Bits and Pieces

Follow Up: Finance Director Gephart reinforces “lean but balanced” five year financial forecast

Wednesday, we reported that the town’s latest five-year financial forecast maintains balanced operations and reflects a more cautious, scaled-back approach to capital spending, while also highlighting longer-term uncertainties. Wednesday night, at the Town Council meeting, Finance Director David Gephart reinforced that view, describing the forecast as intentionally lean on capital projects to keep the town on a sustainable path. He said the plan is balanced and keeps spending within current means, while cautioning against drawing down fund balances, particularly in the capital fund, which will be needed for future priorities such as the full build-out of the police headquarters. He added that the forecast is a starting point, and any new spending will require adjustments during the upcoming budget process. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)

“ARK Project” promotes acts of kindness among local youth

Also at Wednesday's council meeting, Rabbi Baruch Zimmerman introduced a new community initiative during remarks tied to Education and Sharing Day, announcing the launch of the “ARK Project,” which stands for Acts of Random, or Routine, Kindness. The program centers on small charity boxes that individuals, particularly students, can fill with spare change and later donate to a person or organization of their choice. He said the effort is intended to encourage a mindset of giving, especially among young people, by working with local schools to distribute the boxes in classrooms and homes. Rabbi Baruch emphasized that the initiative is not a fundraiser for any organization, but rather a way to help instill habits of generosity and community contribution. Residents interested in participating or helping distribute the boxes are encouraged to reach out through local schools or community connections involved in the effort. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)

The Roadrunners are the AHL affiliate
of the NHL Utah Mammoth

Town Center GPA proposal returns to public discussion next week
We have had another resident ask about the yellow signs posted at the intersection of Oracle Road and Pusch View Lane. The sign announces a meeting that will take place next Wednesday at 6 p.m. in Town Council Chambers. The meeting concerns a general plan amendment and the rezoning of property donated to the town by the Rooney family. The property is currently zoned for somewhat unusual uses, and no development occurred under that zoning. As a result, the family donated the land to the town. Under the leadership of Melanie Barrett, the town has developed a concept that places commercial uses along Oracle Road, with some housing behind, while preserving much of the property as open space. Here is a link to the town’s information on the rezoning. Here is a link to LOVE’s previous reporting. Wednesday is an opportunity to learn more if you are interested in this property.

Town Easter celebration on April 5

Kriegh Park will again be busy, this time for the town’s annual Easter celebration on Saturday, April 4. This free event features age-based egg hunts scheduled throughout the morning: ages 0–2 at 9:30 a.m., ages 3–5 at 9:50 a.m., ages 6–8 at 10:10 a.m., and ages 9–10 at 10:30 a.m. Families can expect another well-attended community event at one of the town’s most frequently used parks. (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)

Resident raises concerns about bright night signage near Vistoso Highlands

Resident Susanna Cameron Crichton raised concerns about lighting from the Centerpoint development near Vistoso Highlands Drive. Speaking at Wednesday's council meeting, she shared that two large illuminated signs along Pebble Creek Drive are affecting nearby homes and the adjacent nature reserve. She described the signs as unusually large and brightly lit, noting that they turn on at dusk and remain visible through surrounding vegetation. According to Crichton, the lighting disrupts sleep for nearby residents despite window coverings and may also impact wildlife in the preserve. She said she previously contacted a town ordinance officer, who reviewed applicable lighting regulations, but still questioned why this level of illumination is permitted when other neighborhoods in Oro Valley use more subdued signage. We don't know what will happen with this, but the mayor did not ask staff to look into it.  (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)

Former council member questions legitimacy of new traffic signal approved by council at Naranja Park north entrance

