HomeMy WebLinkAboutPackets - 2026 General Plan Advisory Meetings (4)
AGENDA
2026 GENERAL PLAN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT ADVISORY GROUP
JOINT STUDY SESSION WITH THE FOLLOWING BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS:
TOWN COUNCIL, BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT, BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMISSION, HISTORIC
PRESERVATION COMMISSION, PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD, PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION, STORMWATER UTILITY COMMISSION, WATER UTILITY COMMISSION, YOUTH ADVISORY
COUNCIL
STUDY SESSION
February 16, 2023
ORO VALLEY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11000 N. LA CAÑADA DRIVE
OR BY ZOOM WEBINAR: https://orovalley.zoom.us/j/81612722685
To join by phone dial: +1-669-444-9171
Webinar ID: 816 1272 2685
STUDY SESSION AT OR AFTER 6:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
STUDY SESSION AGENDA
1.DISCUSSION ONLY WITH TOWN COUNCIL, BOARD AND COMMISSION MEMBERS, YOUTH
ADVISORY COUNCIL AND PUBLIC ATTENDEES REGARDING COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
STRATEGIES FOR THE UPCOMING GENERAL PLAN
ADJOURNMENT
POSTED: 2/15/2023 at 5:00 p.m. by dt
When possible, a packet of agenda materials as listed above is available for public inspection at least 24 hours prior to the meeting in the Town
Clerk's Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Town of Oro Valley complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If any person with a disability needs any type of accommodation,
please notify the Town Clerk’s Office at least five days prior to the meeting at 229-4700.
2026 GENERAL PLAN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
ADVISORY GROUP 1.
Meeting Date:02/16/2023
Requested by: Bayer Vella, Community and Economic Development
Case Number: N/A
SUBJECT:
DISCUSSION ONLY WITH TOWN COUNCIL, BOARD AND COMMISSION MEMBERS, YOUTH ADVISORY
COUNCIL AND PUBLIC ATTENDEES REGARDING COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR THE
UPCOMING GENERAL PLAN
RECOMMENDATION:
Discussion item only.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The advisory group will fulfill their purpose by selecting a preferred communication strategy and reviewing the draft
Community Engagement Plan on February 16. Please see Attachment 1 for a tentative agenda.
To prepare for the meeting, advisory group members should review the three levels of community engagement
(base, intermediate and comprehensive), Attachment 2 and the draft Community Engagement Plan (Attachment
3). The draft plan was provided in the previous packet. However, the "Communications Methods and Tools" section
has been added to reflect the February 9 meeting discussion.
The advisory group includes the Town Council, board, commission and youth advisory members. The purpose of
the advisory group is to help shape the community engagement process for the upcoming General Plan. Results
from the advisory group meetings form several sections of a Community Engagement Plan. As required by State
law, this is just the initial step in the General Plan process. The Community Engagement Plan will be used as a
foundation to enable residents to plan for their Town's future.
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
The General Plan is a community-driven long-range policy document intended to guide Town decisions. Per State
law, the General Plan must be readopted – with or without changes - every ten years. The Town’s current General
Plan, ratified by voters in 2016, must be acted upon no later than 2026. The initial step in the General Plan process
is Town Council adoption of a Community Engagement Plan. The Community Engagement Plan:
Establishes a program of community outreach objectives, methods and tools tailored to engage the
demographic range of Oro Valley’s residents.
Identifies stakeholders.
Functions as the base to establish an overall General Plan project work program and schedule. This will also
function to establish a future budget.
Together, Town staff, Gordley Group (consultant), and an advisory group will identify communication strategies to
ensure all voices are heard in the upcoming General Plan process. All members of Town Council and the following
boards, commissions and groups are encouraged to participate in the advisory group.
Board of Adjustment
Budget and Finance Commission
Historic Preservation Commission
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Planning and Zoning Commission
Planning and Zoning Commission
Stormwater Utility Commission
Water Utility Commission
Youth Advisory Council
Over the course of 4 meetings, the advisory group members:
Meeting #1 (January 19): The advisory group and public attendees discussed the importance of the General
Plan, key changes since the last General Plan effort and likely focal topics of community discussion for the
next General Plan.
Meeting #2 (January 26): The advisory group established guiding principles for community engagement,
identified key stakeholders and discussed the level of engagement for each stakeholder group.
Meeting #3 (February 9): Analyze results of the active resident survey and help shape a communications
strategy to reach Oro Valley’s broad demographic range. The results from this discussion are included in
Attachment 4 and minutes included in Attachment 5.
Meeting #4: Select preferred communication methods among three public participation levels or alternatives
(see Discussion section for more information).
The final product of the advisory group is the Community Engagement Plan, which will identify a preferred
communication strategy. The results of this collaborative work and an associated budget will be presented to the
Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Council for approval in March.
DISCUSSION:
The work completed over the past three meetings has been building up to the selection of a preferred
communication strategy. The Community Engagement Plan, with the preferred strategy, will be considered by the
Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Council in March. The tentative agenda for the advisory group meeting
is in Attachment 1.
Communication Strategy
On February 16, the advisory group will review three levels of engagement (Attachment 2). The levels were
created based on feedback from the advisory group and resident survey results. To meet the guiding principles
established by the group, there are also certain methods that are included in each level as "must-dos". This includes
items (e.g. statistically valid survey, translator services, website,etc.) that make sure the process is inclusive,
accessible, transparent, and engaging with multi-layered approaches. The three levels include:
Base - This level includes the "must-do's" but lower quantities of certain items. It reflects the work done last
with the previous effort and includes some additional tools the advisory group discussed, such as videos and
postcard mailers. It excludes some items discussed for this effort, such as TV and radio ads.
Intermediate - This level also includes the "must-do's, more quantities of items and some extra things to raise
general awareness, such as radio ads.
Comprehensive - This level includes all types of communication methods identified through this process.
Although not under the purview of the advisory group, cost estimates are included with each level to provide context
and an order of magnitude for each communication tool or technique. The base, intermediate and comprehensive
budget totals will be spread out over 4 fiscal years. The amount for FY23/24 will change as the budget gets more
refined throughout the next couple of months. Each year, the General Plan budget will be included in the Town's
overall budget, which is presented to the Town Council for approval.
For context, the last General Plan effort cost $576,618.00 over 4 fiscal years. The base level is the closest to the
amount spent on the last effort, but it is a little higher to account for the added tools and changes in the cost of
items.
Community Engagement Plan
The advisory group's work is being used to build the Community Engagement Plan. A working draft of the plan is
included in Attachment 3. This version includes the "Communication Methods and Tools" section that was
discussed during the February 9 meeting. The advisory group members should review the document to ensure it
reflects their work. Any proposed changes can be emailed to staff by February 15 and will be discussed at the
meeting. A final version of the plan will be provided to the advisory group prior to the Planning and Zoning
Commission meeting.
Next steps:
Next steps:
The advisory group's work will be presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission on March 7 and the Town
Council on March 15 for consideration. Advisory group members are encouraged to attend and speak at these
meetings.
Creation and adoption of the Community Engagement Plan is only the initial step in the General Plan process.
Advisory group members and the public are encouraged to stay engaged throughout the next 3 years. Some
upcoming opportunities include:
Branding and naming of the next General Plan
Attending the official "kick-off" event either in-person or online
Becoming an ambassador for your school, community group, HOA or more
Spreading the word about the General Plan process and opportunities to provide feedback
Joining a committee focused on specific topic areas
Staff will be providing routine updates to Town Council and all board, commission and youth advisory groups
throughout the process.
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
This item is for discussion only.
Attachments
ATTACHMENT 1 - MEETING 4 AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 2 - LEVELS OF ENGAGEMENT
ATTACHMENT 3 - REVISED DRAFT PLAN
ATTACHMENT 4 - DETAILED MEETING 3 SUMMARY
ATTACHMENT 5 - MINUTES
2026 General Plan Community Engagement Group
Meeting #4
Thursday, February 16 at 6 PM
Council Chambers
1. Welcome and roll call 6:00 PM
2. Recap of Meeting #3 6:10PM
Prep Material: Detailed summary
3. 3 Levels of Community Engagement 6:20 PM
Prep Material: Levels of Community Engagement
Discussion and Exercise: Preferred method of community engagement
4. Review of the Community Engagement Plan 7:00 PM
Prep Material: Draft Community Engagement Plan
Discussion: Does it reflect the advisory group’s work?
5. Next Steps 7:50PM
Ways to stay engaged in the General Plan process.
