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Monday’s MLK Day holiday was established to celebrate, honor and remember the life of the great civil rights leader whose inspiring work promoted peace and nonviolence. In these increasingly troubling times, his words, work and life were dedicated to challenging and changing the unjust and racist status quo.
 If you would like to learn more and practice King’s methods of nonviolence and direct action, which was so effective in the 1960s civil rights movement and other social change movements since, the Good Trouble Action Group will offer Nonviolent Direct Action Trainings on Saturday and Sunday, 1 – 5 pm. For training details and information about other events, https://www.takeactiontucson.org/.
On Monday, Tucson’s MLK celebration takes place at the Reid Park Bandshell, 10 to 3. Details, https://mlkcelebrationtucson.com/
The violence and federal lawlessness we have seen in large amounts recently in Minneapolis and a smaller but significant degree in Tucson, is horrible (Congresswoman Grijalva being pepper-sprayed by masked federal police was not on my bingo card). But we can take inspiration from patriotic American leaders from George Washington (who never wanted the Presidency to have the power to send soldiers against its own citizens) to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. I am proud that Tucson has stepped up to the challenge of this moment by issuing a strong statement (see below) and providing a website so that we can all Know Our Rights https://tinyurl.com/39s9wk73
On a local level, there are lots of community-driven events to get involved in. There are several “Days of Connection” community service projects in Tucson. On Saturday, my staff and I will be at Danny Lopez Park, where we will help clean up and remove invasive species at the park and adjacent reach of the Santa Cruz River. You will spot me in my kayak, paddling along the edges of the park’s lake, in my happy place scooping up plastic bags, lost fishing gear, picnic debris, and other litter that has blown into this otherwise beautiful spot. More details on this event is provided toward the end of this newsletter.
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The City of Tucson is committed to keeping Tucsonans safe and informed in the event of federal action in our community through emergency preparedness and transparency.
The National Guard is not currently deployed in Tucson. However, federal authorities have deployed National Guard troops to several U.S. cities without requests from local or state governments. While no such deployment has been announced for Tucson, Mayor Regina Romero and City leadership is closely monitoring the situation and have developed a comprehensive response plan as a precautionary measure.
“Federal actions are spreading fear and chaos in cities across our country,” said Tucson Mayor Regina Romero. “The actions that we’ve seen ICE take are hurting innocent people and not making us any safer. The City of Tucson will prioritize community safety and protect the legal and constitutional rights of every Tucsonan regardless of status. I have directed staff to create an easy to use, easy to access informational website.”
The National Guard may legally be activated and deployed under certain circumstances:
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At the State level under Title 32 by the Governor for a State Emergency
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At the request of local authorities (cities and counties) for search and rescue, or other civil support
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At the Federal level under Title 10 and under the Insurrection Act
There are limitations on what deployed troops can do. Once deployed, troops are restricted by law under the Posse Comitatus Act. Under this act, National Guard troops under federal control may only protect federal property and personnel and may not engage in the following civilian law enforcement activities:
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Pursuit, arrests, or apprehension
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Traffic control, crowd control, or riot control
- Interrogation
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Security patrols
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Search and seizure
- Evidence collection
The Mayor and Council, City Manager’s Office, City Attorney’s Office, Tucson Police Department, and the City’s Emergency Management Team have developed a protocol and response if the National Guard is activated by the president without being requested by the City or the State.
Evidence from activations in other U.S. cities indicates that federalized troops may have been encouraged to engage in security, traffic, and crowd control activities in violation of the Posse Comitatus Act. If deployed to Tucson, the City would observe and document such troop activities. The City is prepared to file legal challenges to any improper troop deployment or activity with authorization from Mayor and Council.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
There have been ICE operations in our community. While the Mayor and City cannot prevent ICE from legally operating in Tucson, the City also does not condone the behavior demonstrated by ICE agents towards members of our community and in other communities. This includes the wearing of masks and other actions intended to intimidate and confuse the public. The City understands that ICE raids create fear that negatively impact families, schools, and local businesses.
Tucson Police Department (TPD)
The Tucson Police Department works to develop trust with our immigrant and refugee communities. As a local law enforcement agency, TPD’s primary responsibility is serving community members and visitors, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, or any other characteristic. TPD’s mission is to protect life and property and prevent crime in partnership with our community. That means for all community members, regardless of immigration status. TPD officers carry identification at all times and are instructed not to wear masks unless necessitated during undercover operations.
