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The Ward 3 Weekly

October 23, 2026

In This Issue:

• Preparing for El Niño Winter Storms
  • Part 1. Ready for Rains and Floods
  • Part 2. Prepare Trees For Hurricane-level Winds
• Help Shape Tucson's Future
• PACC Pet of the Week
• Neighborhood Association Meetings
• Events & Announcements

Preparing for El Niño Winter Storms

The Federal Emergency Management Agency issued some helpful advice earlier this week to prepare for the extreme storm that hit Arizona. Tucson was lucky, but other places in the state had baseball-sized hail, damaging winds, and floods. As this winter’s El Niño weather pattern and climate change team up to create stronger storms (hotter temps mean more energy in the atmosphere), here’s their advice. As the strong winds can result in major damage from trees blowing over or dropping large branches, the second part of this article has information about working to prevent this (with expert help and editing from Tucson’s urban forester Nicole Gillette).

Stormy skies above a Tucson sunset

Part 1. Ready for Rains and Floods

FEMA Region 9 encourages everyone to take steps now to prepare for possible heavy rain, flooding and other storm impacts this winter.

El Niño’s influence will vary by location, so you encouraged to follow weather forecasts and guidance. You can also download the free FEMA App (link below) which will allow you to receive real time weather alerts, locate emergency shelters in your area, prepare for common hazards, and more.

“Readiness does not have to happen all at once,” said FEMA Region 9 Regional Administrator Robert J. Fenton. “Start by making a plan with the people in your household, checking your insurance coverage and gathering the things you would need if you had to leave quickly.”

FEMA encourages households in flood prone areas to:

• Don’t wait for a storm to review your flood insurance. Most standard homeowners and renters policies do not cover flood damage. Because National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies typically have a 30-day waiting period before taking effect, it is vital to secure coverage early. Visit www.floodsmart.gov/policy-quote to get a personalized quote and contact local providers to purchase your policy.
• Make an evacuation plan. Know where you can stay, how you will get there and how family members will reconnect if separated. Include pets and anyone who needs help evacuating in your plan.
• Prepare a go-bag with medications, chargers, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio and essential supplies. Keep important documents in a waterproof container and secure copies you can access if you leave home.
• Stay informed. Sign up for local alerts and follow instructions from local officials. Never drive or walk through floodwater.

Visit www.Ready.gov/floods for preparedness tips and FloodSmart.gov to learn about flood insurance. October 19, 2026 1 FEMA Region 9 Encourages Households to Prepare Ahead of El Niño Winter Storms To download a flyer with more information, visit https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/graphics/fema_r9_el-nino-flyer.jpg.

Never drive or walk through floodwater!

Part 2. Prepare Trees For Hurricane-level Winds

Work as far in advance as you can to help give your trees the best chance of staying upright during extreme storms and if there is a pressing concern call an arborist! Avoid taking any dramatic action that may weaken your tree in the short term such as any major pruning, restricting the root area, or taking away nutrients and food away from the tree.

Root Management & Watering

• Expand the watering zone: If you provide drip irrigation, move emitters away from the trunk and out to the edge of the tree’s canopy. If you use rainwater basins, place them similarly away from the trunk (never plant a tree at the bottom of a basin).  Watering just near the base keeps soil wet and unstable while forcing roots to stay shallow.
• Watering your tree is a long game strategy: watering long and deep at the trees drip line helps the tree grow healthy roots. Ahead of a big storm however, avoid oversoaking soil which can lead to erosion.

This photo is from the City of Tucson's Tree Care Standards Manual, available on the Climate Action Hub website.

Proper Tree Structure or Form

• Assess Tree Form: Consult an arborist for a pre-storm structure check. Your arborist will be able to identify risky limbs that can be safely removed before a storm.
• Remove dead or heavy limbs: Cut away dead, damaged, or overextended branches that snap easily or add dangerous tip weight during gusts.
• Avoid lion-tailing: Never strip all interior branches off the main trunks (a bad practice known as lion-tailing), which creates a top-heavy umbrella much more likely to be toppled in a storm (picture the wind taking off with your umbrella) and ruins natural tree structure.

Staking & Tree Selection Only on Young Trees (or as recommended by a certified arborist)

• Stake young trees correctly: Use flexible arbor ties and stakes positioned 1/2 to 2/3 up the trunk, ensuring the tree still has a little movement, so it develops a strong, tapered trunk.
• Choose native species: Plant resilient native desert trees that have not evolved with our monsoonal patterns and winter winds. 

