Bits and Pieces

Kriegh park use highlights need to balance town revenue goals and resident access
Kriegh Park will be largely unavailable for casual resident use for the third consecutive weekend. This weekend, the Oro Valley Aquatic Center is hosting the Age Group State Swim Meet, running Thursday through Sunday, and attendees are expected to use much of the available parking. The previous two weekends also brought heavy park activity with wine festivals held at the site. In addition, during most weekdays the park’s fields are reserved for organized baseball and softball beginning around 5 p.m., further limiting opportunities for casual resident use of the park. These programs run year-round. Finding parking is difficult. Walking the perimeter during games can also be difficult, with foul balls, lawn chairs, and children riding bikes around the fields. 

The town’s goal of attracting visitors who spend money locally needs to be balanced with maintaining reasonable access for residents.

New police headquarters is well underway...20 police units may locate there

At Monday’s second council strategic planning session, council and staff discussed police facilities. As we reported in August, the town purchased an existing building for a future police headquarters. The building is about 50,000 square feet. Planning is underway to determine how it will house roughly 20 police operational units and support the department’s needs over the next 10 to 20 years. 

At present, the plan is for dispatch operations to remain in the La Canada headquarters because of the cost of relocating the communications infrastructure. Once the police department moves into the new facility, the remaining space in the La Canada building will likely be used by other town departments that need additional room, with the Water Utility Department mentioned as a possible future occupant.

Renovation may cost far less than anticipated

Staff delivered some good news regarding the cost of renovating the new space at the Monday strategy session.  Early planning indicates that about 70 percent of the existing building can be reused with only interior modifications, such as moving walls and repurposing rooms. Because much of the structure can remain intact, staff believe the renovation may be completed for only a few million dollars, depending on final design and construction estimates.  The town will first look for available cash within its capital improvement program to fund the work. If borrowing is required, the town will likely arrange a direct bank loan rather than issuing bonds, which staff said would keep financing costs lower.

Firefighters host community cookout tomorrow at Naranja Park archery range

The North Tucson Firefighters Association are hosting the Jose Samaniego Memorial Archery Shoot and BBQ Challenge, a community event that combines a 3D archery competition with a first-responder cookout. The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Naranja Park archery range. The event raises funds for programs such as “Shop with a Firefighter,” which supports local families during the holidays. The event also honors fallen Golder Ranch firefighter Jose Samaniego. Residents are welcome to stop by to watch the competition, enjoy barbecue, and meet local first responders.

March 15:  Celebrate Oro Valley with the Tucson Roadrunners

Oro Valley residents are invited to attend Oro Valley Day with the Tucson Roadrunners on March 15 at 4 p.m. when the Roadrunners host the San Jose Barracuda at the Tucson Convention Center. The event, organized with the Town of Oro Valley and the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce, offers discounted tickets for Oro Valley attendees and includes a pregame St. Patrick’s day themed gathering with music, food, and community booths highlighting Oro Valley organizations. Town officials are expected to take part in the festivities, including a ceremonial puck drop. Mayor Winfield is expected to ride the Zamboni.  More information and ticket details are available here.

Traffic alert for Sunday's Arizona Distance Classic

Drivers should expect minor delays Sunday morning, March 8, due to the Arizona Distance Classic running event in Oro Valley. The half marathon begins at 6:30 a.m., followed by the quarter marathon and 5K at 7:05 a.m., with the race starting and finishing at Roche Tissue Diagnostics on Innovation Park Drive. Portions of Innovation Park Drive, Rancho Vistoso Boulevard, Tangerine Road, and nearby residential streets will experience traffic control, lane restrictions, and some temporary closures as runners move along the course. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and watch for runners, volunteers, and law enforcement directing traffic. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Mid-year financial report shows stable finances but sales tax shortfall

The town’s fiscal year 2025-26 mid-year financial report shows that Oro Valley’s finances remain generally stable, though several trends bear watching. Local sales tax revenue, particularly construction sales tax, is running significantly below budget and is expected to finish the year about $4.8 million short. Some of that reflects development projects that were assumed in the budget but have not yet begun. Town departments, however, are holding spending below budget, helping offset part of the revenue gap. Golf operations at the Community Center are performing strongly and are expected to exceed budget, providing a bright spot in the results. Even with the sales tax shortfall, the town projects that its General Fund balance will remain about $4 million above the 25% reserve policy at year end. (Source: Finance Director David Gephart report to council on March 4, 2026)

