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Council Member Fimbres’ January Letter
Dear Friends,
As we begin the new year, and look back at the years past, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for supporting my goals as your Ward 5 Council Member, which is a position that I have held since 2009. You have been a part of my story to improve our economic stability, and the quality of life for the residents of Tucson and Ward 5.
After several conversations with my family and putting my health in the forefront, I have decided not to seek another term. This decision will open the door for new leadership, which I am hopeful will continue what my predecessors and I have accomplished.
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We have so much to be proud of in Ward 5. We have seen the groundbreaking of the I-10 International on Los Reales, the Corona and Drexel Commerce Centers located on Corona Rd. They offer a hub of opportunities for new businesses. We anticipate the upcoming groundbreaking of the new Bass Pro Shop at the Tucson Marketplace, whose construction is slated to begin on February 3. This is the third installation in our state, providing outdoor gear, supplies and services to Southern Arizona.
In other exciting news, Habitat for Humanity and the City of Tucson Housing and Community Development Department are collaborating on a new affordable housing project called the Rodeo Addition Subdivision. The project will involve building 18 affordable, attached housing units on a donated lot near south Nogales Highway and east Drexel Road. The city plans to request $320,000 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Home Investment Partnership Program to help fund the nearly $3 million project. The goal is to provide affordable housing for first-time homebuyers earning 40%-80% of the area's median income. Additionally, Emery Park Place is currently under construction and will be available for rent in early 2025. It consists of four duplexes, eight units total. Funding for this was made possible due to the $500,000 it received in Pima County GAP funding, which will be used for the construction of the units. This will be a rental project with an 80% AMI maximum for future tenants. Southern Arizona Land Trust (SALT) will be the project manager for the development and construction of this project.
As you can see there are great things happening in Ward 5. I am so excited for the new economic investments that will be coming that will usher in new opportunities for growth and prosperity. I am also excited about the new investments in affordable housing that will be coming in. Every Tucsonan deserves a place to call home, and I am glad that we are taking steps to make it happen. It would not be possible without our city’s leadership, for which I am very grateful for. It has been a great privilege to work with the talented and supportive individuals who make up our Mayor, Council and City Leadership. I am extremely proud of the work that we have accomplished and know that there is still so much more to do.
I would like to also take this opportunity to recognize my Ward 5 Staff, Lupita Robles, Mary Kuchar, Gabriel Holguin, Cindy Gonzales and Lita Reyes who work extremely hard every day to ensure all our constituents are heard and assisted. I am very proud of the work they do and thankful for their commitment.
As we begin the new year, let us not forget what we have accomplished thus far. May it serve as a constant reminder of what we can achieve together. We will always face challenges, but we can and will overcome them when we work together as a team and see those challenges as opportunities for growth. On behalf of my Ward 5 Staff and myself, I want to wish you all a very happy and prosperous new year.
Sincerely,
 Your Ward 5 Council Member
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Nestled in the Barrio Santa Rita Park-West Ochoa neighborhood, Mendez Bakery & Tortillas has been a beloved gem since it opened five years ago, delighting locals with its freshly baked pastries, and warm, inviting atmosphere. Known for its commitment to traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, this family-owned bakery has become a cornerstone of the community, where every bite tells a story of passion and heritage. Whether you're savoring their signature Conchas or grabbing a quick coffee on the go, Mendez Bakery continues to bring a taste of comfort and joy to Tucson residents.
As mentioned, the story of Mendez Bakery and Tortillas began five years ago. The owner, Fernando Mendez, was working at another bakery when he thought about opening his own. Determined to make his dream a reality, he acquired the building that used to be the Le Cave’s Bakery on S. 6th Ave and E. 23rd St. The building was seriously dilapidated and in need of repairs before Fernando could open his bakery, repairs that cost him $60,000 - $70,000. This, however, did not stop him, and one year later, with the help of his friends, he was able to make all the necessary repairs and obtain his business license. “It was a big relief for me” he mentioned, noting that he was granted his license on June 6 – his birthday.
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Fernando’s two sons, along with his entrepreneurial spirit, inspired him to open his own bakery. “My vision is to have a bakery that is different from others”, he states, adding that he wants to create something customers can enjoy, and continue coming back for more. Without a doubt, Fernando has clear goals and objectives, and he understands very well that it takes a team to help achieve those goals and objectives.
Fernando credits the success of Mendez Bakery to his team of eight employees and the many volunteers he has had since opening his bakery. He joyfully tells of the many customers who have turned into volunteers throughout these five years he has been in business, who have helped him with repairing the building, and with the marketing side of the business. They do all this, so that Fernando can focus on the daily operations of the bakery, which includes arriving at 4am to get all the machines running and staying at least one hour after closing time to make sure everything is turned off and ready to go for the next day. |
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For many, the process of starting a business, and keeping it running daily can be quite daunting. While Fernando has certainly faced his fair share of challenges in his entrepreneurial journey, it has not stopped him one bit. His customers are his motivation to continue pushing through the difficulties he has faced and to continue improving. With a smile on his face, he recalls all the customers he has received, and the praises they have given him for the delicious pastries. “The reviews don’t lie”, he remembers someone saying to him, and it is not something that he takes for granted.
