Oro Valley Staff Targets October Council Approval of New Revenue Sources and Fee Increases

Fee increases and new taxes vetting continues

Resident participation in July’s community outreach meetings on proposed taxes and fee changes was limited. According to Finance Director David Gephart, about 30 residents attended across three online sessions focused on parks and recreation fees (July 9), new taxes (July 10), and the stormwater utility fee (July 15).

Gephart: Fee increases and new revenue sources needed because of rising cost of public safety and roads
Gephart told residents at the July meetings and the Budget and Finance Commission in August that new revenues are needed because costs are rising faster than revenues. Police services have grown 23% since 2021, absorbing 80% of General Fund growth. Road maintenance costs have more than doubled in the same period, increasing 107%. Meanwhile, sales tax revenues have been flat for three years, and a retail leakage study showed Oro Valley loses about $1.8 billion annually in taxable sales to surrounding communities, equal to $45 million in foregone revenue.

Gephart added that the stormwater utility fee currently covers only operations and not capital projects, while parks and recreation fees are being adjusted to better reflect costs. The goal of the proposed changes, he said, is to diversify revenues, reduce reliance on debt, and direct new funding toward capital projects such as police facilities, vehicle replacement, and road maintenance.

Resident outreach met with low attendance
Approximately thirty residents participated in the three sessions. Attendance was low and may not reflect the views of the broader community. Vice Mayor Barrett noted at a June study session that scheduling three meetings close together in July, a peak holiday and vacation period, may have limited participation.

Residents who participated raised concerns about fairness, timing, and process more than about the size of the increases. Parks and recreation questions focused on whether fee changes treated age groups and activities equally. At the new taxes session, participants questioned the need for new revenues now, discussed the possibility of a property tax, and cautioned against rushing decisions before full engagement. At the stormwater meeting, comments focused on development practices near washes and a preference for smaller, steady increases.

Gephart also reported on business outreach
Gephart has met with the Oro Valley Chamber Board, Roche, and other representatives. A Chamber-hosted forum is scheduled for September 11. The Chamber suggested a property tax would be fairer, questioned whether the proposed revenues would be sufficient, and urged more business-friendly policies. Roche’s main concern was the telecom tax, while small businesses and residents expressed worry about the commercial rental tax and its impact on already high rents. Gephart said these discussions have been helpful in identifying concerns.

Budget and Finance Commissioners’ question the rental tax
Commissioners asked Gephart several questions during the August meeting. Gephart said a commercial rental tax would be difficult to pass, and noted that Council had previously advised staff to avoid relying on this tax. Commissioners also noted that higher rents in Oro Valley compared to Tucson and Marana could make such a tax unfair. Gephart acknowledged Oro Valley rents are higher but said the tax would create equity since the Town currently collects nothing from many services such as medical offices and storage facilities.

Commissioners shifted their attention to a tax change not on the agenda: a small sales tax increase. Gephart said that might be considered later as a “step two,” but the first step is to adopt the three tax categories used in neighboring towns. Commissioners also asked about the reliability of revenue estimates. Gephart noted the use tax could generate between $900,000 and $1.8 million annually but is volatile. He acknowledged that if revenues came in low, the Town might need to consider additional measures in the future, but said possible relief could come if required police pension contributions decline.

Gephart: Revenues intended for capital items
Gephart emphasized that revenues from new taxes are intended for capital needs such as improvements at the newly purchased police facility, police vehicle replacement, and continued road maintenance. At present, only stormwater utility fee revenues are legally dedicated to the Stormwater Utility Fund. All other new revenues would go into the General Fund, and Council would need to act if it wished to dedicate them specifically to capital purposes.

Gephart targets October for council vote
Gephart hopes to present a firm vetted proposal to Council in October. This would follow the planned September Chamber forum and review by relevant commissions (the Budget and Finance Commission, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and the Stormwater Utility Commission). Council is expected to discuss the proposals at an October 1 study session, with a possible vote on October 15.

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Other Information:

2025 Town of Oro Valley Taxes and Fees

LOVE Parks and Recreation Fee Proposed Increase

LOVE Stormwater Utility Fee Proposed Increase

LOVE Oro Valley Considers New Local Taxes

LOVE Oro Valley Seeks Input On New Taxes and Fees

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Bits and Pieces

Oro Valley seeks public input on new taxes and fee increases

The Town of Oro Valley has launched a community engagement effort to gather resident input on proposals to broaden the town’s tax base and adjust several local fees. The proposed changes, which come from the Parks and Recreation Department, Stormwater Utility, and Finance Department, are aimed at helping the Town maintain essential services and infrastructure. Residents are invited to participate in three upcoming Zoom meetings in July, each focusing on different areas: parks and recreation fees, potential new general taxes (such as a commercial use tax, telecommunications tax, and commercial rental lease tax), and stormwater utility fees. The Town is combining these proposals into one public process to provide transparency and make it easier for residents to ask questions and provide feedback before a final decision is made by Council in October. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release, June 16, 2025)

Free sandbags available for residents during monsoon season 

 Oro Valley is once again offering free, self-service sandbags to residents in preparation for monsoon season. Starting June 15 and continuing through September 30 (or while supplies last), residents can pick up sandbags daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Naranja Park, just north of the park entrance on Naranja Drive. This service is designed to help property owners protect against storm runoff and potential flooding. Each household is limited to ten sandbags, and residents must bring their own shovels. Assistance is available by appointment for those who need help with bagging. For more information or to schedule help, contact the Stormwater Utility at 520-229-4850 or pw@orovalleyaz.gov. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release, June 11, 2025)

Council approves fiscal 2026 Budget

Wednesda, the Oro Valley Town Council unanimously approved the fiscal 2026 budget. This follows their June 4 approval of the spending limit of $151.5 million for the year. The council approved the budget essentially as submitted by the town manager.

No pesticides or herbicides detected in Oro Valley’s water

Oro Valley’s latest water quality testing found no detectable levels of man-made pesticides or herbicides—known as synthetic organic compounds (SOCs)—in any of the wells sampled. This means the town remains in full compliance with Safe Drinking Water Act standards. Routine testing continues to show that these contaminants are not present in the community’s water supply.