As we endure this era of human-caused climate change, we must be aware that none of us, including our plant relatives, have regularly experienced these kinds of historic weather events, and sometimes trees will simply not be able to withstand major storm events. Please do not give up on trees as our best climate heroes and support and appreciate our green industry leaders like certified arborists. Remember: a properly selected, planted and maintained tree that is at home in its ecosystem will be more resilient to storms compared to a tree left isolated, improperly planted, or never maintained. 

Help Shape Tucson’s Future

This weekend, Tucson Young Professionals (TYP) will host ENGAGE: What Can We Do as Non-Elected Officials? This free, nonpartisan event will explore how community members can help shape Tucson’s future without running for office. Participants will learn about opportunities to get involved, connect with local organizations, and discover practical ways to turn the issues they care about into action.

Participants at last year's ENGAGE event

“Civic engagement can sometimes feel intimidating, or like it's only for people who work in politics or already know how the system works,” said Emily Bressler, a Tucson Young Professionals board member. But “in reality, there are many ways to make a difference.” Among other things, those opportunities include volunteering, serving on a board or commission, advocating for issues that matter to you, and voting in local and state elections. The event will explore these options and help attendees identify ways to get involved that work for them.

Another photo from the 2025 Engage event including PC Board of Supervisors Chair Jen Allen

With the November election approaching, and early voting already underway, ENGAGE will also include a nonpartisan breakdown of the propositions on the ballot to help attendees better understand the measures and make informed decisions. “We want people to have the information that they need to make their own decisions and feel confident casting an informed vote,” Bressler said. Whether you’re already active in the community or unsure where to begin, ENGAGE offers an opportunity to ask questions, make connections, and find your next step.

ENGAGE participants discussing "Why Civics Matters"

The event is this Saturday, October 24, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Arizona, 2552 N. Alvernon Way, Ste. 110.

PACC Pet of the Week

Annabelle, PACC Pet of the Week

Annabelle, ID# A594762

Meet Annabelle, a 10-year-old neutered female, white and brown American Staffordshire Terrier mix weighing about 42 lbs. Shelter staff say: "Annabelle is super easy to leash up, handle and walk, she loves, loves, loves being with people and seeks out attention every chance she gets, and she’s treat- motivated and takes treats gently."

Contact:
Pima Animal Care Center, 4000 N. Silverbell Rd.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 12pm - 7pm.
Wednesday 1:30-7pm. Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm. 

Ward 3 Office Hours and Staff

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 520-791-4711. 

We welcome your feedback!

Next Mayor & Council Meeting

The next Mayor and Council Meeting will be on November 4th.
Once available, the agenda will be posted here:

Ward 3 Neighborhood Meetings

Country Glenn Neighborhood Association Meeting
Sunday, 10/25, from 5 - 6 pm
The Drawing Studio, 2760 N. Tucson Blvd. 

Jefferson Park Neighborhood Association Meeting
Wednesday, 10/28, 5:30 pm - 8 pm
Ward 3 Community Room, 1510 E. Grant Rd. 

Doolen-Fruitvale Neighborhood Association Meeting
Saturday, 10/31, 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Sparkman Butterfly Garden, 2645 N. Sparkman Blvd.  

Events &

Announcements

Wetland Explorers Event at Danny Lopez Park on 10/23

The Cost of Data Centers Town Hall, Today 10/23 at 6 pm

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 

Are you aware of this local resource that provides support, resources, and advocacy to domestic violence and sexual assault survivors?

The Pima Family Advocacy Center is now operating at a 2530 E. Broadway (Broadway and Tucson)  with access to coordinated services like medical exams, legal services, law enforcement, counseling, and other community resources.  Their goal is to simplify the path to resources and support for survivors by creating a one stop shop of local services. 

Marty Birdman Center Open House on 10/24

This free, family-friendly event is the perfect opportunity to explore the center and meet your neighbors!

U of A Fall Plant Sale 

TEP Home Energizer Workshops on 10/24

• 11 am at the Flowing Wells Library, 1730 W. Wetmore Rd.
• 1 pm at the Woods Memorial Library, 3455 N. 1st Ave. 

