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Companies working on Tucson-funded projects must now pay a minimum wage by trade (plumbers, carpenters, electricians, etc.) thanks to an ordinance we unanimously enacted at Tuesday’s Mayor and Council. The requirement mirrors the federal Davis-Bacon that for 90 years has required contractor wages be consistent with local standards in the market around them.
VIce Mayor Kevin Dahl speaking at the Mayor and Council meeting on January 9, 2024.
Why now? Only recently has state law on the matter been legally clarified. Attorney General Kris Mayes has issued an opinion that Arizona cities can lawfully require their public works contractors to pay their employees a prevailing wage because provisions of the voter-approved Minimum Wage Act supersede previous state law (http://tinyurl.com/4mkb76hz). Her opinion and our ordinance is expected to be tested in court as a coalition of businesses have threatened to sue us (and Phoenix, which passed a similar ordinance Tuesday). Our City Attorney believes they do not have a case.
I voted for the measure because it will improve our economy, protect workers from being underpaid, and result in better built projects. The reporting requirements will also help crack down on the unsavory practice of under-the-table cash payments to untrained workers.
You can read a more detailed analysis of the ordinance here http://tinyurl.com/4dycx8y7 and the ordinance itself here http://tinyurl.com/ynsve6mx.
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 Entrance to Keeling Desert Park.
Last Saturday, Keeling residents gathered at Keeling Desert Park to discuss issues and concerns around the park. More specifically, dealing with the fallout of criminal activity at the park. Joining neighbors for this discussion were Parks and Recreation Director Lara Hamwey and Deputy Director Greg Jackson, Tucson Police Department Lt. Jason Hochstetler and Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl
Keeling Desert Park, located on Glenn Street between Stone and First Ave., is just shy of half an acre. Considered a ‘pocket park’, it includes a water fountain, a walking loop, picnic benches, a small play structure for kids, and desert landscaping.
The neighbors mostly expressed compassion for the unsheltered individuals who find respite at the park and focused their contention on the criminal activity that often targets those just trying to get by. This issue is experienced throughout the city with some parks impacted more than others. At times it feels like the intersection of the homeless crisis, the housing crisis and the opioid crisis is located physically in our City parks.
 Walking loop with desert landscaping at Keeling Desert Park.
Some neighbors had specific requests that found strong support throughout the group - adding lighting and removing walls used to hide behind. Other suggestions resulted in heated exchanges - shutting off the water fountain and closing the park altogether. Some suggestions centered around activating the park more consistently with activities such as regular Saturday morning family play dates, monthly potlucks, and weekly evening walks.
Adding another layer to the discussion, Keeling Desert Park is slated for $145,000 of improvements as part of the 2018 voter-approved Prop 407. The bond package calls for the replacement of the play structure and adding a shade sail, but neighborhoods can request changes through the 2018 Parks + Connections Bond Oversight Commission (PCBOC).
 Play structure at Keeling Desert Park ready to be upgraded.
As the meeting concluded, Parks Director Lara Hamwey let residents know that staff would come back to the neighborhood in about 45 days with different proposals of what is possible within the small footprint of the park and include price tags so neighbors could better understand their options.
The broader issue of who gets to use our parks and public spaces continues to garner more voices. How can park space be activated for everyone? Can park space be shared among multiple groups? What is the perceived danger vs. the actual threat? Does comfort infrastructure resolve more issues than it attracts? Parks are a valuable and necessary public space that is a shared responsibility. The city must do its part to ensure safe, accessible outdoor spaces for all and neighbors must use their parks to maintain ownership.
To get involved with the Keeling Neighborhood Association and stay up to date on Keeling Desert Park please email: KeelingNeighbors@gmail.com
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 Map of Ward 3 with neighborhood associations.
Neighborhood Services, Information Technology, and Ward 3 are working together to update the official neighborhood maps that the City uses. While most of Ward 3 is covered by registered neighborhood associations (which are reflected on the maps), there are other areas that have no neighborhood association. For some of those areas, the City may use neighbor input to know what local residents call the area.