6. Adjournment 8:00 PM
CATEGORY ITEM LEVEL DIFFERENCES Unit Cost Quantity Total Unit Cost Quantity Total Unit Cost Quantity Total
Brand Development, Process, Meetings, Guidelines Y $ 150.00 245 36,750.00$ 150.00$ 245 36,750.00$ 150.00$ 245 36,750.00$
Creative Materials, Displays, Templates Y $ 150.00 229 34,350.00$ 150.00$ 229 34,350.00$ 150.00$ 229 34,350.00$
Editing, graphics, design and publishing: Website publication as main means of publication
and basic factual document PDF as support; est. 60 hours for PDF and remainder for web
development.
Y
$ 150.00 260 39,000.00$ 150.00$ 260 39,000.00$ 150.00$ 260 39,000.00$
Research, Compiling information, Review and Drafting Y $ 37,000.00 1 37,000.00$ 37,000.00$ 1 37,000.00$ 37,000.00$ 1 37,000.00$
Marketing/Media Planning, Strategy, Placement Y $ 150.00 50 7,500.00$ $ 150.00 50 7,500.00$ $ 150.00 50 7,500.00$
Community Engagement, Strategy, Planning and Project Administration Y $ 150.00 106 15,900.00$ $ 150.00 106 15,900.00$ $ 150.00 106 15,900.00$
Interactive Website: Cost includes $2,500 set-up costs and pricing for 3 years. Base and Intermediate = Social Pinpoint or similar product;
Comp. = Engage HQ or similar product Y $ 10,000.00 3.5 35,000.00$ 12,500.00$ 3.5 43,750.00$ 20,000.00$ 3.5 70,000.00$
Video design (Cost = consultant design)Base = 1 video in Phase 1; Intermediate = Base + 1 video in
Phase 2 and Comp. = 1 video in each phase for a total of 3.
N
15,000.00$ 1 15,000.00$ 15,000.00$ 2 30,000.00$ 15,000.00$ 3 45,000.00$
Statistically Valid Survey: Telephone (400 ppl/10-15 min. survey), Paper and online None Y 12,000.00$ 1 12,000.00$ 12,000.00$ 1 12,000.00$ 12,000.00$ 1 12,000.00$
Consultant Services and Interactive Website Subtotal 174,320.07$ 232,500.00$ 256,250.00$ 297,500.00$
NW Explorer Ad - Full Page 3 1,200.00$ 1 1,200.00$ 1,200.00$ 4 4,800.00$ 1,200.00$ 7 8,400.00$
NW Explorer Ad - Half Page 5 900.00$ 3 2,700.00$ 900.00$ 10 9,000.00$ 900.00$ 16 14,400.00$
NW Explorer Ad- Quarter Page 20 600.00$ 20 12,000.00$ 600.00$ 24 14,400.00$ 600.00$ 27 16,200.00$
Digital ads - Two-week flights to target under-represented groups. Facebook boosts and
sponsored ads)
0 3,000.00$ 1 3,000.00$ 3,000.00$ 2 6,000.00$ 3,000.00$ 5 15,000.00$
Water bill insert (Utilize Vista Newsletter plus send out paper survey) Base = only Vista Newsletter; Intermediate = Vista
Newsletter and paper survey; Comp. = Vista Newsletter +
paper survey + 1 other mailer.
3
-$ 0 -$ 1,850.00$ 1 1,850.00$ 1,850.00$ 2 3,700.00$
TV ads: Cost = (min 2-week flight); quantity = flights; plus production cost of 1 commercial
at $10,000)
1 commercial included only in Comp. Excludes tv interviews
that may be offered throughout process.
0 -$ 0 -$ -$ 0 -$ 12,000.00$ 1 12,000.00$
Radio ads : Cost = (min 2-week flight); Quantity = flights; plus production cost of 1
commercial at $500
Only included in Intermediate and Comp. Excludes radio
interviews that may be offered throughout the process.0 -$ 0 -$ 1,200.00$ 1 1,200.00$ 1,600.00$ 2 3,200.00$
OV Style ads Amount increases with each level N 949.00$ 2 1,898.00$ 869.00$ 4 3,476.00$ 829.00$ 6 4,974.00$
Vista Newsletters Y Multiple Multiple Multiple
E-newsletter (Town and stakeholder groups Y Multiple Multiple Multiple
Social Media (Price to sponsor is included in digital ads)Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing
Town Website Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing
News releases Y Multiple Multiple Multiple
Banner on Town Emails Y Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing
Videos (Town-designed and recorded)Amount of videos increases with each level N $ - 8 -$ -$ 10 -$ -$ 12 -$
Informal Surveys Amount of surveys increase with each level Y -$ 8 -$ -$ 10 -$ -$ 15 -$
Banner on Town Emails No added costs for General Plan Y Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing
Advertsing and Education Subtotal $ 29,990.41 20,798.00$ 40,726.00$ 77,874.00$
Ambassadors: Unit cost = how much for stipends, incentives, etc.; Quantity = months Only include in Intermediate and Comprehensive. Amount
increases between each level.N -$ 0 -$ 100.00$ 48 4,800.00$ 100.00$ 96 9,600.00$
New retractable banner stands None Y 150.00$ 1 150.00$ 150.00$ 1 150.00$ 150.00$ 2 300.00$
Retractable banner inserts for Town owned banner stands None Y 75.00$ 2 150.00$ 75.00$ 2 150.00$ 75.00$ 2 150.00$
Tablecloths - $250 each for simple; $500 for full color and fitted Base/Intermediate = Simple tablecloths; Comp. = Full color
tablecloths Y 250.00$ 2 500.00$ 250.00$ 2 500.00$ 500.00$ 2 1,000.00$
Shirts with General Plan logo Base = Shirts for ambassadors and key staff; Intermediate =
Base + Committee members; Comp. = Intermediate +
Board/Commission/YAC/TC members
Y 60.00$ 25 1,500.00$ 60.00$ 175 10,500.00$ 60.00$ 225 13,500.00$
Large magnets for Town vehicles (Base = Shuttle vans and busses + inspector vehicles,
Intermediate = Base + CED vehicles, Comprehensive = Intermediate + other Town vehicles
Base = Shuttles + inspector vehicles; Intermediate = Base +
CED vehicles; Comprehensive = Intermediate + other Town
vehicles.
N
27.00$ 40 1,080.00$ 20.00$ 60 1,200.00$ 20.00$ 60 1,200.00$
Booth Giveaways: Cost = average of $1.75 - $2.0 per item Amount increases with each level - includes stickers, pens
and small car magnets
Y 1.75$ 1000 1,750.00$ 1.75$ 5000 8,750.00$ 2.50$ 10000 25,000.00$
Signage for streets and community gathering places (e.g., parks) - spec and quantity Amount increases with each level N 150.00$ 12 1,800.00$ 150.00$ 24 3,600.00$ 150.00$ 24 3,600.00$
Promotion and Supplies Subtotal $ 15,914.99 6,930.00$ 29,650.00$ 54,350.00$
Postcards: Cost - paper/printing costs Base = 1 postcard to every household in Phase 1 and Phase
3. Intermediate = 1 postcard to every household in each
phase (total of 3 times). Comprehensive = 2 postcards to
every household in Phase 1 and Phase 3, and 1 postcard in
Phase 2 (totaling 5)
N
0.09$ 41508 3,735.72$ 0.09$ 62262 5,603.58$ 0.09$ 103770 9,339.30$
Materials printing (letters,, flyers, brochures, etc. for events and meetings. None Y 3,575.00$ 3.5 12,512.50$ 3,575.00$ 3.5 12,512.50$ 3,575.00$ 3.5 12,512.50$
Postage Amount increases with each level to account for more
postcard mailers
Y 10,000.00$ 2 20,000.00$ 30,000.00$ 1 30,000.00$ 50,000.00$ 1 50,000.00$
Printing and Mailing Subtotal $ 24,305.00 36,248.22$ 48,116.08$ 71,851.80$
Instant Polling Mentimeter Free/Basic/Pro Plans; Unit Cost = per month; Quantity =
months N 12.00$ 41 492.00$ 12.00$ 41 492.00$ 25.00$ 41 1,130.00$
Rental space for forums and events Y 450.00$ 3 1,350.00$ 450.00$ 3 1,350.00$ 450.00$ 3 1,350.00$
Speaker in a box - presentation/digital assets thumb drive, printed materials and supplies Amount increases with each level Y 25.00$ 12 300.00$ 25.00$ 24 600.00$ 25.00$ 36 900.00$
Small Meetings (HOA, Stakeholder groups, interviews and 1:1, focus groups, school clubs,
and Town dept. meetings)16 50.00$ 16 800.00$ 50.00$ 20 1,000.00$ 50.00$ 25 1,250.00$
Medium Meetings (Board/Commission workshops, neighborhood gatherings)31 100.00$ 31 3,100.00$ 100.00$ 35 3,500.00$ 100.00$ 40 4,000.00$
Committee Meetings 32 100.00$ 32 3,200.00$ 100.00$ 36 3,600.00$ 100.00$ 40 4,000.00$
Stakeholder Meetings 18 50.00$ 18 900.00$ 50.00$ 20 1,000.00$ 50.00$ 24 1,200.00$
Large Meetings or events (Kick-off, open houses, community events)17 200.00$ 31 6,200.00$ 200.00$ 39 7,800.00$ 200.00$ 49 9,800.00$
Meetings and Events Subtotal $ 7,132.61 16,342.00$ 19,342.00$ 23,630.00$
Senior Planner (Temporary position for 3 years)None Y 28.21$ 7280 205,368.80$ 28.21$ 7280 205,368.80$ 28.21$ 7280 205,368.80$
Office Specialist (Part-time, temporary position for three years) None Y 19.14$ 3640 69,669.60$ 19.14$ 3640 69,669.60$ 19.14$ 3640 69,669.60$
Training Amount increases for each level Y 1,550.00$ 2 3,100.00$ 1,850.00$ 2 3,700.00$ 2,000.00$ 2 4,000.00$
Personnel and Training Subtotal 324,955.64$ 278,138.40$ 278,738.40$ 279,038.40$
Estimated O & M 251,663.08$ 312,818.22$ 394,084.08$ 525,205.80$
Estimated Personall 324,955.64$ 278,138.40$ 278,738.40$ 279,038.40$
Estimated Total Costs*576,618.72$ 590,956.62$ 672,822.48$ 804,244.20$
Highlights tools that were added in each level.