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Bits and Pieces

Ventana Medical Systems wants permission to release pollutants into Oro Valley’s air
Oro Valley’s Ventana Medical Systems (also known as Roche Tissue Diagnostics), located in Innovation Park Drive has applied for a permit to release air pollutants from its operations. These include five different pollutant plus one called "Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs)".  The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality (PDEQ) is processin the request. It is accepting public comments on it through April 21, 2025. You can also request a public hearing. Visit pima.gov to submit a comment or request a hearing.

Tech support scams on the rise

The March 2025 edition of the Oro Valley Police Department’s (OVPD) Crimefighter Newsletter warns residents about an increase in tech support scams, with older adults being frequent targets. These scams often begin with pop-up messages or unsolicited calls from people pretending to be technicians from well-known companies. Victims are tricked into giving remote access to their computers or purchasing unnecessary software, putting their finances and personal information at risk. OVPD encourages residents to stay vigilant and provides tips on how to protect themselves.

OVPD offers community safety programs

The newsletter also announces the return of the R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) Self-Defense Program, offering practical techniques for personal protection. In addition, OVPD has launched the OV Safe Return Program to help locate and safely return individuals who may wander due to cognitive conditions. These programs reflect the department’s continued commitment to community safety and proactive support for residents.

OVCN seeks yet another "extension"...Residents Opposed

The saga of the Oro Valley Church (OVCN) of the Nazarene’s effort to build major new facilities has dragged on for six years. What started as a plan for a sports complex shifted to a proposal for a 40-foot-tall sanctuary with support facilities. The Planning and Zoning Commission rejected that height request in January, and the church appealed to the Town Council. At the schedule hearing, OVCN asked for more time after hiring a new attorney. The Council granted an extension until April 2.

Now, the church is asking for an eight-month delay. In their letter to the Council, they explain that most concerns raised by neighbors involve traffic, parking, and drainage — issues not fully addressed in their current request. They say they need more time to complete a full analysis of these concerns and submit formal plans through the town’s Development Plan process. It’s yet another delay in a process that seems unlikely to end anytime soon.

And here’s the kicker: Any development plan must first go through town staff review, then a public hearing with the Planning and Zoning Commission, and only then can it go before the Town Council. That process takes time — probably more than eight months.

Four speakers addressed the council on Wednesday, all opposing the request by OVCN for an additional eight-month extension. They expressed frustration over years of delays and emphasized that the project has already been rejected twice by the Planning and Zoning Commission for being incompatible with the neighborhood.  They argued that repeated continuances only prolong uncertainty and allow the church to bypass established zoning decisions. They urged the council to deny the extension and called for the church to find a more appropriate location for its expansion plans.

The Town Council does not have to grant the extension. Let’s see what they do on April 2 when they consider it.

Harebrained Arizona House bill would allow religious institutions to build housing with little local input

The Arizona House is considering HB2191, a bill that would allow religious institutions to build residential developments on land they own. While local governments would still handle administrative approvals, they would not be allowed to impose additional conditions or hold public hearings. Issues like traffic, parking, drainage, and community impact would be addressed only through minimal state-mandated standards, not through local decision-making. Residents would lose their voice in the process, and town councils would have little power to influence what happens in their own communities.

The RoadRunners celebrated Oro Valley 

The Tucson Roadrunners, the American Hockey League affiliate of the NHL's Utah Hockey Club, celebrated Oro Valley this past Sunday. According to Council Member Mo Greene: “Sunday was a really cool day for Oro Valley. The Roadrunners hosted a day for Oro Valley, and we had the town manager riding around on the Zamboni — a priceless picture — and he did well! He stayed right on there. Then the mayor dropped the puck to start the game. It was an amazing day, and after two overtimes, the Roadrunners won. It was a really exciting day.”