Also speaking at Wednesday's council meeting, Bill Garner, an Oro Valley resident of more than 20 years and a former council member, raised concerns about the proposed traffic signal at Tangerine Road and Musette Drive, stating that it does not currently meet established warrant standards. He noted that this would be the second signal pursued without meeting those criteria, referencing the signal installed near the Community Center. Garner emphasized that the town has adopted standards and previously funded studies to guide such decisions, and cautioned against proceeding based on expectations that warrants may be met in the future. He also said nearby residents and the HOA were not notified of the proposal. Garner suggested that future projects include formal confirmation that warrants are met before construction begins and that advance public notice, such as posted signage, be required for major roadway changes. He also applauded Vice Mayor Barrett for abstaining from approving this traffic signal.  (Source: The Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, March 18, 2026)

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Kristy Diaz-Trahan Celebrates A Decade of Service and Extraordinary Change As Oro Valley Parks Leader

Diaz-Trahan celebrates a decade with Oro Valley 

Kristy Diaz-Trahan joined the Town of Oro Valley as the town's Director of Parks on February 4, 2013.  That's ten years ago. 

My, how things have changed... from then...

At that time, the town had completed the rehabilitation of the town pool. The town had two major parks: Kreigh Park, which the town got for free from the County; and Riverfront Park, which the town had built a few years prior. The town also had the county bond purchased Steam Pump Ranch. The town had several multi-use paths.

...To now... A decade of major change

Diaz-Trahan has overseen tremendous change in the town's parks facilities and programs. Today there is much more to Oro Valley's Parks and Recreation system. There is a community center building that houses an exercise facility, meeting rooms, golf retail, and a restaurant.  There are also two locations for tennis courts. Town has converted some of these to Pickleball courts.  There is a resturant. There are three town owned golf courses that comprise 45 holes. Naranja Park, which was a gravel pit when Diaz-Trahan joined, is being built into a regional park.  Diaz-Trahan is overseeing the conversion of the Vistoso Golf Course into the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. Over the decade, the town has done much to increase its multi-use path and trails system.

Making Oro Valley's parks and recreation a source of economic vitality

When Diaz-Trahan joined the town, the focus of Parks and Recreation had been changed by then Mayor Hiremath. The focus had been to provide facilities and programs primarily for Oro Valley residents.  Hiremath wanted the town's parks facilities to be a revenue source for the town.  The thought was to use the facilities to bring those who live outside of Oro Valley into the community to spend their dollars. As reported in LOVE from our interview with her in March of 2013, Diaz-Trahan bought into that concept. She has implemented it. Today's majority council has retained that philosophy by not making any change to it. Thus, the creation of Naranja Park into a huge regional sports facility under their leadership.

Spending change from $2.8 million in 2013 to $15.4 million today

All of these changes have consequences in terms of the spending on Parks and Recreation by the town. The total Parks spending in 2013 was $2.8 million. The 2023-24 requested Town Manager Recommended Budged [TMRB] is $15.4 million. That is a five times increase. Total staff was 47 in 2013. The 2023-24 TMRB number is 69 staff. 

Rising to the challenge

It is hard to imagine that Diaz-Trahan anticipated all of the change that town councils have visited upon the parks department. None of these changes were envisioned in the town's 2006 or 2016 General Plans. The golf courses, tennis courts, and community center came about through a happenstance purchase from HSL Properties when it shed itself of these facilities for $1million in 2015. The Winfield Council decided to buildout Naranja Park through a $25 million bond offering in 2019. The town virtually had the Vistoso Property delivered to it so that the town could maintain and protect it in perpetuity in 2022. 

Nonetheless, Diaz-Trahan has risen to the challenge of helping to envision and create these facilities; and then to manage and operate them.

Add to this the major changes and increases in program offerings that Diaz-Trahan has authored and attendant increase in resident participation.