The main difference between the different levels 251,598.26$ 282,157.26$ 352,010.12$
is the quantity of items.146,201.40$ 165,619.26$ 191,155.26$
122,751.40$ 129,101.40$ 151,355.26$
70,405.56$ 95,944.56$ 109,723.56$
590,956.62$ 672,822.48$ 804,244.20$ Estimated Total Costs
Estimated FY 23/24 (Phase 1: Let's Talk)
Estimated FY 24/25 (Phase 2: Let's Think)
Estimated FY 25/26 (Phase 2-3: Let's Think - Make It So)
Estimated FY26/27 (Phase 3: Make it so)
LEVELS OF ENGAGEMENT**
** The costs included below are estimates only to provide order of magnitude and anticipated costs to make decisisons for the community engagement plan. The budget will be refined and considered by the Town Council.**
Base Intermediate ComprehensiveEstimated Expenses per Fiscal Year
*Total costs will be divided over 4 budget cycles. See breakdown below.
Printing
and Mailing
Meetings
and Events
Personnel
and
Training
Number of meetings increase with each level. Includes costs
for food and supplies (e.g. dots, post-its, etc.)
No added costs for General Plan
None
Consultant
Services
and
Interactive
Website
Advertising
and
Education
Promotion
and
Supplies
None
Amounts increase with each level
Base Intermediate ComprehensiveYVOF Actuals
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 1
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PLAN
FOR THE ORO VALLEY GENERAL PLAN
Adopted by Oro Valley Town Council
(Date)
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 2
Acknowledgements
Town Council
Joseph Winfield, Mayor
Melanie Barret, Vice Mayor
Council Member Harry Greene
Council Member Joyce Jones-Ivey Council
Member Steve Solomon
Council Member Tim Bohen
Council Member Josh Nicolson
Planning & Zoning Commission
Jacob Herrington, Chair
Joseph Nichols, Vice Chair
Commissioner Skeet Posey
Commissioner Anna Clark
Commissioner Kim Outlaw-Ryan
Commissioner Dan Sturmon
Advisory Group Members:
Board of Adjustment
Joseph Affinati
Stephen Roche
Thomas Gribb
Budget and Finance Commission
Heather Laird
James Beasley*
Jennifer Carr
John Fortunato
Historic Preservation Commission
Auvie Lee
Joan Pliego
Michael Paul
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Gary Temple
Joanne Moothart
Matthew Wood
Phillip Saletta
Planning and Zoning Commission
Anna Clark
Dan Sturmon
Jacob Herrington
Joseph Nichols
Kim Outlaw-Ryan
Skeet Posey
Hal Bergsma*
Stormwater Utility Commission
Gary Mattson
Richard Hawkinson
Water Utility Commission
Kay Lantow
Tom Marek
Youth Advisory Council
Alexei Mendez
Allison Kuester
Amiya Lotun
Elena Hendrix
Emma Kim
Faith Ryan
Jaden Wu
Kennedy Blanchard
Kenna Brock
Liam DaDeppo
Riley Goodwin
Tanish Doshi
Town Council
Joseph Winfield
Melanie Barret
Harry Greene
Joyce Jones-Ivey
Josh Nicolson
Tim Bohen
Staff Support:
Chris Cornelison, Interim Town Manager
Paul Melcher, CED Director
Misti Nowak, Communications Administrator
Bayer Vella, Planning Manager
Milini Simms, Principal Planner
Jeanna Ancona, Office Administrator
*Terms ended during this process.
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 3
I. Introduction ........................................................................................................................4
II. Purpose ..............................................................................................................................5
III. Creating the Community Engagement Plan .......................................................................6
IV. Changes in the Community ...............................................................................................8
V. Community Engagement Guiding Principles ......................................................................9
VI. Key Stakeholders ........................................................................................................... 10
VII. Communication Methods and Techniques ....................................................................... 11
VIII. Accessibility and Accommodations ................................................................................. 18
IX. Strategy for Community Engagement .............................................................................. 18
X. Accountability and Changes to the Community Engagement Plan ......................................... 20
Attachment #1 – Community Stakeholders in the General Plan Process ...................................... 21
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 4
I. Introduction
The Town of Oro Valley is preparing for the three-year General Plan process. The General Plan is
a community-driven, 10-year policy document guiding long-term decisions for the Town’s
future. The process to develop the General Plan will be completed over a three-year period,
culminating in a public vote to ratify the Town Council’s adopted General Plan.
The initial step in the General Plan process is creation and adoption of a Community
Engagement Plan. Community input is critical, even this early in the process, and helped shape
this document. The contents in this plan reflect and incorporate the work of a resident advisory
group and results from a community survey.
The General Plan is the “community’s action plan” to further enhance Oro Valley’s high quality-
of-life. It must be transformed in the public eye from an esoteric technical planning document
into an actionable planning tool, from its name to its final content.
The General Plan process is a unique opportunity for residents and stakeholders to engage with
the Town to establish priorities and guide the future of their community. When people from all
walks of life come together to discuss, debate and listen to one another, the Town gains a larger
understanding of who it represents and how community members want to move forward. The
planned project phases are:
Phase 1 (Let’s talk) – Significant
community outreach will be used to
create dialog within the community to
share information and gather input on
the vision and priorities that will guide
the development of the General Plan.
Phase 2 (Let’s think) – A draft of the
General Plan will begin to take shape
with goals and policies for the elements
identified during Phase 1. The draft Plan
will be reviewed by the community,
committees, boards, commissions, and
stakeholders.
Phase 3 (Do it! Make it so) – Adoption of the updated General Plan will occur through a
formal public review process: 1) Final draft review by committees, 2) Review by agencies
identified in state statute, 3) Opportunities for community review 4) Public hearings by
the Planning & Zoning Commission, 5) Public hearing and adoption by the Town Council,
and 6) Ratification: A community outreach education campaign resulting in informed
voting on the updated General Plan by Town voters.
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 5
This Community Engagement Plan is designed to:
• Provide the community and stakeholders with diverse and meaningful opportunities to
voice their ideas and concerns.
• Target the Town’s full range of demographics using a variety of ways to consult and
collaborate with them.
Understanding what residents’ concerns are and the aspirations they hold for their community
are essential to the success of the General Plan process. Following the Community Engagement
Plan will promote a sense of community ownership that will ultimately result in an improved,
supported, and sustainable General Plan.
The 2026 General Plan aims to replace the Town’s current General Plan called Your Voice, Our
Future that was adopted and ratified by voters in 2016. The General Plan will guide public policy
and actions that both define the character of Oro Valley and sustain its functioning.
II. Purpose
Legal requirements
An Arizona state law known as the Growing Smarter Act mandates community planning. In
terms of process, Arizona Revised Statute 9-461.06 requires that a municipality’s General Plan
be readopted or a new one be adopted every ten years by the voters. The current Your Voice,
Our Future General Plan will expire in November 2026. The goal is to have the General Plan
adopted by the Mayor and Council in time to be placed on the ballot in 2026.
