Friday, April 10, 2026

Bits and Pieces

Chamber honors local businesses and community leaders 
The Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders at its 34th annual meeting, held at El Conquistador on March 26.  There were more than 330 attendees. Among the awards: A Senior Journey was named Outstanding Small Business; Anchor Wave received Outstanding Midsize Business; and Splendido at Rancho Vistoso was recognized as Outstanding Large Business. In the nonprofit category, Hearts of Gold Police Family Outreach Foundation and Youth On Their Own were honored, while Karen Kochhar of Right at Home Tucson was named Outstanding Community Leader. The Chamber also presented its Legacy Award to Art State Arizona, highlighting its lasting contribution to the community.

Town agrees to pay county almost $12,900 for election services this year
The Oro Valley Town Council approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Pima County Recorder’s Office to provide election services for the 2026 election cycle, including voter registration maintenance, early voting, and ballot processing for both the July 21 primary and November 3 general elections. The agreement, which runs through the end of 2026, continues the Town’s longstanding practice of using county services to conduct its elections. The cost of these services is expected to be about $12,900, which will be paid to the county for administering the elections. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting of April 8, 2026)

Town urges residents to sign up for CodeRED emergency alerts
The Town of Oro Valley is encouraging residents and businesses to sign up for CodeRED, a free emergency notification system that delivers alerts by phone, text, email, and social media. The system is used for urgent situations such as AMBER alerts, hazardous road conditions, boil water advisories, and evacuation notices. Officials recommend that users verify and update their contact information, including adding alternate numbers, to improve reliability during emergencies. The Town notes that CodeRED complements its broader communication efforts and helps ensure timely delivery of important safety information.  (Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

State delay voided commercial use tax approval...Council to restart process
Town staff informed the Oro Valley Town Council that the use tax approved in January has been voided after the Arizona Department of Revenue failed to update the official model tax code within the required 10-day period, despite receiving the Town’s ordinance within that timeframe. As a result, the Town must restart the process, including public notification and a new council vote. Council unanimously authorized staff to begin that process, with plans to bring the item back for consideration in June.  (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, April 8, 2026)

Oro Valley leaders support Camp Corral fundraiser for military families
Oro Valley Councilmembers Elizabeth Robb and Mary Murphy will join the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 39 at a fundraiser for Camp Corral on Sunday, April 19 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Golden Corral (6865 N. Thornydale Road). Camp Corral is a national nonprofit that provides a free week of summer camp for children of wounded, ill, and fallen military service members, and has served thousands of children nationwide since its founding. The event will include raffle ticket sales, silent auction items, and donation opportunities, with proceeds helping send military children to camp and support the organization’s programs. The event is free to attend. (Source: Camp Corral Flyer)

Residents voice no opinion on the Path Forward General Plan at first public hearing
Tuesday, we reported that the Planning and Zoning Commission was holding a public hearing on the final resident-recommended draft of the Path Forward General Plan. As it turned out, only one resident had requested to speak but, when called, declined to do so. The Commission discussion focused on questions about specific elements of the plan, including broadband access for safety, and included general support for the plan and the level of resident participation in its development. The Commission will hold a second public hearing on April 14 before making a recommendation to Town Council.

Battle of the Bands registration opens for high school musicians
Registration is now open for the Oro Valley Battle of the Bands, scheduled for Friday, May 22 at 7:15 p.m. at Steam Pump Ranch. Bands must submit an original demo or YouTube link by May 15, with selected groups performing a three-song set in front of a live audience. To be eligible, at least half of each band’s members must be high school students. Winners will be chosen by a panel of judges, with first, second, and third place prizes awarded. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Bulletin)

Chamber Candidate Forum set for April 23
The Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce will host a candidate forum on April 23 at the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene, providing residents an opportunity to hear directly from candidates ahead of the July 21 primary election. The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to submit questions in advance to help guide the discussion.  
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