Our office interacts with hundreds of constituents every week, so it is natural that we are taking the lead to get input from residents to help update the maps. You can help us by looking at the map above and letting us know if we’re missing information.
Two ways you can help us update the neighborhood map:
- If you see your neighborhood is not labeled on the map and can tell us what you and your neighbors call it
- If you see a name on your neighborhood that is not what you and your neighbors call it, let us know.
As an example, there is a neighborhood that I personally know as Shaheen Estates. This runs from Campbell Ave. to Tucson Blvd., and from Fort Lowell Road to Glenn Street. On the City neighborhood map provided by Planning and Development Services Department, this area is labeled “Cragin,” rather than Shaheen Estates. We’d love to hear from constituents who live in the area to know which name they use for the neighborhood, and make sure the map we use reflects the most accurate name used by residents.
If you have any input to share, please email ward3@tucsonaz.gov
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 Agenda for January 9, 2024 Study Session with Associated Memos.
Study Session included discussion and direction on Tucson Resilient Together, the City of Tucson’s Climate Action Plan, continued discussion on the RTA Next Plan, the annual update on the Housing Affordability Strategy for Tucson (HAST) Plan and an update on the City/County Prosperity Initiative Policies
Regular Session included development agreement with Capstone Collegiate Development at Speedway and Euclid a Demolition and Relocation plan for 5 Historic structures near the University, Fee increase proposals for Planning and Development Services, Department of Transportation, Parks and Recreation and the Fire Department, Approving the issuance of Single Family Mortgage Revenue Bonds and Establishing a Prevailing Wage Ordianace.
 Vice Mayor Dahl discussing the Tucson's Climate Action Plan with Council Member Nikki Lee.
For the complete Study Session and Regular Agenda along with background material and associated memos please click on the button below.
For the full coverage of the Mayor and Council meeting on January 9, 2024, please click on the button below.
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 CHIPOTLE /ID# A827493
Age: 1 year
Qualities:
Sweet, shy Chipotle came from a home with many other dogs and hasn't had too much exposure to people. However, since arriving at PACC about a month ago, he has been such a brave boy, getting to know new people every day, and has even recently started climbing in our laps and leaning against us for affection. This sensitive boy would thrive in a patient home with a doggy friend or two!
Fee:
Chipotle has a $0 adoption fee. A $20 license fee applies to adult dogs. Adoption includes spay or neuter, age-appropriate vaccinations, microchip, and a free vet visit.
Contact:
Pima Animal Care Center, 4000 N. Silverbell Rd.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 12 - 7 p.m.
Wednesday 1:30-7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m - 5 p.m.
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Fort Lowell Corridor Crime and Safety
Tuesday 1/16, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
3544 E. Fort Lowell Rd.
Samos Neighborhood Association
Tuesday 1/16, 6:30 - 7:30 pm
1609 E. Spring St.
Miracle Manor Neighborhood Association
Wednesday 1/17, 6 - 7 pm
Good News Church
701 W. Glenn St.
Richland Heights East Neighborhood Association
Wednesday 1/17, 6 - 7 pm
2000 E Greenlee Rd.
Mountain View Neighborhood Association
Thursday 1/18, 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Habitat for Humanity
3501 N. Mountain Ave.
Amphi Neighborhood Association
Thursday 1/18, 6 - 7 pm
Woods Memorial Library
3455 N.1st Ave.
Sugar Hill Neighborhood Association
Thursday 1/18, 6 - 7 pm
Donna Liggins Center
2160 N. 6th Ave.
Flowing Wells Neighborhood Association
Thursday 1/18, 6 pm - 7 pm
Ellie Towne Flowing Wells Community Center
1660 W. Ruthrauff Rd.
The Ward 3 office is open open at 1510 E. Grant Rd. from
9 am -1 pm, Monday through Friday. Staff will answer phone messages, emails and requests for meetings by the next business day. Leave your message at 520-791-4711 or email ward3@tucsonaz.gov.
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Free Trees for Amphi Residents.
Arboles Gratis Para los Residentes de Amphi.
Tucson Water is testing their new Home Water Works Calculator
https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Water/Conservation/DIY-Water-Audits to sign up for this test program. This opportunity is open to the first 2,000 customers who opt-in.
