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 Letter From Council Member Barajas
Dear Community,
September is a reminder of the power of innovation and imagination and what can happen when we allow ourselves to think beyond what already exists. Innovation does not always mean creating something entirely new. Sometimes, it means looking at something familiar and asking, “What else could this be?” It means imagining new possibilities, trying something different, and finding new ways to bring people together.
But innovation also means honoring what already exists. It means respecting the culture, history, stories, and people that have shaped our communities. When we reimagine a space or create something new, we should not lose sight of what makes that place special. Instead, we have an opportunity to build upon its history and honor its identity while creating something that serves future generations.
This month, we saw that energy come to life with our first-ever Movies in the Park series. What started as an idea, to bring families and neighbors together for an evening under the stars became a reality at Silverlake Park. Seeing families gather with blankets and lawn chairs, enjoy a movie, play games, share a meal, and spend time together was a wonderful reminder that our parks can be so much more than green spaces. They can be places where memories are made, neighbors and families connect, and community grows.
We are also bringing that same spirit of imagination to Santa Rita Park. As we look toward the future, we have an opportunity to ask: What could this park become?
Reimagining a park does not mean forgetting what came before it. It means honoring the history and culture that already exist while imagining how the space can serve the community for generations to come. It means listening to our neighbors, learning what people want and need, and creating a space that reflects the community’s identity and aspirations.
I am excited about the possibilities and about working together to imagine what Santa Rita Park can become while honoring what it has been and I cannot wait to celebrate with you all on Friday, October 2 at 5pm as we celebrate the Grand Re-Opening of Santa Rita Park!
I was also reminded of the importance of seeing new possibilities during a recent trip to Albuquerque. Visiting a new city for the first time gave me the chance to experience different neighborhoods, public transit and public space and ideas. There is something powerful about stepping outside of what is familiar. It gives us the opportunity to see our own community with fresh eyes and return home inspired by what we have seen and learned.
Before I left town, I had the chance to tour the Mosaic Quarter here in Ward 5, and the sense of possibility I saw there stayed with me. It was inspiring to see a vision taking shape for something our community has never had before - a destination where people can gather, connect, play, and experience something new. The first phase includes facilities like MQ Iceplex and MQ Field House, offering spaces for ice sports, basketball, volleyball, soccer, pickleball, lacrosse, archery, and more, with even more planned for the future.
What stood out to me most was the imagination behind it: seeing an opportunity, thinking beyond what exists today, and creating something that brings people together in new ways. It is a great example of what can happen when we are willing to imagine what our community could become.
Innovation is also about finding new ways to bring people together around a shared purpose. This month, I had the opportunity to participate in the Sunnyside Foundation’s annual 5K for the fifth year in a row. It was incredible to witness the growth of this event and see what was their biggest run yet. The foundation continues to think creatively about fundraising and community engagement, and this year’s efforts raised an incredible $130,000.
Five years of supporting Sunnyside Foundation’s Gives Week has allowed me to see firsthand how an idea can grow when a community believes in it. What began as a run has become an opportunity to bring people together, support a meaningful cause, and create a lasting impact. It is another example of what can happen when organizations are willing to collaborate and find innovative ways to engage their communities
These experiences all point back to the same idea: imagination gives us permission to see possibility where others may only see what exists today.
Whether it is bringing a new idea like Movies in the Park to our neighborhoods, reimagining a beloved park, visiting another city to gather new ideas, experiencing a new kind of space here in Tucson, or finding creative ways to support a cause, innovation begins when we are willing to ask, “What if?”
What if our parks could become even more vibrant gathering places? What if we created more opportunities for neighbors to connect? What if we looked at familiar spaces with fresh eyes and imagined something even better, while honoring the history and culture that made those places meaningful in the first place? I believe our community has no shortage of creativity, ideas, and vision. My hope is that we continue to dream boldly, listen to and respect one another, honor where we come from, and turn our ideas into action.