Congratulations Kristy....It's been an awesome decade of change

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Bits and Pieces

Oro Valley’s 21st annual State of the Town Address next week 

" ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Oct. 19, 2022) – Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield will deliver his fourth State of the Town Address on Thursday, Oct. 27 at the El Conquistador Tucson, a Hilton Resort. The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. Mayor Joe Winfield will share a message based on the four pillars of local government: Economic Vitality and Fiscal responsibility; the Public Safety ecosystem; Public Works; and Parks and Recreation." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Town of Oro Valley publishes “Know Your Town’s Budget” for Fiscal Year 2022/23 

"ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Oct. 18, 2022) – The Town of Oro Valley’s Adopted Fiscal Year 2022/23 Budget has been published and is now available to residents. On June 15, the Oro Valley Town Council adopted the FY 2022/23 budget of $147.7 million. This is a $14.3 million, or an 8.8% decrease from the adopted FY 2021/22 budget that totaled $162 million. This decrease is due primarily to the Town Council approved one-time payment of $27.6 million in FY 2021/22 to eliminate the Town’s Public Safety Pension Retirement System unfunded pension liability."  View the budget.

(Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

"Rock 4 Heroes"-A Huge Success

This past Sunday, organizers held "Rockin' 4 Heroes"at Kreigh Park. The event featured music and drink. The goal is to raise funds for a heroes memorial that will be be at Naranja Park. The Quinns are the Oro Valley couple that started this because they wanted to thank the first responders for taking such good care of their son when he was battling cancer. Unfortunately their son lost this battle the year before last year's event, but his legacy lives one. There were about 2,000 in attendance.  Read more about this great event next Thursday.

Dave Perry To Retire

Dave Perry is the President and CEO of the Greater  Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce. He has been with the organization for 11 years. Dave and his wife Lisa live in Oro Valley.

Council agrees to move forward with negotiating for some properties for CDO to Greenock trail extension

The Oro Valley Town Council voted to move forward with discussions to acquire two small land parcels from an HOA and the Oro Valley Country Club. The cost, as reported in LOVE this past Wednesday, is $13,000 for these parcels. There are other parcels that need to be purchased from private land owners to complete the extension. The dollar amounts of these purchases have yet to be determined and will be brought before council when such is determined. 

This section of the trail will eventually be joined by other sections to complete a connection to Kreigh Park and to the Linda Vista Trailead.

Town To Consider Small Acquisition That Provides Big Benefit To Community

$13,000 to begin to create CDO Multi-Use Path connectivity
Tonight, the Town of Oro Valley Town Council will consider a small land acquisition. The acquisition is needed so that the town can connect the CDO multi-use path to Greenock Drive. Eventually, from there. the plan is to create a path to Kreigh Park. It is part of the town’s $25 million (now $43 million) Parks Bond Project. The amount of the land acquisition is $13,000. The land to be purchased is not the entire land needed across the wash, but it is a start.

 This trail connection is the only bond project that directly benefits those who live south of the CDO wash. Because of geography, they have no direct trail connectivity to the multi-use path or to any town amenity north of the CDO Wash. They gain no direct benefit from the golf courses’ irrigation replacement and the community center tennis court replacements unless they are paid members of the Community Center. Most of these residents are not.

They will get no benefit from Naranja Park, because they are far from it. They will get no benefit from an anticipated entertainment center in Oro Valley Village Center (formerly known as the Oro Valley Marketplace.) They are far from that. They get no benefit from the now town-owned Vistoso Preserve. They are far from that.

Should be a slam dunk but…

One would hope that authorizing Town staff to move forward with this purchase would be a slam dunk. But given the disastrous bond spending overrun on the golf courses, the tennis courts and the Naranja Park projects, one wonders if the council will flinch and not approve this modest amount; instead, choosing to defer it to “who knows when.”

The reason we say this is that Mayor Winfield stated two weeks ago that the town could delay doing anything on the trail extension to Kreigh Park. Last year, he “nixed” a Parks and Recreation plan concept to connect the multi-use path to Riverfront Park. The council has also ignored an opportunity to expand Kreigh Park. The town owns land that was given to it by the Amphi School District that it can use to expand the park; but it’s chosen not to do so even though it is detailed in the 2021 Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

Neither the mayor nor any council member lives south of the CDO Wash. They don’t live in the original section of Oro Valley. They probably don’t recognize that the town has invested little in this area since rebuilding the aquatic center ten years ago.