Treeycling Sites in Tucson through Monday, January 15
 Residents can recycle their Christmas trees through the City of Tucson’s TreeCycle Program. The program runs from Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023, through Monday, Jan. 15, 2024. TreeCycle sites are located throughout Tucson and Oro Valley (see list of TreeCycle sites below).
Remove everything from the tree, including the stand, lights, ornaments, wire, and tinsel, before dropping off at the TreeCycle sites.
The following TreeCycle sites are open during daylight hours, seven days a week (unless noted):
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Oro Valley Lot, 9451 N Egleston Drive (South of Linda Vista Blvd., no access from Calle Concordia)
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Golf Links Sports Park, 2400 S. Craycroft Road
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Tucson Rodeo Grounds, on 3rd Avenue (3rd Avenue North of Irvington Road.)
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Los Reales Sustainability Campus 5300 E. Los Reales Road. (Entrance is at intersection of Craycroft Road. & Los Reales Road., follow signs; Monday-Saturday, 6 a.m. - 5 p.m.)
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Tank's Speedway Recycling & Landfill Facility, 7301 E. Speedway Blvd. (turn north on Prudence Road., Open Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.)
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Tank's Ina Land Reclamation Facility, 5300 W. Ina Road. (1/4 mile west of I-10, open Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.)
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Purple Heart Park, 9820 E. Rees Loop (Please drop your tree by the dog park around the corner on Rees Loop. For safety and cleanliness, do not drop trees at the parking lot by the swimming pool).
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Randolph Golf Course, 600 S. Alvernon Way, (southeast corner of parking lot)
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Joaquin Murrieta Park, 1375 N. El Rio Drive (Drop off at the same location, next to the Boys and Girls Club; access from Speedway driving North on El Rio Drive - follow the signs)
IMPORTANT: The City of Tucson will not collect Christmas trees from curbs and alleys. Other green waste cannot be accepted at TreeCycle sites. Commercial tree lot overages are not accepted at TreeCycle sites, except for Los Reales Landfill at posted landfill rates. For more information, visit www.tucsonaz.gov/Treecycle.
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 St. Francis Shelter Community has partnered with Caridad Kitchens to provide Ward 3 unhoused with hot soup and Hot Cocoa. We serve Monday thru Friday starting at 5 pm until soup is gone. Caridad Kitchen has done a fantastic job with providing delicious, hearty and nutritious soup. We are pleased serve from Salvation Army at 218 E Prince Rd. This is their first go with soup patrol and so far things are going well. They also have blankets, cold weather items to hand out based on various donations St. Francis Shelter Community receives.
If you'd like to volunteer please reach out to Shawn Milligan, Director of Operations at 520-461-4943.
Free After School Painting at the Marty Birdman Center Wednesday January 17 from 1-4pm
The Mountain Ave wash clean-up will take place on Saturday, January 20th, from 9am to 11am
Tucson Clean and Beautiful (TCB) is bringing a large drinking water dispenser for the volunteers. Our meeting location is at the Limberlost end of Mountain Ave. We have permission to park in the Rio Vista Elementary School parking lot if you drive over. Volunteers should wear closed-toe shoes or boots and long sleeve protective clothing and bring a refillable water bottle. TCB will provide everything else (Bags, grabbers, gloves etc).
 Register by January 16th so we have enough vests and implements for everyone. Please Share this information with any of your neighbors who might be interested in helping out.
Christopher Columbus Park Phase 2 Public Engagement meeting and survey
Tucson Parks and Recreation is in the planning and design for phase 2 of park improvements and would like your input on the proposed concept plan. We are hosting a meeting at the park on Saturday, Feb. 3, from 10-11:30 a.m., at Christopher Columbus Park at the extra-large ramada #5 under the solar panels. The community will be able to talk with staff about the future projects planned for this park. Take the survey to give us your feedback. The survey will be open online through Sunday, Feb. 11.
