September 2025 - Lee en español

Thank you Ms. Ellie Towne

Supervisor Allen met with constituents during Flowing Wells Office Hours on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.

Hello District 3!

Last month, Supervisor Allen and staff traveled throughout District 3 to hold office hours and connect more closely with our community. We’d like to highlight a very special visit from Ms. Ellie Towne, for whom the Flowing Wells Community Center is named. She stopped by to share her latest project: raising $40,000 to bring back the Senior Meal program at the Community Center, which ended in Spring 2025 due to funding.

This program provided approximately 50 seniors aged 60 and older—who meet income criteria—with lunch and social activities three days a week at the Center.

At the request of Ms. Ellie Towne, the Flowing Wells Neighborhood Association and Community Coalition (a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization) is currently accepting tax-deductible donations to restart the Senior Meal program by October 2025.

Would you like to support Mrs. Towne and the seniors of Flowing Wells? Find more information here.

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Save the date for our upcoming office hours. Scroll down to find the calendar. And please help us spread the word!

Upcoming Elections

Before you go to the polls, make sure you’re eligible to vote.

• Congressional District 7 Special General Election - Sept. 23, 2025. (The deadline to mail in your ballot has passed, but you can still vote in person before this day).
• Tucson City Council Election and School District Bond Override Elections for TUSD, FWUSD, and SUSD  - November 4, 2025
  • October 8: Early Ballots Mailed to voters and early vote centers open.
  • October 24: Last day to request a mail in ballot for voters who need a replacement or who aren't on the Active Early Voter List
  • October 28th: Last day to mail in your ballot. You can still vote in person on or before November 4th, 2025
  • November 4th: Election Day!

For both the CD7 Special Election and the upcoming City of Tucson/School District elections, you can find a vote center near you at Pima.vote.

Supervisor Allen's Update on Project Blue

Dear constituents and friends, I had hoped that Amazon’s Project Blue would quietly disappear after the City of Tucson rejected annexation and the community made it abundantly clear that this project was not at all appropriate for our cherished Sonoran Desert. Instead, we learned this week that Amazon and Beale plan to forge ahead with the project over that opposition, this time coming with promises to utilize a closed loop air cooling system, which they say uses little to no water. This promise raises an obvious question– how and why is it that air cooling is only now on the table after months and months of community members and elected officials voicing concerns about water consumption? I met with Beale on Wednesday to learn about the new plan. As I understand it, their end goal of developing data center campuses on thee different sites in Pima County remains. The first of which is the county parcel near the fairgrounds, and the other two locations have yet to be specified. We were previously told that phase one of this project would comprise four buildings, moving up to ten at full buildout on the first site, with sixteen data centers planned for the second site. Under this new plan, those numbers are out the window, and we have no idea how many data centers they intend to build across the three locations. What we do know is TEP has filed an energy supply agreement with the Arizona Corporation Commission to provide 286 megawatts of capacity for Beale by 2028. They say the overall energy demand of the project is the same as what was previously proposed for Phase One, despite Beale’s prior comments that air cooling would require more electricity. Their current line is that by using an air cooled model, as more energy is expended on cooling, less is used for computing. Apart from the energy supply agreement, TEP is pursuing a 14% rate increase for residential customers through the ACC, and they are requesting approval for an “annual rate adjustment mechanism” that lets them increase our rates year over year without going back before the ACC for a vote. We also know TEP is extending the life cycle of a coal fired power plant, converting another coal plant to natural gas, and local reporting suggests they plan to build a new natural gas plant and pipeline to support the future energy demand of this project. The bottom line is that this proposal is manifestly different than what was approved by a majority of my colleagues in June, which I believe should necessitate a new public process if it is to be fairly and thoroughly considered. While we are continuing to turn over every stone to stop Project Blue, Supervisor Cano and I are in the minority, and we simply don’t have the votes needed to do the right thing and force Beale to come back to the negotiating table. While we have less leverage than I’d like, I feel good about what we’ve put in place that could stop something like this from happening in the future. My office brought forward four items to address glaring deficiencies in the County process that contributed to this mess. We adopted a policy to limit and guide the use of non-disclosure agreements in economic development projects to ensure a more transparent process. This includes a “Sunshine Period” that mandates full public disclosure 90 days before any public body of Pima County votes on a given project. We approved a policy to require environmental impact reviews for economic development projects that would consider impacts to our land, air, water, public health, cultural and historic resources, and assesses environmental justice concerns. All of this information will be released to the public during the “Sunshine Period” laid out in our NDA policy. We instructed the County’s lobbyist to advocate at the Arizona Legislature for the repeal of the current state-wide sales tax waiver for data center equipment. We initiated the process to amend our zoning code to require conditional use permits for any future data center or other large-scale user of water or electricity. This means more public input, engagement, and oversight. These policies cannot erase the mistakes or change the process that led to the unfortunate Project Blue vote, but they will ensure that the public and the board of supervisors get a full accounting of any given project, meaningful opportunities to weigh in and shape how and where these things happen in our community. Stay strong, stay organized, and please know that I so appreciate our community’s response to this project. The next phase of this fight is at the Arizona Corporation Commission, and I encourage everyone to register public comment on TEP’s proposed energy supply agreement. Visit efiling.azcc.gov and reference docket # E-01933A-25-0187