Pusch Ridge Tennis Facility adding new shaded viewing area

Here’s something new for tennis fans: Construction is underway at the Pusch Ridge Tennis Facility to add two large shade structures, concrete pads, small bleachers, picnic benches, and artificial turf. The new space will offer a comfortable area for watching matches, taking a break, and hosting community gatherings. The project, located between the tennis pro shop and court #1, began on May 27 and is expected to be completed in July. This improvement aims to enhance the experience for both players and spectators, and it’s just in time for the busy summer season  (Source: This Week In Parks and Recreation, 6-19-25)

 “Locals Eat Local” Sticker Hunt Launches – A Fun Way to Discover 20 Local Restaurants

Most residents haven’t heard this yet: the Oro Valley Chamber’s “Locals Eat Local” sticker hunt, discussed by Chamber President Kristen Sharp at Wednesday's council meeting, is running all summer and features 20 participating restaurants. Diners pick up a map (at the Chamber office, library, or via the Explore Oro Valley app) and collect stickers—each restaurant has its own—while enjoying meals around town. Spend $20 or more at any five stops, and you can redeem either a custom Arizona‑shaped cutting board or a combined hat-and-tote prize from the Chamber It’s a tasty and engaging way to support local eateries—and even discover new favorites. Learn more and get started here: Explore the Locals Eat Local program.

Oro Valley Destination Marketing continues to show plenty of tourism activites, but few measurable results so far

The Town’s latest tourism update, presented to the Council Wednesday, continues to show lots of planning and outreach—meetings with resort managers, progress on a new leisure travel management plan, and work to recruit major events like pickleball tournaments and art festivals. Most of the headline events (like the women’s soccer and Fine Arts & Wine Festival) actually approached Oro Valley themselves. The team is learning from logistical challenges, such as parking at Naranja Park, and is hopeful that new branding, website upgrades, and event partnerships will eventually boost visitor numbers. For now, much of the work remains behind the scenes, with the impact still to be measured.

It’s Budget Time — Council Considers $46 Million In Capital Spending For 2026

Over 60% of the spending is Water related
Tonight, the Town Council will discuss the Town Manager's recommended capital budget for fiscal year 2026, which starts July 1, 2025. The total recommended capital budget is $45.6 million. Of this amount, 62% is for Water Utility projects. Within that, 88% is allocated to the Northwest Recharge, Recovery and Delivery System (NWRRDS) project. As previously reported, the Town has borrowed $18 million to fund a large portion of the NWRRDS project. The Water Utility operates as a separate enterprise from the rest of the Town.

Focus on $17.5 million of town projects
Our focus is on the $17.5 million of proposed capital spending outside of the Water Utility. Most of this spending is allocated to streets, public facilities (including vehicles and equipment), and parks. Together, these areas account for over 90% of the Town’s recommended non-Water Utility capital expenditures.

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Street projects total $5.8 million
The largest portion of street spending supports the Town’s pavement preservation program, which seals and resurfaces roads to extend their lifespan. If residents have not seen work recently in their neighborhood, it is likely to occur soon because pavement preservation is an ongoing process. The recommended street budget also includes $750,000 for a new traffic light at the Tangerine Road entrance to Naranja Park. The primary funding source for these projects is the Highway Fund, which receives revenue primarily from state-shared highway user taxes and impact fees.

Public facilities, vehicles, and equipment projects total $5.1 million
The Town Manager is recommending $5.1 million for public facilities, vehicles, and equipment. More than 60% of this is for the Town’s vehicle replacement program. This program funds the annual replacement of aging fleet vehicles to help control repair and maintenance costs. Funds for the vehicle replacement program come primarily from the Capital Fund, which is supported by transfers from the Town’s General Fund and anticipated grants from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). This category also includes $800,000 to complete the court expansion project, including the construction of a secured sally port.

Parks projects total $5 million
The parks budget is dominated by spending on the Town’s golf and community center facilities. Approximately $2.8 million is allocated from the Community Center Fund for projects such as a 36-hole pump station, an exterior restroom at the Community Center, and resurfacing of the Community Center parking lot. The Community Center Fund is supported by dedicated revenues, including sales tax.

The parks budget also proposes $2 million for the reconstruction of the pond at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. The funding source for the pond project is the Capital Fund, which in this case is supported by the Town’s General Fund.

New police facility planning project proposed
Public safety vehicle maintenance is included in the public facilities category. However, there is a separate public safety project proposed for fiscal 2026: $400,000 for police facility programming. This project would fund consulting services to design solutions for future police facility needs, based on a prior space needs assessment. Construction of a new police facility is not included in the fiscal 2026 capital budget. Instead, it appears in a contingent projects list for future years, with an estimated construction cost of $36 million starting in fiscal year 2027.

Summary
The Town Council will discuss the recommended capital improvement projects for fiscal year 2026 at tonight’s meeting. We will report on any major discussions or changes of interest in a future LOVE article.

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Trails Connect Study To Shape Oro Valley’s Future Trail System

OV Trails Connect: Shaping Oro Valley’s Future Trail System
Alexandra Chavez, a planner with the Town of Oro Valley, presented an update to the Town Council last week on "OV Trails Connect." This is an initiative designed to enhance and expand the town’s trail and multi-use path network. The project, developed with input from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and community stakeholders, aims to address growing interest in outdoor spaces while ensuring trail accessibility and connectivity. Oro Valley’s last trail-focused plan was developed in 2010.

Collaborative efforts drive planning
This initiative is a multi-department collaboration involving Planning, Communications, and Technology and Innovation staff. The town has retained Kimley-Horn and Associates as the consultant on the project to conduct technical analysis and assist in developing the final plan. “We continuously hear that outdoor spaces are highly valued by Oro Valley residents,” Chavez noted. “This plan will help us better understand the needs and desires of the community to ensure a connected and accessible trail system.” The scope includes both unpaved natural trails like those in Big Wash and paved multi-use paths such as those in Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve and along major roadways. Unlike sidewalks and bike lanes, these multi-use paths provide dedicated spaces for cyclists, runners, and pedestrians.

