Town Council Will Soon Consider a Multi-Million Dollar Agreement with Town West on the Oro Valley Village Center

Oro Valley to consider investing millions in the Oro Valley Village Center

In the near future, the Oro Valley Town Council will meet to discuss an economic development agreement (EDA) with Town West, the company that wants to reimagine the Oro Valley Marketplace.  The agreement will cost the town tens of millions of dollars. It would be bet on the part of the town that the Oro Valley Village Center will be successful. The cost and details of the town's investment are not known. Council will discuss it in an Executive Session. Residents will only know about it once it is a done deal.  We do know that town staff and outside counsel have been working on this agreement since at least January of 2022  (as reported in LOVE) and that the cost will be at least $10million, but likely more.

The town's investment would occur before the Oro Valley Village Center is built

We believe that the agreement calls for the town to build and maintain the center's entertainment center. Oro Valley will get a park to maintain, and yet another splash pad, so that Town West can meet recreation requirements for the apartments and hotels that have been approved to build. The town would likely be making its investment before Town West builds anything.

There is a project similar to the Oro Valley Village Center that is being built nearby

Construction has begun on Uptown, a reimagined center on the site of the former Foothills Mall. The Uptown vision is impressive.  It's a 51-acre development located on the site of the Foothills Mall. It is  being built by the property owner, Bourn Companies. Uptown will have shops, restaurants, apartments, a hotel, an entertainment stage, an event lawn, a splash pad, video screens, and a public market. It is being marketed as a lifestyle experience. It is entirely privately funded. The County and its residents are at no risk.

Council does not have to approve the EDA

Any economic development agreement would put the Town of Oro Valley at risk regarding the Oro Valley Village Center project. The town would be putting money into a venture that may fail or that may never really happen. Uptown will be done long before anything significant happens at the old Marketplace. The council is not under any obligation to approve an EDA.

Will this EDA be like "The Outrageous Giveaway"… sinking money into a rathole?

The town went down the EDA road some years ago when it comes to that property. The town invested $15million in refunded sales tax dollars in the Oro Valley Marketplace. The town was promised much and got little. As we wrote on our fifth anniversary in 2012:

The "Outrageous Giveaway" is an agreement between the Town and a Developer where the town gave away half of Oro Valley's sales tax revenues to the Developer for 20 years in return for having an upscale shopping center.  The Developer, Vestar, had mailed thousands of glossy, expensive postcards (like Steve Solomon's expensive postcards) which purported benefits that turned out to be lies (like Steve Solomon's expensive postcards).   Voters, giddy with the prospect of a beautiful upscale center and a movie theatre, approved the agreement.  Instead of LaEncantada, however, the voters got the Foothills Mall!"

We fought against this EDA. We took it to court. We took it to the voters. We lost the vote. But, at least, the EDA was fully vetted with the residents.

Residents will have nothing to say about it this EDA...

Unlike then, residents won’t know to what the town commits via the EDA until the council has approved it. Residents will have no input. This is because the Winfield-Barrett Council will discuss this agreement behind closed doors. They are not required by the open meeting law to do so. They are merely allowed by the open meeting law to keep their discussion secret if the matter involves negotiations.

…unless the council holds a hearing to get public input… which they can do if they so wish

The council has the option of holding a discussion of the EDA in public; of seeking, via a hearing, the wise advice of the many who live in the community who have experience in this field. Then, the council can adjourn behind close doors to deliberate or not, as they wish.,

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Note: Though the voters on the Oro Valley Marketplace approved the sales tax dollar giveaway, such deals were later declared unconstitutional by the Arizona State Supreme Court. Under that ruling, however, existing EDAs that gave away sales tax revenues were allowed to continue. 

Planning and Zoning Commission Approves Oro Valley Village Center

Project approval process moves forward

The Oro Valley planning and zoning commission approved (5-1) the conceptual design of the Oro Valley Village Center at its special session public hearing of January 6. Oro Valley Village Center is the new name of the Oro Valley marketplace. Their approval now moves this project to the next level of evaluation. This will be done by the Town Council.

The approval includes not only the design of the conceptual design of the project but the rezoning of this property from commercial use to residential and hotel use. In addition, the commission approved rezoning a draining area for entertainment use.

Town Staff: A regional commercial center is not feasible

Town staff reported at the meeting their conclusion that a regional commercial center is not feasible (see panel). A total overhaul of what was planned for the Oro Valley Marketplace is required. As we reported last week, town staff enthusiastically supports the proposal.

Town West: Reimagining is essential to the future of the site
Speaking at the meeting, Jim Horvath, Town West's Chairman and Founder, said that the ability to attract tenants to the Marketplace depends on the reimagined plans of the Oro Valley Village Center.

“We commit to our projects. We work with the Community towards success. Our centers operate generally at a very high-level of occupancy in the 95 to 98% range. We worked in partnership with Town of Oro Valley to attract Ashley Furniture into the Dick’s Sporting Goods space. We have brought new business like Tuc Tuc Thai, Peach Wave, Lewis + Ivy Salon, Back Benders Chiropractic and H&R Block to the marketplace.”

He continued: “We are working to save the movie theater, Best Buy, and the Red Lobster who have all struggled. We have new tenants coming into the center including Happy Vine and Pima heart, who are in the planning and construction phase. And several other tenants are in the process of negotiating leases or letters of intent.

This renewed activities is directly related and attributed to the reimagined plans for the Oro Valley Village Center.”

Neither Horvath nor his son Toby, Town West President, live in Oro Valley.

The Oro Valley Village Center is an "ecosystem"
The highlight of the reimagining the “Entertainment Center.”  Speaking at last week’s meeting, Kerri Silvyn, of Town West's law firm Lazarus and Silvyn, stated that:

 
“One of the things to understand is that this really is an ecosystem. In order for this to be successful, in order to create the space in the middle- which is the cool space that I’m going to start with because we’re excited about it -we really need the densities on the site. We need the people here that’s going to help create the success of the retail; it’s going to help create the financial wherewithal to be able to bring forward all of the really cool stuff that were we want to bring forward.”