This Community Engagement Plan establishes strategies that exceed the state mandates in the
Growing Smarter Act. ARS § 9-461.06 requires that municipalities’ “governing bodies shall adopt
written procedures to provide effective, early and continuous public participation in the
development and major amendment of general plans from all geographic, ethnic, and economic
areas of the municipality.” Furthermore, the “procedures shall provide for:
a) The broad dissemination of proposals and alternatives
b) The opportunity for written comments
c) Public hearings after effective notice
d) Open discussions, communications programs and information services
e) Consideration of public comments
Importance of the General Plan
This Community Engagement Plan was designed to support the Town’s primary goal of
developing a community-driven, consensus-based and voter-ratified General Plan. To generate
vision, goals and policies that resonates with the community and is broadly endorsed by voters,
the Community Engagement Plan will promote the creation of a General Plan that:
• Sets the values, vision, goals and priorities that build on Oro Valley’s quality of life
• Builds a sense of community by reflecting the diverse perspectives of all residents
• Provides a roadmap that guides Town decisions
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 6
• Provides continuity and certainty that results will be achieved
• Identifies shared priorities of all age groups
• Is a living document, ensuring flexibility and relevance over time
• Represents the community’s proposed action plan
The Community Engagement Plan outlines the steps to encourage and solicit community
involvement in the process. It identifies specific methods and techniques that motivate members of
the community to:
• Be informed about what the General Plan is, how it is prepared and how it is used.
• Communicate needs and expectations for the future.
• Work together on ways to address key community issues or goals for the future.
• Contribute to achieving voter ratification.
III. Creating the Community Engagement Plan
Community Engagement Advisory Group
All key elements to develop this Community Engagement Plan were derived from a Community
Engagement Advisory Group (CEAG) and survey promoted to residents throughout the month of
January 2023. The result is a sound Community Engagement Plan with proven techniques to
engage the public as well as new methods to reach and involve more of the community. The
CEAG was composed of members of Town Council and the following boards, commissions, and
advisory groups:
• Board of Adjustment
• Budget and Finance Commission
• Historic Preservation Commission
• Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
• Planning and Zoning Commission
• Stormwater Utility Commission
• Water Utility Commission
• Youth Advisory Council
The Oro Valley residents that formed the advisory group were tasked with helping to shape
the upcoming General Plan community engagement process. In collaboration with Town staff
and a local engagement firm, Gordley Group, the advisory group:
• Shared knowledge about the importance of the General Plan and identifed changes
in the community since the previous General Plan effort.
• Provided opinions regarding key areas of focus for the next General Plan.
• Identified key stakeholders and community engagement principles.
• Analyzed results of a community survey and helped shape a communications
strategy to reach Oro Valley’s broad demographic range.
• Selected a preferred communication strategy among three community engagement
levels.
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 7
Community Engagement Survey
Community input is foundational to the General Plan process. A community-wide survey was
published to identify the best ways to engage the community. The survey was promoted
through:
• Vista Newsletter
• Explorer Ad and article
• Social media
• Citizen blogs and social media posts
• Direct emails to Community Academy graduates and stakeholder groups
• Rancho Vistoso Newsletter
• Boards and Commissions
Overall, 706 surveys were completed over the course of January 2023. The overall results have
a precision of at least +/- 3.7 percent at the 95 percent confidence level (meaning there is 95%
confidence that the survey results reflect the overall opinions of Oro Valley residents who are
like the survey respondents to within plus or minus about 4 percentage points on any answer).
The results of the survey were reviewed by the advisory group to guide decision-making and
the results were incorporated into this plan. Notable takeaways include:
• Notification methods: Residents currently receive information about Town ongoings
through various methods. They prefer to receive information via email or a website. To
bridge the current notification methods with the preferred methods, a variety of
options must used throughout the General Plan process.
• Community input: Methods that provided flexibility and convenience were top
choices. This includes online surveys, an interactive website, and informational videos.
Respondents also preferred opportunities to provide input at businesses or events
they are already attending. To ensure everyone’s voice is heard, a multi-layered
approach must be used to gather community input.
Adoption
The results of the survey and input from the advisory group were refined with the assistance
of Town staff and Gordley Group to create the Community Engagement Plan. The Community
Engagement Plan will be considered by the Planning and Zoning Commission on March 7 and
the Town Council on March 15, 2023.
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 8
IV. Changes in the Community
Achievements and Opportunities
The Your Voice, Our Future General Plan was ratified by the
voters in 2016. Extensive public outreach was conducted
over a three-year process, which resulted in 1000s of
comments, numerous events and committee meetings (see
graphic to the right). This resulted in a plan that resonated
with the community and was supported by 71% of the
voters.
Several things were done well with the last General Plan
effort. This included a comprehensive and interactive
website, booths at existing events and businesses people frequent and a survey provided in
multiple formats. Of the 307 recent survey respondents who did not participate in the 2016
General Plan process, 55% were not Oro Valley residents at the time and 40% were unaware of
the General Plan. This provides an opportunity to increase awareness and transparency of the
General Plan effort.
Demographic Changes
The Town’s population is increasing with notable changes to the Town’s demographic profile.
As a result, the communication methods outlined later in this Community Engagement Plan
have been adapted accordingly to meet the communication needs and preferences of the
community.
Table 1 below shows the Town’s population grew by nearly 15 percent from 2010 to 2020, according
to U.S. Census data. This population growth was driven mainly by increases in racial and ethnic
minority groups. The average age of Town residents is at 54 years of age, an increase of 4 years
between 2013 and 2021. This, combined with the decreases in the average people per household
and households with minor children indicates that the Town has fewer young families than was seen
during the last General Plan update process.
Table 1: Demographic Changes 2010 2020 % INCREASE
TOTAL POPULATION 41,011 47,070 15%
RACE AND ETHNICITY
One race 40,029 42,008 5%
White 36,825 37,448 2%
Black or African American 617 776 26%
American Indian and Alaska Native 179 228 27%
Asian 128 2,043 1,496%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 54 57 6%
Some other race 1,070 1,456 36%
Two or more races 982 5,062 415%
Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 4,808 7,141 49%
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 9
Not Hispanic or Latino 36,401 39,374 8%
Source: U.S. 2020 Census
The 2013-2021 data also revealed that the Town’s education and income are higher than the other
jurisdictions in the region. Median income increased by 29 percent to over $92,000 per household.
Not shown in the table but very important to community engagement planning is that Town
residents are also highly connected digitally, with over 93 percent of households having internet
access.
Community Changes
Beyond analyzing demographics, the advisory group noted the following changes in Oro Valley over
the past 10 years:
• Increased traffic but fewer accidents due to roadway improvements and street design.
• Street maintenance and more multi-use paths, bike, and nature trails.
• Park improvements, including the opening of the Aquatic Center and expansion of Naranja
Park and more open space areas.
• More schools, healthcare facilities, primary employers, restaurants, and experience-based
businesses in Oro Valley.
• Opportunity to build on Oro Valley’s tech industry with changes in the workplace.
• Limited land availability leading to more redevelopment.
• Increase in the number of houses and a decline in affordability.
• Increased water consumption with growth.
• High quality of Oro Valley’s architecture, landscaping, cleanliness, etc.
• Increased public strife and stronger opinions about government.
Based on these changes, the advisory group identified the following topics likely to be focal points of
community discussion. This list was updated to incorporate the results from the survey. It is important
to note, the actual topic areas will evolve throughout the community engagement process as we learn
from a broad cross-section of residents and stakeholders.
• Water
• Environment and Open Space
• Development, Growth and Housing
• Transportation
• Public Safety
• Parks and Recreation
• Climate and Sustainability
V. Community Engagement Guiding Principles
To meet the Town’s goal for a voter-ratified General Plan, this Community Engagement Plan is
designed to connect residents to the Town and to each other. This connection will result in
better-supported and more sustainable decisions.
The advisory group established the following guiding principles for community engagement. These
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 10
guiding principles are a set of values incorporated into this plan that will provide direction
throughout the community engagement process.
• Be Inclusive and Prioritize Community Input
o The #1 focus is on all residents.
o Community engagement is the highest priority and is intended to provide
opportunities for everyone in the community to be involved and share their input.
o Plan for a variety of outreach options to reach a broad and wide range of audiences,
especially those who aren't typically reached.
• Be Engaging and Effective
o Make outreach creative, collaborative, interactive and fun.
o Make engagement sincere with clear objectives and messaging.
o Include a variety of community outreach options and meet people at places they
already frequent.
• Be Organized, Efficient and Timely
o Maximize the use of existing resources and add resources that improve efficiency and
effectiveness.
o Provide regular public updates throughout the General Plan development process.
• Be Fair and Open
o Provide a comprehensive and equitable process that yields meaningful,
purposeful, and authentic results.