The Tucson Police Department does not participate in the enforcement of federal civil immigration laws but will respond for the safety of Tucson residents and to keep the peace if protests or demonstrations develop. However, federal officials do conduct operations in our city related to drugs, violent crime, human trafficking and other critical issues, and TPD may be involved in these operations.
“I am committed to protecting all Tucsonans, regardless of immigration status, and their freedom to exercise First Amendment rights by a police department that values diversity, accountability, and transparency,” said City Manager Timothy Thomure.
The City of Tucson has created a webpage to connect community members with resources to learn their immigration rights and responsibilities. We want to make sure community members know their rights and can find support and services quickly. Find information from local and national agencies at Know Your Rights Resources. You have a constitutional right to safely film and document public enforcement actions without physically blocking or otherwise impeding those actions. The City asks that each community member prioritize their personal safety and the safety of others in any documentation effort.
In the event that federal deployments occur, a Joint Information Center or JIC will be established ensuring that all communication from the City of Tucson to the public is unified and clear.
If a deployment were to occur, accurate and timely information will be available at the following:
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Last Tuesday marked the 15-year anniversary of the January 8, 2011 shooting that profoundly impacted Tucson. The Council Member joined local leaders and community members at El Presidio Park for a remembrance event honoring those who lost their lives or were injured on that day, including then Congress Member Gabby Giffords. The Historic Pima County Courthouse and January 8th Memorial served as a backdrop to the event, offering silent tribute to the victims and survivors.
 Pima County Supervisor Jen Allen, Former Congressman Ron Barber, and Council Member Kevin Dahl.
Speakers Mayor Regina Romero, former Congressmember Ron Barber, and Pima County Supervisor Rex Scott reflected on the events and on the community’s response in the aftermath, noting the ways Tucson came together through care, connection, and civic action. Their remarks underscored the spirit of unity that emerged from January 8 and that continues to guide our city.
 Tucson City Council Members Miranda Schubert and Kevin Dahl.
For Ward 3, the remembrance was a reminder of Tucson’s strength in the face of tragedy. The care shown for the victims’ families and the community’s desire to heal together reflect our shared belief in safe, connected neighborhoods, and the need to support mental health before harm occurs. The Council Member remains focused on preventing violence through community-based solutions, mental health support, and neighborhood safety efforts.
 Pima County Supervisor Jen Allen, Tucson City Council Member Kevin Dahl, Pima County Supervisor Rex Scott, and Tucson CIty Council Member Paul Cunningham.
The new year brings important updates to the City’s Brush and Bulky program. As many Ward 3 residents kick off the year by preparing for upcoming collections, it’s a good time to highlight a key change that may affect where you place your items.
 Environmental Services’ Brush & Bulky crew disposing of a resident’s B&B curbside pile.
Most areas that traditionally received Brush and Bulky alley pickup will now transition to curbside pickup. This change comes after Environmental Services evaluated challenges that have increasingly occurred in alleys. These challenges included Brush and Bulky piles being set out months in advance, contributing to increased illegal dumping, piles exceeding the 10 cubic yard limit and blocking access for collection trucks, and materials placed on or near gas and water meters. Transitioning to curbside pickup helps keep alleys safe and accessible for regular trash collection as well. However, not all neighborhoods will receive this change due to the evaluation that this adjustment could pose safety concerns or curbside access is not possible.
  Residents received one of two postcards indicating their Brush & Bulky pickup location.
Since this is a significant transition, it’s understandable that those who previously participated in alley pickup might be unsure where to place their Brush and Bulky piles. To help clarify, Environmental Services has mailed those residents postcards indicating whether their pickup will be curbside or alley-based. You can also visit the Environmental Services website to view your Brush and Bulky schedule, confirm the correct placement location for your address, and check your regular trash and recycling pickup days.
 A screenshot of Environmental Services’ website where you can enter your address in the top left corner and find your Brush and Bulky pickup dates and location on the right.
As a reminder, please do not place Brush and Bulky items out more than two weeks before your scheduled pickup date. A list of eligible and ineligible items can be found here along with the 2026 Household Hazardous Waste Collection events. If you need to dispose of bulky items outside of the two annual pickups, you may contact Environmental Services’ Customer Service line to schedule a special collection for a fee.