Key features in the concept plan:
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12 pickleball courts
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Four tennis courts
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Expanded dog park facilities
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Two covered basketball courts
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Two new restrooms
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New Playgrounds (2-5 years and 5-12 years)
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New Splash Pad
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Expanded parking
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Walking paths and landscape nodes
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Flexible lawn areas
Ward 3 Is Accepting Donations for the Iskashitaa Refugee Network!
The Ward 3 office is currently accepting donations of art supplies and canning supplies on behalf of the Iskashitaa Refugee Network. We are ONLY accepting jelly jars, Kerr, Mason, or Ball jars for preserving/ canning, with or without canning rings. Feel free to drop by 1510 E. Grant Rd. during our office hours (9 am to 1 pm Monday through Friday) if you'd like to support the work of this wonderful non-profit with a donation.
Prince Food Pantry 7-8:30 am the First Friday of Every Month
Yoga in the Garden Every Wednesday at 2 pm
Grocery Sharing at Tucson Food Share - 2500 N. Stone Ave.
 Groceries are shared Mondays 4:30- 6:00 pm,
Thursdays 6:00 - 7:30 pm, and Saturdays from 8 am-9:30 am.
https://tucsonfoodshare.org/ has more information about volunteering, donating, or requesting delivery.
Ready, Set, REC! in January
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ChangeMakers Grant Program For Small Businesses
Launch, Grow, or Invest With Up to $10,000 in Grant Funding
Even though it may seem like business-as-usual, we know our small business community continues to struggle post-pandemic. Groundswell Capital* a nonprofit financial institution dedicated to equity, sustainability, and innovation has partnered with the City of Tucson to invest one million dollars in our entrepreneurs and small businesses.
These funds can be used to start or grow a company in Tucson. We are investing in upskilling our workforce and greening our communities. We are celebrating and telling the stories of the small businesses that are the heart of our city.
Applications accepted until February 11, 2024.
*Groundswell Capital is a new support organization for the Tucson IDA who has been investing in small business and affordable housing Tucson since 1979.
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Join an Info Session or Office Hours
We are hosting bilingual events throughout the month of January to spread the word and assist small businesses with their applications. Review our calendar of events for more details and links for virtual sessions. Kickoff Info Session Jan 9th.
Turbeville Talk Upcoming Event on January 26 from 1-2:15 p.m.
The Frances McClelland Institute is excited to invite you to our next engaging Turbeville Talk scheduled for Friday, January 26, 2024, from 1-2:15 p.m. The upcoming talk is titled "Development and Effectiveness of the Parent Support Program, an Online Intervention for Parents and Caregivers of Trans and Gender Expansive Youth." Presented by Dr. Em Matsuno from Arizona State University.
What are your opinions about tourism in Tucson and Pima County? Visit Tucson has created a resident sentiment survey for you to share your thoughts about tourism in the region. Your opinion matters and we want to hear from you.
To thank you for participating, we're giving away $100 restaurant gift cards to four (4) lucky people who complete the survey by January 21.
The survey will take 10-15 minutes and gives residents the opportunity to provide critical feedback about quality of life and placemaking priorities that will improve resident pride and satisfaction, and in turn benefit the visitor experience.
We value and appreciate your input.
Survey responses are confidential and are being collected by travel industry research partner Longwoods International, who will share the aggregate responses with Visit Tucson. Data provided in this resident survey will guide Visit Tucson’s ongoing implementation of our 10-year tourism master plan and annual strategic plans.
Green Drinks Tucson Network With Environmental Leaders Thursday, January 18, 5:30-7:30 pm
Come Help Clean Up The Santa Cruz River January 20 From 9am-noon at 902 S. Verdugo Ave.
Plan Tucson Community Forums
Plan Tucson is the City’s General Plan, a long range policy document that asks what kind of City do we want to be and how do we get there. Its wide scope addresses where future growth is encouraged and what programs in housing, transportation, and climate action should be supported.
The General Plan is meant to be a reflection of the values of the community and more feedback we receive the better the end result will be.
