who positively impact our community, fostering a culture of reciprocal gratitude and service. "I love the idea of doing a Spotlight on community members to make a positive impact much like we do for a wonderful 'Spotlight on Youth' community awards," she remarks.

Preserving Oro Valley’s character and appeal
Murphy prioritizes protecting the character of Oro Valley. "Protecting Oro Valley's beauty, parks, and amenities is important to me as it preserves our community’s heart and soul for current and future generations.”

Enthusiastic about Oro Valley's future
Murphy brings a focus on community service, an unwavering advocacy for first responders, and a commitment to accessible governance. Her goal is to champion and safeguard Oro Valley's unique character and appeal for generations to come.

Want to learn more?
You can learn more about Mary Murphy.  Visit her campaign web site
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Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Reflecting on 25 Years: Oro Valley's Mayoral Roundtable

25 years of leadership on display
The Oro Valley Historical Society (OVHS) hosted a roundtable last week with three mayors: Paul Loomis, Satish Hiremath, and Joe Winfield. Collectively, their time in office spans the last 25 years of the town’s 50-year history. The roundtable was the third of four special events hosted by OVHS in celebration of Oro Valley’s 50th anniversary. Oro Valley historian Jim Williams moderated the event. Loomis served in office from 1998-2010; Hiremath from 2010-2018; and Winfield from 2018 to the present.

Accomplishments of which they are most proud
Asked about the things they are most proud of accomplishing during their term, Loomis spoke of infrastructure development, including roadways, bridges, and water systems, as well as fostering regional cooperation with neighboring towns. He also highlighted commercial developments and stabilizing town policies, notably transitioning the employee retirement system.

Hiremath highlighted his administration's focus on creating a holistic community environment conducive to living, working, and playing. Key achievements included attracting the state's first veterinary school, facilitating innovation park development, annexations, cultural investments like Tohono Chul, economic growth through private investments, and initiatives supporting veterans, education, and safety. He also mentioned community programs like the Dark House Program and various recreational and educational developments.

Winfield emphasized accomplishments achieved through collective efforts, including hiring key personnel like Chief Riley and Judge Hazel, addressing the police pension shortfall, investing in parks, creating the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve, and facilitating mixed-use development.

Things they would have done differently
Loomis discussed two unfinished annexations, particularly one involving Arroyo Grande, land north of Oro Valley up to the Pima County line, which was put on hold due to changes in state administration. He also stressed the need for better public education regarding town regulations and processes, suggesting that increased awareness could lead to less controversy surrounding council decisions.

Hiremath admitted to shortcomings in messaging during his term, particularly regarding misconceptions about projects such as the community center. He acknowledged a failure to effectively defend these initiatives against public scrutiny, highlighting the importance of transparent communication to counteract misinformation and foster understanding among residents.

Winfield focussed on things he wished the town hand done differently. He felt that decisions early in the town's history, which placed responsibility for parks on homeowner associations, may not have been in the best interest of residents. That decision resulted in smaller parks and poor trail connectivity.

Citizen involvement matters
The three mayors characterized citizen involvement as helping to foster a vibrant and inclusive community.

Loomis noted that new ideas and alternatives are often presented by residents. He noted a common challenge: Public engagement tends to occur late in the decision-making process, making it difficult to incorporate changes. He lamented that negativity tends to overshadow positive accomplishments, urging for a more balanced perspective.

Hiremath emphasizes the importance of considering all residents' viewpoints, even if they are single-issue focused. He underscored the necessity for council members to prioritize the broader community's interests over individual preferences.

Winfield encourages continued engagement, particularly in the formulation of the general plan, which serves as a blueprint for the town's future. He urged residents to voice their opinions and contribute to shaping Oro Valley's trajectory through platforms like ovpathforward.com.

Three Mayors…. Three different impacts
The roundtable showcased 25 years of collective leadership in Oro Valley. Each put their mark on the community. Oro Valley expanded its infrastructure under Paul Loomis, bolstered its economic base under Satish Hiremath, and, under Winfield’s current leadership, has further developed its parks and recreational system.
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Thursday, March 14, 2024

Meet Council Candidate Elizabeth Robb

Meet Elizabeth Robb in her own words
We met Elizabeth Robb last week with the purpose of providing insights to our readers about who she is and why she decided to run for a council seat in the July election. Here is what she had to say. The words are hers...the subtitles are ours.

A Passion for Education and Community
 "Since the boys were in elementary, I jumped in… started helping with the school, whenever and wherever they needed help and with the PTO. I also got involved with Cub Scouts, I started helping in the High School as a classified substitute teacher."

A business owner of "Elizabeth's Garden"
Robb reminisces about the humble beginnings of her agricultural venture, highlighting her passion for farming and entrepreneurship.  "Elizabeth's Garden started with a garden overflowing with tomatoes... and it's gone crazy from there. Now I've got a whole general store." You have likely have seen her at the town's Saturday Farmer's Market, 

A LOVE of Oro Valley
"The army brought me out here. Then I went to Germany for a couple of years. Then I came back and met my husband and stayed…We already knew we liked this school district. And then we looked at Oro Valley and the area around. I was like, you know, this is perfect." 

A focus on supporting public safety
”We have a fabulous, wonderful, safe community. We've got a great police department. We've been supporting them well. And we need to keep doing that.”

Preserving recreation and open space
 “Oro Valley is a great place for outdoor recreation, and it needs to stay that way. There’s so much fun recreational outdoor activities that people can do of all levels.” Robb reeled off a list to us" "…the aquatic center….playgrounds… parks…archery…Steam Pump Ranch…movies…bike events...We’ve got pickleball, we've got the weight facility that's in the community center, which my son is using. And then we've got all the trails in the mountains and all the trails around town, bike paths. ...You want to find something to do they offer all those classes.”

Assuring our water supply
“We have enough water available as long as we don't overbuild. We need to stay within what our water supply is, keep our water use reasonable, try to preserve it. We live in a desert. And there's lots of issues coming up with water and I don't know any good solutions to, but we'll try and find the best one we possibly can.”

Ensuring responsible development
"No development is not realistic... but we can't have completely out of control development that's going to change the atmosphere and the feel and the function of Oro Valley."

A decision to make a first hand difference
"Over the past three years, I’ve watched the events surrounding the [Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene] request for a sports complex rezoning. I’ve gained insight into how our town operates from this and from my experience in building our garage and interacting with planning and zoning. As a result, I’ve been paying closer attention to Oro Valley's affairs, recognizing various zoning issues and studying town agendas. I realized there's an opportunity for positive change, and I know I can help. My background as a company commander and involvement in brigade and battalion staff have equipped me with experience in meetings, planning, and working with diverse groups. Additionally, my involvement with various committees and organizations, such as PTOs and Boy Scouts, has honed my skills in organizing people and achieving objectives."

Want to learn more?
You can learn more about Elizabeth Robb? Visit her campaign website.
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