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 ID#: A780186
Age: 6 years old
Qualities:
Cardinal is a cute young guy with a funny face that always looks mildly concerned, even though he’s really a pretty easygoing boy. He enjoys taking a dip in the doggy pool, so if you have a pool at home, he’ll happily come to relax! Cardinal would like to meet any resident dogs before heading home to make sure it’s a good fit.
Fee:
Cardinal 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 pm - 7 pm.
Wednesday 1:30-7 pm. Saturday and Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm.
 ID#: A890001
Age: 1 year
Qualities:
Staff said Fifi was easily handled for treatments. She also accepted pets when she was in her hidey box.
Fee:
Fifi 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 pm - 7 pm.
Wednesday 1:30-7 pm. Saturday and Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm.
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Fort Lowell Corridor Crime and Safety Meeting
Every 3rd Tuesday, 5:30 – 6:30 pm
AGM, 3544 E. Fort Lowell Rd.
Meeting info and North Dodge Website
Mountain First Neighborhood Association
Saturday 1/17, 9 - 10 am
Mitchell Park,
1100 E. Mitchell St.
Miracle Manor Neighborhood Association
Wednesday 1/21, 5:30- 6:30 pm
Good News Community Church
701 W Glenn St
Samos Neighborhood Association
Tuesday 1/20, 5:30- 6:30 pm
1609 E. Spring St.
Dodge Flower Neighborhood Association
Saturday 1/24, 10 - 11:30 am
Lighthouse Church,
2568 N. Palo Verde Blvd.
The Ward 3 office is open at 1510 E. Grant Rd. from
9 am - 1 pm for walk-ins or later by appointment, Monday through Friday. Staff will answer phone messages, emails, and requests for meetings by the next business day. Leave your message at or email ward3@tucsonaz.gov.
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January 16:
Friday
Bilingual Storytime with Aprender y Jugar from 5:30-7:30 pm
A free bilingual storytelling and art program for kids and families, celebrating language, culture, and creativity.
January 17:
Saturday
Danny Lopez Park Trash and Buffelgrass Clean Up
 Join community members, local organizations, land management agencies for a day of fun and stewardship!
Days of Connection is taking place at Danny Lopez Park right-off of the Santa Cruz River. Join Friends of Danny Lopez Park, Tucson Clean and Beautiful, Pima County, Sonoran Institute, Watershed Management Group, United Way and other partners as we come together to celebrate the New Year and Service through a day of fun, stewardship and connecting with nature and community!
Day of Connection is happening on Saturday, January 17th between 9AM-12PM at Danny Lopez Park located at 4300 N Silverbell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745.
January 17:
Saturday
National Day of Racial Healing on Saturday
January 19:
Monday
United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona Announces 5th Annual MLK Day of Service
United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona announced today that their 5th Annual MLK Day of Service will be held on January 19 at multiple locations throughout Tucson. United Way’s annual MLK Day of Service is a community-wide day of volunteerism honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through hands-on service projects that support local nonprofits and strengthen our community.
The MLK Day of Service is about turning Dr. King’s vision into action by engaging the community in meaningful service. The event brings together individuals, families, nonprofits, and corporate partners to address critical local needs, foster civic engagement, and create community impact. Members of the community are now invited to sign up for volunteer opportunities through United Way’s Volunteer Center website. New to this year’s MLK Day of Service is an opportunity for small businesses and corporate partners to get involved by sponsoring service projects.
Community members, families, businesses, and organizations are invited to participate in MLK Day of Service by volunteering or sponsoring a service project. Volunteer opportunities and event details will be available through United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona’s main MLK Day of Service webpage: MLK Day of Service 2026 - United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona
They can also reach out to Sharly Scannell, the Director of Community Engagement, at sscannell@unitedwaytucson.org
January 22:
Thursday
Ward 3 will be hosting an RTA Next presentation
Followed by Q&A in the Community Room at 1510 Grant Road. Doors open at 5:30pm with the presentation beginning at 5:45pm.
 The Regional Transportation Authority Board has approved a 20-year transportation plan and Pima County voters will decide on the $2.67 billion plan on March 10, 2026. This plan will shape how we move around the region for decades to come, funding roadway enhancements, transit services, bikeways, and more.