And on a personal note, I would also like to wish my husband, Abraham Barajas, the very best of luck as he celebrates the grand opening of Luna y Sol Cafe on October 1 - International Coffee Day.
This has truly been a labor of love for Abraham, our family, and the incredible baristas and team who have helped bring this vision to life after three years of construction and rennovations. Opening the City of South Tucson’s first-ever sit-down cafe has truly been a labor of love. It has taken vision, hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to believe in an idea before it became a reality. I have had the privilege of watching that idea grow from a dream into a place where people can gather, connect, enjoy a cup of coffee, and feel at home. I am incredibly proud of Abraham and our family.
Thank you for believing in the possibilities that exist within our community. When we dream boldly, listen to one another, and have the courage to turn ideas into action, there is no limit to what we can create together. The future of our community is something we all have a hand in shaping and I am excited to imagine, build, and experience what comes next, together.
With gratitude,
 Your Ward 5 Council Member
Understanding Transportation and Access on Tucson’s South Side
It was meaningful to join University of Arizona students and community leaders for a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Jacqueline Barrios exploring the experiences and challenges faced by residents on Tucson’s south side.
As part of the experience, University of Arizona students traveled by bus to and from the El Pueblo Activity Center, giving them a firsthand look at some of the transportation challenges south-side students may encounter while getting to and from school. The conversation also included a discussion of the “Atlas of Southside,” providing an opportunity to reflect on our community and the importance of understanding residents’ experiences beyond what we see on a map or on paper.
I appreciated hearing the perspectives of Yolanda Herrera with the Unified Community Advisory Board (UCAB), Jasmine Sanchez with the City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department, and Anna Sanchez with the Pima County Public Library. Conversations like these bring together different experiences and perspectives while helping us better understand the barriers that can affect access to education, transportation, and other opportunities.
Thank you to Dr. Barrios for moderating this important conversation, to each of the panelists for sharing their knowledge and experiences, and to the University of Arizona students who took the time to experience our community firsthand. Listening to and learning from one another is an important part of building stronger connections between our institutions and the communities they serve.
Prop 411 Improvements Underway in Western Hills and Las Vistas
After years of anticipation, roadway and neighborhood improvements are officially underway in the Western Hills and Las Vistas neighborhoods as part of the City of Tucson’s Proposition 411: Tucson Delivers Better Streets Program.
The project began this September and will include roadway resurfacing and new asphalt preparation, bicycle boulevards, pedestrian safety and walkability improvements, and green stormwater infrastructure. Together, these investments will help improve how residents walk, bike, drive, and move throughout the neighborhoods while strengthening infrastructure for years to come.
This project has been a long time coming, and I want to recognize the Western Hills and Las Vistas residents who have patiently advocated for and awaited these improvements. Neighborhood investment is about more than repairing streets—it is about creating safer, more accessible, and better-connected communities for the people who call them home.
Construction is expected to continue over the next year. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our residents as this work moves forward and look forward to seeing these long-awaited improvements take shape throughout Western Hills and Las Vistas.
Celebrating Latino Conservation Week in Tucson
It was an honor to join Mayor Regina Romero, my Council colleagues, and community partners in recognizing Latino Conservation Week in Tucson, celebrated September 12–20 at the September 9 Mayor and Council Meeting. This week highlights the important role Latino communities play in protecting our environment while creating opportunities for families to connect with and enjoy our public lands and natural spaces.
Latino Conservation Week also reminds us that access to nature should be available to everyone. Parks, trails, and public lands provide spaces for recreation, connection, and wellness, yet historically excluded communities have not always had equal access to these resources. Protecting our land, water, and air goes hand in hand with ensuring that every family has the opportunity to experience and care for the natural spaces that belong to all of us.
