One of the clearest examples of my approach to leadership is the transformation of Oro Valley’s town golf courses.
When I joined the Town Council as your Vice Mayor, the Town-owned golf courses were losing more than $2 million per year in operating costs alone, which made it financially impossible to address major capital improvements that were also needed. You, the taxpayer, were subsidizing golf operations in Oro Valley at a level unmatched by any other public golf course system in Arizona, supported in part by a dedicated half-cent sales tax.
I believed we could do better for our community.
Facing the Problem Head-On
Rather than accepting continued financial losses, I worked to carefully analyze the Town’s contracts, operational structure, and long-term obligations. Drawing on my legal background, I delved into the details and worked with community members, stakeholders and the Town Council to identify practical solutions. The goal was clear: preserve this important community asset while making it financially sustainable.
A Smarter Operational Model
The solution required more than small adjustments. We supported changing operators and restructuring the golf model to open the courses to significantly more outside play, rather than reserving large blocks of tee times for limited use.
At the same time, we used sales tax revenues strategically to fund critical capital improvements, including irrigation system upgrades and other long-term infrastructure investments that positioned the courses for success.
Delivering Measurable Results
The results have been extraordinary. The number of rounds played has more than doubled, and for the first time, Oro Valley’s golf operations are now operating in the black. This turnaround has transformed Town golf from a recurring financial burden into a stable community asset that supports itself and contributes to the broader financial health of our parks and recreation system.
Strengthening Parks and Recreation for Everyone
The Town golf courses are more secure today than ever before because they are no longer dependent on unsustainable taxpayer subsidies. This success has not only strengthened the long-term future of Town golf, but it has allowed the Town to reinvest resources into other parks and recreation priorities that benefit the entire community.
Leadership That Solves Problems
This is the kind of leadership I bring to Oro Valley: thoughtful analysis, careful financial stewardship, and practical solutions that create win-win outcomes. I don’t manage problems, I solve them.
As your mayor, I will continue applying a results-driven approach to ensure Oro Valley remains fiscally strong while preserving the amenities and quality of life you value and deserve.