• Provide Understandable and Accessible Information
o Ensure open communication and transparency to show results and impact.
o Ensure information and opportunities are accessible to all geographical areas of
the community.
VI. Key Stakeholders
The Town’s residents are the primary stakeholders in the community engagement effort.
There are also subgroups that include people and organizations with shared interests ranging
from subject matter experts to individuals. The CEAG refined the list of stakeholders by
reviewing those identified during the last General Plan process and updating the list to reflect
the groups needed for this effort.
The Growing Smarter Act defines a broad spectrum of stakeholders. The law requires that the
governing body “Consult with, advise, and provide an opportunity for official comment by public
officials and agencies, the county, school districts, associations of governments, public land
management agencies, the military airport…other appropriate government jurisdictions, public
utility companies, civic, educational, professional and other organizations, property owners and
citizens generally to secure maximum coordination of plans and to indicate properly located sites
for all public purposes in the general plan.”
This mandate aligns with the Town’s objective to be inclusive. Attachment 1 contains the
updated comprehensive stakeholders’ list identified through the development of the
Community Engagement Plan. Each will be contacted and invited to participate. Because it is
important that the Town pays attention to the best ways to reach and listen to all groups,
stakeholders will be asked to identify additional stakeholders, groups, organizations and
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 11
opportunities for community involvement.
The CEAG prioritized and established the roles of each stakeholder group in the General Plan
Process below:
• Priority 1 – Work closely together with residents to involve and reach consensus on the
community’s vision, values, and goals and elements of the General Plan.
o Young adults (16-24)
o Workforce (25-64)
o Older adults (65+)
• Priority 2 - Work together with interested parties and field experts to share ideas and
information. Below is a list of major subgroups of stakeholders currently identified.
o Parks and Recreation Groups
o Water and Resources Groups
o Environment / Open Space Groups
o Public Health and Safety Groups
o Business / Employment Groups
o Development / Growth / Housing Groups
o Faith-Based Organizations
o Schools
o Arts and Culture Groups
o Transportation Groups
o Other Interest Groups (e.g., Homeowner Associations, Rotary Clubs, etc.)
• Priority 3 - Work with regulatory groups to gather information and consult on goals,
policies, and actions.
o Government agencies (State, local, etc.)
o Regional jurisdictions
All boards, commissions, youth advisory and Town Council members will be routinely updated
throughout the General Plan process and invited to participate in all the engagement methods
described in the following section.
VII. Communication Methods and Techniques
In keeping with the Community Engagement Plan’s guiding principles, communication methods and
techniques are designed to reach a broad spectrum of residents and stakeholders and educate the
community about the process, garner meaningful input and, ultimately, obtain voter ratification.
Engaging the community will provide a sense of ownership for the General Plan and build trust in the
Town, resulting in quality participation and greater likelihood of positive voter turnout.
To provide ample opportunity to residents and stakeholders for participation, a variety of
communication methods and techniques will be employed. The variety will also help ensure
participation by Oro Valley’s diverse age demographics. Individual methods or techniques tend to
resonate with only a portion of residents. Rather than use a “one size fits all” approach, multiple
methods and techniques are necessary to include everyone in the conversation.
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 12
By ensuring opportunities are welcoming and convenient, the pool of participants will be expanded.
To this end, social media tools and small gatherings in convenient locations are key outreach
methods. This approach will be supplemented with traditional community outreach, such as
community open houses.
Public and stakeholder meetings, focus groups, small group gatherings and other activities will be
organized to produce results. The following strategies will be used to provide an efficient, effective
and transparent process:
• Participants’ roles and anticipated time commitment as well as proposed activity outcomes
will be clearly outlined.
• Facilitators will ensure there is time for participants to get acquainted with each other, the
issues, and the process.
• Activities will be designed so that participants have the time to understand different points of
view and resolve issues that may arise.
• Participants will be encouraged to develop a common sense of purpose and definitions of
challenges faced by the community.
• Participants will be encouraged to connect with and educate one another.
• Each meeting will show how previous public input has been incorporated into the General
Plan.
• Next steps will be clearly outlined.
The tables on the following pages include a toolbox of recommended methods and techniques, with
the corresponding participants targeted. The methods are broken out between general awareness
efforts and those that are intended to target and engage with specific groups. Attachment #2 includes
a description of key terms and definitions used in the tables.
The timing of communication methods and techniques is a key to success. Each will be strategically
implemented during targeted phases of the project to maximize effectiveness, and key milestones in
the process will be appropriately acknowledged and celebrated.
1. GENERAL AWARENESS FOR ALL STAKEHOLDER GROUPS
PHASES
Objective: Increase awareness, inform, and educate the entire community about the General Plan, its
process and ultimately the result to be voted on by the public.
1. Let’s
Talk
2. Let’s
Talk
3. Make
it So!
General Plan website continuously updated as a “hub” for information and engagement:
Integrated with Town’s main website and includes videos, maps, idea walls, discussion boards, comment
sections, surveys, etc.
X X X
Info and educational videos or webinars to provide convenient information:
• Long-form videos over 3 minutes
• Short-form videos and clips under 3 minutes
X X X
Social media to provide continuous updates and information to all age groups:
Various platforms including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Nextdoor, Instagram or other similar types X X X
Advertisements placed at various levels throughout the process:
Print and digital ads in the following publications:
• NW Explorer
• Digital ads and sponsored social media posts
• Vista Newsletter
• Water bill inserts (through the Vista Newsletter)
• Oro Valley Style
• Water bill inserts
• Television commercials
• Radio commercials
X X X
Articles or interviews to educate and celebrate key milestones:
• Vista Newsletter column
• News releases
• Pitched stories to the Explorer, etc.
• Television and radio interviews
X X X
Other Town resources to provide updates at key milestones:
• Parks and Recreation email lists
• Media release email list
X X X
• OVPD citizens academy and volunteers
• Community academy graduates
• Town’s main website: featured content and calendar of events
Other promotional tools:
• Signs posted at community gathering areas and key intersections.
• Vehicle signage – car magnets on Town vehicles and available for the community
• Clickable banners at the bottom of Town emails
• Flyers/handouts at community gathering areas (e.g., schools, churches, HOA centers)
X X X
Promotion and meetings or events out in the community:
• Public meetings and open houses
• State of the Town
• Town Events
• At gathering areas or community organizations (e.g., parks or the library)
X X X
Ambassadors and advocates:
• Phase 1: Residents and/or representatives of all age groups, HOA, etc. that attend and/or speak at
events throughout the community. The aim is to invite the community to participate and gather
feedback for the General Plan process.
• Phase 3: Community volunteers and leaders whose purpose is to help advocate community
participation and “get out to vote.”
X X X
Educational updates via organizations’ emails and communications:
• Citizen blogs and social media groups (e.g., Let Oro Valley Excel or Take Back Oro Valley
• Homeowner associations (e-newsletters, meetings, etc.)
• OV Chamber of Commerce (e-newsletters and events)
• Schools (e-newsletters, school clubs, PTAs, etc.)
• Faith-based organizations (bulletins, e-newsletters, etc.)
• Community organizations (OV Historical Society, sports and recreation groups’ emails and events,
etc.)
• Other similar groups (AARP e-newsletter, etc.)
X X
Direct correspondence at key milestones and engagement opportunities
• Postcards mailed to HOAs, residents or all property owners at key points.
• Text messages to subscribers
X X
2. TARGETED ENGAGEMENT - All groups included in targeted engagement will be informed through the methods used for general
awareness. The tools provided below are specific ways to gather information and feedback for the G eneral Plan effort.
Priority 1 - Residents Phases
Objective: Work closely together with residents to involve and reach consensus on the community’s vision, values,
and goals and elements of the General Plan.
1. Let’s
Talk
2. Let’s
Talk
3. Make
it So!
Young Adults (18-24) Ambassadors
X X X
Phone and online surveys
Instant polling at meetings
Focus groups
School clubs, classes or presentations
Website
Committees X
Workforce (25-64) Ambassadors
X X X
Phone, online and print surveys
Instant polling at meetings
Website
Topic-based open houses / booths at events in the community (e.g., coffee shops,
restaurants, country club, community centers, schools, etc.) X
Booths at existing events and businesses X
Committees X
Older Adults (65+) Ambassadors
X X X
Phone, online and print surveys
Focus groups
Website
Topic-based open houses / booths at events in the community (e.g., coffee shops,
restaurants, country club, community centers, schools, etc.) X
Small group meetings at their locations X
Committees X
Priority 2: Field Experts and Community Groups/Organizations Phases
Objective: Work together with interested parties and field experts to share information and ideas. 1. Let’s
Talk
2. Let’s
Talk
3. Make
it So!