At the same time, they seem to not be paying attention to the rapid development in this area of town. There is an Avilla Homes rental property being built in the area. There is the hill ordinance exception being requested to build 45 high density residential homes as we reported Monday. There is a recently completed storage facility. There is the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene (“OVCN”) mega sports complex request that is going to be heard at some point. All of these projects are turning this section of Oro Valley into a mini-city, something that was never intended when Oro Valley was founded.

There is only one connection to the multi use path for those who live in this area’ and that is at the very end of a small residential section that is hardly accessible to anyone. It would really be nice for the town to step up and show that they have some interest in helping the residents of our community who likely will never benefit from the $43 million is being spent in Parks and Recreation funding.

Bits and Pieces

Kreigh Park Easter "Eggstravaganza" tomorrow
Tomorrow, the town is hosting an Easter event. It is called the "Oro Valley Easter Eggstravaganza". It is an annual egg hunt that includes crafts, games, jumping castles, food trucks and other fun activities! Easter egg hunt divided by age groups: 9:30 a.m.: Ages 9-10 | 9:50 a.m.: Ages 6-8 | 10:10 a.m. : Ages 3-5 | 10:30 a.m. : Ages 0-2"

It is at Kreigh Park from 9am to Noon.

Town of Oro Valley is "flush with cash"
"With the Town now two-thirds of the way through the fiscal year, revenues continue to significantly outperform budget expectations. In addition, expenditure savings are anticipated in the Town’s major funds. The General Fund and Community Center Fund in particular, should end the fiscal year with substantially higher fund balances than projected." (Town Finance Director February 2022 Financial Update To Council)

Multi-Use Path heads toward Rancho Vistoso Blvd
The CDO multi use path runs from along the CDO, terminating at the Oro Valley Marketplace. There is a turnoff at the end that connects it to a  paved path that Pima County created along Big Wash. That paved path runs under Tangerine and heads north along the east side of Big Wash. At present, that paved path ends at a bit north or the Oro Valley Hospital. The Pima County Regional Flood Control District built that path. It is extending it this month with an added 3,100 linear feet. Next fiscal year it will complete the extension to Rancho Vistoso Blvd. (Source: Town Manager Executive Report, April 2022).  

Town of Oro Valley signs interim agreement to takeover Vistoso Nature Preserve
Town Manager Mary Jacobs "signed a Cooperative Interim Land Management Agreement with The Conservation Fund this week, paving the way for the future acceptance of the property. This agreement describes our respective responsibilities during TCF’s interim holding period of the property and the donation terms. We are making final reviews of the Conservation Easement, which will be recorded prior to the transfer to the Town. TCF is keeping residents and stakeholders apprised of the progress they are making on the initial clean-up of the property, which will be completed later this month.' (Source: Town Manager Executive Report, April 2022)

Remediation of Vistoso Nature Preserve continues
Work continues on the Vistoso property.  According to The Conservation Fund: Work in the northern area of the property is underway and Brightview is on schedule to complete efforts to improve access along the cart path, trim vegetation, prune trees, and remove debris from the underpasses by April 22nd. To date, they have cleared over 1 1⁄2 miles of the cart path. The remainder of the path in its entirety along the upper portion will mowed by the end of next week." (Source" The Conservation Fund Press Release, 4-7-22)

Reduce your speed on Oracle, from Concordia to Tangerine Road
The state has reduced the speed on Oracle from Calle Concordia to Tangerine Road from 50 to 45 mph. This is because it is repaving that section of the road. The first step is remediation of curb and sidewalk ramps. The turn lanes and side streets will be milled and paved during the months of April and May, and the main lanes will be milled and paved during the months of June and July.  Please slow down.