Wednesday: “The Entertainment Center”

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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)

Oro Valley Village Center Is A Drinking Water Intensive Project

Wednesday, The Oro Valley Town Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed Oro Valley Village Center. The center is a replacement of the Oro Valley Marketplace. In preparing for that meeting, the Council held a study session on the matter on January 19. Subsequent to that meeting, council members submitted questions regarding the rezoning request. One of those questions was about water use, a topic that was not previously discussed.
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The Oro Valley Valley village center is a “water intensive” project
Town staff estimates that the Oro Valley Village Center will use an additional amount of water over what the Oro Valley Marketplace, if fully built-out, would use. That additional amount of water is equivalent to the annual water use of more than 1,600 single-family residential homes. To put that in perspective, that’s four times the drinking water that the town “wastes” watering the recently reopened Pusch Ridge Golf Course. It's more water than used in most subdivisions in the town. The panel below lists the additional uses of drinking water for Oro Valley Village Center project.

Staff assures council there is more than enough water to accommodate this project
In its responses to council, town staff assured council that “this increased demand can be supplied without impacting existing or future customers.” (Report Page 33) 

Staff determined this based on their analysis of the quantity of groundwater the State allows the town to withdraw annually (13.4 thousand Acre Feet Per year) versus the quantity that is currently withdrawing (5 thousand). The town has been able to keep its groundwater withdrawals lower than allowed “…though a combination of the introduction of reclaimed water, conservation efforts, and receiving a portion of our CAP allocation through wheeling agreements with Tucson Water.”

A few months ago, water utility Director Peter Abraham reported to counsel that he felt that further conservation efforts were not going to reduce water consumption. Abraham, however, does not foresee any circumstance in which to town will not have sufficient water to supply its customers.

CAP is in a level 1 water restriction. This restriction does not impact water delivery to residential users. Though CAP water delivery is assured for the next few years, there is no assurance that this will continue indefinitely since CAP water is likely to be further restricted in future years. CAP water is used to replenish the town's groundwater supply. CAP is by far the most significant reason the town’s net groundwater withdrawal is below the limit.

Wise water use is a council priority
Town Council is made it clear that wise water use is a council priority. This council has continued to support water conservation, approved water rates that penalize water use, continued “sin taxes” on water that add to water cost, approved regulations that penalize water wasting and put emergency procedures in place in case there is a water shortage. 

Jobs and Water Use

There are instances of communities in Arizona that have not allowed zoning changes because the water use would be far in excess of the economic benefit brought to the community. One benefit is the number of and quality of jobs a project, if completed, brings to the community. The town's economic development plan calls for increasing the number of high wage, high value jobs to the town. The estimated number and quality of jobs this project will bring to the town has not been provided to the council.

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About the council questions
Council members were asked to submit questions regarding the rezoning requests of the Oro Valley Market place at the conclusion of the study session of January 19. They submitted a total of 97 questions. Town staff categorized these questions into six areas: Apartments, pedestrian connectivity, the entertainment district, the noise study, traffic, zoning, ESLO, water, and other. Either the town staff or the applicant provided the answer to each question. The response document is 36 pages. You can access it here.

Town West Unveils Plan To Get The Oro Valley Village Center Going...Eliminates Risk To Town

Plan requires a "scaled down" entertainment center

Last night, the owner of the Oro Valley Marketplace, Town West, unveiled a plan to allow them to begin transforming the Oro Valley Marketplace into the Oro Valley Village Center. That transformation includes construction of one hotel and two apartment complexes. The plan hinges on the Town Council granting approval for a modification in the development of the Entertainment Center.

Town West plans to create a downsized version of the entertainment center in what they call “Phase 1” [See panel right] such they it can meet recreational space prerequisites for the already approved apartment buildings. They collaborated with town staff to devise this proposal and the Town Staff has recommended its approval.

Change needed because Town Council rejected EDA

The requested change stems from the Town of Oro Valley's Council refusal to assume responsibility for undergrounding the wash that runs through the entertainment center area. According to the Town West, that cost would have been paid by the construction sales taxes that the town will earn from the project. The Town Council was repeatedly informed that the complete entertainment center couldn't be constructed without the town participating in what Town West refers to as a "private:public" partnership.

The town staff with the assistance of Town Outside Attorney Jonathan Rothschild had previously negotiated a deal with the developer under the direction of former town manager Mary Jacobs, but the Town Council rejected it in an executive session earlier in the summer. Keri Silvyn of Lazarus and Silvyn PC, representing Town West, stated, "We were informed over the summer that the Town Council was not interested in an EDA." As a result, they collaborated with staff to develop an alternative plan for the entertainment center, allowing them to proceed with construction. 

Phased approach eliminates financial risk to town
The phased approach to building the entertainment center eliminates the risk to the town presented by the original plan. Town West will build the two apartment complexes and a hotel without any Town involvement. If, after that, the town sees success in the project, the council can decide if it wants to underground the wash to accommodate the addition of another hotel and food court-type concepts in the entertainment district.

Phased approach in no way changes council mandated stipulations
The Town Council made twenty-three stipulations for the construction of the facilities in the Oro Valley Village Center when it approved the project last year. The proposed phased approach to building the entertainment center in no way impacts any of those stipulations. Thus, the project will be built in exactly the manner the town approved.

Center is simply not viable as it is

James Horvath, Managing Partner of Town West, expressed deep concerns about the viability of the center in its current state. He said that most businesses are struggling to stay afloat. Only Olive Garden is performing adequately, while the rest of the businesses are facing difficulties. The owner of Tuk Tuk Thai, an Oro Valley resident, has contemplated reducing operating days due to poor business performance.

Planning and Zoning Commission approves change but...

We acknowledge the dedication of those who serve on town commissions and boards. However, it's worth noting that some commission members spent an excessive amount of time attempting to redesign a project they were supposed to vote on. Their primary decision was whether to allow the entertainment center to be built in phases, which, after a lengthy discussion with some members admitting their lack of knowledge about the project, received a 6-0 vote in favor of the change, with one abstention.

