Sinking Houses Delay GPA Request

Located near Big Wash

The Oro Valley Town Council voted unanimously to continue a type-2 general plan amendment (GPA) request to build 51 medium density single-family homes off the Moore Loop Road. The property is located on the edge of Big Wash.

Concerns of sinking homes

Several council members expressed concern about the soil’s suitability for housing in this area, given the subsidence of two homes, the (sewage system) lift station and a street in the nearby Valley Vista development. 

Caused by moisture reactive soil

The subsidence is attributed to a layer of soil that is reactive to moisture. One home has been jacked up 18 inches. The town has not yet determined the source of the moisture, whether it’s groundwater, gray water, or another factor – it remains uncertain.  You can watch Town Engineer and Director of Public Works Paul Keelser explain the current situation at Valley Vista.

Keesler: Special conditions needed

As a result of this situation, Keesler recommended special conditions of approval for the proposed 51 home project. This included a provision that "Additional soils testing during construction may be required in locations and to specifications as determined by the Town Engineer;" and "All homes will need gutter systems directing roof drainage to the adjacent street."

Council wants more soil testing

Despite these provisions, the council wants to proceed with utmost caution. Council Member Jones-Ivey expressed concern about whether the applicant and the town had conducted sufficiently thorough ground testing to ensure the prevention of subsidence, especially given that certain soil in the area is known to absorb moisture. Also the soil in Big Wash, which is adjacent to the project, does absorb water. Others voiced similar concerns. Thus, the council voted to continue the hearing to a future, unspecified date.

Uncertain as to when the proposed amendment will be back

The applicant, seeking clarification, asked for specific metrics beyond “more ground testing needs to be done.” Council provided no guidance. 

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Bits and Pieces

Friend's of Pusch Ridge Golf Celebrate Year End

"We will be celebrating our incredible season of golf with a morning shotgun scramble on May 5th – Cinco de Mayo! Our growing circle of “Friends” has so much to be thankful for – we hope you will join us to toast exceeding our goal of 10,000 rounds played (unofficial projection is 12,500 through the end of March), Indigo Golf’s course restoration and incredible team, the Town of Oro Valley’s improvements and partnership with FOPRG, three successful leagues and players of all ages that enjoy fast, fun and affordable golf day after day!" (Source)

Tomorrow: Celebrate Oro Valley returns to Steam Pump Ranch
"Celebrate Oro Valley is returning in-person to Steam Pump Ranch this Saturday! After the annual event went virtual last year because of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Town is excited to share with you the growing story of Oro Valley with free, family-friendly activities and performances. This year’s highlight is “Horses throughout Southwest History,” with a special performance by the Charros y Modelos de Arizona dancing horse show. Make sure you join the fun on Saturday, April 9, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Steam Pump Ranch (10901 N. Oracle Road)." (Event web site)

New Map of Vistoso Preserve

"Our neighbor, Laura Malick Smith, has created a map [below right] of the Vistoso Nature Preserve to help us navigate the trails. It includes the names of the former golf course holes, references nearby communities, and shows adjacent streets, underpasses, and restrooms. Mayor Winfield stated that the Town of Oro Valley has plans to open the restrooms soon after it acquires the property on July 1, 2022.' (Source)  

Moore Road asphalt overlay construction begins April 11
"Traffic on Moore Road will be delayed as constructions crews begin asphalt overlay starting April 11. During construction hours, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, only one lane of Moore Road between La Cholla Boulevard to King Air Drive will remain open during construction, which means drivers will have to wait and follow directions from a construction flagger (or occasionally a pilot vehicle), to safely drive through the construction area. Speed will be reduced in the construction zone to 25 mph. Drivers should follow traffic signs, expect an average delay of 10 minutes and use alternative routes when possible. Construction is scheduled to finish early June, weather permitting." (Source: Town of Oro Valley  Press Release; April 6, 2022)

Candidates make it official

Candidates for Mayor and Council filed their petitions this week. Their candidacy is official, unless the signatures are questioned and invalidated.... which is not going to happen. Here is who filed and the number of signatures:

                 Candidates for Mayor

• Daniel G. Sharp – total signatures = 674
• Joseph Winfield – total signatures = 1326 

              Candidates for Council 

• Melanie Barrett – total signatures = 857
• Joe Erceg – total signatures = 640 
• Charlie D. Hurt - total signatures = 555 
• Joyce Jones-Ivey – total signatures = 709 
• Josh Nicolson – total signatures = 780 
• Bill Rodman – total signatures = 576 

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