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Wednesday, January 17th from 5:30-7pm (virtual)
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Saturday, January 20th from 10am-12pm (in person @ the new Ward 2 office, 7280 E. Broadway Blvd., Suite 100)
Events will have prizes, food, and family friendly activities. More information can be found on our website www.plantucson.org
REGISTER HERE
Future Growth Scenario Map Community Mapping Activity
The Plan Tucson “Future Growth Scenario Map” is an important tool for guiding decisions on land use development. Now is an opportunity to tell us where the City should encourage new homes, new retail/employment centers, or both! Whatever your ideal future is, please show us in our Future Growth Scenario Map Community Mapping Activity. Visit our website, https://www.plantucson.org/future-growth, and follow to the link to the survey, which opens on Monday, January 8th closes on Monday, February 5th.
 EN ESPAÑOL: Foro Comunitario Plan Tucson
El Plan Tucson es el Plan General de la Ciudad, un documento de póliza de largo plazo que pregunta qué tipo de Ciudad queremos ser y cómo llegar allí; su amplio alcance aborda dónde se fomenta el crecimiento futuro, qué programas en vivienda, transporte y accion climatica se debe apoyar.
El Plan General está destinado a ser un reflejo de los valores de la comunidad y cuantos más comentarios recibamos, mejor será el resultado final.
- Miércoles 17 de enero de 5:30 - 7pm (virtual)
- Sábado 20 de enero de 10 am - 12 pm (en persona en la nueva oficina del Distrito 2, 7280 E. Broadway Blvd., Suite 100)
Ambos eventos tendrán premios, comida y actividades familiares. Puede encontrar más información en nuestro sitio web www.plantucson.org
REGISTRESE AQUÍ
Mapa del Escenario de Crecimiento Futuro Actividad de Mapeo Comunitario
El "Mapa del Escenario de Crecimiento Futuro" del Plan Tucson es una herramienta importante para orientar las decisiones sobre el desarrollo del uso del suelo, que a su vez tiene implicaciones sobre la resistencia climática, el transporte, las infraestructuras, los espacios abiertos y mucho más. Ahora tiene la oportunidad de decirnos dónde debería la ciudad fomentar la construcción de nuevas viviendas, nuevos centros comerciales o de empleo, ¡o ambas cosas! Sea cual sea su futuro ideal, muéstrenoslo en nuestro Mapa de escenarios de crecimiento futuro. Visite nuestra página web, https://www.plantucson.org/future-growth, y siga el enlace a la encuesta, que se abre el lunes 8 de enero y se cierra el lunes 5 de febrero.
This is a helpful event for survivors of domestic or intimate partner violence on January 25, 2024 between 1-4 pm.
 Este es un evento para los sobrevivientes de violencia doméstica o de pareja el 25 de enero de 2024 entre la 1 y las 4 p.m.
Resources for Your Pet Through the Community Foundation of Southern Arizona Pima Alliance for Animal Welfare (PAAW)
 Pima Alliance for Animal Welfare (PAAW), an initiative of the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, is working to ensure all Pima County companion animals have a loving home and humane care. Through its Human Animal Bond subcommittee, PAAW helps identify, establish, and share services that will help community members better care for their pets.
One of the ways the Human Animal Bond Subcommittee supports this goal is by sharing a monthly list of free and reduced-cost resources compiled by No Kill Pima County.
Spay & Neuter
Asavet Low-Cost Spay/Neuter | January 3rd | 8:00 AM Check-In
- Three Points Fire Station 303 | 10351 S. Sasabe Rd
- $30 copay or $5 with proof of government assistance | Pima County Residents Only | Limit 2 pets per household | 30 pet limit per day | Vaccines available with surgery: DAPP/PRC $20, Rabies $18 | e-collar required on male dogs 5 months and older or vet's discretion $15 | Three Points residents preferred (no Marana, Sahuarita) | Sponsored by AWASA
Asavet Low-Cost Spay/Neuter | January 10th | 8:00 AM Check-In
- The Animal League of Green Valley | 1600 W Dural Mine Rd, Green Valley, AZ
- $40 copay| Free Vaccines for surgery patients only (not a vaccine clinic) | Litters under five months – $10/per animal (if Mom is spayed at the same time) | Annual limit of three pets per household. | 30 pet limit for the day.