Phasing not the only change requested

Another decision the council needs to make concerns the requirement that the entertainment center include a couple of restaurants around the same time as the construction of the apartments. The details are not entirely clear, but the Planning and Zoning Commission decided to waive this requirement.

No guarantee of when construction will begin even if change is approved by council

If the Town Council approves this change at the upcoming regular council meeting next week, construction can commence on the center. Nevertheless, even with that approval, there is no certainty of immediate progress due to the current economic climate and prevailing high interest rates. The project owner informed the Town of Oro Valley planning and zoning commission last night that they cannot guarantee a specific construction timeline. They emphasized the urgency of progressing since they are currently paying taxes on a property generating no revenue. Town West General Manager James Horvath underscored, "We cannot commit to any timeframe.”

Development of the entertainment center beyond phase 1 is unlikely without town financial support

Town Staff and the applicant made it clear at the meeting that development of the entertainment center beyond phase 1 is highly unlikely... unless the town agrees to undergroud the wash... which, perhaps a future council will do.

More to follow next week when the Town Council hears this matter

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Oro Valley Village Center Is A Mini City

The Oro Valley Village Center is a mini city

One 75 foot high apartment building will sit on the site. Another apartment 59 foot high. These apartments will house approximately 1,300 people. Add to this three hotels and commercial/retail buildings. 

All this on 112 acres of land. 

It is a mini city.

The mini city will have its own entertainment center, one that will be maintained in part by the town; its own movie theater; its own supermarket; its own restaurants.

Oro Valley Village Center is a bold vision... bolder than envisioned in the General Plan

The Oro Valley Village Center is more than just a plan to revitalize the Oro Valley Marketplace, a revitalization that is sorely needed. No. It is vision of Oro Valley that is not included in the town's "Your Voice, Our Future 2016 General Plan." It is  a concept so bold in design, so unique in concept, and so complex that it will likely take years to build and may never become a reality as proposed given what has become an ever changing world.

Council has been told: "This is all or nothing deal." There is no "wiggle room."

The developer, Town West LLC, has made it abundantly clear that this is all or nothing project. They are willing to invest $335 million in Oro Valley only if the project is economically viable. The only economically viable project they have proposed is this project, a project that increases the population density on the land far beyond what was envisioned in the town's zoning codes, or in the town's general plans.

Project requires a zoning code that the town does not have

The apartment buildings have to be 75 feet and 59 feet in height to accommodate the underneath parking. Above ground, underneath parking is required because the land on which the apartment is going to be built is not big enough to accommodate code required outside parking. Less setback is needed from the roads because there simply is not enough land to accommodate the apartment building if the setback is enforced per code.

What this project needs is city like zoning: High population density. High rise buildings. 

Oro Valley simply does not have a zoning code to accommodate the project. Thus, the applicant's request for fifteen zoning variance requests.

The task before council is daunting

Tonight, the Oro Valley town Council will hold a public hearing on the requested changes. The council may or they may not decide tonight to approve or deny some or all of the zoning variance requests that are sought.

Tonight, town council will have to answer the fundamental question on behalf of all of us who live and love Oro Valley: Do we want our town to have a mini city at the intersection of Oracle Road and Tangerine? Is this what we want for our town? If so, then is granting the fifteen zoning variance requests the right way to do it? Or is there a better way? For example, should town staff create a new pad designation for such a mini city? Should council then approve this project based on that new pad designation? A designation that would allow minimum setbacks, tall buildings, and shared recreational space. A designation that would allow for less protection of sensitive lands and view sheds.

Tonight: Tell the Town Council if you do or do not support this project

You don’t need to be real specific in terms of why you do or do not. You just need to let them know how you feel about it. It is important for the Council to hear your voice because this will be the first time and may be the only time this will happen. 

The meeting starts at 6 o’clock at Town Council Chambers. 

See you there.

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Bits and Pieces

Former Vistoso Golf Course is now "Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve"

The Oro Valley Town Council selected a name for the former Vistoso Golf Course preserve. They did so a this past Wednesday's town council meeting. 

There were 1,500 unique names submitted by more than 2,500 residents in a contest to name the former course. The council selected from among the top three as voted by town residents. The name, Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve," received the the most resident votes and was the final selection of council.

Oro Valley Village Center (aka Oro Valley Marketplace) visioning continues
Town West returned to the Oro Valley Town Council Wednesday night to seek guidance as they prepare to resubmit their plan for the Oro Valley Village Center to council. They were seeking guidance on the height of the two hotels. 

According to Keri Silvyn, Town West attorney, the hoteliers (Springhill Suites Marriot and Hilton Hampton Suites) require four floor buildings. That means a height of 49 feet plus 10 added feet for architecture. That brings the height 10 feet greater than the PAD permits. All council members were in favor of the increased height. 

The discussion then turned to the location of one of the hotels. Most members favored putting that hotel on Oracle as opposed to it being Tangerine. The other hotel will be in the entertainment area. 

Town West will continue the process, resubmitting their proposal to town staff. According to Silvyn, the development conforms with all other PAD requirements.

Sharp to speak at OVSBC meeting next week

Mayoral candidate Danny Sharp will be the guest speaker on May 25 at an Oro Valley Social & Business Club (OVSBC) gathering. The event is from 5-7pm at the Fork and Fire Grille in the Oro Valley Marketplace. The event is $20 cash at the door and includes food and music. Cash bar. OVSBC supports local restaurants, small businesses and Veterans/First Responders. This is not a candidate fundraising event.

Oro Valley invites community to Naranja Park groundbreaking ceremony 

ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (May 17, 2022) – The Town of Oro Valley is ready to break ground on the Naranja Park Expansion Project, a multi-million-dollar investment that will bring new amenities to this already established park. Community members of all ages are invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony, which will be held Tuesday, May 31 from 9 to 10 a.m. at Naranja Park (810 W Naranja Drive). The groundbreaking will feature remarks from Parks and Recreation Director Kristy Diaz-Trahan and Mayor Joe Winfield. Following the ceremony, families are invited to stay and play at Naranja Park with free commemorative kites made specifically as a keepsake for the event.. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Press Release)

Town unveils third mural

There's a new mural in Oro Valley. According to Town Manager Mary Jacobs, "The mural was inspired by the beautiful starry nights in Oro Valley and the beautiful desert colors." The mural is on the concession stand in Riverfront Park. The town's other murals are at James D Kreigh Park and the Oro Valley Marketplace.

