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A Newsletter from the Council Member
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
With deep gratitude and a full heart, I write to you as your newly appointed Council Member for Ward 5.
This role is more than a title—it’s a continuation of service to the community that raised me. I was born in Ward 5, spent formative years here, and returned to work alongside many of you to support young people in their academic and civic journeys. To now serve in this capacity is an immense honor.
I want to thank my predecessor, Council Member Richard Fimbres, whose legacy is etched into the fabric of our neighborhoods. From the Tucson Marketplace at the Bridges to the Buffalo Soldiers Memorial, to programs supporting veterans, youth, and our unsheltered neighbors—his leadership was rooted in care, action, and results. Council Member Fimbres was also the first person to spark my own interest in public service during his visits with students through the Metro Education Commission. I step into this role with deep respect for his example.
As I begin this term, I bring nearly a decade of experience across higher education, civic leadership, and nonprofit service. I’ve led public-private partnerships, championed inclusive economic growth and environmental resilience, and worked to strengthen systems of support for education, health, and equity. Most recently, as Executive Director of the Metro Education Commission, I helped expand college access, boost federal student aid application completion, and elevate youth civic engagement—especially right here in Ward 5.
But this commitment isn’t just professional—it’s personal. Two years ago, I lost my younger brother Carlos to the fentanyl crisis, traced to a known source within our ward. That loss reshaped my life and gave me an even deeper understanding of what many families here endure. It also sharpened my resolve to lead with empathy, urgency, and a focus on what truly matters.
Though this is a short-term appointment, I intend to make the most of it. We’re facing real challenges—from a projected citywide budget shortfall to growing housing insecurity and uncertainty around federal aid. But there’s also opportunity. This summer, we’ll launch a participatory budgeting process here in Ward 5, giving residents a direct voice in how Ward 5 funds are used. I believe this moment calls for deeper connection, creative thinking, and a council office that listens closely and acts boldly.
That spirit of action guided my recent support of the Pima Early Education Program Scholarships, otherwise known as PEEPs, designed to assist children from income eligible families to attend high quality preschool at over 100 locations across Pima County. Ahead of our most recent study session meeting, I raised a question to city staff about a previously proposed reallocating of $250,000 in unused funds—an amount that had been speculated as viable support for PEEPS. Staff confirmed that, following conversations with the original partner tied to those funds, there were no objections to the reallocation. With that information in hand, I joined Council Member Cunningham in asking Mayor and Council to approve a one-time, final investment. The motion passed unanimously, and I was proud to supplement it with an additional $50,000 from Ward 5. As the only member of Council who hadn’t previously voted on this issue—and with Ward 5 classrooms and students directly affected—I felt a responsibility to engage. I stand by that choice, and I believe it reflects the kind of responsive, values-driven leadership Ward 5 demands.
To our students and families: congratulations to the Class of 2025! Whether you’re headed to college, a career, or another path entirely, we’re proud of you and excited for what’s ahead.
As temperatures rise, please stay hydrated, check on your neighbors, and take care—especially of older adults, children, and those working outdoors. Our well-being is shared, and small acts of care go a long way. I also encourage you to enjoy some of Ward 5’s great summer resources—like the El Pueblo and Quincie Douglas pools or the Gunny Barreras Splash Pad. They’re fun, free, and open to all!
In the months ahead, I invite you to stay connected—through neighborhood meetings, community projects, or by simply reaching out. I’m proud to walk alongside you, not just as your Council Member, but as your neighbor.
In service,
Rocque Perez
Council Member
Ward5@tucsonaz.gov
Mayor & Council Recap
A digest of what was covered at our most recent meetings.
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Workforce Compensation
We received an update on the FY2026 Compensation Plan. In-range pay placement is complete for 520 employees, and base pay progression will begin in July. Market adjustments will affect 561 positions across 100+ classifications. HR also introduced “The 4,900 Project,” launching later this summer, to support more equitable pay through updated employee data and a Base Pay Calculator.
Of 93 compensation disputes submitted, only five remain under review; all others were addressed with follow-up provided. HR clarified no pay ceilings were reduced—previous confusion stemmed from outdated data. Skill-based pay is also being reinstated for Tucson Water Utility Technicians. Feedback from this cycle will shape future policy and recruitment strategies.
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FY2026 Tentative Budget
Council reviewed and adopted the $2.413 billion FY2026 Tentative Budget, which sets the city’s maximum spending cap. Though the primary property tax rate increased slightly, the secondary rate decreased—resulting in an overall slight tax cut.