Fernando’s advice for anyone who is considering starting their own business is simple: “you have to love what you do.” These words are so true. As mentioned, starting a business can be extremely challenging but also extremely rewarding. You absolutely must love what you do to be able to weather the storms that come along the way in your entrepreneurship journey. In speaking with Fernando, he absolutely loves what he does.
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Mendez Bakery & Tortillas is located at 1219 S. 6th Ave and can be reached at (520) 461-4473 and can be found online at https://mendezbakery.com. It is open Monday – Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 8am-1pm.
We want to thank Fernando for sharing his story with us, and we wish him the best of luck.
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COT Employee Shout Out: Andy Squire
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The City of Tucson is fortunate to have such incredible employees. They are more than just employees; they are team members who go to great lengths to ensure that all departments across the City operate effectively for the benefit of our residents. One of these incredible team members is Andy Squire, who is the Public Information Officer for the City Manager’s office.
As the Public Information Officer, Andy plays an essential role in managing a wide range of communications, both external and internal. His responsibilities include handling media inquiries from newspapers and television stations and coordinating various communications related to the Mayor and City Council. By providing insights into the broader initiatives and activities of the City of Tucson, Andy ensures that accurate and timely information reaches both the public and city officials.
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Andy emphasizes that effective communication is a collaborative effort. He works closely with other city departments to facilitate the flow of information, which is crucial for maintaining transparency and public trust. His direct collaboration with his supervisor, Lane Mandle—Chief of Staff for the City Manager’s Office, along with other department supervisors and staff, allows for a coordinated approach to communication. With an impressive volume of work, Andy manages upwards of 450 to 500 emails each day, highlighting the demands of his role.
Having served with the City of Tucson for the past 26 years, Andy has accumulated a wealth of experience that enriches his current position. Before joining the city, he earned a degree in theatre from the University of Arizona. In his early career, he worked as a Council Aide in Ward 6 for then Council Member Fred Ronstadt. His career path also included a stint in sales at Circuit City, where he met his wife, and a challenging role at RISE Behavioral. Seeking to return to public service, Andy applied for a position at the Tucson Convention Center through a mutual friend, which allowed him to continue contributing to the community by assisting with events like the GEM Show and the Tucson Rodeo. He also worked as a Council Aide in Ward 4 for then Council Member Shirley Scott before taking on the role of Public Information Officer.
When asked about a typical day, Andy notes that "there is no such thing as a typical day." His work is dynamic, with constant inquiries from reporters and a variety of meetings throughout the day. He typically begins his morning at home around 7 a.m., arriving at the office between 8 and 9 a.m. His day is filled with meetings with ward offices and city departments, addressing a wide range of issues. Additionally, Andy maintains regular contact with the city attorney’s office to ensure that legal considerations are considered in communications. His workday often extends into the evening, wrapping up around 6 or 7 p.m., and he is always on call, especially during emergencies.
One of the biggest challenges Andy faces as a Public Information Officer is managing misinformation, which can arise from incorrect social media posts and headlines that do not accurately reflect the truth of a story. Another significant challenge is finding the most effective medium for disseminating information to the public. Despite the challenges, Andy finds great fulfillment in his role. He describes his work as a blessing, allowing him to make a decent living while serving the community. He takes pride in witnessing neighborhoods, such as Iron Horse, improving and seeing increased investment in the City and the community as a whole. The relationships he builds with colleagues and community partners are invaluable, as he tackles significant challenges and fosters collaborations.
For those interested in a career in public service or public information, Andy offers straightforward advice: "Just do it." He believes it is one of the most rewarding jobs, even when faced with difficulties. He encourages aspiring professionals to make their interests known, learn as much as they can, and be open to challenges. Andy highlights that there is no specific training for the role of a Public Information Officer; rather, it requires a wealth of experiences, particularly in relationship management. He stresses the importance of valuing the experiences gained and taking responsibility for one’s tasks and growth.
In conclusion, Andy’s role as the Public Information Officer is fundamental in ensuring effective communication within the city and between the city and its residents. His extensive experience, collaborative spirit, and commitment to serving the community make him an invaluable asset to the City of Tucson.
New Industrial Developments Coming to the Southside!