Town of Oro Valley accepting applications for Planning and Zoning Commission vacancy 

 ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (May 19, 2022) – The Town of Oro Valley is accepting applications to fill an immediate vacancy on the Planning and Zoning Commission.  To serve on an Oro Valley commission, members must be residents of Oro Valley, be able to attend the designated meetings and complete the Town’s Community Academy within their term. Planning and Zoning Commission members serve two-year terms. Those interested in applying can visit the application process on our website. The vacancy will remain open until filled. The Planning and Zoning Commission holds public meetings and makes recommendations to the Town Council on matters relating to the General Plan, zoning code amendments, rezoning and other land use requests. The commission meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. in the Oro Valley Council Chambers.

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Councils Have Done Much To Build The Oro Valley Business Base But Results Have Not Happened

Economic Development continues at a slow pace

In March, the town issued seventeen single family residency permits. Also in March, there were few new business projects listed by the town. In total, businesses that are coming to Oro Valley are the same types of businesses that we reported in February.  We concluded then that most businesses that are opening in Oro Valley are focussed on serving the adult community (Read: "Oro Valley is an Adult Community")

Town Councils have tried to do much over the years to bring businesses to Oro Valley

"Rooftops strategy"

The Hiremath led councils embarked on a "grow the rooftops" strategy. The result of that strategy can be seen today with La Posada, a senior living that is is being built north of the CDO Wash, behind Home Depot. Yes. That project will bring more people to our community. But will it bring more businesses to the community or will it simply add to traffic in the area?

Two Economic Development Directors

The Winfield Council now has its second Oro Valley Economic Development Director. Neither the first Director nor the current Director have brought any significant business to our community with one exception, that being Leonardo Electronics. That company, however, has yet to break ground, though the project was announced in December of 2021. (Source: March Town of Oro Valley Economic Development Status Report.)

Easing requirements in economic enterprise zones

The Council, at the urging of former town manager Mary Jacobs and the then current Economic Development Director, eased the permitting codes ("EEZ"). That council approved blading the desert in Innovation Park to create "shovel-ready lots." The hope was that businesses would come to Oro Valley. After all, Oro Valley has an easier permitting process and land that is ready for construction. Well, that hasn't happened either.

A friendlier Planning and Zoning Department

Jacobs, under the Winfield Council, attempted to make it a bit easier for Developers to build in Oro Valley by putting the Planning and Zoning Department under the Director of Economic Development. The goals of Economic Development Department and Planning and Zoning Department are not the same. The Economic Development Department  seeks to build the commercial base of our community. The Planning and Zoning Department is supposed to make sure that whatever is built is built within code specifications. Their job is to protect the community, not to grow it.  Today, the Planning and Zoning Department tries to negotiate between residents and developers, rather than simply doing their code [and Genera Plan] enforcement job.

An example of this relates to the request of the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene [OVCN] to rezone land next to the church at Concordia and Buena Vista so that they can build a major sports complex. The residents are united against this proposal. They have been steadfast in their position that there is no compromise that will result in their supporting that facility in that area. Yet, many times, the Planning and Zoning Department has talked with the residents, urging some sort of compromise. That is not the Planning and Zoning Department's job. Their job is to process the application in the same manner in which all such applications are processed. 

"Choose Oro Valley" Website

The town created a website that won an award from the Arizona Association of Economic Development. That website is chooseorovalley.com. The focus of that site is to attract bioscience companies, like Roche. It is quite comprehensive. One can see available sites and buildings and tax incentives. It displays Oro Valley's key industries.

The site falsely states that "the population of Oro Valley is balanced across all age segments." We know it is not balanced. Any business with a serious intent is going to look at the 2020 Census Data, like we did, and see that that statement is false. Indeed, even the town’s own Parks and Recreation Master Plan acknowledges that “…the town exhibits an unbalanced distribution among major age segments.”  We are an over 55 community.  Putting false information on the web sit reduces the credibility of all the information on the site.

Shovel ready sites

The first of the two Economic Development Directors convinced the Council that the reason Oro Valley was not being selected by companies was that the town had no “shovel ready sites.” These are sites that are graded without a specific site plan.  So, the town approved blading the desert in Innovation Park to do just that. This happened in September 2020.

Working with the State of Arizona

The town also receives leads from the State. None of these have panned out to date. Many of these leads seem to have more of an industrial need. Something Oro Valley doesn't want. It's important to face reality. Everybody wants clean businesses in technology. What makes Oro Valley unique? We don't know.

From Oro Valley Marketplace to Oro Valley Village Center

Last year the Council approved a bold revisioning of the failed Oro Valley Marketplace. It is call the Oro Valley Village Center. It is being revisioned on the premise that the area needs to build its own population density in order to support businesses in the center. The vision is for hotels and apartments, adding more density to the town. Nothing has happened to the Center since the approval.

The “Business Incubator”

In December of 2020  the University of Arizona opened a “business incubator” in Innovation Park to house startup companies . The hope is that one of the startups will take hold and flourish in Oro Vally, It is too soon to tell if this initiative will pay off.

Council's recent "Economic Vitality" revisit produces nothing new

Last week the Town Council held a study session on its strategic plan. "Economic Vitality" is one area they discussed. As Vice Mayor Barrett noted, the study session was an update of the existing strategy. The session was not a discussion on how to replace it.  The focus of the plan is to do the same things that the town has been doing to meet the following goals:

• Support local businesses
• Attract employers in key business sectors
• Attract commercial businesses to our centers
• Increase visitors (Via $400,000 annually given to  "Visit Tucson" to generate 28,000 hotel room nights. That's $14.29 per night.

To date, these actions have failed to produce significant tangible results

Town Councils have done much to build the business base in this town. Perhaps it is the impact of the Pandemic. Perhaps it is the impact of the three-year economic meltdown that has happened since the Pandemic. Regardless, the town has yet to see results in their efforts to bring significant new business to the community.