The budget continues to prioritize employee pay and retention, but $6.6 million in new revenue must still be identified. Revenue ideas under review include an advertising tax, Airbnb fees, and naming rights. Additional proposals, such as modest KidCo fees or a wastewater utility tax, were discussed. Notably, a policy change now allocates ward office carryover funds based on actual year-end balances.
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Development Impact Fees
Council advanced a phased-in increase to development impact fees, set for final adoption on June 3. Residential fees will rise 41–46% over three years, while some non-residential fees will decrease immediately. The approach follows stakeholder input on affordability, housing supply, and cost burden.
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Energy Sourcing Study
Council formally accepted the Tucson Energy Sourcing Study, which evaluated city energy options like municipalization, community choice aggregation, solar power purchase agreements, and microgrids. Microgrids were identified as the most feasible short-term action.
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Homelessness Update
In the last 60 days, the city responded to 390 encampments—one-third requiring immediate action due to public safety concerns. Outreach and decommissioning efforts continue at Santa Rita Park, 100-Acre Woods, and the Santa Cruz Corridor. Several shelter sites remain active, including Quality Inn, Wildcat Inn, and Desert Cove. Cooling centers open citywide by June 2, supported by a newly hired coordinator.
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PFAS Update
Tucson Water reported that local drinking water remains PFAS-free, with 22 contaminated wells removed from service and several projects underway to restore safe supply. Tucson continues to lead in national PFAS litigation and regulatory compliance, with federal agencies now required to implement long-term treatment under CERCLA.
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Transportation & Mobility
The Transportation Department briefed Council on recent RTA and PAG meetings. Tucson’s project scope changes were discussed, and the RTA Next vote has been delayed to March 2026. Concerns remain about transit funding if the measure fails, especially for Sun Shuttle and weekend routes.
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State and Federal Updates
At the federal level, Congress advanced a budget package with potential cuts to SNAP and Medicaid, and Senator Kelly continues pushing for infrastructure investment. In Arizona, Governor Hobbs is advocating to extend and expand the state’s Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, a key tool for affordable housing.
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Public Hearings and Final Votes
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Sun Tran Service Changes Council approved changes to 13 bus routes, effective August 17, 2025. Some proposals bypassing the Laos Transit Center were reversed to avoid equity impacts. Staff will continue evaluating traffic flow and signal timing.
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Plan Tucson 2025 Council held a public hearing on the city’s 10-year general plan. Final adoption was delayed until June 3 or 17 to incorporate late stakeholder feedback before the plan is placed on the November 2025 ballot.
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FY2026 Budget Adoption Council unanimously adopted the tentative budget, including a slight property tax reduction and continued investments in employee compensation. A $6.6 million budget gap remains under discussion.
- As a part of this adoption, separate motions were made relative to the Metro Education Commission, approved as a separate motion, 5–0; with Council Member Perez recused to avoid any conflict of interest. Additionally, Council Member Perez seconded a motion for Council to authorized $250,000 to support a one-time and final investment into the Pima Early Education Program in partnership with Pima County, with the specific interest of maintaining support in Sunnyside and Amphi School Districts. Council Member Perez further committed an additional $50,000 to support Sunnyside School District specifically.
 Beautification of South 12th Avenue
What is “Storm to Shade?” It’s an initiative within Tucson’s Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) program. This innovative approach directs stormwater runoff from streets, parking lots, and rooftops into underutilized areas, enriching the soil and promoting vegetation growth.
As Tucson wrestles with the challenges of Urban Heat Relief, the third fastest warming city in the U.S., GSI offers a promising solution. It aims to alleviate urban heat islands by integrating greenery into our built environment. With the construction of vegetative buffers set to tentatively begin by February 2026, GSI will enhance areas on 12th Avenue between Irvington and Drexel Road, where over 15,000 sq. ft. of asphalt will be removed, paving the way for a more sustainable urban landscape.
The Southwest faces a significant challenge with a 20-year drought. The GSI responds by transforming runoff into a valuable resource through the use of irrigation plants, thereby reducing dependency on potable water. Irrigation systems will initially be installed to nourish native plants, trees, and shrubs, fostering growth that will eventually enhance the ecosystem. This initiative also addresses minor flooding by redirecting stormwater away from streets and rooftops, thus preserving infrastructure and extending the lifespan of our pavements.
 
“Turn Awareness into Action”
The 2025 Mental Health Awareness Month theme is "Turn Awareness into Action." This theme emphasizes the importance of not only recognizing mental health issues but also actively participating in supporting mental well-being. By focusing on these core principles, we can create a supportive environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being. Let’s make a concerted effort to turn awareness into actionable change this month and beyond.