Source: Town of Oro Valley 

Data-driven insights for trail usage
To better understand trail use, the town utilized Strava, a fitness tracking app that provides anonymous data on popular trails for pedestrians and cyclists. Analysis revealed that The Loop, Vistoso Trails, and Big Wash are among the most frequently used trails. 

“Strava gives us breadcrumbs of information, but we know not everyone uses it,” Chavez said. “That’s why our next phase of community outreach will be critical in capturing a more complete picture of trail usage.” While Strava data provides useful insights, Chavez emphasized the importance of supplementing this information with community outreach and direct resident feedback to ensure accurate representation of trail use.

Engaging the community in planning
The OV Trails Connect project follows a four-phase approach, with the current focus on phase two: Community outreach and discussion. The town will conduct trailside chats, surveys, and stakeholder meetings to gather resident input. Two advisory groups have been established: the trails stakeholder group, consisting of residents and businesses, and a regional advisory group, which includes representatives from adjacent municipalities and agencies to ensure a cohesive regional trail network. “We are looking for all trail users to participate—whether you hike, bike, run, or ride horses,” Chavez said. “Your input is essential in shaping a plan that reflects the community’s needs.”

Identifying priorities and improvements
One key objective of the project is to enhance connectivity by addressing missing trail links. This includes examining whether certain trails should be extended or connected to other networks. Additionally, the town is evaluating signage improvements, accessibility for all users, and maintenance strategies. 

Some residents have raised questions about ADA compliance and the need for better way-finding, which will be factored into future recommendations. “We want to understand where there are gaps in connectivity and if there are barriers preventing some residents from using the trails,” Chavez explained. “Signage, accessibility, and even potential policy updates are all on the table.”

Barrett: Let's leverage technology for accessibility
Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett suggested integrating trail mapping into platforms like Google Maps to make Oro Valley’s trails more accessible to residents and visitors. While some trails are mapped, others remain difficult to locate without prior knowledge. “I mentioned this during the strategic planning session, but I really envision someday having an app or a portion of Google Maps or something that people who come to Oro Valley, tourists or residents, can easily route trail systems.” Barrett said. Creating a user-friendly, interactive trail guide could encourage more residents to explore the town’s extensive network. Chavez acknowledged this as a long-term goal that aligns with the project's vision.

Get Involved: Community involvement launched Monday
The public survey for OV Trails Connect launches on February 24, 2025, and residents are encouraged to participate online at OVTrailsConnect.com. Additional trailside chats and in-person engagement events will take place through March, April, and May. As the plan progresses, updates will be provided to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and Town Council. Residents who wish to take an active role in shaping the future of Oro Valley’s trails can join the trails stakeholder group or provide input through the town’s outreach efforts. “This is an open invitation to the community,” Chavez said. “We need your voices to make this plan a true reflection of Oro Valley’s values and vision for outdoor spaces.”
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Guest View-Tony D'Angelo: What's Next For Community Center Operations

What’s Next for Community Center Operations?
There are two very different aspects of Parks and Recreation in Oro Valley. There are the traditional amenities—playgrounds, ball fields, trails, multi-use paths, and cultural venues like Steam Pump Ranch. Most of these assets are paid for by tax proceeds and grants. Only about 10% of operating costs and capital investments come from user fees.

Fee-Based Recreational Facilities
The other part of Parks and Recreation includes amenities for which users pay fees. These include the Community Center health club, the Overlook Restaurant, El Conquistador Golf, El Conquistador Tennis, pickleball courts, and the Aquatic Center. Because these facilities are owned and operated by the town, they are not considered “for profit” but are managed with the goal of offsetting most expenses through user fees. Currently, user fees cover approximately 60% of the costs associated with these assets. Not only do these assets meet the needs of Oro Valley residents, but they also attract and serve visitors. Should both aspects of Parks and Recreation be managed together and in the same way?

A Shift in Oro Valley's Growth
We are at a point in the evolution of Oro Valley where growth through land development is reaching its limit. To meet the future needs of our community, Economic Development is exploring alternative ways to generate revenue. Our fee-based community recreational assets already contribute to a tourism strategy.

Investing in Fee-Based Assets
Leveraging fee-based assets requires investments to maintain the quality needed to attract the desired audience. These facilities must be well-maintained, aggressively marketed, and managed in ways that balance their use to serve both residents and visitors. To achieve this, we should consider creating an enterprise entity for fee-based recreational assets to ensure they are mostly self-funded. This could involve establishing a separate taxing authority. Fees need to remain affordable for residents while being sufficient to cover operating costs and future capital needs to maintain the quality expected to attract and serve visitors and businesses in Oro Valley.

Current Management vs. Revenue Potential
Currently, revenue-generating assets are managed in the same way as non-revenue-generating facilities that are freely accessible to the community. The distinction between these types of assets is clear. For example, Kriegh Park is a general-use facility for baseball and softball, with a playground and walking path—all mostly free. In contrast, the adjacent Aquatic Center is a revenue-generating facility that hosts swim meets and supports the town’s sports tourism strategy.

Enhancing Economic Development
Revenue-generating facilities should be strategically used to support the town’s economic development, specifically through sports and recreational tourism. These facilities need focused attention to ensure they achieve the goal of bringing visitors and their spending to the community.

Proposal: A Commission That Reports to the Council
Assigning an accountable commission that reports to the council to oversee fee-based facilities from a business perspective is more appropriate than using valuable Town Council resources to discuss operational details, such as dust abatement on the El Conquistador Course. Many communities have established enterprise funds or similar oversight organizations to manage user-fee-based recreational operations. This model could be applied in Oro Valley.

The Challenge Ahead
Our Parks and Recreation staff does an excellent job managing a diverse range of assets. The challenge going forward is determining whether it is realistic for them to manage everything in a way that best serves both residents and the town’s economic future.

