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 Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl holding up some buffel grass at the last Tucson City Council meeting.
Buffelgrass – a fast-spreading invasive weed from Africa that burns easily (it survives fire!) is a threat not just to our majestic saguaros and Sonoran Desert but is also a growing threat to homes and other structures in the city. The Big Horn fire in 2020 was spread by uncontrolled buffelgrass. It burned for weeks, forcing evacuations, charring 120,000 acres and cost $37 million to fight.
Buffelgrass comes back quickly from mowing, so the best way to remove it is to pull it out by the roots and throw the whole plant away (seeds survive composting). Winter rains feed buffelgrass making it a greater risk but also make pulling the grass so much easier. I mentioned this fact at Mayor and Council meeting Tuesday when I showed a plant I had easily hand-pulled that morning and announced that February is Save Our Saguaros: Beat Back Buffelgrass month. Come to the kick-off buffelgrass pull on A Mountain Feb. 3, come to any of the other events, or just learn how you can identify and help eliminate this scourge – details on the Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum website, www.buffelgrass.org.
Rain-soaked soil also makes it easier to dig holes and plant trees! Last weekend I was at tree-planting events in the Santa Rita Neighborhood and my own Samos Neighborhood. Tomorrow I’ll be in the Amphi Neighborhood with Trees for Tucson. If you would like to help at a neighborhood event or learn more about how to plant trees in your yard or street easement, check out www.treesfortucson.org.
 Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl dropping the puck at the Tucson Road Runners game.
Last Friday evening I threw out the first puck at the Roadrunner Hockey game. My wife and I stayed to root for the home team. Unfortunately, they lost, but the audience didn’t – everyone seemed to be having a great time. I remembered how when I was younger, I really enjoyed watching the live action of a hockey game (or should we better call it a battle?). The food and drink, the time-out quizzes, the videos on the huge arena screen, and other activities (more cowbell!) combine to make a Roadrunner game a great friends or family outing, or date night. See www.tucsonroadrunners.com for upcoming games and ticket options.
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 Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs giving the State report at the Tucson Convention Center.
This week Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs visited Tucson to deliver her Governor's State of the State and the Ward 3 office was in attendance. The Tucson Convention Center was packed with hundreds of attendees including mayors from nearby Nogales, Sierra Vista, and Sahuarita. Congressman Raul Grijalva, Chairman Yucupicio of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, Chairman Verlon Jose of the Tohono O’odham Nation, along with other dignitaries were also in attendance.
Chairman Yacupicio gave the opening prayer before the Governor began her speech.
 Ward 3 Council Aides C.J. Boyd, Marlene Avelino, Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl, and Congressman Raul Grijalva at the Governor's State report.
Governor Hobbs spoke to the need to secure abortion and contraception rights, fully funding public education. She highlighted her newly revamped and released Prop 123, announced $95 million federal investment in I-10 between Phenix and Tucson, funding for affordable housing and support for the unsheltered, and the importance of water conservation.
 Pascua Yaqui Chairman Peter Yucupicio, vice mayor Kevin Dahl and Pascua Yaqui Attorney General Alfred Urbina.
In this time of virtual meetings, it’s always nice to share space with friends and colleagues in person. With so many departments, agencies, organizations, and groups represented, I spent at least 30 minutes after the event chatting and catching up with some of my favorite community members, including Tom Litwicki - whose organization Old Pueblo Community Services just received 7 million from Hobbs for two projects - one of which will be in ward 3. We also took the time to chat with Pima Community College board member Theresa Riel. The college received almost 2 mil from the state budget for operational costs after Hobbs prioritized funding for community colleges last year.
To see more photos of the event, check out our Facebook.com!
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 Natalie DeRoock overseeing a Q&A at the Tucson Water press event at Sweetwater Wetlands for the U.S. EPA's announcement of $30M dedicated to combatting PFAS in communities across America.
Tucson Water’s Senior Public Information Officer (PIO) Natalie DeRoock was born and raised in Tucson, in Barrio Hollywood to be precise. She is a U of A graduate with a very decorated list of accomplishments. Among them is serving overseas as a Public Affairs Specialist for the U.S. Department of State. Upon leaving that position she looked closer to home and found her current role in which she feels “so much purpose working on the most critical issue of our time which is water resources”. She also likes working at a municipal level because according to her it is “where the rubber meets the road when it comes to democracy”.
Natalie has water stewardship in her family. Her father was a trained hydrologist and took her to the halls of the U of A when she was young. Unlike many kids, she grew up hearing about the watershed and learning that Tucson is a designated sole-source aquifer, which she admits was fascinating to her.
As a public servant, she says she has a spirit of service “We are Tucsonans serving Tucsonans.” As a public information officer, she likes to think that she and her colleagues are the conduits between the City utility and the public.
 Natalie DeRoock Senior Public Information Officer at the Tucson Water office.
Her favorite challenge has been demonstrating to the public through public outreach why a rate change is actually a positive thing and that it can help bring safer water through upgraded infrastructure. That the rate change is not just “money in the coffers” but that it is supporting safety, security, resilience, and reducing water loss.
A fun fact I learned from Natalie is that Tucson Water tests the quality of the water more rigorously than bottled water companies do. She told me “The quality and safety of our water is at a higher standard than that of bottled water.”