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Winfield: "Together We Guide Our Future"

Winfield's "State of the Town Address" paints bright future
Last Thursday, the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted Mayor Joe Winfield as he presented the Town's 22nd Annual "State of the Town Address." Mayor Winfield outlined a compelling vision for the future of Oro Valley as he shared the remarkable progress the town made in 2023 in the pursuit of this vision.

Oro Valley is about "Community Building"
The Mayor emphasized that thoughtful planning and core services are vital in making Oro Valley an exceptional place to live and do business. "It's about building parks to provide places and activities for individuals and families. It's about investing in quality roads and maintaining an adequately staffed police department. It's about the sustainable management of our water assets to ensure residents now and well into the future that we have a safe and reliable water supply. It's about shaping our built environment to serve the community while also preserving Oro Valley's stunning views and unique character."

Oro Valley is "Evolving to Meet Future Needs"
"Momentum" also emerged as a recurring theme, symbolizing the driving force behind the council's actions and decisions. "I'm excited about the direction and momentum this Council has charted to bring us closer to Oro Valley's vision for the future as stated in the 2016 General Plan....Having momentum can increase confidence and enable bold decisions, because, like a sports game, you have a strategic plan so that everyone understands the shared goal." 

The town's new short-term rental ordinance is an example. "Our goal is to support our rentals and hotel properties while also preserving the quality of life in our neighborhoods for residents who call Oro Valley home."  Winfield also referenced a revisioning of the Oro Valley marketplace into the Oro Valley Village Center. "While we're still finalizing some details, this project is moving forward, and these new opportunities will better serve our residents, guests, and businesses."

Oro Valley Strives to Provide Outstanding Core Services and Infrastructure
Public safety and parks played a crucial role in the address. The Oro Valley Police Department's accreditation and commitment to excellence were recognized, demonstrating the town's dedication to safeguarding its citizens.

The Mayor shared the many park and recreational improvements this past year, highlighting the town's Naranja Park expansion project, improvements in municipal golf irrigation, the acquisition and planned conversion of the Vistoso Golf Course into a nature preserve, and the upcoming elevator installation at the community center. "All of this is great news, especially as the Community Center is at record-level memberships and serving more residents and guests than ever."

Oro Valley Leads in "Environmental Stewardship"
"Thoughtful resource management and a series of successful projects and initiatives have solidified Oro Valley as a community that continues to place high value on sustainability and the natural environment." 

Oro Valley's commitment to water conservation, resource management, and community beautification are examples. He showcased the town's efforts in water resource management and efficient water infrastructure. [See panel above right]  "In April, the Town, in partnership with several regional agencies, cut the ribbon on the Wildlife Protection Gate and Fence Project on Oracle Road, which prevents wildlife from dangerous road crossings and keeps them in the Big Wash wildlife corridor."

Next Year We Celebrate 50 Years
The speech also unveiled exciting plans for Oro Valley's 50th-anniversary celebration in 2024, which will include a range of community events and a business-focused program. "For history lovers, there will be an interactive timeline on the Town's website, and we'll be publishing a new podcast series and 12 monthly articles about Oro Valley's first 50 years."

The town is determined to involve its business community in these celebrations, fostering community engagement. "To that end, the Town and the Greater Oro Valley Chamber are creating a special 'shop local' program that incentivizes shopping at participating businesses by holding prize drawings throughout the year."

The 2026 General Plan will be "Oro Valley's Path Forward"
Winfield announced "Oro Valley Path Forward" as the theme of the 2026 General Plan. "The General Plan is our 'true north' because it is informed and shaped by the citizens. It identifies our values, priorities, needs, and wants. It articulates our goals, policies, and measurable actions. The community-based process of developing a general plan is how we turn the community's vision into reality, as the plan becomes our playbook for the next ten years."

The Mayor also underscored the importance of public engagement in shaping the future of Oro Valley through this plan. He announced the official launch of an online engagement platform, encouraging residents to participate in discussions and provide feedback on crucial focus areas. OVPathForward.com is the link to that platform.

Thanks to Staff 
In a heartfelt moment, the Mayor acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the Town staff, whose efforts are foundational to the quality of life in Oro Valley.

Our Future Is Bright
The Mayor concluded: "Together, we can guide our town toward a future envisioned by its citizens, setting the stage for a community that flourishes while preserving what makes Oro Valley special. Together, let us continue this momentum for a brighter, more peaceful, and prosperous tomorrow."

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Watch Mayor Winfield's speech.

Read a transcript of his remarks.

Bits and Pieces: Hornat's Hook, an Oro Valley "Skyscraper" and More (Updated 6-24-15)

It Was Hornat and Friends Who Put Themselves "On The Hook"

Wednesday, Council Member Joe Hornat said that he was sorry that there was not going to be a vote on the Oro Valley purchase of the El Conquistador Country Club. He said this at the end of the call to audience portion of this past Wednesday's council meeting. Joe said he was sorry because a public vote would have "taken us off the hook."

We wish to remind Council Member Hornat that is he and his Majority-4 colleagues who put themselves on the hook. What Hornat should have done was to use the common sense he prides himself in having and he wouldn't be on the hook at all.  Nor would the people of Oro Valley.

Council Approves Oro Valley's Second 5 Story Building

The Majority-4 of the Oro Valley Town Council voted to approve Oro Valley's first  5 story building. The minority 3 voted against it. The building will be behind the Home Depot on the southern piece of what is called the Rooney Ranch North property. The facility will be part of what is called Nakomy Sky Senior Living Campus. According to the town staff report on the property:

"A significant portion of this building will be naturally shielded from view from 1st Avenue by a hillside area, but the building will be significantly visible from Oracle Road and the CDO Bridge."

This is the second 5 story building that has been approved for Oro Valley. The first 5 story building to be approved has not been built. It is a hotel on the Rooney Ranch property at 1st and Oracle. The location of the hotel is further east than the new aproval, up the hillside in an adjacent parcel within the same Rooney Ranch property. This was approved in the Planned Area Development that included a Main Street design for the lower portion where the CVS is located now.