I believe exploring this alternative is worth debating.

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Tony D'Angelo is a long-time Oro Valley resident and President of the Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf. 

2025 TMRB: 80% Of Spending By “The Big Four” Departments

"The Big Four”-Water, Public Works, Public Safety, Parks
$115 million will be allocated in 2025 by four departments according to the 2024 Town Manager Recommended Budget ("TMRB"). The departments are Water, Public Works, Police, and Parks and Recreation. This is based on LOVE’s combined spending analysis of the TMRB (an explanation of our methodology is provided at the conclusion of this article).

Here’s is what is “driving” the spending

Water: $41.2 million
More than half of the total water spending of $41.2 million is allocated for capital items. The most significant is the town’s investment of $17.2 million in bringing Central Arizona Project (CAP) water more directly to Oro Valley. Some CAP water will be routed directly to Oro Valley from Avra Valley, through Marana, as opposed to being delivered through the Tucson Water System. Water Director Abraham believes that the new delivery system, once completed, will enable Oro Valley to reduce its groundwater pumping to below 5,000 acre-feet per year. Next year’s spending on this project is estimated to be $14.5 million, which will complete it. The TMRB budget calls for the Water Utility to issue $20 million in debt this year to finance this project..

Public Works: $28.3 million
Public Works is the town's workhorse, keeping everything running smoothly. It provides a wide range of services, including engineering; maintaining over 450 miles of roads, with preservation of 70 miles each year; ensuring traffic lights function properly; dispensing 20,000 gallons of gas per month; maintaining the town’s bridges and a fleet of over 300 vehicles; overseeing facilities maintenance for all town properties; managing stormwater control; and operating the town's transit system.

Public Works faces two significant challenges. First, town facilities are aging and require replacement. Bridges need resurfacing, and roads need milling. Second, inflation has significantly increased the cost of operations. For example, the cost of the pavement preservation program is projected to double from previous years due to the reliance on oil-based solutions.

Public Service: $22.9 million
Personnel costs constitute 85% of the operating expenses for the police department, with fleet replacement planned at 5% this year. Speaking at last week’s council budget session, Chief Riley highlighted that the key issue faced by the department is "It's very important that we prepare for the future regarding succession planning and training, and tonight is no different."

Being a police officer is a challenging job. As Chief Riley observed, "Our staff sees and hears things that they can't unsee." A major focus is providing a career path for officers. John Teachout, Oro Valley Police Field Services Commander, noted, "We aim to develop from within, so the budget requested for field services is targeted at the development and succession planning of line-level staff, enabling them to advance through the ranks with the same good fortune as those of us in this room, while also maintaining focus on health and wellness."

Parks: $22.3 million
Parks continues its robust spending. This year, the capital budget stands at nearly $8 million,with $4million allocated to the revegetation of the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve.  This latter amount assumes that the town can get a grant of $2million for  the Preserve.  Additional projects include further expenditures on the Community Center building, an incomplete elevator, roof repairs, and a bridge on the Pusch View Golf Course. Furthermore, there are $1.9 million in debt service payments for the bond this council approved in 2021 to fund improvements at Naranja Park and replace golf course irrigation systems. In addition, there is a $12 million cost for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the parks and recreation system-wide.

Everything else: $22.6 million 

The biggest chunk of all of department cost is the $3 million renovation of the Court Facility.

Tomorrow: Personnel
Tomorrow, we take a look at staffing and spending.
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Our Methodology adds all the spending together
We consolidated all spending for each department, encompassing operations and maintenance, capital improvement projects, and debt service—a breakdown not provided by the TMRB. Unlike the TMRB, which organizes spending by fund without detailing some capital improvement projects and debt service costs by department, we either directly identified these costs or developed estimates for them. Additionally, the TMRB earmarks $19.7 million in contingency funds, which may not be utilized; thus, we have excluded these from our analysis. The TMRB reports total spending at $137.4 million, and we were able to attribute all but $2.2 million of that spending to specific departments.

Council Approves Regulation Changes for New and Rezoned Private Recreational Spaces

Focus on "private" parks

In May 2021, the Oro Valley Town Council endorsed a plan aimed at enhancing the town's parks and recreational infrastructure. This plan, titled the "Parks and Recreation Master Plan," focused on all park areas, one of these was neighborhood and mini parks, originally constructed by developers and now under the ownership  and maintenance of homeowner associations.

Neighborhood and Mini Parks are critical to the parks system

These parks have become essential due to the prevalence of small lots in many Oro Valley residences. The lots lack lack sizeable backyards. Thus, private parks parks play a crucial role in providing a space for leisure and recreational activities. However, most of these parks are relatively compact in terms of acreage and often they lack the necessary amenities.

Current neighborhood and mini parks are small.. lack amenities

The 2021 study undertaken to support this initiative underscored the inadequacy of the existing neighborhood and mini parks in Oro Valley, revealing their inability to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Consequently, a new mandate has been implemented: All new parks of this category must have a minimum size of 2 acres and must be equipped with amenities that align with the requirements of their respective communities. Similar requirements apply to rezoned properties.

No wiggle room out of new requirements

For areas unable to meet these standards but situated in proximity to town-owned facilities, an "in lieu" fee can be paid to the town. In this context, "close" means being within walking distance. The "In Lieu" fee is determined based on factors such as the appraised value of the land that the developer would have been obligated to allocate for the park, the cost of amenities, and any necessary improvements.

Some controversy

The council approved by a 5-2 vote many detailed changes to the current requirements after some considerable discussion. Council Member Solomon, who voted against the measure, felt that the ordnance was muddled with details best left to the developer. For example, he mentioned a requirement for a toddler lots when the town simply does not have a significant toddler population. Solomon noted that staff was “not looking at the real needs of the community.”

Some confusion

Council Member Nicolson, who voted in favor of the measure despite feeling perplexed, acknowledged that the document presented by the staff spanned 25 pages with numerous lineouts. He expressed that it was challenging to navigate and suggested that some form of visual summary would have greatly aided comprehension.