Jennifer Allen 

Community Spotlight

Congratulations to Ajo Youth Sports for receiving the Youth Sports Award from the Arizona Parks & Recreation Association (APRA) at their annual conference in August 25-27. The awards recognize communities throughout Arizona that have demonstrated excellence in planning, managing resources, and providing exceptional park and recreation services. Operated by Pima County Parks and Recreation, Ajo Youth Sports serves the community of Ajo, located in the far western region of Pima County. It is the only organized athletic program for youth ages 4 to 14 within a 50-mile radius. The program offers 17 different sports and engages more than 400 youth every year. (Photo: Kristy Diaz Trahan)

Development Projects in the Picture Rocks Area

In Picture Rocks, the community has come together around two areas of concern: A new development called Rancho del Rio and a proposed airstrip. On August 20, more than 80 area residents met to discuss the Rancho del Rio development. This is a 185-home subdivision (each lot is more than an acre) bordered by Sandario Road on the east side and Ina Road on the south. There are three phases to the construction and phase one is just breaking ground on 30 homes. Supervisor Allen attended along with County staff from Flood Control and Development Services to answer questions. There was a lot of concern about possible environmental impacts, increased possibility of flooding, increased traffic, and frustration that neighbors didn’t know about this development until now. County staff explained that this subdivision was approved in 2007 with all zoning requirements met, including flood and traffic studies. Each property has a designated area on which the home can be built. Other portions of the property will remain undisturbed. While this decision cannot be overturned, Supervisor Allen is in discussion with these departments about whether these studies need to be re-evaluated since conditions may have changed since 2007. Supervisor Allen said, “I truly understand people’s concerns about impact and the sadness of the loss of desert land in this area. However, this sale and zoning process happened according to all laws and ordinances. I will continue to monitor this closely along with the relevant County departments.” On August 27, the community turned out for another meeting regarding the “Sentinal Private Airstrip” on the 410-acre desert parcel near Manville Road and Lone Owl Trail. The property has been used over the summer for paratrooper training with jumps which has raised concern from neighbors because of the early morning noise and individuals who have landed in neighbor’s yards in full military gear.  In addition, water drops and planes flying low in the area have occurred. Again, Supervisor Allen participated along with County staff from Flood Control and Development Services to listen to the many concerns which included: times and frequency of flights and types of airplanes, excessive dust, fumes, and noise, road degradation, proximity of planned hanger to properties, potential accidents including the handling of highly flammable fuel, impact on property values, and more. Local organizers have a website where they are posting photos, videos and information at https://www.northloneowl.com. Unlike the Rancho del Rio development, this airstrip is not yet permitted and will require an intensive three step review process. First the Aviation Review Committee needs to be reconstituted and will weigh in on the application. Second, it will go to Planning and Zoning Commission for review. This is a public hearing which will include posting of the property and mailed notice to neighbors.  This hearing is an opportunity for area residents to weigh in and share concerns about the project.  After hearing from the applicant and members of the public, the Planning and Zoning Commission will vote and make a recommendation that comes before the Board of Supervisors for a final vote. “I left Picture Rocks on both occasions so impressed with the community that has organized and showed up to express their concerns,” said Supervisor Allen. “This is democracy in action and I will do all I can to work with the community for the most positive outcomes possible.”