On Wednesday, January 15, the Ward 5 Council Office attended the groundbreaking of two new industrial developments in the southside. With a total investment of $73 million spearheaded by Schnitzer Properties, the Drexel and Corona Commerce Centers will provide new workspaces for small and mid-sized manufacturers, distributors, and service providers, bringing new job opportunities to the city. The Drexel Commerce Center will consist of 184,080 square feet across two buildings, while the Corona Commerce Center will provide 146,963 square feet. Both properties will offer flexible leasing options, with spaces ranging from 6,700 to 184,080 square feet. I want to thank and congratulate Jordan Schnitzer, President of Schnitzer Properties, Joe Snell, President & CEO of Sun Corridor Inc., and Tom Jarvis, Partner with Willmeng Construction, for this wonderful investment, which will bring economic growth and prosperity to Ward 5 and the Southside
Tucson ByFusion Groundbreaking Event
On Wednesday, January 15, the Ward 5 Council Office attended the Tucson ByFusion Facility Groundbreaking event. This 10,000 square feet building, which will be located at the Los Reales Sustainability Campus (LRSC), will manufacture construction-grade building blocks called “ByBlocks” from hard-to-recycle plastic waste. The facility will divert up to 200 tons of plastic per month from the city's landfill. The City will receive up to 10% of the “ByBlocks” produced at the facility for local projects. This partnership with ByFusion, is part of the city's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to divert waste from landfills and create circular economic opportunities. I want to thank Heidi Kujawa, CEO of ByFusion, for her collaboration with the City of Tucson to bring this project to fruition which will improve our environmental quality. I also want to thank Carlos DeLaTorre, Director of Environmental and General Services Department (EGSD), for his leadership throughout the course of bringing this initiative to life.
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Grow Tucson Resource Fair Was a Huge Success
The Grow Tucson Resource Fair was held on Saturday, January 11 at Manuel Herrera Jr. Park. It was a free event that taught our community how to: build their own rainwater harvesting basins, plant food forests, provide habitat for pollinators, and it also provided them with information on the Neighborhood Workforce Stipend Program where participants earn money by caring for their community. In addition to the valuable information that was given, the event was filled with lots of fun activities including raffles for the more than 50 attendees. A tree was also planted in memory of Jack Jordan, the son of Barbara Jordan. She worked in public service for 20+ years: first for Council Member Roy Laos, then for Council Member Steve Leal, then she worked for me when I first began my time as the Ward 5 Council Member. It is important that we honor those who have made a difference in our community. At the Ward 5 Council Office, we have trees planted in honor of former Council Members Rudy Castro, Roy Laos, Steve Leal, and one that was planted in my honor. This upcoming planting season in the Ward 5 courtyard, we will be planting trees in honor of the following people who have also made a difference in our community: Mary Fimbres, Melinda Jacobs, Barbara Jordan, and Mark Kerr. I want to thank everyone who helped make this event possible, including Tucson Million Trees, Tucson Clean & Beautiful, Iskashitaa Refugee Network, Seri, Tucson Audubon Society, Watershed Management Group, U.S. Forest Service, Beki Quintero with the Sunnyside Neighborhood Association, Valencia Library, Kora’s Hot Dogs, and Ready, Set Rec!
  
Pueblo Gardens Neighborhood Association 35th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast
The 35th Annual Pueblo Gardens Neighborhood Association Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast was held on Saturday, January 18 at the Kay Cee Club. The Pueblo Gardens holds this event to honor and celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr as well as to award scholarships for students in the surrounding neighborhoods. I want to congratulate the Pueblo Gardens MLK Breakfast Committee including James Christopher, Vita Luna Baker and Willie Blake for their 35 years of hard work and dedication to the event. I want to extend my gratitude to all the volunteers for their support. Keynote speaker Kiana McFadden and youth speaker Tianna Williams delivered remarks for which I want to thank them as well.
  
A Message from Julia Keen Neighborhood Association
“The Julia Keen Stormwater Park will help reduce flooding by capturing stormwater and turning it into a valuable resource for the neighborhood. Learn how this harvested water can be used to create a thriving grin space that benefits both nature and the community, while supporting new improvements at Parkview Park at www.pima.gov/JuliaKeen.” |
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“Listening Session| Sunday January 26th, 11AM to 1PM at Randolph Center Auditorium | 200 S. Alvernon Way
Please register here: www.pima.gov/juliakeen or scan the QR code.”
  “Community Chat on Saturdays | Saturday February 8th, 8AM to Noon at Midtown Farm | 3538 E. Ellington Pl.”
"No registration necessary
Stop by Midtown Farm—right here in the Julia Keen Neighborhood—for food, fresh air, and family time as we brainstorm ideas for the Julia Keen Stormwater Park. Have Ideas for other neighborhood improvements? Flowers and Bullets and Julia Keen Neighborhood Association will be there to listen and offer support.
You can help around the farm and check out local vendors at the tianguis—every Second Saturday of the month at Midtown Farm!”