Throughout the week, organizations across Tucson, such as Reinas Who Hike and Mountain Mamas, brought our community together through hikes, bike rides, outdoor activities, educational opportunities, and cultural events. These experiences not only connect residents with nature, but also create opportunities to learn about conservation, land stewardship, and the role each of us can play in protecting our environment for future generations.
One message shared during the celebration especially resonated with me: our outdoor spaces can also be places of connection, reflection, and wellness. Whether it is taking a hike, visiting a neighborhood park, or simply stepping outside, spending time in nature gives us an opportunity to care for ourselves, one another, and the places we call home.
Thank you to Mayor Romero and the many organizations, advocates, and community members who continue to make Latino Conservation Week possible in Tucson. Your collaboration helps ensure our community has a voice in conservation and that future generations can continue to enjoy the beautiful natural spaces that surround us.
Kicking Off Sunnyside Gives Week at the Burrito Run
It was wonderful to join community leaders, families, and neighbors for this year’s Sunnyside Foundation Burrito Run, kicking off Gives Week 2026: All Heart, All Community at Mission Manor Park.
The family-friendly run and walk brought our community together for a morning focused on health, connection, and supporting Tucson’s south side. Participants were also able to enjoy the Health & Wellness Fair — and, of course, a well-earned breakfast burrito at the finish line.
This year’s Gives Week was especially meaningful as the Sunnyside Foundation celebrated its 30th anniversary. As the Foundation’s largest fundraising event of the year, Gives Week brings our comunidad together to support programs and partnerships that uplift students, strengthen families, and help our neighborhoods thrive. The Foundation set a goal of raising $130,000 this year to continue that work across Tucson’s south side.
Events like the Burrito Run remind us that investing in our community can also mean coming together, building relationships, and celebrating the people who make the south side such a special place to call home.
Thank you to the Sunnyside Foundation Board, staff, volunteers, partners, and community leaders who helped make this year’s Burrito Run and Gives Week possible. I am grateful for everyone who continues to show up for our students, families, and neighborhoods.
A Visit to Holladay Fine Arts Magnet Elementary School
It was a pleasure to visit Holladay Fine Arts Magnet Elementary School alongside TUSD Governing Board Member Dr. Ravi Shah and spend time learning more about the students, educators, and programs that make the Holladay community so special.
Our wonderful Holladay Ambassadors led us on a tour of the campus and shared some of the exciting things happening at their school. We learned about Holladay’s new House System, inspired by the Ron Clark Academy, visited the art and music rooms, and even had the opportunity to see fifth-grade students rehearsing for an upcoming play.
One of my favorite parts of visiting our schools is hearing directly from students and seeing their creativity, leadership, and enthusiasm firsthand. Opportunities in the arts, leadership, and education help our young people build confidence, discover their talents, and develop skills they will carry with them well beyond the classroom.
Thank you to Holladay Principal Shankenya Humphries for welcoming us to campus and for the leadership and dedication shown to students, families, and staff each day. I also want to thank our Holladay Ambassadors for being such wonderful tour guides and the teachers, staff, and entire school community for all you do to help our Ward 5 students learn, grow, and thrive.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in STEM
It was a pleasure to spend time with the Desert View Women in STEM Club alongside Sunnyside Unified School District Governing Board Member, Las Aguas founder and Ward 5 representative for the City’s Citizens’ Water Advisory Committee (CWAC) Mr. Bobby Jaramillo for a conversation about water, climate, and TCE contamination in our community.
The young women came prepared with thoughtful and engaging questions, giving us an opportunity to discuss these important issues and hear what matters to the next generation of scientists, engineers, environmental leaders, and problem-solvers.
I always appreciate opportunities to connect directly with our students, especially when they are curious about issues that affect the communities they call home. Encouraging young women to explore STEM fields means giving them opportunities to ask questions, engage with real-world challenges, and see that their ideas and perspectives belong in these conversations.