Bits and Pieces

Pusch Ridge Course has strong use... vastly exceeds expectations

According to Friends Of Pusch Ridge Golf, "Rounds at Pusch Ridge exceeded the last year it was open in the first two months. They met the town’s budget for the year by the end of January. Plus, they exceeded the Friends goal of 10,000 for the season as of this writing. This is also with several days of Disc Golf play instead of traditional golf.

 
We believe it is possible, with Friends help, to end the first season with more than double the town's budget. With luck we might exceed 14,000 rounds! So keep playing and enjoying this gem of the desert." (Source)

Kreigh Playground Reopened
Last week, the Town of Oro Valley announced the reopening of the Kreigh Park recreation area. It has new play structures. Yesterday was the ribbon cutting.

"The updated playground amenities include a jungle gym, slides, swings, climbing structures and interactive music structures. The playground is ADA accessible and has a seating area for adults to keep an eye on little ones.

 
The previous playground equipment was over 20 years old and was identified as needing to be replaced through the Parks and Recreation Master Plan process that was conducted in 2020/21. The playground temporarily closed in early February to replace the equipment." (Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release, 3-17-22)

Former Economic Development Director Amanda Jacobs now at Fountain Hills

Oro Valley's former Economic Development Director, Amanda Jacobs, is now the Economic Development Director in the Town of Fountain Hills.

"I was looking for a new opportunity where I could continue to serve and make a positive impact in local government,” Jacobs said. “Fountain Hills’ mission aligns with my values, is a well-managed community that is charming, safe and has several economic opportunities making it an ideal location to live and work." (Source)

Good luck Amanda. Thank you for you service to the residents of Oro Valley.

Spring Arts Festival this weekend

There is a Spring Arts Festival this weekend at the Oro Valley Marketplace.

"The 2-day outdoor artisan market in Oro Valley showcases some of the Southwest’s finest artisans in fashion, food, home goods, painting, and visual arts. In addition, pop up music performances and food trucks will be onsite for attendees to enjoy.

 
Our curated arts and crafts market celebrates the ingenuity of independently owned, small businesses and artists who channel their passions into creating one-of-a-kind handcrafted products.

 
Shop with the makers themselves – and learn how they make their unique works of art. Support small, local & sustainable!" (Source)

Riverfront Park light schedule changes start March 27

"Overhead pathway lights have been installed along the multi-use path around Riverfront Park, which will improve visibility for those using the path at night. Because of this, the field lights will now only be programmed while activities are scheduled on the fields. This means the field lights will no longer be programmed on Sunday nights." (Source)

Bits and Pieces

Kreigh Park playground temporarily closing for upgrades
ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Feb. 3, 2022) –– Oro Valley Parks and Recreation is excited to announce that the playground at James D. Kriegh Park will be replaced with brand-new playground structures, play surface and shade structure.

 
Before the new amenities can be installed, the existing playground and surface need to be removed. Because of that, the playground and ramada will be closed for construction starting Feb. 7. The upgraded playground is expected to reopen in late March.
The existing playground equipment is over 20 years old and was identified as needing to be replaced through the Parks and Recreation Master Plan process that was conducted in 2020/2021.

 

Community input played an important role in the new playground design. Parks and Recreation created a survey for residents to pick different designs and amenities. Over 400 people responded with comments and feedback on the designs. The first option (shown below) received over 65% of the vote, making it the winner.

 
Construction updates along with closure/reopening announcements will be made on the Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Facebook page. During construction, don’t forget that Oro Valley has additional playgrounds at Naranja Park and Riverfront Park.

(Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release 2-3-22)

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Council approves removing HSL option to lease town courses (if town declares any one of them 
"discontinued")

"On April 23, 2015, the Town Council entered into a Purchase and Sales Agreement for the El Conquistador Country Club and Golf Courses with HSL El Conquistador Golf, LLC (HSL). The agreement contains provisions allowing HSL to lease from the Town the 9-hole Resort (Pusch) Golf Course and/or the La Canada Golf Course in the event the Town decided not to maintain them as golf courses. A similar provision is included for the tennis courts.