Upcoming Ward 5
Neighborhood Association Meetings
Neighborhood: South Park
Date: Monday, February 3
Time: 6:00PM – 7:00PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Center (1575 E. 36th St.)
Neighborhood: Fairgrounds
Date: Thursday, February 6
Time: 6:00PM—7:00PM
Location: La Mariposa Park (301 E. Aviation Dr.)
Neighborhood: Julia Keen
Date: Thursday, February 6
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Tucson Police Department – Midtown (1100 S. Alvernon Way)
Neighborhood: Pueblo Gardens
Date: Tuesday, February 18
Time: 6:00PM—7:00PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Center (1575 E. 36th St.)
Neighborhood: Miles
Date: Wednesday, February 19
Time: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Miles Exploratory Learning Center (1400 E. Broadway Blvd.)
Neighborhood: Sunnyside
Date: Monday, February 24
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: El Pueblo Activity Center (101 W. Irvington Rd.)
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Upcoming Mayor and Council Meetings
Date: Tuesday, February 4
Study Session: 2:00 PM
Regular Meeting: 5:30 PM
Location: Mayor and Council Chambers
City Hall, 1st Floor.
255 West Alameda Street
Tucson, Arizona 85701
Date: Wednesday, February 19
Study Session: 2:00 PM
Regular Meeting: 5:30 PM
Location: Mayor and Council Chambers
City Hall, 1st Floor.
255 West Alameda Street
Tucson, Arizona 85701
(Doors open 30 minutes before start time)
You can also watch the Mayor & Council Meetings on the City of Tucson’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@cityoftucson/live
Meet PACC’s Pet of the Week!
AIDEN
ID# A825784
Age: 1 year 5 months
Qualities: Aiden is the BEST BOY! This handsome, smiley dude lived most of his life in one home before finding himself at PACC. He was said to be housebroken, crate-trained, friendly with kids, and a huge fan of car rides! Here at the shelter, he's been laid-back and friendly with people and dogs alike. If you're ready to give this wonderful pup a chance, we guarantee you'll fall for his sweet personality - and he'll even give a very demure "shake" to seal the deal!
Fee: Aiden is free to adopt. He is neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.
Contact: Pima Animal Care Center, 4000 N. Silverbell Rd., 520-724-5900. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 12pm - 7pm. Wednesday 1:30pm - 7pm. Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm.
 
Seed Stories: Storytime x Sketch
This event is a collaboration with the Valencia Public Library, Sunnyside Neighborhood Association, Children's Peace Garden, and Pima County Library’s Seed Library
Date: Saturday, February 1, 2024, from 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Featuring the book: My Heart Fills with Happiness by Monique Gray Smith
Location: Peace Garden at Manuel Herrera Jr. Park (5901 S. Fiesta Ave.)
Please RSVP at www.sketchingthesenses.com If you need ASL interpretation, please also note that in the RSVP form or email sketchingthesenses@gmail.com.
 Historias de semillas: Hora de cuentos x Dibujo
Este evento una colaboración con la Biblioteca Pública de Valencia, la Asociación de Vecinos de Sunnyside, Jardín Infantil de la Paz y la Biblioteca de Semillas de la Biblioteca Pública de Pima County
Fecha: sábado, 1 de febrero 2025, a las 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Presentamos el libro: My Heart Fills with Happiness por Monique Gray Smith
Ubicación: Jardin Infantil de la Paz en el Parque Manuel Herrera Jr. (5901 S. Fiesta Ave.)
Por favor, confirma tu asistencia en www.sketchingthesenses.com. Si necesita interpretación ASL, indíquelo también en el formulario o envíe un correo electrónico a sketchingthesenses@gmail.com
Please mark your calendar for February 20, 2025, for the 100th Annual Rodeo Parade! The parade route will begin at South 12th Avenue and Drexel Road, proceed East on Drexel to Old Nogales Highway, then turn North, ending at Irvington Road. The route change was necessitated by the decision of Union Pacific Railroad not to hold trains for the three-hours necessary, on the section of track that the parade has historically crossed on its previous route. This new route will keep the parade near the Rodeo Grounds but won’t cross the railroad tracks. For more information, please go to www.tucsonrodeoparade.org. Come out and be a part of this historical family event as it celebrates a milestone anniversary!
Important City Contacts
STAY INFORMED!
Check out our other
information outlets
https://www.tucsonaz.gov/ward-5
Like/Follow us on Facebook: Ward 5 City of Tucson
WARD 5 OFFICE
4300 S. Park Ave.
Tucson, Arizona 85714
Phone: (520) 791-4231
Fax: (520) 791-3188
Ward5@tucsonaz.gov
WARD 5 STAFF
Lupita Robles - Chief of Staff
Mary Kuchar - Council Aide
Gabriel Holguin – Council Aide
Cindy Gonzales – Council Aide
Lita Reyes - Staff Assistant
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