Winner announced for Shop OV Holiday Campaign $500 grand prize

Oro Valley, Arizona (January 20, 2015) - Oro Valley resident, Rebecca Taber is the winner of a random drawing for a $500 OV Dollars gift card sponsored by the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce as part of the Shop Oro Valley Holiday Campaign. Taber's receipt was one of 909 that were submitted during the nine-week campaign, for a total of more than $58,000 dollars spent at 108 Oro Valley businesses. (Source: Town Of Oro Valley Press Release)

Four teenagers arrested for burglary in Oro Valley

Oro Valley, Arizona (January 19, 2015) - On January 18, 2015 at approximately 2:40 a.m. Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD) responded to the Walgreens at Lambert and La Canada in reference to a burglary alarm. Officers arrived on scene within a few minutes and observed a male leaving the business and running towards the rear of the business. After a short foot pursuit he was taken into custody. Officers found the front door glass smashed in and several packs of cigarettes and alcohol on the ground of the Walgreens. (Source: Town Of Oro Valley Press Release)

Children's Museum To Possibly Open In Spring

TucsonNewsNow reports that the Tucson Children's Museum will open its Oro Valley doors this spring. The 3,000 square foot facility will be located in the Steam Pump Village Shopping Center.

Oro Valley Schedules Special February To Educate Public About El Conquistador Country Club and Community Center

Oro Valley Schedules February Open Houses To Discuss Community Center

Oro Valley, Arizona (January 23, 2015) - The Town of Oro Valley is planning a series of open house meetings in February to discuss the acquisition of the El Conquistador Country Cub and plans to convert it into a community and recreation center. Town officials want to provide information to the public and hear directly from residents.

The first of those meetings will be held Monday, February 2, 2015 at 6 p.m. in the El Conquistador Country Club Sunset Meeting Room, 10555 N. La Cañada Drive.

Town Officials and a representative from Troon Golf will be on hand to present information and field questions from those in attendance.

Residents who are unable to attend this meeting can attend a future meeting or submit their questions and comments to Oro Valley Constituent Services online or by calling 229-4711.
(Source: Town Of Oro Valley Press Release)

The "Oasis Park Entertainment Center" Is Essential To The Proposed Oro Valley Village Center

The "Oasis Park Entertainment Center" is essential to the proposed center

The centerpiece of the proposed Oro Valley Village Center is a strip of land between the Walmart and the Century Movie Theatre in the Oro Valley Marketplace. The strip continues past The Keg restaurant and ends at the main roadway to the west of the Olive Garden. [see panel below-right]

Developer seeks zoning change...

The Entertainment Center can only be built on the site if the land is zoned for "recreational open space." The land is zoned as natural open space.  It is a for drainage.  The plan is to install a culvert for water transport to Big Wash. The strip would be filled to do this.

...and an "extended" interpretation of required recreational space regulations

Oro Valley zoning codes require that apartments must have land set aside for recreation.  "As staff notes in the staff report, a typical garden apartment needs about 15 acres for 300 units. Neither the proposed Tangerine site nor the proposed Oracle site satisfies these requirements on their own.  The Tangerine site is 12 acres and the Oracle site 7 acres," according to Town West attorney Keri Silvyn, speaking at last week's Planning and Zoning Commission public hearing. 

The apartment sites, on their own, are not sufficiently large to allow for both the apartment building footprint and the required recreational space.  Thus, Town West, the project developer, is requesting that entertainment district amenities be used to fulfill some of the recreation land requirements. They need to build 730 apartments in order to provide the population density that would make the Oro Valley Village Center financially feasible.

The Entertainment Center is a "Multi-faceted recreation space"

"There’s space to play and enjoy events, Silvyn noted at last week's meeting. "It's a cultural area. There’s a lot of different activities that can take place on there. We worked with the town to design the flexible space on the north. You could do things like the ice-skating rinks. For those of you who’ve been in downtown Tucson, they do that during the holidays. This would also be a purposeful place to put the Christmas tree maybe with the ice rink so that people want to be there. There’s gazebos nearby. There’ll still be some other open space and it’s all connected." 

It is next to the site of one of the hotels

The entertainment center is next to one of the proposed hotels [see panel left]. That hotel is proposed to be three stories. It appears  be built on part of the parking area now used for the Tuk Tuk Thai restaurant. "The central area has the the hotel with some retail space...It’s got playgrounds."

Town West is enthusiastic about what can be done with the area

"...Sandy bars may be associated with the hotel restaurant area. All the fun places for you to come and bring kids and grandkids or nieces and nephews or grab somebody else’s kids (I’m sure the mother would appreciate a break) and bring them out here and have some fun in the southern area.

We worked with the town on a true park area, playing... throwing around a basketball and football. In some of these areas you can do lot of art stuff that we’ve seen a happening in the parking lot at the Oro Valley Marketplace over the years.

This would give a much more purposeful space with restaurants and other things associated with it."

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Bits and Pieces

Update on federal grants
A few weeks ago, we reported on Oro Valley's efforts to secure significant funding for public works projects.  We noted  in the article that our grant request for repairing the La Cañada bridge was rejected. We have since learned that the rejection was due to the highly competitive nature of the grant process, with more projects requested than available funding. Senators Sinema and Kelly did secure $685,000 in federal funding for the Honey Bee Wash and Bridge Project, which is scheduled to begin next year.

Oro Valley Marketplace Revitalization  construction to begin in spring
According to a reliable source, progress should start this spring at the Oro Valley Marketplace. Town West plans to start construction on the Hampton Inn and Suites, with hope to begin building the 320 apartments on Tangerine Rd. this summer. The plans for the Hampton Inn and Suites are currently under staff review, and a pre-application meeting has already taken place regarding the Tangerine apartments.

More good news at the Marketplace
There’s also a new tenant in process in the Oro Valley Marketplace: A pickleball and fitness center. Town West has shared that much more is expected in 2025, including the rebranding of the marketplace to "Oro Valley Village Center." They hope everyone in Oro Valley will continue to support the stores, shops, and restaurants.