In January 2021, HSL opted not to exercise its right to operate/lease the Pusch Golf Course after the Town declared it a discontinued course, effectively extinguishing their option in the Agreement. During the Town Council's discussion regarding the installation of new irrigation for the La Canada and El Conquistador courses, Council expressed interest in inquiring of HSL their willingness to relinquish the same option on the La Canada course.

(source)

 
HSL agreed to do so.  Council approved the measure 6-1 at the meeting this past Wednesday.

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LaCanada awaits repaving after water break

The town has repaired the water line break that occurred on LaCanada, north of Lambert Lane. Contractors are awaiting warmer day temperatures to repave the road.

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Volunteers needed for senior programming task force

"Oro Valley Parks and Recreation is seeking volunteers for a new taskforce to research and provide suggestions/feedback on senior program ideas. If you are interested, please contact Nancy Ellis at nellis@orovalleyaz.gov to request an application. The deadline to apply is February 28, 2022."

(Source)

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El Conquistador Resort hosts Golf Pro Tour All-Star Event on Pusch Ridge Course this month

The  El Conquistador Resort is hosting the second annual Disc Golf Pro Tour All-Star event. It will be held on the Pusch Ridge Golf course on February 11-13, 2022. The event will showcase some of the top disc golfers in the world as they compete in a unique format event that will kick off the 2022 season. Spectator tickets may be purchased here. Read more about this event here.

(source)

"Dream it, then do it" is Oro Valley's Latest Mural

There’s a new mural in town

It is at James D. Kreigh Park. It is painted on a utility wall near the aquatic center. The mural faces the park.  Artist Ashley White painted the mural. The mural is a project funded by the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce,Visit Tucson and the Town of Oro Valley.   The Southern Arizona Arts Council sponsored the project. This past Monday was the ribbon cutting. Council Members Harry Green and Tim Bohen attended the event, as well as former Mayor Paul Loomis.

Noting the number of youth practicing various sports, President of the Chamber Dave Perry noted that "This is the place kids pursue this sort of stuff" before turning the event over to Artist White for her comments.

Inspired by Jim Kreigh's words

White explained at the opening ceremony that the expression used, "Dream it, then do it" were those of Jim Kreigh's.  White is a commercial artist, designing various spaces such as restaurants. "One of the things I always do is look at who is going to be there and what do they appreciate. When I was here I notices so many different kinds of people... I wanted anyone who came here to be able to connect" with the mural. 

White research Oro Valley's founder Jim Kreigh. "I read a lot about him..his mission... his hard work and dedication... and how he wanted the town yo have control over its own destiny. It was not an easy process for him." White noted that Kreigh had a vision and a goal. "I went through those giant scrapbooks that his wife made." She also watched a video about Jim talking about the time. "The very last thing he said in the video: 'If you have a dream of something to be done, then do it." (link 26:01 mins)

The mural has the dreams of all ages

In the process of creating the mural, residents were requested to submit their "dreams" in four words or less. (LOVE posting). Many of these dreams are written on the mural. One of White's goals was to share he dreams of people of all ages.. from "Mac and Cheese to Running a Marathon." Other dreams, like a "Happy and healthy family", "To be accepted" and "Kindness for all others" are universal. Some are aspirational like "travel in a RV" and "Live near the ocean."

Next time you are at Kreigh Park do take a moment to look at the mural both from afar and then close up. We guarantee that it is worth the moment.