Community Resources

• Reduce your utility services statement
  Through Pima County Wastewater Reclamation, you could qualify for a 25%, 50%, or 75% reduction to the wastewater portion of your utility services statement. To be eligible, you must be a residential sewer customer, have a sewer bill in your name, and meet income requirements. To determine your income eligibility, call (520) 791-5443 or visit: https://shorturl.at/lHKbR
  
  
• Cooling Centers are still open in Pima County and the City of Tucson. More information and locations: pima.gov/2042/Beat-the-Heat 
  https://www.pima.gov/2307/Cooling-Centers
  https://shorturl.at/4kmfS
  
  
• Pima County Community Land Trust is dedicated to helping Pima County families achieve, preserve, and sustain safe and affordable housing. Established in 2010, PCCLT is a community land trust and HUD-approved Housing Counseling Agency. PCCLT provides pre- purchase counseling, financial education, down-payment assistance, and post-purchase Stewardship counseling to ensure success. PCCLT’s portfolio includes 105 single-family and 22 multi-family homes, both for ownership and for rent. PCCLT provides a path to affordable homeownership and stabilizes home prices in some of Tucson's most vulnerable neighborhoods.
  For more information, visit www.pcclt.org or call us at 520-603-0587.
  
  

• Tucson Water offers low-income conservation programs for residents and mobile homeowners, including free toilet replacements and emergency plumbing repairs, discounted clothes washers, grants and loans for rainwater and gray water systems. For more information, follow this link, email conservation@tucsonaz.gov or call (520) 791-433

Upcoming Events

Southern Arizona College & Career Night

This event brings together students, families, colleges, and career partners from across the region. It is the largest of its kind in Southern Arizona, drawing thousands of attendees to explore life after high school. When: Tuesday, Sep. 23, 6:30–8:30 pm. Where: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave. Tucson Free admission and Parking. Registration required: sazccn.org.

Arivaca Fall Events

There’s a lot happening in Arivaca this fall! From nature preserve presentations to music and cinema, there are exciting events that are free and open to the public. Whether you live in Arivaca or are just visiting, be sure to check them out!

We Want to Hear From You

Here are some opportunities to provide your input on County projects:

Upcoming Office Hours

*Let us know about upcoming community events! Please e-mail us at district3@pima.gov.

Around District 3

Here’s a quick overview of what we've been up to across District 3 and Pima County.

Visiting PPEP Amado

It was a pleasure to learn more about the outstanding work happening at PPEP’s Amado locations. PPEP stands for Portable, Practical Educational Preparation and is a nonprofit founded in 1967 by Dr. John David Arnold. For more than 45 years, they have offered valuable services to rural communities to help them become self-sufficient and improve their quality of life. During our tour, Supervisor Allen spent some time with young children who participate in after-class activities and benefit from the services PPEP offers. Thank you to Amy Bass, Executive Director, and the staff for giving us an overview of their work and sharing their time with us.

New Pedestrian Bridge on The Huckleberry Loop

On August 13th, Supervisor Allen participated in the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new pedestrian bridge on the Chuck Huckelberry Loop. The bridge connects the east and west segments of The Loop near Sweetwater Wetlands Park and Danny Lopez Park, allowing trail users to safely cross the river. It is named after Suzanne Shields, who began her career as the department’s first woman hydrologist in 1979 and later served as director of Flood Control from 2005 to 2022.

Electric School Buses in TUSD and Flowing Wells School District

On August 28, Supervisor Allen joined State Senator Priya Sundareshan, TUSD Governing Board Member Dr. Ravi Shah, Tucson City Council Candidate Selina Barajas, parents, and clean transportation advocates at a press conference highlighting the arrival of new electric school buses in Southern Arizona. The event celebrated the EPA Clean School Bus Program’s role in protecting student health and reducing diesel pollution, especially in Latino and low-income communities.

Meeting with the Hikiwan District Council on the Tohono O’odham Nation

On September 13, Supervisor Allen met with the Hikiwan District Council, the furthest west of all the Tohono O’odham districts. It was a beautiful drive on the way to Hikiwan with saguaros flowing to the horizon and beautiful hills and mountains all around. Jen was grateful for her time to speak with the Council where she shared her priorities and learned about Council priorities.

We also met with our new Library appointee for District 3, Frances Benavidez. Frances is the Program Director, of the O'odham Ñi’okĭ Ki: O'odham Language Center at Tohono Oʼodham Community College (TOCC) in Sells, Arizona. The Center is dedicated to preserving and sustaining the Oʼodham language, which is considered endangered because it is spoken primarily by older generations and is no longer being widely passed on as a first language to children. It was exciting to learn from Frances all the ways that the Center provides resources and services, including early immersion programming, community-based language classes, and training opportunities for speakers who wish to become Oʼodhamlanguage teachers.