A step forward

The Oro Valley Town Council's endorsement of the "Parks and Recreation Master Plan" represented a significant step toward establishing a unified parks system in the town. That plan addressed the crucial role that Homeowner Association (HOA)-owned and maintained parks play in a community where larger backyards are in short supply. The code changes approved by the council will increase the size and usability of future (and rezoned) HOA parks. This initiative on the part of council and staff underscores the town's dedication to meeting the evolving recreational needs of its residents and improving the quality of life in Oro Valley.

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Bits and Pieces

Oro Valley Village Center: Years of planning... nothing done

Last year, the Oro Valley Town Council granted approval for the Oro Valley Village Center. However, there has been no progress in terms of construction. Perhaps that is because the Council declined to commit the town to building a pivotal element of the project: The construction and ongoing maintenance of the Oasis Park Entertainment Center. 

The Developer, Town West, is now requesting a change in the zoning for the center. They are seeking the following changes: An increase in permitted hotel building heights; a "reclassification" of the central wash area initially designed for the entertainment center; and a revised site and landscape design. The Planning and Zoning Commission will review these  plans this coming Monday. Then, council will hear it on November 1.

Meanwhile, the success of any project on the site of the Oro Valley Market Place is threatened by Uptown, which is being built on the site of the former Foothills Mall.  That project is similar in concept to the Oro Valley Village Center. The land has been cleared. Now, Uptown is ready for construction.  It is our guess that it will be online sooner than anything built at the Oro Valley Village Center. The Uptown concept is super exciting and notably beyond the reach of Oro Valley's 2.5% sales tax.

Did you know? Town sells 4,718 memberships

The Town of Oro Valley has 4,718 members in total in its facilities: The aquatic center; the three municipal golf courses; the community center and the archery range. That number is up by 2% from last month. In addition, there were 283 reservations for town fields and ramadas. The town added 30 water smart users in the past month. (Source: Town Manager October Report)

Number of single family residential permits low... mirrors national picture

In September, the town granted six single-family residential permits. According to the Town Manager's October Report, there have been a total of 91 single-family residential permits issued year-to-date, a decrease compared to the 166 permits issued during the same period in 2022. 

This week, The Wall Street Journal reported that home sales are currently on track for the slowest year since the housing market crisis in 2008, with fewer than 3 million homes sold nationwide. [see panel at right] The decline is attributed to increasing borrowing costs, record-high home prices, and a limited inventory of homes available for sale. In addition, many people are locked into low interest mortgages on homes they currently occupy.People are choosing to stay in their current homes due to high inflation and significant economic uncertainty.

Short-term rental registrations at 53% of estimated total listings... town acts to increase compliance

On September 22, we reported that the town had officially registered 185 short term rentals (STRs), according to information provided by the town.  The town has identified a total of 348 short term rentals listed in Oro Valley, as per the Host Compliance STR Tracking system. That implies that the about 47% of listing have not yet complied.

"Staff have begun reviewing STR registrations at the beginning of each month to identify any that have not registered and send a notice of violation. Staff have been successful at determining noncompliant STRs and achieving voluntary compliance, understanding that some notices of viola- tion sent to rental properties were not received because the compliance software provides the STR address but not the owner address if it’s not the same. Currently, staff are assessing the number of noncompliant STRs that remain to initiate enforcement action, which includes citing into Oro Valley Municipal Court."  (Source: Town Manager October Report)

Search For Parks and Recreation Director is Ongoing

Town started search in July

The Town of Oro Valley has actively been in search of candidates to fill two crucial roles: One as the Director of Parks and Recreation and the other as the Director of Information Technology. Both of these positions have remained unoccupied since the middle of the summer.

Director of Parks and Recreation position is attractive 
The role of Director of Parks and Recreation was previously held by Kristy Diaz-Trajan. As of our last report, we were informed that she departed at the end of June, with the specific reasons for her departure remaining undisclosed to us. But “getting paid” was certainly not an issue because…

34 applications to date
As of this past Thursday, the town has received 34 applications. We understand why.  This is a financially attractive opportunity [See panel right-below]. And the Director gets to work in Oro Valley, a town that pays competitive wages, a town that has substantially increased its Parks and Recreation facilities and program, with a commute to work of maybe 10 minutes. 

Seeking someone who is a good manager
According to the town's position description, the town seeks a candidate who possesses strong leadership capabilities. Position responsibilities encompass the strategic and daily oversight of the Town's Parks and Recreation Department, which includes managing facilities, programs, services, policies, processes, and staff. The Director is also responsible for recruiting, training, and guiding departmental personnel while serving as an effective communicator and fostering collaboration with other Town departments, management, and the general public. (Source: Town of Oro Valley position description)

… with at least a bachelors degree in the field
The minimum qualifications for this position are a Bachelor's degree in government-related fields, a minimum of seven years' experience in the field of parks, and at least three years of managerial experience. The job requirements also specify that "...An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered."

Our thoughts
This position should have many candidates. From the town’s perspective, the primary priorities should lie in selecting an experienced manager who possesses political acumen and can effectively oversee operations in a rapidly changing environment.

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Bits and Pieces

Battle of the Bands Tomorrow Night

This free concert  runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Riverfront Park amphitheater (551 W. Lambert Lane). It features four local high school bands comprised of students from Canyon Del Oro High School, Ironwood High School, Tucson High School and Sahuaro High School. The bands will bring their musical talents to a live audience with a three-song setlist. The winning band will be selected by a panel of judges and will receive a recording session with Luna Recording Studio. Second and third place prizes will also be awarded. Admission to the concert is free, and food trucks will be on site with items available for purchase. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

New rooftop solar permitting process cuts wait time to 24 hours 

"The Town of Oro Valley is pleased to announce a more efficient permitting process for Oro Valley homeowners looking to install rooftop solar. The Community and Economic Development (CED) Department recently implemented SolarAPP+, a web-based app that automates the permitting process. Previously, customers had to wait up to 10 business days for staff to complete the permit review and issuance process. With SolarAPP+, permits can now be issued within 24 hours because it automatically performs a compliance check based on inputs supplied by the contractor to ensure the proposed system is safe and code compliant." Learn more about the program here. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release) 