“We all know that Tucson has had its share of issues with many kinds of emerging contaminants from the Department of Defense, the Air Force bases, and then the airport. That's not a big secret, but I think what people don't know, and I would hope people would understand, is that the city of Tucson and Mayor and Council have been incredibly supportive and proactive in their efforts to keep Tucson's water safe and secure. That’s partly due to the fact that we have one of the best water quality labs in the region.” So when you factor in single-use plastic bottles, the more sustainable and safe option is already coming out of our tap, and besides we are already paying for it.
Natalie DeRoock Senior Public Information Officer with the City of Tucson.
Throughout her varied and accomplished career as well as her travels Natalie states her greatest accomplishments are her three kids. Her oldest son Ajani, is attending San Francisco State University, while her middle son Sebastian, is a football player at CDO, and her youngest, Penelope, excels at science and video games. Tucson Water and the City of Tucson are very fortunate to have someone as qualified and talented as Natalie De Roock on staff. She is undoubtedly adroit in her field. Her expertise in communications, international affairs, and culture are a huge benefit to the City of Tucson and we appreciate working with her.
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 genda for January 23, 2024 Study Session and Regular Session agenda.
Study Session included a performance review of the City Clerk. Update on initiatives related to Unsheltered Homelessness and transition Center. Fiscal year 2025 budget discussion.
Regular Session included approval of wireless communications facility. Reappointment of the City Clerk.
For the complete Study Session and Regular Agenda please click on the buttons below.
For the full coverage of the Mayor and Council meeting on January 23, 2024, please click on the button below.
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Last week we provided a link to our Homeless Protocol and Reporting Tool, unfortunately, the link we provided was not working. We apologize for the inconvenience. We have now provided an updated fully functional button below.
In our January 5 newsletter we mistakenly referred to Kinder-Morgan's Public Affairs Vice President Allen Fore as "Allen More". We apologize for the misspelling.
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 LUK /ID# A693522
Age: 5 years
Qualities:
If you're looking for an adventure partner, Goose is your guy! This young, playful, happy boy is always up for fun, whether it's a walk, playtime, or even an agility training session! Goose also enjoys wrestling with other dogs and may enjoy being a companion for another playful pup! This guy is all fun!
Fee:
Luk 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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Richland Heights East Neighborhood Association
Wednesday 1/31, 6 - 7 pm
2000 E Greenlee Rd
Cabrini Neighborhood Association
Thursday 2/01, 6 - 7 pm
Connections Vineyard Church
3150 E Fort Lowell 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 Diaper Distribution Fair Saturday January 27 from 9am-2pm
 Feria de Distribución Gratuita de Pañales Sabado 27 de Enero de 9am - 2pm
Call to Artists! Sugarhill is looking for submissions of historic photos to be placed on vinyl banners along Stone Ave.
 We’re thrilled to announce our Sugar Hill Call for Participation, and we want YOU to be a part of it.
Call for Photos: Do you have recent or historic photos of the Sugar Hill neighborhood or its wonderful community members? We invite you to share your snapshots with us as we celebrate the rich history and vibrant life of Sugar Hill !
Some examples of photos include, but are not limited to, a historical event, a landmark, a personal journey, a cultural presence, or a significant person.
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.
Lend a Hand Senior Assistance Volunteer Opportunity
St. Francis Soup Patrol Monday- Friday at 5pm
 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.
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:
- 12 pickleball courts
- Four tennis courts
- Expanded dog park facilities
- Two covered basketball courts
- Two new restrooms
- New Playgrounds (2-5 years and 5-12 years)
- New Splash Pad
- Expanded parking
- Walking paths and landscape nodes
- Flexible lawn areas
Tucson Parks and Recreation is getting ready to design Phase 2 projects at La Madera Park, 2700 E La Madera Dr. Saturday, Feb. 10, 10-11:30 am
Below are the projects outlined in the bond. Give us your feedback on the proposed projects.
Phase 2
- New walking path
- New splash pad
- Renovate irrigation system
Join us at the park to talk with staff about the future improvements at this park including a new splash pad, walking path, and irrigation.
Take the survey to provide your feedback on the planned improvements. The survey will close on Sunday, Feb. 18.
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 8am-9:30am.
https://tucsonfoodshare.org/ has more information about volunteering, donating, or requesting delivery.
Ready, Set, REC! in January
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Community Safety Health and Wellness Year in Review
City of Tucson Fire Station 8 Renovation Proposal January 31 6-8pm
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.
The Homing Project mystery Dinner Theater Tuesday February 13 from 6-9pm
Paul Cunningham's Afterschool Wednesday Hoops for Kids Starting January 24 from 3-5 pm at Jesse Owens Park
Almost 4 million middle schoolers in the US are left unsupervised between 3 pm and 6 pm.
TUSD kids have an extra hour of unsupervised time because Wednesday is early out day. Every Wednesday during the school year, Ward 2 hosts Wednesday afternoon hoops at the covered court at Jesse Owens park. Each week, members of the Tucson Buckets (Tucson's semi-pro ABA team) join TUSD middle schoolers for a mini clinic that focuses on technical basketball and having fun. Ward 2 provides drinks and snacks and we just bought a portable electronic scoreboard!
Prevent Lead Exposure in Your Home
Programa de Control de Peligros de Pintura a Base de Plomo
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.
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 1/26.
- Check the Santa Cruz Vet Facebook page or call 520-889-9644 for any additional updates/questions.
Vaccines, Microchips, & Other
January 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
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 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.
Merchant and Mission Focused Market Place at the Dunbar Pavilion February 7 at 5 pm
Lead Hazard Reduction Program From Older Homes
Home Repair Program for Low income Homeowners
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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