Oro Valley Wraps Up a Successful Fiscal Year
As the fiscal year wraps up on Saturday, June 30, Oro Valley residents have plenty to celebrate. This year saw the completion of several major projects that not only came in on time but also under budget. Among them were the widening and safety enhancements on Lambert Lane, the addition of two multi-sport fields at Naranja Park, and upgrades to several Water Utility wells.
This past year also saw the installation of a new traffic signal at the community center on La Cañada, and pedestrian and traffic safety improvements at Naranja Park. There were drainage projects throughout the town, an energy efficiency project at the community center, and progress on the Tangerine Road widening project, a collaborative effort with the Regional Transportation Authority, Pima County, and Town of Marana. Community favorites such as the free concert series, the July 4th Celebration, and the Easter Eggstravaganza continued to bring joy to residents.
Thanks to strong sales tax collections and fiscally responsible spending, the town expects a year-end surplus of about $1.3 million. This surplus will be added to the town’s capital fund for future projects.
Looking ahead, the Town Council’s approval of the fiscal year 18/19 budget means more exciting projects are on the horizon. The new $143 million budget marks an 11% increase over last year, mainly due to outside funding for the La Cholla widening project and increased reserves for specific capital projects.
Oro Valley maintains a healthy general fund reserve at 28.5%, well above the council’s minimum policy of 25%. This year, the capital fund will cover future maintenance and community infrastructure improvements. Some projects will be financed through tax-exempt municipal bonds, providing financial participation from future residents.
Big plans are in store for the Oro Valley Community Center and golf courses. The center is on track to break even this fiscal year, with a $6 million investment planned over three years. Plans include renovating the community center to expand programming and access, with a new fast-casual dining venue and expanded patio. Fitness areas will grow to accommodate popular classes, and the golf courses will see irrigation upgrades and turf reduction.
The town is also investing in recreational facilities, with renovations at James D. Kriegh Park and improvements at the Naranja Park dog park. An online registration upgrade for recreation programs is in the works.
Public safety remains a top priority. The police department will bring two officers back from a federal task force, and a new evidence facility and substation are planned. Street light repairs along Rancho Vistoso Boulevard in Sun City are also on the agenda.
Transportation remains a focus, with the La Cholla widening project starting later this summer. Residential and arterial streets will be resurfaced, supported by Pima County.
Oro Valley continues to take good care of taxpayer dollars, investing wisely to meet community goals. It’s a pleasure to plan and provide the services that keep Oro Valley a great place to live, work, and play.
By Mary Jacobs, Town Manager, Explorer Newspaper, 6/27/18
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