Town starts "The OV Edge" newsletter for businesses

The "OV Edge newsletter is intended to keep busy business owners up to date with important developments in the Town of Oro Valley. The Town of Oro Valley Community and Economic Development team understands that a healthy economy is driven by a healthy business community. Learn about some of our programs and incentives designed to help your business thrive." Read more here. (Source: Town of Oro Valley OV Edge May 2023 Issue)

Northbound Lane closures on Oracle Road start May 22 as Town performs median maintenance

 "The Town of Oro Valley Street Operations will perform bi-annual median maintenance on Oracle Road (State Route 77) from Ina Road to milepost 84 (just north of Big Wash Overlook Place) starting May 22 through May 26. This will be what is considered a moving operation, which means that various sections of the northbound left lane starting at Ina Road will be closed everyday between 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. as crews work north to milepost 84. Construction signs, arrows, message board and traffic control will be in place during work hours. Drivers are asked to pay attention and use caution while driving in the work zone. Outside of construction hours, all northbound lanes of Oracle Road will be open. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release) 

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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Steam Pump Ranch: An Oro Valley Historical Site That Should Be Used As Such

Steam Pump Ranch is an historical property

Pima County purchased Steam Pump Ranch for $5 million in 2006. It was part of a Pima County Bond offering. Once acquired, they turned the park over to Oro Valley. "The property provides an excellent locale for developing a “sense of place” for Oro Valley and holds economic viability as an educational facility, special event venue and heritage park." (Source: Section 2) It is a 15 acre property acquired to "stregthen Oro Valley's firm connection to the past: (2008 Steam Pump Ranch Master Plan, Page 4).

Over the years, use of the park have changed

The town plans town offices there. Events that have nothing to do with the town's history are held there... including some drive in movies.. .and the "Second Saturday Farmer's Markets. 

Two upcoming events illustrate how far the town has strayed from using Steam Pump Ranch. Both events are this weekend. Friday is "Parent's Night Out" Event. "Drop off the kids at Steam Pump Ranch and go enjoy your evening. We will treat your kids to a movie, games, crafts, pizza, and snacks. We know you work hard, and we want you to play hard or maybe just take a nap without someone saying 'look at me" The other is family camping event for the following night.

The Oro Valley Historical Society (OVHS) has taken note of of this

Speaking at last week's "Call To Audience" Devon Sloan questioned why these event's are not being held at a town park. We include her remarks in their entirety.

"Why[are these two events] not at any of our larger, more family oriented other parks in Oro Valley, namely Riverfront Park with much larger grassy area, small trail, and a little playground? Or James Kreigh Park with again much larger grassy area, trails, playground, or the major park in Oro Valley, where we are spending tons of money - Naranja which has even larger grassy area, trails, and playground." 

Steam Pump Ranch was placed on the National Register of Historic Places based on the sense of place that it provides all of us

There is no playground and only a small grassy area surrounded by a historic home, a barbecue area under reconstruction and two small buildings that are being reconstituted as rest rooms. There is fencing around these buildings to protect citizens and the buildings. It doesn’t seem like the perfect place for family activities. 

In the Cultural Heritage and Preservation Plan of 2015, it is noted that Steam Pump Ranch is an “important part of the Town’s heritage” and that “a primary concern in the future is the protection of the historic core at the Ranch”. It also states that “partnerships will be a key element in maintenance of the property and providing public access .” 

Events at Steam Pump Ranch should have an historical and cultural perspective

The Oro Valley Historical Society would have been thrilled to be a part of either or both of these two Town activities by providing some historical and cultural aspect of the Ranch, if we had been included as a partner. We specialize in education - perhaps a short story about the Ranch, the people who lived here, how they changed the scope of our area in the 1800’s. We weren’t informed about these two events, however. 

It is our hope that the Town will reconsider the types of activities that are held at Steam Pump Ranch, to include the historical society in future events (like the parents’ night out in June or the camp out in October) and will consider maintaining the integrity of our most visible historic core in accordance with state and national guidelines. 

They didn’t have real playgrounds when George Pusch lived on the property, but we have them now in our three parks. Let’s use the parks as the family gathering place for parents and kids and truly allow the historical society to partner with the Town to inform, preserve and protect our history."

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Water and Parks Dominate $37 Million of TMRB Operations and Maintenance Spending

Operations and maintenance costs are one-quarter of TMRB spending

Spending on operations and maintenance (O&M) is 25% of the 2023-24 Town Manager’s Recommended Budget (TMRB). The total amount is $36.6 million.

O&M up 6%

The TMRB O&M budget is up 6% because of inflation, according to the TMRB document. “In FY 22/23, the Town experienced considerable cost inflation in areas such as gasoline, public safety equipment, field supplies, technology, professional services and more across the organization. The Town has yet to see any measurable relief of inflationary pressures.”

Looking at the O&M budget “areas of further increase include software and technology, medical claims costs and Central Arizona Project water costs. Revenue increases due to inflation have helped to relieve some of this pressure, but nonetheless, it does place strain on resource allocation during the budget process.”

TMRB department budgets reflect most, but not all O&M spending
Detail department operating budgets contained in the TMRB show a total of $31.5 million in O&M cost. That's about $5 million less of the total that is $36.6 million in TMRB O&M spendings. The largest portion of this is the estimated $4.3 million payment to the town’s Benefit Self Insurance Fund.

More than half of the spending is in two departments

The Water Department O&M budget is 35% of the total. 

The budget amount is an increase over prior year for three reasons: 

• Increases in the amount of money the town is charging the utility for providing support services
  The town has substantially increased the cost of providing administrative support services to the water utility. The "actual" charge for this fiscal year is $993,268, The TMRB amount is $1,605,500. Thus, that cost goes into computing water rates, so it is a way for the town to get added revenues for its other services. This is not an independently, market-based alternative so there is no way to determine if the charge is "fair"
• Increase of CAP water wheeling and water delivery charges 
• Increase of cost of equipment repair and maintenance 

Detailed line item spending plans are not included in the TMRB. These are provided in a report which is called: “MUNIS”.  That document shows O&M cost increases in most areas. Water customers will pay for these costs through ever increasing water rates.