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About the artist: Ashley White is a commercial artist working in Southern Arizona and beyond under the business name Modern Aquarian. She specializes in custom designed hand painted signs, murals, and other artwork for businesses and public spaces. Her passion is helping business owners create functional and charismatic spaces and contributing to the visual character of cities. See more of Ashley's work on Instagram or Facebook @ModernAquarian or ModernAquarian.com

Bits and Pieces

Pima County has a "solution" to lost dogs
We are astounded by the number of pets that are lost almost daily in Oro Valley.  "Attaching a tag to your pet's collar might seem like a small thing, but it makes a big difference! Lost pets wearing tags return home faster." When you register your pet with the County, as you should annually, your pet becomes part of the "HomeSafe" program. Your pet gets a tag with their name on it and a unique code. When someone finds your pet, all they need to do is go to docupet.com to find you. If you lose your pet, you can go to the same site to let the world know your "baby" is missing. The service comes when you pay your annual fee.

Oro Valley wins 27th consecutive annual finance award

Oro Valley, Arizona (October 19, 2021) –– 

For the 27th year in a row, the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the Town of Oro Valley by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment for the Town. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release)

Jim Williams is writing "Oro Valley History"

Oro Valley resident Jim Williams, author of "Claiming the Desert" is in the process of creating a history of the Town of Oro Valley, from incorporation in 1974 to present. "I got bored during covid and I already researched some early parts of life in the sixties and seventies, I thought: 'Well, I'll keep going." Williams is in the process of interviewing and gathering information. If you have and interesting story you would like to share with Jim please send it to us a letorovalleyexcel@yahoo.com. We will forward it to him.

Next town council meeting will be November 3

This week's council meeting had a consent agenda item that would have cancelled the November 3 meeting. This cancellation would have followed two consecutive council meetings in which there were no regular agenda items. That is: Nothing of any substance discussed.  After much confusion about what no vote would me, the council decided to not approve the cancellation. In other words, there will be a November 3 town council meeting. 

Speaking in favor of holding the meeting, Council Member Bohen said he had identified five items that ought to have regular meeting session attention. For some very odd and unknown reason, Bohen was not allowed to mention the five because the outside legal council said it would be a violation of the "open meeting laws." We believe that mentioning what the five were would not be a violation. Discussing and deciding upon them would have been because there would have been no public notice that such a discussion would take place.

Mural unveiling Monday at Kreigh Park

"The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance, the Town of Oro Valley, Visit Tucson, and the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce will officially debut a new vibrant mural by local artist Ashley White at the James D. Kriegh Park at 23 W Calle Concordia, Oro Valley, AZ 85704. The celebration marks the first ever community mural project in Oro Valley, AZ." (Source: SAACA)

Bits and Pieces

Reminder: Town Centre Zoning Amendment Is Not Dead
We saw a posting on Nextdoor.com celebrating the fact that the zoning amendment to Town Centre was not passed by council. The posting seemed to feel this defeated the amendment. The amendment was not defeated. It was continued.

As we reported last week, the amendment will be heard again on April 3 and it is very much alive. Mayor Winfield proposed that the hearing be continued because, as he wrote us: "I thought the proposal could be improved and the proponent seemed willing. We'll see what they present April 3."

So, if you are interested, you should mark the date on your calendar and be sure to be there.

Resident Don English: "Flat out say no.." to Town Centre Amendment
Resident Don English made a compelling case to not approve the rezoning of Town Centre. He eloquently covered the issues he sees them. You can watch is remarks here. He speaks at about the 2 hour mark.

English ended his comments with his reflection on what the August election of a new mayor and 3 new council members meant to him:  "We had an election. A new leadership. A new direction. You promised to take a harder look at rezoning. Here is your chance to let the 'rubber meet the road'. Here is a chance for you to do that. Take a harder look and really put a moratorium on this or just flat out say no."

Sometimes it is important to remind those we elect why we put them there. That is what English tried to do.

Kreigh Park renewal continues to late summer
The 5 ball fields at Kreigh Park plus a portion of the park adjacent to the fields have been out of service since September. Only the play area, pet area and Oro Valley pool have been usable. The renovation includes new irrigation, new grass, laser-leveled fields, new fencing, dugouts, and upgraded restrooms.