Development, Growth or
Housing Groups
Representation at their meetings or events
X X X
Neighborhood gatherings
Instant polling at meetings
Focus group meetings (e.g., with realtors, landowners and apartments)
Forums or Summits
Open houses or booths in community gathering areas
Committee participation X
Parks and Recreation
Groups
Representation at their meetings or events
X X X Instant polling at meetings
Focus group meetings
Committee participation X
Business and
Employment Groups
Representation at their meetings or events
X X X
Instant polling at meetings
Focus group meetings
Forums or summits
Open houses or booths at businesses
Committee participation X
Water Resource Groups Representation at their meetings or events
X X X Instant polling at meetings
Focus group meetings
Committee participation X
Environment and Open
Space Groups
Representation at their meetings or events
X X X Instant polling at meetings
Focus group meetings
Committee participation X
Public Health and Safety
Groups
Representation at their meetings or events
X X X Instant polling at meetings
Focus group meetings
Committee participation X
Arts and Culture Groups Representation at their meetings or events X X X Instant polling at meetings
Committee participation X
Transportation Groups Representation at their meetings X X X Instant polling at meetings
Committee participation X
Churches Representation at their events
X X X Instant polling at meetings
Member led booths at events or meetings
Focus groups
Committee participation X
Schools Representation at their events
X X X
Instant polling at meetings
Youth led booths at events or meetings
Focus groups with PTA, clubs, etc.
Ambassadors
Homeowner Associations Representation at their events
X X X Member led booths at events or meetings
Ambassadors
Other Community
Organizations
Representation at their events
X X X Instant polling at meetings
Member led booths at events or meetings
Priority 3 – Regulatory Groups Phases
Objective: Work with regulatory groups to gather information and consultation on goals, policies, and actions.
1. Let’s
Talk
2. Let’s
Talk
3. Make
it So!
Regulatory Groups Final review X X X Representation at their meetings or events
Committee participation X
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 18
VIII. Accessibility and Accommodations
When planning public and stakeholder meetings, small gatherings, focus groups and other
outreach activities, scheduling and location will be made as accessible and convenient as
possible while considering available resources by:
• In-person meetings and events will be held in locations accessible to people with
disabilities and near transit routes whenever possible.
• Outreach opportunities will be scheduled at different times, including non-traditional
business hours, and every effort will be made to avoid conflict with other community
activities.
• When possible, activities will be scheduled in conjunction with other Town or
community activities to maximize participation.
• Community engagement opportunities will occur in different areas throughout the
Town to reach as many people as possible.
• When applicable, online or hybrid meetings will be conducted.
• When possible, meetings and/or events will be recorded.
Every effort will be made to accommodate people with special needs who would like to participate.
Notifications for public meetings will include the following language or similar Town-approved
language:
“For accommodations, materials in accessible formats, foreign language interpreters
and/or materials in a language other than English, please contact [person] and [phone
number] or [email address] at least five business days in advance of this scheduled
event.”
Key information, such as a statistically valid survey will be made available in Spanish.
Additional Information related to the General Plan process will be made available in languages
other than English, as requested.
IX. Strategy for Community Engagement
All key elements used in the development of this Community Engagement Plan were reviewed and
discussed by the Community Engagement Advisory Group (CEAG). The result is a sound Plan with a
blend of up-to-date techniques to engage the public in a variety of methods including in person,
virtually, and in print with outreach efforts specifically intended to reach and inform more of the
community than were involved in prior efforts.
Three community engagement scenarios were developed containing increasing levels of community
outreach (base, intermediate and comprehensive). The CEAG reviewed the scenarios and
recommended their preferred community engagement methods and approach during their meeting
on February 16, 2023, shown below:
Consultant and Outside Services Quantity
Brand Development, Process, Meetings, Guidelines
Creative Materials, Displays, Templates
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 19
Editing, graphics and design
Research, compiling information, drafting and review
Interactive website
Video design
Statistically Valid Survey
Informal surveys
Advertising Quantity
NW Explorer Ad - Full Page
NW Explorer Ad - Half Page
NW Explorer Ad- Quarter Page
Digital ads
Water bill insert of paper survey
TV ads
Radio ads
OV Style ads
Vista Newsletters
E-newsletter (Town and stakeholder groups)
Social Media (Price to sponsor is included in digital ads)
Town Website
News releases
Banner on Town Emails
Promotion and Supplies Quantity
Ambassadors
New retractable banner stands
Retractable banner inserts for Town owned banner stands
Tablecloths
Branded shirts
Large magnets for Town vehicles
Booth Giveaways
Signage for streets and community gathering places
Printing and Mailing Quantity
Postcards
Materials printing
Postage
Meetings and Events Quantity
Instant Polling
Rental fees for space
Speaker in a box
Small Meetings (stakeholder group meetings, interviews and 1:1,
focus groups, school clubs, and Town dept. meetings)
Medium Meetings (Board/Commission workshops, neighborhood
gatherings, forums, summits, and open houses)
Committee Meetings
Stakeholder Meetings
Large Meetings or events (Kick-off, open houses, community events)
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 20
On (date), the Planning & Zoning Commission voted to recommend approval of the Community
Engagement Plan to the Oro Valley Town Council. The Community Engagement Plan was then
formally adopted by the Town Council on (date).
X. Accountability and Changes to the Community Engagement Plan
Accountability
The Community Engagement Plan was created by an advisory group with input from the
community. Accountability to implement the plan will be maintained and presented to
the community, including the advisory group throughout the process.
All community engagement methods will be documented for future use and understanding of
how the program was conducted, how the public responded and how the results of the
outreach were used in the development of the General Plan. Documentation will be updated
online throughout the process and include:
• The final adopted Community Engagement Plan
• Copies or links to information and educational materials.
• List of publicity obtained and, to the extent possible, copies of news articles, display ads,
etc.
• Summaries and recordings, when possible, of public and stakeholder meetings, focus
groups and small group gatherings to show outcomes.
To ensure that the process is inclusive and is achieving the Community Engagement
Plan goals, the following evaluation system will be utilized:
• Staff administering this Community Engagement Plan will review the effectiveness of
implementation on a regular basis to confirm it is meeting goals and the guiding principles
identified herein as well as the requirements mandated by state law.
• Updates on the Town’s progress in implementing the Community Engagement Plan will
be made to the Planning & Zoning Commission and Town Council at the end of each
phase.
• As part of the General Plan adoption process, a report will be presented to the Planning &
Zoning Commission and Town Council analyzing the results of public engagement efforts
at the end of the process.
Changes to the Community Engagement Plan
As the Town implements the Community Engagement Plan, flexibility is a necessary component.
Opportunities for feedback regarding community engagement activities will be provided through the
project website, surveys, social media, meetings, forums, open houses, and other methods
identified in this Plan. Feedback will be reviewed, and adjustments made where warranted.
This plan is a living document that may need to be changed to respond to lessons learned
during implementation. If one method proves more or less effective than another, resources
will be adjusted accordingly. Town Council will be informed of any significant changes to the
program.
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 21
Attachment #1 – Community Stakeholders in the General Plan Process
PRIMARY GROUP – WORK CLOSELY TOGETHER WITH RESIDENTS TO REACH CONSENSUS ON THE
COMMUNITY’S VISION, VALUES, AND GOALS.
Residents: Total Population: 47,070
• Older adults/retirees (65+): 34%
• Workforce (25-64): 42%
• Students (24 & under): 24%
• Total households: 20,754
o Households with children: 20%
o Households without children: 80%
o Households with people 60+: 60%
• Hispanic/Latino community
• Housing Choice voucher holders
• McKinney-Vento Act: Homeless people,
including those not living on the street.
• Casas Adobes area
• Veterans
• Part-time residents
• Retirement homes/assisted care
SECONDARY GROUPS – WORK TOGETHER TO SHARE INFORMATION AND IDEAS.
Development / Growth / Housing Groups
*Regulatory:
• Arizona Commerce Authority
• Arizona State Land Department (ASLD)
• Bureau of Land Management
• County and local planning departments
• Pima County Flood Control District
Other:
• Metropolitan Pima Alliance
• Southern Arizona Home Builders
Association (SAHBA)
• Home builders
• Tucson Association of Realtors
• Owners of vacant land – large and small
• Site selectors
• Consultant groups
• Arizona Multi-housing Association
• Arizona Housing Coalition
• Institute of Real Estate Management
• Homeowner Associations
Parks and Recreation Groups
*Regulatory:
• U.S. Forest Service
• National Park Service
• Arizona State Parks & Trails
• Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and
Recreation
• Santa Catalina Ranger District
• Catalina State Park
• Coronado National Forest
Other:
• Users of parks and rec facilities
• El Conquistador Country Club Golf
Association Governing Board
• Other boards affiliated with golf courses in
or adjacent to Oro Valley
• Southern AZ Hiking Club
• Representatives for The Loop
• Sports (including youth) groups.