Parks (including the Community Center) O&M budget is 22% of the total

The TMRB lists five major reasons for the Parks and Recreation O&M increase:

• Planned use of outside professionals to develop the trails master plan 
• Cost increase of field supplies, water, and sewage
• Increased cost of call maintenance services
• Cost increase of special events
• Increase cost of utilities, supplies and building maintenance 

The MUNIS for this department shows other increases. For example, there is a doubling of the cost of using outside professionals in the recreation and culture program; increased maintenance cost of the Aquatic Center; and increased water and sewage cost increases for Parks.

We have included the Community Center as part of Parks and Recreation because it is! Community Center O&M costs are $5.3 million. That is more than three quarters of the Parks total O&M budget. Much of this spending is for the third-party management of the golf courses.

All other

The largest items of spending in all other departments is for fleet management (Public Works), telecommunications (Innovation and Technology), and advertising and marketing (Town Manager).

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TMRB Seeks Added Staffing for 2023-24... No Reductions Planned

Six new positions... Total of 424 Town of Oro Valley Employees

The 2023 town manager recommended budget includes an increase of five new full-time and two part-time positions. This will bring the total number of people employed by the Town to 424. 

Where are they?

We see many of them on the roads because they are employed by the Police Department. We see other town employees on the roads because they are part of the Public Works Department. We know that many work in the Water Department because they provide beautifully clear fresh water every day. When we go to our Parks, we see them maintaining the facility that we are visiting that day. Indeed, more than three quarters of the town's employees are in these four departments (see chart below, right).

Police: 140 personnel, including 1 new position, $18.7 million cost
Half of the personnel in the Department are deployed in Field Services. Field Services is responsible for the uniformed patrol functions of the Department, including 24-hour response to the initial investigation of crimes and incidents, traffic enforcement and control, crash investigations, community policing programs and specialized operations such as SWAT and K-9.

Most of the remaining staff is involved in support services. The includes the Criminal Investigations Unit, Crime Analyst, Task Force Operations, Property and I.D., School Resource Officers, Community Resources, Citizen Volunteer Assistants Program, Records, and the Communications Bureau. Support Services focuses on and analyzes crime trends, efficient resource allocation and technological solutions. 

Public Works: 78 personnel, 1 new position, $6.4 million cost
This department wants to add a full-time transit supervisor to assist in driver management and review, service scheduling, and operations and program compliance, ensuring we continue meeting the needs of our community for this critical service.

Parks and Recreation: 69 personnel, 1.5 new positions, $4 million cost
Two-thirds of this department’s personnel are employed at the Community Center (23) and the Aquatic Center (22). This department wants to add a full-time parks maintenance worker to accommodate the addition of the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve and a part-time park monitor to accommodate new acreage and facilities coming online with the completion of the latest phase of the Naranja Park improvements.

Water Department: 40 personnel, no new positions, $3.9 million cost

Two thirds of the water department staff are deployed in field operations. "The Operations Division oversees the operation and maintenance of all potable and reclaimed water production and distribution facilities, to include wells, boosters, reservoirs, metering stations, water mains, fire hydrants and valves. Additional responsibilities include meter installations, commercial meter testing, water quality testing, backflow prevention, construction of minor water main projects and oversight of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure system, disinfection systems and security systems."

 
All other Departments: 97 personnel, 2.5 new positions, $10.1 million

There are ten other departments. The fastest growing of these is the Information and Technology Department, which seeks a complement of nineteen staff.  "The Recommended Budget includes two new full-time positions in the Innovation & Technology Department. An additional business systems analyst is necessary to support the growing use of technology in Town operations, with special emphasis on the needs of the Police Department. A security and compliance administrator will protect the organization by implementing and managing cybersecurity tools, as well as respond to and remediate cybersecurity incidents and threats. This position will also ensure the Town’s IT systems are compliant with recommended best practices and that action plans are completed for all regulatory agencies."

No cuts anywhere...even in places where position should be eliminated...for example

Somewhat of a surprise is that the Community and Economic Development Department continues its current complement of almost 29 staff. That department ought to be examined as a candidate to reduce staff. This is because there is a long-term continuing decline in permitting activity and of economic activity. 

Parks and Recreation Projects Dominate Initial Cut At Oro Valley 2023-24 Capital Improvement Program

2023-24 Oro Valley Capital Budget-first cut- is almost $47 million

This Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council will study a $46.9 million capital budget for fiscal 2024. It is the largest capital budget (CIP) in Oro Valley history. Significant capital spending is being driven by the requirement to spend Parks Bond Funds and Government ARPA funds within the next few years. The result is that much of the spending is on parks and recreation and on water projects.

Parks projects are almost half of all spending

There are twenty-one proposed parks and recreation type projects that total $22.9 million. Two-thirds ($15.1m) of this spending is for continuing the buildout of Naranja Park. Even with this investment, future year capital investment plans call for continuing to add to and improve this facility with two additional fields, restrooms, and an asphalt roadway.  Other proposed parks projects for 2024 include doing the LaCanada Golf Course irrigation at a cost of $2million and adding a $1.7million elevator to the Community Center.

$12 million in proposed water related projects to add efficiency and operating flexibility

There are fifteen proposed water projects that focus on the operations and maintenance of the water utility. These are investments in the the storage and distribution of water. Generally, the cost of each project ranges from $100,000 to $200,000. These estimated total cost of these projects is $2.2 million. Generally, this cost stays the same for each of subsequent nine years. 

There is an added $10million in capital investment that appears to be for one-time projects such as the expansion of the booster station on La Canada ($3.7 million) and continued spending to bring water directly from Avra Valley to Oro Valley (NWRRDS). This will allow the town to reduce its dependence on Tucson Water for getting the town's CAP water allocation. We are guessing that the $5.4 million in ARPA funds are being used for the NWRRDS project.