Thank you to the Desert View Women in STEM Club for inviting us, to Mr. Jaramillo for joining the conversation, and to the educators and staff who support these young women as they explore their interests in STEM. I left encouraged by their curiosity, enthusiasm, and willingness to tackle some big questions.
Congratulations J.P. Morgan Chase Southside Branch! Thanks to the Chamber of Southern Arizona, the Chase team, and everyone who helped to make this possible. Opening a new business in our community is always something worth celebrating, but this investment means even more because it is an investment in the people and families who call the Southside home.
Ward 5 Lunch Meetup - Mr. K's Original BBQ
Again, we packed the room, Ward 5!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Ward 5 Lunch Meet-Up at Mr. K’s Original BBQ! We loved sharing a meal, connecting with neighbors, and welcoming new faces.
A special thank you to Ray Kendrick, who has been serving his classic Southern BBQ since 1997. From the brisket and beef ribs to the delicious, candied yams – Mr. K’s did not disappoint.
Thank you, Ward 5, for continuing to show up and connect with us. We’ll see you at the next one!
SAVE THE DATE: Our next Lunch Meet-Up is Friday, October 30 at Sunny Daze Café! More details coming soon.
Learning from Albuquerque to Strengthen Transit Safety in Tucson
A group of colleagues from the City of Tucson, including myself and my Chief of Staff Manisha Bewtra, traveled to Albuquerque last week to learn about their transit security and safety efforts. Sun Tran, Tucson's transit system, will have six full-time, paid Transit Safety Ambassadors starting soon, and this trip gave us a lot of ideas for our efforts here in Tucson.
On December 16, 2025, the City of Tucson Mayor and Council adopted a Transit Safety and Security Action Plan for Sun Tran, and since then has been updating Mayor and Council as part of the Safe City Initiative updates during Study Session meetings, along with engaging with community members and seeking feedback as part of the Safe City Connect series. Some of this work was inspired by Albuquerque's Safety and Security initiatives for ABQ Ride, including Albuquerque Long-Range Transit Security Plan adopted a year before ours, in December 2024.
Like Tucson, Albuquerque has fare-free transit. A phrase that the team from ABQ Ride mentioned frequently was “Zero fares doesn’t mean zero rules.” We learned about their volunteer Transit Ambassador Program, their Transit Safety Officers, their Adopt-a-Stop program, their centralized dispatch system, and other initiatives managed by ABQ Ride.
ABQ Ride included a bus rapid transit system cleverly called ART - Albuquerque Rapid Transit. Prior to becoming a Council Member, I was the Lead Community Ambassador for Tucson Norte-Sur and Tucson Rapid Transit, which were planning efforts for Tucson's future north-south rapid transit line. Although it is years away, I am excited to see our very own bus rapid transit line here in Tucson.
Albuquerque's population is about the same as Tucson's — but one of the things we learned is that Tucson has more than double the ridership on our transit system! Last year ABQ Ride had about 8 million trips and we had close to 19 million. Both cities are facing some of the same challenges that cities across the nation are facing, and both Southwestern cities are deeply rooted with community pride and a strong cultural identity. We came back from the trip energized for moving forward with our own Transit Safety and Security Action Plan here in Tucson. I look forward continuing the conversation with our community.
Honoring the Legacy of Former Council Member Richard Fimbres
It was an honor to celebrate the dedication of the OPCS Training Center in recognition of former Ward 5 Council Member Richard Fimbres, whose years of public service left a lasting impact on Ward 5 and communities throughout Tucson.
Richard’s commitment to helping people was reflected in initiatives like the Tucson Homeless Work Program, created in 2016 to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with meaningful work, supportive services, and opportunities toward greater stability. He was also a dedicated advocate for our veterans, working closely with the VA Hospital and bringing our community together to recognize and support the men and women who served our country.