You have the power to save energy and reduce your electric bills if you learn how. TEP’s Home Energizer Workshop is designed to give customers the information they need to start saving immediately. This 50–60-minute workshop introduces low and no-cost measures and simple lifestyle modifications to help customers and their families reduce energy usage and costs, information on navigating TEP’s website and/or mobile app, TEP’s marketplace, ongoing rebates and other information. Snacks and light refreshments will be served.

TEP customers receive a free DIY weatherization kit with items to get started on saving money in the home; see below for weatherization kit details.

Cyclovia is this Sunday, 10/25

Photo by Kathleen Dreier

Cyclovia returns October 25th, 2026 to activate three miles of car-free city streets, open to people of all ages and abilities. Walk, bike, roll, skate, and enjoy neighborhoods, participate in free activities, support local businesses, and connect with one another. During Cyclovia the streets are yours!

Ward 3 Residents are Invited to the Garden District's 11th Annual Porch Fest on Sunday 10/25

Tucson's Midtown Garden District Neighborhood Association would like to invite Ward 3 residents to join us for the 11th Annual Porch Fest October 25, 2026 2:30pm-5:30pm.

Celebrate local musicians, food trucks, and beautiful Fall weather!  Free, walk & bike, family-friendly event. Follow signs from Pima/Columbus. More info here: thegardendistrict.org

Walk a PACC Dog with Council Member Dahl and District Supervisor Jennifer Allen

The Ward 3 office is teaming up with the District 3 Supervisor Jennifer Allen's office to spread some love to the dogs at the Pima County Animal Center. Join us for a morning outing as we take more than 30 dogs on a pleasant walk around Danny Lopez Park.

Tucson Youth Climate Action Fund: Updates!

Funding available for youth-led climate projects in Tucson has doubled to $100,000 through a new matching investment from the Arizona Community Foundation, expanding opportunities for young people to turn their climate ideas into action. To give more young people an opportunity to participate in the expanded program, the City of Tucson is extending the application deadline to October 30, 2026. 

City of Tucson opens FY2028 P-CHIP Call for Projects

The City of Tucson’s Housing and Community Development (HCD) Department released the Requests for Proposals (RFPs) on October 19 for Fiscal Year 2028 funding through the People, Communities, and Homes Investment Plan (P-CHIP) Call for Projects.

Approximately $2.6 million will be available to eligible nonprofit organizations and City departments to support programs and services that focus on improving access to safe and affordable housing, as well as supporting stronger communities and the well-being of Tucsonans. P-CHIP provides funding from three different sources, consisting of $1.4 million in City of Tucson General Funds, $760,000 in Community Development Block Grants, and $445,000 in Emergency Solutions Grants. Previously funded projects include food security, services for older adults, homelessness prevention, workforce development, homebuyer assistance, and home rehabilitation. 

Community Members Invited to Join P-CHIP Review Panel!

HCD is also inviting Pima County residents to express interest in serving on the P-CHIP FY2028 Community Review Panel. Panel members will review applications and provide feedback as part of the grantmaking process, helping inform funding recommendations for community programs and services.

Community members interested in participating can complete the P-CHIP FY2028 Community Review Panel Interest Form.

For more information, visit p-chip.tucsonaz.gov or email HCDGrants@tucsonaz.gov.

Call for Panelists for a Public Art Project at Jacobs Park

In case you missed it, Jacobs Park at 3300 N. Fairview Ave. has re-opened! 

an aerial view of Jacobs Park

Play Tucson - Help Shape the future of Tucson's Parks and Recreation System

CFHS has new hours at the Northwest Service Center, 1010 W. Miracle Mile

The Pima County Health Department's Consumer Health & Food Safety Division office at the Northwest Service Center, 1010 W. Miracle Mile, will be open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., starting Nov. 2, 2026. 

Solar United Neighbors: Join the Tucson Co-op!

Solar United Neighbors (SUN), a nonprofit with the mission to improve access to solar energy in pursuit of a more equitable energy system, is hosting their 6th annual Tucson solar co-op (Spanish page here)! 

These co-ops are groups of folks across Tucson interested in going solar that join together for free and without obligation to go solar. Members, not SUN, choose their own installer with SUN's vendor-neutral help, and receive

• Discounted pricing: by going solar as a group, the pricing is usually 15-30% cheaper than going solar alone  

• A free roof review to determine if your roof is solar-ready

• No-cost help at every step of the process

• Opportunities to connect with like-minded neighbors to learn together!