The Five “C’s
- Connecting: Social interaction is vital for our mental health. Building and maintaining relationships can foster a sense of belonging and understanding, which is crucial for emotional resilience.
- Coping: Developing healthy coping strategies to manage stress and life's challenges is essential. This can include practical techniques for handling emotional turmoil and creative outlets that enhance well-being.
- Caring: Show compassion toward oneself and others. This involves recognizing personal needs and being proactive in seeking help or providing support to those around us.
- Collaborating: Working together with communities and organizations to share resources and strategies can amplify our efforts to improve mental health outcomes. Collaboration can lead to innovative solutions and greater awareness.
- Celebrating: Acknowledge and celebrate achievements in mental health advocacy. Recognizing progress, no matter how small, can motivate further action and encourage others to engage in mental health initiatives.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing a crisis, contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline, a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance disorders. 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Parkrun at Willie Blake Community Park
On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Parkrun, a national organization, hosted its first 5K Walk/Run Parkrun at Willie Blake Community Park, 3525 S. Naco Vista. The community came out in high numbers to kick off the Walk/Run. Special guests included Willie Blake, the parks’ namesake and President of the Western Hills II NA, Sarah Horvath, Director of the Kino Sports Complex, and Curtiss Stewart, the Parkrun host.
The course takes you from Willie Blake Park to Sam Lena Recreation Area, back to Willie Blake Park. The fun begins at 7:00 a.m. every Saturday and is always 100% free! It is open to walkers, runners and everyone who just wants to get up and go. Hope to see you there!
Holmes Tuttle Boys & Girls Club Re-Opening
The Holmes Tuttle Boys & Girls Club’s renovation is near completion and is scheduled to open on June 2nd with their Teen Tech & Workforce Readiness Center Summer Camp.
This state-of-the-art facility will offer teens ages 13-17 hands-on training in technology and digital media, E-Sports, a Fitness Center, and a culinary arts program using the Commercial Grade Kitchen at the center.
This new center brings resources normally not accessible to teens and will allow them to receive hands-on training to help them gain real-world job skills and confidence.
The Teen Tech & Workforce Readiness Center Summer Camp will run from June 2 to July 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and will proudly serve 200 Teens. Please call the center for more information at (520) 622-0694 or scan the barcode on Holmes Tuttle Boys & Girls Club flyer to register.
 
Holmes Tuttle Boys & Girls Club Teen Tech & Workforce Readiness Center
 
Extended Parking Meter Hours
Meet PACC's Pet of the Week
PAWL
ID# A865674
Age: 2 years
Qualities: Meet Pawl! This smiley boy is the resident PACC greeter pup and can often be found in the "Dog of the Day" yard as you first walk into the kennel area! Pawl came into PACC as a stray, but it's clear this guy has been a loved member of a family before; Pawl is housebroken, knows commands, and walks nicely on a leash. He's also a total lovebug with kids, older folks, and everyone in between.
Fee: Pawl 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.
Upcoming Mayor & Council Meeting
Date: Tuesday, June 3
Study Session: 2:00 PM
Regular Meeting: 5:30 PM
Location: Mayor & Council Chambers
City Hall, 1st Floor
255 West Alameda Street
Tucson, Arizona 85701
You can also watch the Mayor & Council Meetings on the City of Tucson’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@cityoftucson/live
Upcoming Opportunities: Share Your Input on Middle Housing in Tucson
The City of Tucson is seeking public input on a new initiative to expand housing diversity through "middle housing” which includes duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes. This effort aligns with Arizona House Bill 2721, signed into law in May 2024, mandating that cities with over 75,000 residents permit middle housing on all single-family residential lots within one mile of their downtown core. Additionally, for new developments larger than 10 acres, at least 20% must consist of middle housing. These changes must be adopted by January 1, 2026.
To gather community feedback, Tucson's Planning and Development Services Department (PDSD) is hosting three public meetings in May 2025:
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Virtual Meetings:
- Wednesday, May 28, 5:30–7:00 PM. Registration required. Register here
- Thursday, May 29, 11:30 AM–1:00 PM. Registration required. Register here
For further information, contact Nicholas Martell, Long-Range Planning Section Manager, at nicholas.martell@tucsonaz.gov or 520-603-1273.
Pima County Community Land Trust
Important City of Tucson 2025 Election Dates
May 30 – Ballots mailed to Uniformed & Overseas Voters
June 16 – Last day to register to vote
June 18 – Early voting begins, and early ballots are mailed out
July 7 – Last day to request a mail-in ballot
July 8 – Recommended deadline to mail back your completed ballot
July 15 – Election Day: Vote in person or drop off your early ballot
Summer Classes and Programs Viewable Online
Summer KIDCO
KIDCO provides a safe, fun place to enjoy sports, games, activities, and social interaction throughout the summer.