Free shred event tomorrow
Oro Valley residents are invited to a free document shredding event on Saturday, November 2, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Oro Valley Marketplace (11785 N. Oracle Road, south of Fork & Fire). The event, sponsored by the Town of Oro Valley, the Beacon Group, and the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce, will provide onsite shredding to help prevent identity theft. Services will be available until noon or until the trucks are full. For details, contact Jessica Hynd at jhynd@orovalleyaz.gov or 520-229-4711. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Traffic Alert: Lane restrictions on La Cañada begins Monday
Starting Monday, the Town of Oro Valley will begin road improvements on La Cañada Drive between Lambert Lane and Rancho Verde Drive, scheduled on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. through November 15, weather permitting. Lane restrictions will reduce traffic to a single lane in both directions, likely causing delays, so drivers are encouraged to use caution, share the road with cyclists, and consider alternate routes. This project, part of Oro Valley’s Capital Improvement Projects, includes utility adjustments, asphalt replacement, and new striping. For information, contact ask@orovalleyaz.gov or Jessica Hynd at 520-229-4711. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Arizona Heroes Memorial ribbon cutting on November 16
There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Arizona Heroes Memorial at Narnaja Park on November 16 at 11 a.m. Yesterday, in his State of the Town address, Mayor Winfield encouraged everyone to attend and salute our veterans, active military, first responders, and healthcare workers.

Oro Valley resident Lisa Bayless invests in Oro Valley through community support
Lisa Bayless, real estate agent at Long Realty for 17 years, is deeply invested in her Oro Valley community. Beyond her successful career—totaling over $500 million in sales—she started the “Community First” program seven years ago, which dedicates a portion of each commission to local causes. In celebration of Oro Valley’s 50th anniversary and her own milestones, Bayless donated $120,000 this year alone, bringing her seven-year contribution to over $500,000, with 90% staying within Oro Valley. She is a resident of Oro Valley and is enthusiastic about our community.
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Bits and Pieces

Oro Valley Triathlon and Duathlon Festival Tomorrow At Kreigh Park
The Oro Valley Triathlon and Duathlon Festival returns for its 11th year on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., at James D. Kreigh Park (23 W. Calle Concordia), welcoming athletes from across the globe and bringing economic impact to the region.
This festival has grown into Southern Arizona’s premier triathlon and duathlon festival, attracting athletes from across the country and beyond. This year, 510 competitors from 32 states, Canada, and Poland, will take on the challenge, with ages ranging from 14 to 86 years old. Notably, 50 percent of participants are first-time participants, underscoring the event’s welcoming and inclusive nature.

Celebrate Oro Valley on April 12

Join the celebration: April 12, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, head to James D. Kriegh Park. It is the annual Celebrate Oro Valley event. This community celebration features various activities, entertainment, and opportunities to connect with fellow residents.  This event will feature crafts, games, inflatables for kids, a youth dodgeball tournament, food trucks, beer and wine and live music! (Source: Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation weekly email 3-13-25).

Recent police incidents highlight effective responses by OVPD

This month’s Oro Valley Town Manager’s Executive Report To Council highlighted several notable incidents managed by the Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD). On February 20, OVPD coordinated with Marana Police and other agencies to apprehend a driver who had previously rammed a Marana police vehicle and evaded law enforcement. The suspect was safely taken into custody and charged with aggravated assault and unlawful flight. In another case, OVPD quickly resolved a residential burglary by tracing stolen items electronically, executing a search warrant, recovering the items, and arresting four burglary suspects. Additionally, proactive patrol efforts near apartment complexes experiencing vehicle break-ins led to the arrest of an individual for burglary, who was later also charged with smuggling drug paraphernalia into the jail. 

Cops on the job

Just this week, we saw just how efficient our police are when responding to traffic accidents. On Wednesday around 3 p.m., a car driven by someone clearly under the influence collided with a truck waiting in the middle lane at Magee and Oracle. By 4 p.m., the roads had been cleared, and the driver of the car was transported to the hospital. Ironically, the driver of the truck and their spouse were on their way to the auto mall to buy a new car. We had a chance to speak with them, and believe me, they were beside themselves. 

Town investigates multi unit short term rental violation
Several weeks ago, LOVE reported on a resident’s comments during the Call to Audience section of a recent town meeting. The resident spoke about what appeared to be a loophole in the town’s short-term rental ordinance. The resident expressed concern that a neighboring property had converted into three or possibly even four short-term rentals. In response, the Mayor instructed town staff to investigate. According to the latest Town Manager’s report, Oro Valley Code Enforcement has since inspected the property for potential code violations related to operating multi-family dwellings within a single-family zoning district. Staff confirmed that no permits were issued for such a conversion, and additional interior inspections are scheduled for this week to identify any further violations. (Source:  LOVE report, 02-27-25 and Town Manager Executive Report To Council, March 2025)

Applications submitted for Oro Valley Village Center Apartments
A few months ago, LOVE anticipated significant activity this spring concerning the transformation of the Oro Valley Marketplace into the Oro Valley Village Center—and developments are now underway. HSL Properties has submitted formal applications for architectural design and development plans related to another Encantada apartment project. Located north of the current Encantada complex, the proposed project includes approximately 320 residential units, along with site improvements such as a public recreation area featuring a ramada, self-service bike repair station, and seating accessible from The Loop. The development plans, currently undergoing administrative review, will be checked for conformity with the updated Master Development Plan approved by the Town Council in November 2023. Architectural designs will subsequently be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Town Council. (Source: Town Manager Executive Report To Council, March 2025). There is also a hotel that whose planning is underway.

Brother Brother Oro Valley is watching you
If you regularly travel through the intersections at Innovation & Tangerine, La Cholla & Glover, and Westward Look & Ina, be sure to proceed carefully—Big Brother Oro Valley is now watching! The Town has installed Miovision and Honeywell cameras at these locations, enabling staff to keep an eye on traffic issues and resolve them quickly. (Source: Town Manager Executive Report To Council, March 2025).

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Here’s What Happened While We Were Away

The ATM Explosion

In July, someone used explosives to blow the side off an ATM at Wells Fargo (Tangerine and First Avenue). No money was taken. The matter is still under investigation.