• Tucson Off-Road Cycling & Activists (TORCA)
• Southern AZ Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery
• Bicycle clubs
• Running groups
• Visitors/Tourists
• Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 22
Water and Resources Groups
*Regulatory:
• Arizona Department of Water Resources
• Bureau of Reclamation
Other:
• Santa Cruz Watershed
• Sonoran Institute
• Tucson Water Department
• Metropolitan Water District
• Southern Arizona Leadership Council
(SALC)
• Arizona Department of Environmental
Quality (ADEQ)
Environment / Open Space Groups
*Regulatory:
• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
• Arizona Game and Fish Department
• Sonoran Desert Conservation Plan
• Arizona State Land Department
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Other:
• Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection
• Tucson Audubon Society
• Sonoran Institute
• Dark Skies Association
• Sierra Club
• Center for Biological Diversity
• Friends of Catalina State Park
Public Health and Safety Groups
*Regulatory:
• Pima County Health Department
Other:
• Oro Valley Police Department
• Oro Valley Hospital
• Medical Clinics
• Private Medical Practices
• Rural Metro and Golder Ranch Fire District
Business / Employment Groups
*Regulatory:
• Arizona Commerce Authority
Other:
• Sun Corridor Inc. (previously TREO)
• OV Chamber of Commerce
• Roche Tissue Diagnostics
• Amphitheatre Unified District
• Simpleview
• Oro Valley Hospital
• El Conquistador Tucson
• UA College of Veterinary Medicine
• Grocery and retail stores
• Employees
• Small or local businesses
Faith-Based Organizations
• St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church
• Saint Odelia Catholic Church
• Church of the Apostles
• Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene
• Oro Valley United Church of Christ
• St. Mark Catholic Church
• Pusch Ridge Christian Church
• Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
• Resurrection Lutheran Church
• Dove Mountain Lutheran Church
• St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
• Zion City Church – OV Campus
• Canyon Del Oro Bible Church
• Chabad of Oro Valley
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 23
• Vistoso Community Church
• King’s Cross Anglican Church
• North Valley Baptist Church
• Summit Ridge Community Church
Other Interest Groups
*Regulatory:
• Town of Oro Valley
• Amphitheater Unified District
• Marana Unified School District
• Town of Marana
• City of Tucson
• Catalina Coordinating Council
• Pima Council on Aging
• Worker Connection
Other:
• University of Arizona
• Pima Community College
• Oro Valley Rotary Club
• Oro Valley Optimist Club
• Catalina-Oro Valley Lions Club
• Oro Valley Citizen Advisory Boards and
Commissions
• Let Oro Valley Excel (LOVE) Blog
• Take Back Oro Valley
• Public libraries and patrons
• Friends of the Pima County Public Library
• Oro Valley Democrat and Republican
organizations
• YMCA
• Jewish Federation Northwest
• Charitable organizations in OV
• AARP
• TEP
• Community Foodbank of Southern AZ
• TV and Radio Stations
• Bond holders
• Senior centers
• Special groups or associations
• Rotary, Lions and Kiwanis Clubs
Schools
• Casas Christian School
• Wilson K-8th School
• Pusch Ridge Christian Academy
• Basis Oro Valley
• Ironwood Ridge High School
• Canyon del Oro High School
• Painted Sky Elementary School
• Immaculate Heart Academy
• Resurrection Lutheran Child Development
Center
• La Canada KinderCare
• Leman Academy Oro Valley
• Innovation Academy Oro Valley
• UA College of Veterinary Medicine
• Nearby schools outside of OV (e.g., Cross
Middle School)
• Kids and students
• PTOs
• Sports teams
• Student Councils
• Government classes
• Topic related clubs (e.g., environment or
art clubs)
Arts and Culture Groups
• Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance
(SAACA)
• Oro Valley Historical Society
• Santa Cruz Valley Heritage Alliance
• Tohono Chul Gardens/Galleries and Bistro
• Tourism groups
• Southern AZ Arts Guild
• Sun City of Oro Valley
• OV Theatre Company
2/16/2023 Community Engagement Plan Page 24
Transportation Groups
*Regulatory:
• Pima Association of Governments (PAG)
• Regional Transportation Authority (RTA)
• Arizona Department of Transportation
(ADOT)
• Pima and Pinal County Departments of
Transportation
Other:
• Tucson Airport Authority
• Living Streets Alliance
• Amtrak Tucson Station
• SunTran
* Regulatory groups will be consulted with to gather input on goals and policies as required by state
law.
Di s c u s s i o n ab o u t t h e Co m m u n i t y En g ag em en t Su r v ey Res u l t s
Current Notification Methods Preferred Notification Methods Community Engagement Methods
2026 Gen er al Pl an Co m m u n i t y En g ag em en t A d v i s o r y Gr o u p Meet i n g #3
Outreach at local
parks or other
community spaces
is valueable to get
younger people
involved
Surprised by
the low
ranking of
social media
Email may only be
highly ranked
because it was
selected by the
respondents.
Consider methods for
people who did not
take the survey.
Mailers are
important for
reaching
audiences.
Text messaging
is a new and
valuable way to
engage in quick
and easy
fashion
Email is likely
substantial
because younger
residents are
underrepresented
Signs are
important
for
notification
The vista
newsletter and
HOA newsletters,
Nextdoor, need to
have media
transparency
Surprising that
non-town social
media is
ranked highly
(Tier 1)
The amount of survey
responses seems low.
Consideration for
those that did not
participate needs to be
reflected in the
Community
Engagement Plan
Concern about
accuracy of
messaging from
non-Town sources
(e.g., social
media)
Surprised by the
high percentage
of people that
get info via the
Town's website
Low number that
get info via the
vista considering it
is mailed to
everyone with the
water bill
Interesting difference
between popularity of
tools. Specifically
between ones you have
to search for vs. ones
that are sent directly
(e.g. the website and
Vista Newsletter)
Social media
is critical to
reach
younger
audiences
Distinct
delineation
between those
who use print
vs. digital
A high
percentage of
info is from
HOA
newsletters
Surprised by the
Explorer ranking
high considering
the limited
coverage.
Bias with
survey results
due to the
sample not
being random
Ways to
reach new
people in
the town
Need to reach
younger audiences
(children and
young adults)
through new or
different methods)
1-5 year residents
are likely motivated,
new homeowners,
but we don't know
their previous
engagement levels in
other communities
Screening
demographics,
specifically residency
should be done with
the survey.
Specifically for
surveys conducted in
public places.
HOAs are
an ideal
venue
We should touch
base with survey
respondents
over the course
of the outreach
process
Focus on
residents, but
don't exclude
non-residents.
Snowbird
population is
important to include
and be aware of
when scheduling
community
outreach
Many people at
the farmers
markets are
coming from
out of town
The input from
non-residents is
still very valuable,
but must be
distinguished
separately
On l i n e In t h e c o m m u n i t y Co l l ab o r at i o n s
Vista
Newsletter
Town
Holiday
events
Explorer
Ads
News
releases
Gathering
areas in
the
community
Water
bill
inserts
Articles
Community
Speakers
Bureau
Public
meetings
Leadership
Bureau
State of
the
Town
Signs
Tractor/vehicle
signs
Interactive
Website
Social
Media
YouTube
Town
website
Town
email
lists
Media
release
OVPD:
Citizen
Academy
and
volunteers
Community
academy
OV
Style
ads
TV/Radio
Instagram
for youth
(not
twitter)
Make
materials
accessible to
everyone
(e.g. Spanish)
Electronic
billboard
for Town
campus
Flyers/ signs in
public places
and parks, Sun
City, community
center, library
Balloon
Provide ways
for people to
give input at
public
spaces
Citizen
blogs
Homeowner
Associations
Faith-based
organizations
OV
Chamber
of
Commerce
Schools
OV
Historical
Society
Recreation
and Sports
Clubs
Other
clubs
Monthly or
weekly
columns in
the Explorer
Schools or local
universities to
educate 18-25
on the general
plan importance
and process
Outreach in
the form of a
'civics day'
at schools
"Shock factor"
(view of the
mountains vs view
of tall building) to
get people
engaged
Chamber of
commerce to
involve
business
owners
Email
lists from
AARP
Dave Perry
and other
community
leaders
Educational
series as
part of the
outreach
Sponsored
Facebook
Posts
QR code on all
communications
to improve
access
Clickable
banner
from Town
staff emails
2026 Gen er al Pl an Co m m u n i t y En g ag em en t A d v i s o r y Gr o u p Meet i n g #3 Pu r p l e n o t es w er e ad d ed b y t h e ad v i s o r y g r o u p
OutreachOnline EngagementIn-personYo u t h (18-24)Wo r k f o r c e (25-64)Ol d er A d u l t s (65+)
Website
Info Videos
Social Media
E-newsletters
Ambassadors
Digital Ads
Print Ads
Online Surveys
Focus Groups
Committees
Small group meetings
Topic-based open
houses /booths in the
community
Online/hybrid meetings
Ot h er Id eas
Instant Polling
WORK TOGETHER CLOSELY to involve and reach consensus on the community's vision,
values and goals.
