A strong community is built around spaces that bring people together. That is why improving the Oro Valley Community Center along with other parks and recreation has been a major priority during my eight years as your Vice Mayor on the Town Council.
History of the Community Center
The prior Town Council purchased a former country club and racquetball facility built in the 1980’s along with 45 holes of golf that were losing money from their largest campaign donor. They said this was a “turn-key ready” facility that could be the Town’s Community Center, and raised a half-percent sales tax on a 4-3 vote to fund it. They proceeded to spend millions to prop up golf operations, and since that time over $30 Million has been spent on operational losses and capital investments. Solving this financial dilemma and creating parks and recreation opportunities for all became a major part of why I ran for office originally, and is a promise I have delivered on.
Finding Solutions and Moving Forward Together
As part of implementing Oro Valley’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan and working to utilize the former country club facility we inherited, we have made strategic investments to modernize the Community Center, improve access, expand amenities, and ensure this asset serves residents for generations to come.
Planning for Long-Term Success
Many Community Center facilities needed significant upgrades to meet growing demand and modern standards. Through thoughtful planning and responsible financial management, we were able to make critical improvements that strengthened both functionality and long-term sustainability. These investments were made as part of a larger vision to improve recreation opportunities throughout Oro Valley while protecting your taxpayer resources.
Modernizing Golf Course Infrastructure
One of the most important long-term improvements was replacing the golf course’s aging and inefficient irrigation system. The previous system was outdated and prone to leaks, creating unnecessary operational costs and maintenance challenges. We invested in a modern, high-quality PVC irrigation system designed for durability and efficiency, ensuring this important community asset can remain sustainable and well-maintained far into the future. Town golf in Oro Valley is more sustainable now than it has ever previously been.
Expanding Access and Parking
As the Community Center grew in popularity, parking became a significant challenge. To address this, we worked collaboratively with a nearby property owner to complete a land swap that allowed us to expand the parking lot and better accommodate residents and visitors. More recently, we invested nearly $1 million to fully repave the lot, eliminating potholes, improving safety, and creating a smoother and more welcoming experience for everyone who visits.
Improving Accessibility for All Residents
Ensuring the Community Center is fully accessible to those with mobility challenges and disabilities has been another focus during my tenure as Vice Mayor on the Council.
We made substantial ADA improvements, including:
- Lowering the front entrance on the golf course side for easier access
- Expanding ADA parking close to the building entrance
- Installing an elevator to provide second-floor access
As with any renovation to an older facility, these improvements required addressing unforeseen structural challenges and increased costs along the way. But these investments were essential to creating a Community Center that is welcoming and accessible to all residents.
Upgrading Recreation Amenities
We invested heavily in the recreational amenities residents use every day. The tennis courts, which were previously asphalt and required constant resurfacing, were rebuilt as durable concrete courts that are better suited for long-term use and capable of hosting tournament-level play. These upgraded courts help attract visitors, tournaments, and economic activity to Oro Valley. We also added new pickleball courts to meet growing community demand for one of the fastest-growing recreational sports in the country. These improvements were paid from the same bond proceeds which funded the expansion of Naranja Park.
Enhancing the Resident Experience
Additional improvements throughout the Community Center include:
- New fitness and exercise equipment
- New outdoor restroom facilities
- Updated landscaping
- Continued enhancements to support restaurant operations and visitor services
These upgrades have transformed the Community Center into a more modern, functional, and attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.
Investing in Quality of Life
The Community Center reflects my broader approach to leadership: identify needs, invest wisely, and deliver results that improve quality of life. These improvements were not about short-term fixes. They were about making thoughtful, incremental, lasting investments that strengthen Oro Valley’s recreational assets and ensure they continue serving our community well into the future.
As your Mayor, I will continue prioritizing smart investments that enhance the amenities you value, while maintaining the fiscal responsibility you expect.