His leadership also helped bring significant economic investment and opportunity to Tucson’s south side. From the Tucson Marketplace at The Bridges and the expansion of Raytheon to the HomeGoods Distribution Center and GEICO’s regional headquarters, Richard understood the importance of bringing jobs, services, and investment to Ward 5. He also worked alongside our community to protect the Cherrybell Postal facility and the local jobs it supported.
Naming the OPCS Training Center in Richard’s honor is a meaningful recognition of a legacy built around service, opportunity, and community. I am grateful for the foundation he helped build in Ward 5 and for his years of commitment to our residents, veterans, working families, and neighborhoods. His impact continues through the programs, partnerships, and investments he championed, and I am proud to see his service recognized in this lasting way.
Upcoming Ward 5 Neighborhood Association Meetings
Neighborhood: South Park
Date: Monday, October 5
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Recreation Center (1575 E. 36th St.)
Neighborhood: Sunnyside
Date: Monday, October 19
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: El Pueblo Activity Center (101 W. Irvington Rd.)
Neighborhood: Las Vistas
Date: Tuesday, October 27
Time: 5:45 PM – 6:45 PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Library (1585 E. 36th St.)
Neighborhood: Western Hills II
Date: Thursday, October 29
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Quincie Douglas Recreation Center (1575 E. 36th St.)
Upcoming Mayor & Council Meeting
Date: Tuesday, October 7
Study Session: 1:00 PM
Regular Meeting: 5:30
Location: Tucson City Hall
255 W. Alameda St.
Our first-ever Movies in the Park in Ward 5 was a success!
Thank you to everyone who joined us at Silverlake Park on Saturday, September 19, for an evening of family fun, community, and a movie under the stars. We had a great time watching GOAT together!
Movies in the Park is our new three-part series sponsored by Tucson Electric Power (TEP), bringing neighbors and families together for three evenings at parks throughout Ward 5.
A special thank you to our sponsor, Tucson Electric Power (TEP), and our community partners, Tucson Parks & Recreation, Tucson Police Department (TPD), Mini Poderosas, and the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, for helping make this series possible.
And thank you to everyone who brought non-perishable food items to support the Community Food Bank and our neighbors in need.
We’re just getting started! Join us for our next Movies in the Park on Saturday, October 3, at Santa Rita Park for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. Activities begin at 6:00 p.m., with the movie starting at dusk.
Grab your blankets and lawn chairs, and we’ll see you at the park!
Join Us for the Grand Re-Opening of Santa Rita Park!
I am thrilled to invite our community to celebrate the Grand Re-Opening of Santa Rita Park on Friday, October 2, at 401 E. 22nd Street! After continued investment and improvements to this important neighborhood space, we are ready to welcome families, neighbors, and friends back to the park for an evening of celebration, community, and fun.
 Festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. with food trucks, music, live entertainment, games, lowriders, children's activities, and more. Proceeds from food truck sales will be donated to nearby public schools and sports leagues.
At 5:30 p.m., I will be honored to join Mayor Regina Romero and other community leaders for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating this exciting new chapter for Santa Rita Park.
The celebration will continue after the ribbon cutting with a 3-on-3 basketball game between the Tucson Police Department and Tucson Fire Department, wiffle ball with the Tucson Bandidos, free paletas, and free bicycle repair and bike parking hosted by Cyclovia.
Santa Rita Park has long been a place where generations of families have gathered, played, and built community. I am grateful to everyone who has helped invest in its future while honoring the history and character that make this park so special. I hope you'll join us as we bring programming, play, and community back to Santa Rita Park!
And the celebration doesn't end Friday! Come back on Saturday, October 3, for our second installment of Movies in the Park, where we will be screening The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, with activities beginning at 6:00 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy another evening of fun under the stars.
We can't wait to welcome you back!
Prop 411 Roadway Improvements Coming to Rancho Reyes and Ward 5
Roadway improvements are moving forward in Rancho Reyes and other areas of Ward 5 as part of the City of Tucson’s Proposition 411: Tucson Delivers Better Streets Program.