Bookstore Cafe opens.. fifteen businesses under construction

Also in July, Stacks, an independent book store and full-service coffee bar, opened in the Oro Valley Marketplace. Read more about Stacks here. They are planning a ribbon cutting this fall.  At the moment, there are fifteen other businesses “ under construction” according to the town’s August “Commercial Project Status Report.”. No commercial occupancy permits were issued in July. There were fourteen single family residence permits issues. 

Diaz-Trahan leaves 

Kristy Diaz-Trahan, the Director of Parks and Recreation in Oro Valley, resigned her position in July. Diaz-Trahan had reached a significant milestone of 10 years with the town in May and was responsible for overseeing considerable improvements to the town's Parks and Recreation facilities. We extend our best wishes to Diaz-Trahan and express appreciation for her efforts in expanding the town's system. In the interim, Matthew Jankowski has assumed the role of Director.

Town plans pedestrian safety improvements at Naranja Park entrance… final design and funding approval pending

In July, Paul Keesler, the Town’s Engineer, presented recommendations of the town's safety committee to the Council for enhancing pedestrian safety on Naranja Drive at the entrance to the park. The proposed improvements encompass the installation of rapid rectangular flashing beacons, mumble strips designed to alert drivers to the fog lane, vertical flexible devices that sit on the fog line, and a high-visibility crosswalk. The diagram on the right provides a preliminary visual representation of this plan. Keesler is in the process of finalizing the design and intends to present the completed plans to the Council soon for budgetary approval.

The town has completed a paved pathway on the north side of the road. This pathway ensures that individuals can now access the park safely without having to walk within the lane designated for vehicle exits.

Sabrina Garcia case moves slowly

Very little progress occurred in the misdemeanor hearing of Sabrina Garcia. Garcia was the driver of the vehicle that the tragic St. Patrick’s Day death of Olivia Villalobos and injury to her sister Avry.  The court held a pre trial conference in July. The next court date is a trial management conference on October 3 at 4pm. It is this tragic accident that, after our urging, spurred the town to take action to Improve pedestrian safety in the area.

Vandals wreck pagoda at Steam Pump Ranch

In large July, a vehicle drove recklessly around Steam Pump Ranch, damaging a pagoda. The police have yet to apprehend the culprit.

Town issues easy to read budget

“The Town of Oro Valley’s Know Your Town’s Budget [for fiscal 2024] document is now available online for residents to read or download.” (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Oro Valley implemented a storm cleanup plan

This summer in Oro Valley, the monsoon season was almost nonexistent. There were sporadic instances of light rain, with just one significant storm on August 16 that brought heavy rain, strong winds, and many fallen trees. Thankfully, Oro Valley didn’t lose power like the 56,000 people in Tucson who endured up to 3 days without electricity during temperatures over 100 degrees. In response, the town announced a storm clean up plan: “Immediately after the storms, the Public Works crews worked in the evenings to clear debris and fallen trees from the roads, guaranteeing a safe commute for drivers.” As of now, the town should have completed its cleanup efforts. (Source: Town of Oro Valley Media Release)

Oro Valley Village Center Economic Development Agreement is still a mystery

At July Town Council Meeting, the Council met in Executive Session to discuss an “Economic Development Agreement” with Town West, the owners of the Oro Marketplace. The “agreement” is a request by Town West for town funding of their planned recreation area. The recreation area is part of their vision for what will be the Oro Valley Village Center. We’ve heard that the cost to the town would be more than $10million.

2022: A Year In "Preview"

Six key events...and counting

We foresee six key events in Oro Valley in 2022. Here's our preview.

The former Vistoso Golf Course purchase and designation as a permanent preserve
We expect that the purchase of the former Vistoso Golf Course will be completed within the next few weeks. After that, the land will be gifted by The Conservation Fund" to the town of Oro Valley. This will happen once the land is designated as permanent open space.

Conversion of the former Vistoso Golf property to a preserve
This land will become a permanent part of the town's parks and recreation system. There's a lot of work that needs to be done to clean it up. A decision needs to be made is on what will happen to the “lake." It is our understanding of the town and residents will work together to clean up the property during the remainder of the year.

A decision on the Oro Valley Village Center rezoning
The town Council will hold a public hearing on February 16 at 6 pm regarding the proposed Oro Valley Village Center. That center includes what is now in the Oro Valley marketplace plus large apartment buildings and three hotels. 

The town is also negotiating an economic development agreement with the developer of this property behind closed doors. If the center is approved, there won't be anything built until at least 2023 or 2024.

2022 Elections
There are two candidates who have declared their intention to run for mayor. They represent two different leadership styles; two different approaches to the community. There are six candidates running for three council seats. These candidates are running as teams of three. The candidates are collecting signatures between now and early April so that they can get on the ballot. Our plan is to provide a snapshot of each candidate so that you can decide whose petitions you want to sign. You can sign up to three petitions, though we don’t think that anything will happen if you sign all six since no one checks the signatures.

A 2022-23 Budget with no "Washington Big Bucks"
The process of preparing the budget for next year will start in February. The process concludes in late June. This ain't “your grandfathers Oro Valley.” Oro Valley services have grown substantially in the past three years; and they will continue to grow as the Town adds even more. The 2022-23 budget faces the challenge of not receiving massive government funding. Well at least it doesn't look that way at the moment. Indeed, if the town needs to start relying on it's own revenue resources for funding, the budget for next year is going to be more challenging than it has been in the past.

Drinking water use on Pusch Ridge Golf Course

When the town reopened the Push Ridge Golf Course it also agreed to irrigate the course. That course uses a tremendous amount of drinking water. Using drinking water to irrigate a golf course is simply not the right thing to do during these times of drought. The Pusch Ridge Golf Course drinking water use simply needs to be investigated and reduced by the Town. 

This issue should not be pushed back until 2024 or 2025, which is what appears to be the present plan. Those that support the course are eager to enter into discussions regarding turf reduction and other water use measures. The time to do so is sooner rather than later.

There will be others

We can think of several topics that will become key topics in 2022. One of those is transparency in government. Another is getting back to a normal, non pandemic world. And the beat goes on!