SUN also has a Solar Help Desk which provides free assistance to anyone having issues with their existing solar system, providing support and advice for steps to resolution.

Solar 101 with Solar United Neighbors on 10/29

Plant Sale Benefitting Lend A Hand Senior Assistance on 10/30, 10/31, and 11/01

Free services for Cats and Dogs on 10/31 at the Donna Liggins Center, 2160 N. 6th Ave. 

Services include wellness checkups and vaccines and pet food and supplies. 

Servicios Gratuitos para Perros y Gatos en 10/31 en Donna Liggins Center, 2160 N. 6th Ave. 

Servicios incluye revisiones de bienestar y vacunas y alimento y articulos para mascotas gratis. 

Halloween Event at Navajo Hills Apartments on 10/31

The good folks at the Pima County Regional Flood Control District are hosting a Halloween event on Saturday 10/31 in the Amphi neighborhood. Residents and neighbors are invited to this free event where they'll have opportunities to provide input on community assets, park features, and preliminary design ideas. 

Changes to the City's Hard-to-Recycle Plastics Program

City of Tucson ByFusion is preparing to open a processing facility at the City of Tucson’s Los Reales Sustainability Campus (LRSC). 

Once operational, the facility will process materials collected through the City’s Hard-to-Recycle Plastics Program and transform them into durable ByBlocks, recycled-plastic building blocks that can be used for construction and other projects.

The Latest on the Byfusion Project at LRSC

The Byfusion facility received its Certificate of Occupancy by early August, marking the completion of the building's construction phase.

Byfusion is now working through tenant improvements and  installing the equipment needed to make ByBlocks using a steam compression process. Byfusion projects moving into the facility by the end of 2026.

Road Improvements are Coming to Amphi Acres in Ward 3

Tucson's Department of Transportation and Mobility will be in the  Amphi and Campus Farm neighborhoods (Amphi Acres and Pueblo de las Catalinas) starting in early October to begin prep work for a mill and pave project. This work includes improvements to Limberlost Drive from 1^st Ave to Campbell. If changes are made to the project schedule, we will immediately update the project website. 

Stay informed about Special Event Liquor Licenses

 The Tucson City Clerk’s Office is moving to a new digital mailing list to make it easier for the public to receive information about Special Event Liquor License applications coming before Mayor and Council. Physical postcards will no longer be sent to individual addresses. Before each Mayor and Council meeting, subscribers will receive a digital mailing that includes Special Event Liquor License applications scheduled for upcoming meetings. This mailing list is specifically for special events requesting to serve liquor. It does not include notifications for all City special events. 

Practical Conservation with Reid Park Zoo

Learn Different Skills with Reid Park's Practical Conservation events.

Join the Interest List for Sugar Hill on Stone 

Join the interest list for Sugar Hill on Stone, a project by the City of Tucson's non-profit development arm, El Pueblo Housing Development. T66 units of affordable housing will soon be available at 1910 N. Stone Ave. 

The Streets Equation,  Budget Engagement Forums in November 2026

Join The Streets Equation — a series of in-person and virtual forums where residents can share feedback on street maintenance and construction, transportation, and road safety as the City plans its Fiscal Year 2028 budget.

Forums will include budget education, informational presentations, small-group discussions, and opportunities for resident feedback. Each event is free, in person, and open to all Tucson residents.

Hope in the Park on 11/13 

A 1-stop event for people experiencing homelessness to connect to services and resources including health screening, legal assistance, and clothing and haircuts. 

Save the Date! La Madera Porchfest on Saturday, 11/15 

Preparedness Resources For Immigrant Families

Community Rapid Response Team https://rapidresponsetucson.com, 520-221-4077

A  bilingual Know Your Rights card for your wallet (pictured below) 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:

• City of Tucson Know Your Rights website- City website designed to inform users about resources available in the community
• https://www.keeptucsontogether.org/ - provides legal services and Know Your Rights trainings.
• https://www.immigrationadvocates.org/nonprofit/legaldirectory/ -a full directory of all regional legal service providers, website in many languages.
• https://juntosfund.funraise.org/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery - emergency assistance for separated families through Sunnyside Foundation.
• https://www.clinicaamistad.org/ - free healthcare for folks without insurance or funds to afford care.

City of Tucson Lead Hazard Reduction Program!

Find Food 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 and 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.

Help Support Friends of Ward 3

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.

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