Beginning September 28, the City of Tucson Department of Transportation & Mobility (DTM) will begin preparation work for a mill and fill project in the Rancho Reyes neighborhood, located near the northeast corner of Tucson Boulevard and Drexel Road. This round of Proposition 411 improvements also includes portions of Old Vail Connection Road and Old Nogales Highway in Ward 5.
For the Rancho Reyes project, crews are scheduled to begin tree trimming on October 26, followed by milling and paving in late November. As work moves forward, residents may see construction crews, equipment, and temporary traffic impacts throughout the project area. The construction schedule is subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
We appreciate the patience and understanding of our residents as these important improvements move forward. Proposition 411 continues to provide meaningful investments in our neighborhood streets, helping improve roadway conditions and create safer, more reliable streets for everyone who lives, works, and travels through our community.
For the latest Rancho Reyes project details and schedule updates, visit the Rancho Reyes project website. Maps highlighting the portions of Old Vail Connection Road and Old Nogales Highway included in this round of improvements are also provided below.
Honoring Lorraine Lee: Mural Launch & Reception
Community members are invited to the “Spaces for Solidarity: Honoring Lorraine Lee” Mural Launch & Reception at the University of Arizona on Wednesday, October 7, from 4–6 p.m.
The mural, designed by Jenn Liv in collaboration with Lorraine Lee’s family and friends, students, and members of the University of Arizona and Tucson communities, honors Lorraine Lee and the connections she made throughout the community.
The reception will take place at the Lotus Lounge Student Space, Room 409A of the Student Union Memorial Center. Refreshments will be served.
Wednesday, October 7, 2026 4–6 p.m. Lotus Lounge Student Space, Room 409A, Student Union Memorial Center, University of Arizona 1303 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719
Community members interested in attending can click on the flyer to RSVP or visit the registration link by clicking here.
A Message from Tucson Young Professionals (TYP)
TYP ENGAGE: What Can We Do as Non-Elected Officials?
Tucson Young Professionals (TYP) invites community members to TYP ENGAGE, a free, non-partisan civic engagement event taking place Saturday, October 24, from 2–6 p.m.
Civic engagement doesn’t have to mean running for office. TYP ENGAGE is designed to help young professionals and community members learn practical ways to make an impact in Tucson and get involved in the issues they care about.
Attendees will have an opportunity to learn how to turn issues into action, better understand Arizona’s proposition process and what’s on the ballot, and connect with local organizations working throughout the Tucson community.
Whether you’re already involved or aren’t sure where to start, ENGAGE is designed to help you identify your next step.
Saturday, October 24, 2026
2–6 p.m.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Arizona
Free and open to TYP members and community members
Register for TYP ENGAGE
A Message from Guns to Gardens Tucson
 Safe Firearm Disposal Event
Community members who have firearms they no longer want are invited to participate in a safe, voluntary firearm disposal event on Saturday, October 17, from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Philip’s in the Hills Episcopal Church
No reservation is required. Participants should arrive with unloaded firearms secured in the trunk of their vehicle and remain in their vehicle while trained personnel remove and dismantle the firearms. Participation is anonymous, and ammunition will not be accepted. Organizers advise allowing approximately 30–60 minutes for the process.
The dismantled firearms will later be transformed into garden tools, jewelry and works of art. A public blacksmith demonstration will also take place at the same location on Sunday, October 18, from noon to 2 p.m.
Saturday, October 17, 2026
9 a.m.–Noon
St. Philip’s in the Hills Episcopal Church
4440 N. Campbell Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85718
For more information, email gunstogardens@southsidepres.com.
Connect with Us!
The Ward 5 team can be reached at ward5@tucsonaz.gov and 520-791-4231. Our office is located at 4300 S. Park Ave., Tucson, AZ 85714.
Our office is open Monday - Thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
Fridays: Community Engagement, Off-site meetings (Office is closed to the public).
Until next time,
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