Flowing Wells Family Resource Center

On August 25, Supervisor Allen and staff had the privilege of visiting the incredible Flowing Wells Family Resource Center. Guided by the center coordinator, Martha Molina, we learned first-hand how this program breaks down barriers to student success by providing families with essential resources so children can come to school ready to learn and thrive. Those resources include emergency food boxes and utility/rent assistance to advocacy, clothing banks, school supplies, mental health referrals, and holiday support.

A huge thank you to Martha for her dedication and passion in serving the community!

Ward 3 and District 3

Every month, Supervisor Allen meets with Ward 3 City Councilmember Kevin Dahl. These meetings bring an opportunity to discuss issues or projects that overlap between District 3 and Ward 3, and to strengthen the relationship between both offices.

Tucson Labor Day Picnic

On September 1st, in celebration of Labor Day, Supervisor Allen attended the city’s annual Labor Day Picnic at Reid Park. She took a moment to honor the struggles and sacrifices of our union sisters and brothers, whose efforts secured many of the rights we often take for granted today, including the weekend, child labor protections, and overtime pay. The struggle for workers’ rights continues. Thank you to the Pima Area Labor Federation for organizing this event and bringing our community together in solidarity.

A Tour to CODAC Facilities

At the beginning of this month, our office visited one of the six CODAC treatment campuses. CODAC is one of Arizona’s oldest and most respected community providers of integrated specialty care for mental illness, substance misuse, and trauma. We also attended the ribbon-cutting of the recently opened Trauma Recovery Center, where they support recent survivors of violent crime who are struggling to cope with all aspects of recovery. Thank you to CEO Dennis Regnier and the CODAC staff for hosting us and for all the amazing work they do for our community.

To learn more about CODAC, visit codac.org

Thrive in the 05

Thrive in the O5 is a City of Tucson effort that stated in 2022 to use the building blocks of many community assets to strengthen neighborhoods, improve housing, and bring in additional workforce and economic development efforts. Much has happened in the last three years, including regular meetings for 05 businesses to meet and discuss how to work with the City on how to build resiliency and promote the unique character of the area. Supervisor Allen attended the last meeting on September 8 to learn more about these important efforts.  

YOTO Visit

Supervisor Allen extends her appreciation to Youth On Their Own (YOTO), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting youth experiencing homelessness in Pima County. Serving over 1,500 students each year, YOTO helps ensure they stay in school and succeed. During a visit and tour on September 6, Supervisor Allen was deeply impressed to learn that YOTO has achieved a remarkable 93% high school graduation rate. Way to go, YOTO!

Marana Visitors Center

On August 26, Supervisor Allen took a tour of the Marana Visitor Center and met with CEO Amanda Wiggins and Visitor Center Coordinator, Sally Edwards. If you haven’t stopped in, it is a beautiful center with a gift shop and lots of information on area events, destination spots, and local businesses. Amanda discussed their innovative programs like Impact Marana, a behind-the-scenes look at the fastest-growing community in Southern Arizona, and Marana Mornings where area businesses can network.

https://www.maranachamber.com/marana-visitor-information-center/

Subscribe to our Channel

Be up to date with the Board of Supervisors meeting recap. Every two weeks, Supervisor Allen summarizes the most important discussions and decisions of each agenda. Follow us and subscribe here: Youtube.com/@SupervisorJenniferAllen

Meet and Adopt Gardenia!

My name is Gardenia. I am a spayed female, tortie and lynx point Siamese. I weigh approximately 9.68 lbs. The shelter staff think I am about 4 years old. I am currently in foster care but am available for adoption! If you want to adopt me, email PACC.AdoptAFoster@pima.gov. My ID number is: A856502 Contact: Pima Animal Care Center: 520-724-5900

Serve on a Pima County Board, Commission, or Committee!

Use this QR code and fill out a brief questionnaire, and someone from our office will contact you with next steps! 

Reach Out!

We can connect you with Pima County Departments and Services, such as home repair/weatherization, rent and utility assistance, eviction prevention, transportation, land use issues, animal rescue, employment assistance, and much more.

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Email: district3@pima.gov

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