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Bits and Pieces

Hockey Night: Oro Valley teams up with the Tucson Roadrunners

Oro Valley residents have a special opportunity to celebrate their community while enjoying professional hockey at Oro Valley Community Night with the Tucson Roadrunners on March 16, 2025. The event, held at the Tucson Convention Center, kicks off at 2 p.m. with a St. Patrick’s Day-themed pre-game party, featuring live music and festive activities. The first 1,000 fans through the doors will receive a free St. Patty’s Day Roadrunners T-shirt, and Mayor Joe Winfield will take part in the ceremonial puck drop. Oro Valley businesses and organizations will also be showcased throughout the evening. With discounted ticket prices starting at just $15, this event is a great chance for families, friends, and hockey fans to come together and support their local team. Get your tickets here. (Source: Town of Oro Valley media release)

Take the Trails Connectivity Survey Now

The Town of Oro Valley is seeking community input through the OV Trails Connect survey, giving residents a chance to share their thoughts on the town’s trail and multi-use path network. This is an opportunity to influence future improvements and ensure the trails meet the needs of walkers, runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. The survey is open until March 17, 2025. Your feedback will help guide future investments and enhancements—take a few minutes to have your voice heard! Also, the town will host a stakeholder meeting at 5:30 pm at town hall on March 12. It is available to all.

Mark your calender: Vistoso Nature Preserve Update – April 16

The consulting firm Kimley-Horn will return to the Town Council on April 16 to present updated concepts for the pond at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. This is an important update for those following the preserve restoration efforts.

Mark you calender: Celebrate Oro Valley – April 12

The town’s annual celebration will be held at James D. Kriegh Park from 1 to 5 p.m. This event is a key opportunity to bring the community together. Learn more here.

Oro Valley in March: Community events bringing people together 

Oro Valley is offering a variety of engaging activities this month, bringing the community together through outdoor recreation and entertainment. The Oro Valley Hiking Series began on March 1 with a guided trek through Dead Horse Canyon, gives outdoor enthusiasts a chance to explore the unique landscape. Families can attend the Second Saturday event on March 8 at Steam Pump Ranch, which includes historical tours, live music, and a farmers’ market. Later in the month, on March 15, the Movie at the Ranch event will screen "Inside Out 2" under the stars, offering a fun-filled evening. Families can also participate in the overnight Camping at the Ranch event on March 29-30, complete with s’mores and a pancake breakfast. These events reflect Oro Valley’s commitment to fostering community engagement and encouraging outdoor activities. See this link for information on these an and other events.

Public art tours: Extended by popular demand

Oro Valley’s pilot program for public art tours, originally planned to run from February through mid-April, has been extended until July 2, 2025, due to overwhelming interest. These guided tours provide residents and visitors with an opportunity to explore the town’s vibrant public art scene, showcasing sculptures, murals, and installations that reflect the community’s creativity. Registration is available online, and those interested are encouraged to check back frequently, as spots may open due to cancellations. This extension highlights the growing appreciation for public art in Oro Valley and the town’s commitment to making cultural experiences accessible to all. (Source: Town of Oro Valley media release)

Wildfire safety: Oro Valley and Golder Ranch Fire partner to educate residents

With wildfire risks growing in the western U.S., the Town of Oro Valley and the Golder Ranch Fire District are taking proactive steps to educate residents on fire prevention and emergency preparedness. On March 14, 2025, they will co-host a Wildfire Safety Community Q&A at the Oro Valley Town Hall Council Chambers from 3 to 5 p.m., featuring insights from fire officials on home protection strategies and the latest wildfire risk assessments. Attendees will learn about the Ready, Set, Go! evacuation system and other critical safety measures. The event will also be streamed on Zoom for those unable to attend in person, with a recording available later on social media. This collaboration highlights the town’s commitment to equipping residents with the knowledge needed to safeguard their homes and community from wildfire threats. Join the Zoom Livestream here. (Source: Town of Oro Valley media release)

A step forward: Improved accessibility at the Community Center

Oro Valley has taken a significant step in enhancing accessibility with the completion of the Community and Recreation Center’s new entryway and elevator. The ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated a project that now allows residents and visitors of all abilities to enjoy easier access to key amenities, including the Overlook Restaurant, Golf Pro Shop, and community rooms. The improvements include a lowered entryway, a new elevator, and 10 additional accessible parking spaces, all aimed at making the facility more inclusive. Overcoming the challenges of renovating a 40-year-old building, town officials emphasized that this project is about more than just construction—it’s about ensuring that public spaces are welcoming for everyone. (Source: Town of Oro Valley media release)

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