Proposed spending to keep Oro Valley's roads the best in the county

Oro Valley's roads are the best in the County.. probably in the State. The proposed capital budget would spend $6.2 million on roads. A third of this is spending on the town's pavement preservation program. Also, there are several proposed pavement overlay projects, one road reconstruction and "annexation promised" road improvements at Westward Look.  There is also a budget item of $750,000 for "something" to be done at the very busy Rancho Vistoso and Woodburne Ave intersection  (perhaps a traffic light?).

Remaining capital improvement spending is primarily for public safety

There are two other areas of proposed capital spending. One area is public safety. There is proposed capital spend on an expansion of the town court office ($1.5 million) and on vehicle replacement ($1.9 million). The town court project is proposed to continue into 2025 for the same amount.  The vehicle replacement program also continues at about $2million annually for all of ten years included in the proposed CIP plan.

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Bits and Pieces

Oro Valley Water launches new account management web portal

The Oro Valley Water Department launched a new account management web portal on August 26. The old portal, which was really nothing more than a bill access and payment, is no longer active. The new portal has several added features, including an account profile page and detail usage billing information.  You can also pay your bill via the site. The portal has nothing to do with the town’s Water Smart web site. That site allows users to track water use on a continuing basis. You will need to sign up here for the new account management billing portal. It took us about five minutes to do so.

“Rockin’4Heroes”, Sunday, October 16, 2PM, Kreigh Park
“Rocking 4 Heroes is a community musical event that pays tribute to those who serve our communities and country. It was initiated by Michael and Bonnie Quinn, longtime residents of Oro Valley Arizona. The Quinn's have a history of supporting First Responders, Active-Duty Military, Veterans and Gold Star families…

The first “Rockin'4Heroes” event was held December 11, 2021 in collaboration with the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce and was well received by the community. Charitable donations allowed the concert to be brought to the public free of charge in hopes that more of the community would attend and shine a brighter light on our Heroes.” (Source: rockin4heroes.org) 

Parks and Recreation survey and open house For Residents Over 55

“The Town of Oro Valley is working to broaden and improve access to recreational programs for seniors, and we need your help! An online survey is available now through September 30 that asks for public input on the type of programming that is of greatest interest to Oro Valley residents ages 55 and older. Click here to access the online survey… Open House September 29.” The town is hosting an “… an in-person open house for residents interested in senior programming on September 29, from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Community & Recreation Center fitness room (10555 N. La Cañada Drive).” (Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release).

 

Next Community Academy announced

The Community Academy is an excellent way for resident to learn about the town and how it works. The next one will start on October 6. It will be conducted in both the in person and on line modes. Learn more and register here.

Riley featured in podcast

The Town of Oro Valley has a podcast. Chief Riley is featured in the most recent one. You can access it here. 

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2023 Town Manager Recommended Budget Reduced to $148 million... Hearing Tonight

Town Public  Hearings Tonight

Tonight, Town Manager Mary Jacobs will ask the Oro Valley Town Council to approve a spending limitation of $147.7 million for fiscal 2023. This request is part of the first public hearing that the town is holding on the 2023 Town Manager Recommended Budget (“TMRB”). 

Requested amount is less than previously reported

The amount being requested is about $11.5 million less than was submitted in the TMRB on which we have reported.

Reduction in the request is the net result of changes in the funding requested of three items

• The General Fund request was reduced by about $600,000. That reduction is the net result of two items: An estimated increase of $2.7 million in state shared income tax revenue; and an increase in recommended personnel spending. The town manager is adding funds to provide for additional capacity for implementing the classification and compensation study currently being performed by an outside firm. 
• One of the largest recommended capital expenditures this year was in the water resources fund. This request was reduced by $10.3 million due to adjustments in the spending on partnered portions of the Northwest recovery project (NWRRDS). That is a project the town is doing in cooperation with the Town of Marana and with Metro Water to bring water more directly from a CAP Reservoir in Avra Valley to Oro Valley.
• The Town Manager  reduced her requested capital fund monies by $3 million. This reflects two items. One is a shift in the source of the funding; the other is changes in the estimated cost of some road projects.  

Spending requested for town operations remains the same

The operating portion of the TMRB (with the exception of the personnel cost spending increase noted previously) remain the same. So let’s take a look at those personnel costs. 

TMRB request is for staff to grow to 414

This year’s TMRB includes 414 personnel. That is an increase of nine full-time and four part-time positions. TMRB personnel spending is $89.3 million. 

 
Two departments are 52% of total personnel cost and 43% of all personnel (panel right)

Police

The Police Department is asking for funding of 139 positions. This adds two police officers and a civilians public information officer. An additional telecommunications position is also sought. The addition of the public information officer frees a sergeant position for field work. According to Oro Valley Police Chief Kara Riley, these staff position additions fulfill all staffing needs for 2023.

 

Water

The water utility has one-third of the town's personnel spending.  The utility currently has forty full-time and 1 part-time position. The department has no TMRB request for added staff.   

Public Works and Parks and Recreation

Public Works and Parks and Recreation are seeking to add four positions each. Public Works is responsible for building all the planned parks facilities. That will be a huge focus of their activity this year. The Parks Department itself wants to add staff at the aquatic center. The TMRB also seeks to add one Park monitor to help cover hours in special events of town parks.

 
Big raises due?
The town is undertaking a competitive wage study. As previously reported and as noted above, the result of the wage study will have a major impact on personnel cost. “The recommended budget includes $1.3 million in the general fund set aside for implementing the final pay plan which is yet to be brought to council. [The TMRB] also includes funds to continue normal step increases for all eligible town employees.”

 
According to Town Manager Jacobs, Oro Valley has fared better than other organizations when it comes to employee turnover and resignations.

Also tonight...Water rate hike!

Tonight's town council agenda includes a public hearing on the proposed 2022-23 water rate price increase. The council will likely approve the rate hike once the public hearing is closed.