Piece by piece it is coming back. The three baseball fields will open later this month and the softball fields will open early summer. Between July and September, the town will be working on improving the older north restroom, adding shade structures and installing lighting under the play structure.

"The sport field improvements completed this fiscal year cost $340,000 and $200,000 next fiscal year for the restroom, shade structure and lighting improvements. We were awarded a $200,000 grant from State Parks (pass through from the Land and Water Conservation Fund) to be applied to this project." (Source: Jessica Hynd, Town of Oro Valley)

Power outage on Oracle corridor... Again
Tuesday night, the electricity was down along the Oracle corridor. The area was bounded by Linda Vista, Desert Sky, Tangerine and the Catalina Mountains. Many homes and business were without power for about an hour. This is the second time this year that power has been lost in this area. This is the older section of town that has undergone growth. We wonder if the growth has exceeded TEP's ability to provide reliable power service.

This is the second major outage in two months. The other was on January 16. In addition, there have been numerous other breaker interruptions. These generally last long enough for you to have to reset you clocks but not more than a minute or so. TEP tells us that these interruptions happen when there is an imbalance between power coming in and power going out.

Regardless of why it happens, it seems to us the the Oro Valley TEP power supply in the older section of town is simply not reliable.
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Oro Valley Has Big Dreams, But No Money For Kreigh Park

The Town Of Oro Valley is negotiating the purchase of 8.9 acres adjacent to and north of land north at James Kreigh Park from the Amphi School District. This purchase presents the town with an opportunity to improve park facilities. Kreigh is where the Oro Valley Aquatic Center is located.

Parks and Recreation Department Director Kristy Dias-Trahan present the conceptual plan for the park to the Oro Valley Town Council at it's December 2 meeting.

This park will be the "home of baseball" for both little league and "big league" use with the opportunity to use them for senior softball. The fields will  include what is called a "skinned" infield that can be removed for softball play. There are two 225 foot fields and two 250 foot fields. There is room for the fields to the fields need to be larger.

Kreigh Park... Future and Now

Existing multipurpose soccer/baseball fields will be reconfigured with four baseball fields in a traditional clover-leaf pattern with concession stand, restroom, and scorekeeper building in the middle. Large mature trees will remain. Associated spectator seating, batting cages, bullpen are also included.

The conceptual plan also includes:

• Relocation for the Dog park from the northeast to the southeast side of the park, near the aquatic center, to include a restroom
• Footprint for future aquatic center expansion 
• A more "robust, adventourous" playground with an adventure/tree house theme
• Racquetball courts removed and lit outdoor basketball courts with associated ramada 
• Field of Dreams and the Christina Taylor Green memorial would remain in place; however, concession stand is to be removed 
• Multipurpose general park use as well as space for tee ball 
• A second playground, ramadas, picnic tables, barbecues, restroom, and group use space 
• Parking lot, access drive to Canyon del Oro High School, small maintenance facility, and storm water/drainage channel Egleston Drive is a continuous north/south roadway with a drop-off and pick-up loop in the middle of the park, which is the east park entry plaza with an associated ramada

"It is really well designed conceptual site plan." observed Council Member Burns.

The council unanimously approved the plan. However, there are no funds to pay for this plan in either next year's planned budget or in the next 5 year financial plan.  The hope was to get the community to pay for this plan through the rejected Pima County Bonds.

So, at the moment, it is more of a conceptual dream than a conceptual plan.

The town's little league "...is very excited about getting the little league consolidated," according to Council Member Snider. And, yes, prior to the towns purchase and operation of the El Conquistador Country Club this may have been achievable.

Perhaps had the town not dove headlong into purchasing 47 holes money losing golf, the town could have the funds for this and other "planned" parks and recreation concepts that have been repeatedly requested by our residents.