Provide
different
methods at
different
stages
Ensure a
statistically
valid survey
before general
plan is written
2026 Gen er al Pl an Co m m u n i t y En g ag em en t A d v i s o r y Gr o u p Meet i n g #3 Pu r p l e s t ar s w er e ad d ed b y t h e ad v i s o r y g r o u p
OutreachIn-personDev el o p m en t /
Ho u s i n g
Par k s an d
Rec r eat i o n
B u s i n es s /
Em p l o y m en t Wat er
En v i r o n m en t
an d Op en
Sp ac e
Heal t h an d
Saf et y
A r t s an d
Cu l t u r e Tr an s p o r t at i o n
Neighborhood
Gatherings
Committee
participation
Forum or summits
1:1 focus meetings
Ot h er Id eas
Instant Polling
WORK TOGETHER to share ideas and information.
Community
conversations on Your
Corner
At (their) events
Notify
landowners
with vacant
land
1:1 at
apartments and
shared locations
for multifamily
complexes f
Reach out to
realtors and
title
companies
Signs on
multi-use
paths
Reach out to
girl scouts
and boy
scouts
2026 Gen er al Pl an Co m m u n i t y En g ag em en t A d v i s o r y Gr o u p Meet i n g #3
Pu r p l e s t ar s w er e ad d ed b y t h e ad v i s o r y g r o u pOV
Chamber
mixers
OutreachOnline In-personCh u r c h es Sc h o o l s Ho m eo w n er
A s s o c i at i o n s
Ot h er
c o m m u n i t y
o r g an i zat i o n s
Focus meetings
Committee
participation
Ambassadors
Ot h er Id eas
Instant Polling
WORK TOGETHER to share ideas and information.
Member or youth led
booths at events/
meetings
E-blasts / Newsletters /
bulletins
Attendance at meetings
or events
Flyers / handouts at
locations
2026 Gen er al Pl an Co m m u n i t y En g ag em en t A d v i s o r y Gr o u p Meet i n g #3
Sports clubs,
meeting
them where
they are
PTA, school
groups/clubs
Ask PTA to
send items
home with
students
Presentations
at schools, with
information
and flyers
shared
There is no
master list of
PTAs in OV, but
are valuable for
survey blast
opportunities
Standardized
messaging
for PTAs,
HOAs, etc.
Retirement
homes in the
community
(newsletters)
Prepared
presentations
for community
members to
share with
others
Flyers and
more at
grocery
stores
Rotary,
Lions and
Kiwanis
clubs.
Work with
church
committees
Pu r p l e s t ar s w er e ad d ed b y t h e ad v i s o r y g r o u p
In-person or onlineReg u l at o r y
Gr o u p s
El ec t ed Of f i c i al s
/ L ead er s h i p
B o ar d s an d
Co m m i s s i o n s /
YA C
Pl an n i n g an d
Zo n i n g
Co m m i s s i o n
Meetings and
Workshops
1:1 interviews
Committee
Participation
Instant Polling
Inform, educate, involve and consult on goals, policies, and actions.
Regular updates
Study sessions or
public hearings
Final review
Pu r p l e s t ar s w er e ad d ed b y t h e ad v i s o r y g r o u p
2026 Gen er al Pl an Co m m u n i t y En g ag em en t A d v i s o r y Gr o u p Meet i n g #3
D R A F T
MINUTES
JOINT STUDY SESSION WITH THE FOLLOWING BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS:
TOWN COUNCIL, BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT, BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMISSION, HISTORIC
PRESERVATION COMMISSION, PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD, PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION, STORMWATER UTILITY COMMISSION, WATER UTILITY COMMISSION, YOUTH ADVISORY
COUNCIL
February 9, 2023
ORO VALLEY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11000 N. LA CAÑADA DRIVE
STUDY SESSION AT OR AFTER 6:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
Planning Manager Bayer Vella called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present:Kenna Brock, Youth Advisory Council
Amiya Lotun, Youth Advisory Council
Alexei Mendez, Youth Advisory Council
Faith Ryan, Youth Advisory Council
Jaden Wu, Youth Advisory Council
Thomas Gribb, Board of Adjustment
Joseph Affinati, Board of Adjustment
Jennifer Carr, Budget and Finance Commission
Heather Laird, Budget and Finance Commission
Michael Paul, Historic Preservation Commission
Gary Temple, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Joanne Moothart, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Philip Saletta, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Anna Clark, Planning and Zoning Commission
Skeet Posey, Planning and Zoning Commission
Joe Nichols, Planning and Zoning Commission
Kimberly Outlaw Ryan, Planning and Zoning Commission
Dan Sturmon, Planning and Zoning Commission
Jacob Herrington, Planning and Zoning Commission
Richard Hawkinson, Stormwater Utility Commission
Gary Mattson, Stormwater Utility Commission
Melanie Barrett, Town Council Vice Mayor
Harry Greene, Town Council
Joyce Jones-Ivey, Town Council
Joseph C. Winfield, Town Council Mayor
Absent:Jordan Adams, Youth Advisory Council
Gabby Ahlfield, Youth Advisory Council
Natalie DeSilva, Youth Advisory Council
Lauren Ernzen, Youth Advisory Council
Vincent Ferrara, Youth Advisory Council
Riley Goodwin, Youth Advisory Council
Matthew Kim, Youth Advisory Council
Christian Kirkland, Youth Advisory Council
George Li, Youth Advisory Council
Ryan Russel, Youth Advisory Council
Sameer Sandhu, Youth Advisory Council
Brooke Taylor, Youth Advisory Council
Jaden Wu, Youth Advisory Council
Stephen Roach, Board of Adjustment
Octavio Barcelo, Board of Adjustment
Helen Dankwerth, Board of Adjustment
Puntadeleste Bozeman, Historic Preservation Commission
Nicole Casaus, Historic Preservation Commission
Joan Pliego, Historic Preservation Commission
Ronald Scantlan, Historic Preservation Commission
Antonia Landau, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Cheryl Horvath, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Emily Veres, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
David Parker, Stormwater Utility Commission
William Thomas, Stormwater Utility Commission
Richard Crocker, Stormwater Utility Commission
David Atler, Water Utility Commission
Alan Forrest, Water Utility Commission
Naranjan Vescio, Water Utility Commission
Greg Hitt, Water Utility Commission
Staff Present:Milini Simms, Principal Planner
Bayer Vella, Planning Manager
STUDY SESSION AGENDA
1.DISCUSSION ONLY WITH TOWN COUNCIL, BOARD AND COMMISSION MEMBERS, YOUTH
ADVISORY COUNCIL AND PUBLIC ATTENDEES REGARDING COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
STRATEGIES FOR THE UPCOMING GENERAL PLAN
Planning Manager Bayer Vella provided a presentation that included the following:
- Schedule and meeting topics
- Discussion topics
- Recap of Meeting #2: Guiding Principles
- Recap of Meeting #2: Key Stakeholders
Principal Planner Milini Simms continued the presentation that included the following:
- Survey respondents
- Survey: topics of interest
- Survey: current notification methods (Ms. Simms led a discussion with the group to identify any
surprises from the survey results and what resonated most with them)
- Survey: preferred notification methods
- Survey: notification methods summary
- Survey: communication methods (Ms. Simms discussed the communication methods with the group
to generate ideas for the Community Engagement Plan)
- Survey: Engagement
- Proposed communication methods
- Exercise: Communication Methods (Ms. Simms facilitated an exercise to identify the best
communication methods to increase general awareness of the General Plan process and engage
specific resident age groups, field experts, community organizations and regulatory groups)
- Homework: Review working document (Ms. Simms discussed a homework assignment to review the
working Community Engagement Plan to make sure it captures the advisory groups' feedback. The
document will be discussed at the next meeting)
document will be discussed at the next meeting)
- Adjournment and next steps
ADJOURNMENT
Principal Planner Milini Simms adjourned the meeting at 7:43 p.m.
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the study session of the
2026 General Plan Community Engagement Advisory Group of Oro Valley, Arizona held on the 9th day of
February 2023.
___________________________
Jeanna Ancona
Senior Office Specialist