Who: Ages 5-11 (must have completed kindergarten)
When: Session 1 – June 2-30 (closed June 19)
*Session 2 – July 1-25 (closed July 4)
Day/Time: Monday-Friday - 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Cost: $125/city-resident or $157/non-city resident for a four-week session
Locations: Vary, see registration link for locations
*For TUSD site locations, session 2 will run July 1-July 19
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Summer KIDCO Inclusion
KIDCO inclusion camps are offered for children with disability-related support needs.
Who: Ages 6-12 (must have completed kindergarten)
When: June 2-July 25 (closed June 19 and July 4)
Day/Time: Monday-Friday -8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Cost: $125/city-resident or $157/non-city resident for an eight-week session
Locations: Archer, El Pueblo, Donna R. Liggins, Randolph, Udall, and Clements centers
For More information, click here
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In-Betweeners Club
Supervised summer teen program offering games, sports, social interaction, dance, art projects, and nutrition-based learning activities.
Who: Ages 12-14 (must have completed 5th grade)
When: Session 1 – June 2-30 (closed June 19)
Session 2 – July 1-25 (closed July 4)
Day/Time: Monday-Friday - 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Cost: $70/city-resident or $88/non-city resident for a 4-week session
Locations: vary, see registration link for site info.
For more information, click here
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Junior Staff in Training
The focus of Junior Staff in Training is to provide teens with an experience aimed at improving leadership skills, building self-esteem, and preparing for future employment specifically in the field of recreation. Teens will learn planning, group management, critical thinking skills, how to communicate, teamwork, and basic job application and interviewing skills.
Who: Ages 14-18
When: Session 1 – June 2-30 (closed June 19)
Session 2 – July 1-25 (closed July 4)
Day/Time: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. (typical shifts are 8 a.m.-2 p.m. or noon-6 p.m. with a max of 30 hours per week)
Cost: $25/city-resident or $30/non-city resident for a 4-week session
Locations: vary, see registration link for site info.
For more information, click here
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Therapeutic Recreation Camps
The Therapeutic Recreation division offers camps for those with disabilities who need more specialized and structured camp offerings. Contact the Therapeutic Recreation Center at 520-791-4504 to determine eligibility. Participants must complete an assessment before registering.
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Discovery Camp
Who: Ages 6-15
When: June 2-July 18 (closed June 19 and July 4)
Day/Time: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Cost: $25/city-resident or $30/non-city resident
Location: Quincie Douglas, 1575 E. 36th St.
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STARS
Who: Ages 16-22
When: June 2-July 18 (closed June 19 and July 4)
Day/Time: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Cost: $25/city-resident or $30/non-city resident
Location: Therapeutic Recreation Center, 1000 S. Randolph Way
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STEP Teen program
Who: Ages 12-18
When: June 2-July 18 (closed June 19 and July 4)
Day/Time: Monday-Thursday 2-8 p.m., and Fridays 2-6 p.m.
Cost: $25/city-resident or $30/non-city resident
Location: Therapeutic Recreation Center, 1000 S. Randolph Way
For more information, click here
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The registration deadline for classes is Tuesday, May 28, at 5 p.m. A Discount Program is available to those who qualify. Make an appointment at Registration Services before registering. For questions or more information on registration and programs, or to set up an account, contact Registration Services at (520) 791-4877.
City of Tucson Summer Pool Season
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All About Tucson 311, 311 App and 311 Online Service Portal
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Why call 311?
The primary objective of 311 is to provide a quick solution to non-emergency calls, freeing up the 911 line for life threatening emergencies.
When should you call 311?
To report non-emergencies, such as junked/Inoperable vehicles, Illegal dumping, graffiti, potholes, loud noise, and damaged or downed signs to name a few. You can also call 311 to get City of Tucson information. When in doubt and not a life-threatening emergency, call 311.
Is there any other way to reach 311?
Yes, the 311 App is available for Free on Apple Store or Google Play. Once downloaded, you can submit your concern by filling out the online form or even request a 311 Call Back. It also provides a convenient way to submit pictures directly from your phone.
Getting quick emergency help when needed is extremely important to us! Please support our first responders and public safety communication center by using 911 for emergencies only and 311 for all non-emergency calls. Thank you!
 
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
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday—Thursday: 8 AM to 5 PM
Friday: 8 AM to 4 PM
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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