TNR Services
Free Community Cat Trap Neuter Return | Monday – Friday Throughout January
- Santa Cruz Veterinary Clinic | 5408 S. 12th Ave
- Check-in is from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Blackout dates apply. There are no drop-offs on 1/1, 1/4, 1/5, 1/11, 1/17, and 1/26.
- Check the Santa Cruz Vet Facebook page or call 520-889-9644 for any additional updates/questions.
Vaccines, Microchips, & Other
January 3rd, 17th, and 31st | Drive-thru 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Pathways For Paws | Parvo/Distemper vaccines and $15 microchips | 2035 E. 17th St. | Microchip includes free registration; rabies not available (required for licensing). First come, first served. Questions: text 520-444-7803
January 6th | Drive-thru 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
- Pathways For Paws | Parvo/Distemper vaccines and $15 microchips | Lazy V Bar, 2812 W. Alvaro Road (Drexel and Cardinal) | Microchip includes free registration; rabies not available (required for licensing). First come, first served. Questions: text 520-444-7803
January 9th | Drive-thru 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Pathways For Paws | Parvo/Distemper vaccines and $15 microchips | 4885 S. Houghton Rd | Microchip includes free registration; rabies not available (required for licensing). First come, first served. Questions: text 520-444-7803
Pet Food Assistance
- Cody’s Friends offers free food year-round for pets and community cats. Visit their website to learn more here.
- To see the full list of pet food resources and programs available in your area, click here.
Additional information on other sources of support for free or low-cost resources may be found at pets.findhelp.com
Always check the No Kill Pima County website for the most up-to-date information and a full directory of everyday low-cost options as well as free and reduced-cost pet resources. Click the links below to learn more about each category: Spay & Neuter | Clinics, Vaccines & Dental | Financial Assistance | Emergency Housing | Re-Homing Assistance | Pet Training | Lost Pet | Pet-Friendly Housing
Tucson Comprehensive Operational Analysis Upcoming Meetings
 Following nearly 11 months of public outreach to gather input on proposed changes to improve transit efficiency, equity and effectiveness, Sun Tran staff will host six (6) public meetings to discuss the Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA) proposed transit changes. The meetings will begin Monday, January 22 through Monday, January 29.
The City of Tucson and Sun Tran, in partnership with the Pima Association of Governments (PAG), evaluated all aspects of Sun Tran, Sun Link, Sun Express, and Sun Shuttle services throughout Tucson, and the greater Tucson area to determine potential improvements through the COA.
The following January meetings are in person:
- Monday, January 22, 5 p.m. | Fred Archer Center | 1665 South La Cholla Boulevard
- Tuesday, January 23, 12 p.m. | Tucson City Council Ward 2 Office | 7820 East Broadway Boulevard
- Wednesday, January 24, 12 p.m. | Woods Memorial Library | 3455 North 1st Avenue
- Thursday, January 25, 4:30 p.m. | Miller-Golf Links Library | 9640 East Golf Links Road
- Friday, January 26, 12 p.m. | Quincie Douglas Recreation Center | 1575 East 36th Street
- Monday, January 29, 5 p.m. | Tucson City Council Ward 6 Office | 3202 East 1st Street
For those unavailable to attend in person, a YouTube video will be available on January 2 detailing the proposed changes. Click HERE to view.
Visit TucsonCOA.com for complete COA project information or by calling Sun Tran Customer Service at (520) 792-9222, TDD (529) 628-1565.
Cradle to Career Math Survey for Parents
Lead Hazard Reduction Program From Older Homes
Home Repair Program for Low income Homeowners
Plastic Recycling in the Orange Bins
Sign Up for Tucson's Climate Action Report!
You can use this link to subscribe to the Climate Action Report through the City Manager's Office:
https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/AZTUCSON/subscriber/new
Connect Arizona Affordable Connectivity Program
 Programa de conectividad asequible Connect Arizona
Tucson Water Discounts
Call 520-791-5443 to make an appointment or visit this site for more information: https://www.tucsonaz.gov/water/low-income-assistance-program
We welcome your feedback !
Please feel free to email us at Ward3@tucsonaz.gov
To subscribe to this newsletter go to https://www.tucsonaz.gov/ward-3
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