What’s Coming to Ward 3
Ward 3 roadway projects in the RTA Next plan include:
- Silverbell Road: Camino del Cerro to Ina Road (Modified scope, final phase)
- First Avenue: Orange Grove Road to Ina Road (Modified scope, whole project)
- Grant Road: Fremont Ave to Sparkman Blvd (final phase)
- Prince Road: Romero Road to Country Club Road
The above projects are all scheduled for the first and second periods of the program, meaning within the first ten years of the program. Grant Road will get completed, but it’s important to note the final phase is part of RTA Next. Complete details of the plan including the project descriptions can be viewed here.
Why It Matters
Beyond Ward 3, the RTA brings regional benefits. Over the last 20 years, the RTA has helped establish the SunLink streetcar downtown, provided funding for transit including the dial-a-ride and paratransit services, the Loop bike path, and road improvements to help us all get where we need to go throughout the region.
In the meantime, visit rtanext.com to learn more, sign up for their newsletter, or listen to their RTA Delivers Podcast - Regional Transportation Authority of Pima County and stay informed ahead of the important March 2026 decision – it’s up to you.
January 23:
Friday
Roger Road Ribbon Cutting Ceremony from 10:30-11:30 am
January 27:
Tuesday
 TDS | Bright Nights: Queer Art & Story from 5-8 pm
A free monthly gathering for LGBTQIA+ artists, youth, and young adults (ages 15+), centered on storytelling, art practice, and community connection.
January 31:
Saturday
Vegetarian feast at Southside Presbyterian Church at 6 pm.
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Preparedness Resources For Immigrant Families
Community Rapid Response Team https://rapidresponsetucson.com, 520-221-4077
A handy bilingual Know Your Rights card for your wallet (pictured with this article) is available free, in quantities, from Ward 3 or at the Gloo Factory.
Family Preparedness Plan for Immigrant Families, in English and Spanish. Click the buttons below to download a PDF file of the plans.
Other resources:
Call for PIT Count volunteers
TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO REGISTER FOR POINT-IN-TIME COUNT - The Tucson Pima Collaboration to End Homelessness (TPCH) seeks volunteers for the 2026 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, known as Everyone Counts!, to take place Wednesday, Jan. 28, 6 to 11 am across Pima County. Volunteer registration is now open. TPCH needs more than 500 community volunteers to support this annual communitywide effort. The PIT Count provides a crucial snapshot of homelessness in Pima County on a single night and is required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Volunteers will conduct surveys, using a phone app, of people experiencing homelessness. In-person training for volunteers is required on Wednesday, January 21, 5:30 to 7 pm.
More information about the PIT count and volunteer registration is available by following the link below.
Upcoming Prop 411 Work in Cabrini and La Madera Neighborhoods
 The Department of Transportation will be in the Cabrini and La Madera neighborhoods, starting in mid-January, to begin prep work for a mill & fill project. This project is part of the Prop 411: Tucson Delivers Better Streets Program. Please see the above postcard being mailed out to residents this week.
Here is the link for the "Granada Park & La Madera project" website: https://arcg.is/0vjz5b.If If changes are made to the project schedule, this link will be updated.
Winter Warming Center in Ward 3 From 5 - 9 AM
Where: Inside the Ward 3 Community Room at 1510 E. Grant Road.
When: Monday through Friday, 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., through March 13.
What: Guests are provided a simple breakfast, coffee, a warm indoor space, and on-site resource navigation.
Pets are welcome.
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Pima County Attorney's Office Crisis Intervention and Victimology Training
Find Food Access Resources In Tucson
Tucson food assistance providers are seeing a sharp rise in demand from families affected by delayed federal benefits, such as SNAP and WIC. At the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, there is an increase in first-time visitors, many of whom had never sought food assistance before. Volunteers are working overtime to assemble emergency food boxes for those suddenly without access to those benefits. The Community Food Bank offers help multiple times a week during varying hours continues to distribute food at its main location, 3003 S. Country Club Road, and through partner agencies across Southern Arizona. Officials urge residents in need to reach out early, as local inventories may fluctuate if the shutdown continues. You can also find a list of food resources by following the This is Tucson link below.
Grocery Sharing at Tucson Food Share - 2500 N. Stone Ave.
Groceries are shared Mondays 4:30 - 6 pm, Thursdays 6 - 7:30 pm, and Saturdays from 8 - 9:30 am.
https://tucsonfoodshare.org has more information about volunteering, donating, or requesting delivery.
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