HomeMy WebLinkAboutPackets - 2026 General Plan Advisory Meetings (6)
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
September 28, 2023
ORO VALLEY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11000 N. LA CAÑADA DRIVE
OR BY ZOOM WEBINAR: https://orovalley.zoom.us/j/88361247374
To join by phone dial 1-669-900-6833
WEBINAR ID: 883 6124 7374
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 THE PROJECT IDENTITY, INCLUDING
THE NAME OF THE UPCOMING GENERAL PLAN
ADJOURNMENT
POSTED: 9/26/2023 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 Commission 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 Commission meeting at 229-4700.
2026 General Plan Community Engagement Advisory 1.
Meeting Date:09/28/2023
Requested by: Bayer Vella, Community and Economic Development
Case Number: Not Applicable
SUBJECT:
DISCUSSION ONLY WITH TOWN COUNCIL, BOARD AND COMMISSION MEMBERS, YOUTH ADVISORY
COUNCIL AND PUBLIC ATTENDEES REGARDING THE PROJECT IDENTITY, INCLUDING THE NAME OF THE
UPCOMING GENERAL PLAN
RECOMMENDATION:
This item is for discussion purposes only.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
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.
Last February, a resident advisory group, composed of board, commission, Council and youth advisory members
achieved the first milestone in the General Plan process by creating a Community Engagement Plan (Attachment
1). The Community Engagement Plan was not only adopted by the Town Council but also won an Arizona Chapter
- American Planning Association award for Best Public Outreach because it was built by residents through the
advisory group and a town-wide survey.
To continue with an inclusive and accessible process that prioritizes residents, the advisory group is now being
tasked with helping to form the project's identity. This includes the name, colors, logo, and tagline. On September
28 (Agenda is in Attachment 2), the advisory group will walk through an exercise to discuss:
What words describe Oro Valley?
What should the community feel or think when they see the General Plan?
How do you envision the "look" of the General Plan?
Staff and Gordley Group, a local marketing and community engagement specialist, will take the feedback from the
advisory group to create a cohesive brand that exemplifies the Community Engagement Plan's guiding
principles. The results of this effort will be presented to the advisory group on October 16 and the broader
community later in October.
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
All aspects of the General Plan, including the name, must be transformed from an esoteric technical planning tool
into an effort for residents and stakeholders to take ownership of and further develop. Community participation is
critical to the plan’s success and longevity. Therefore, the project identity must resonate with the community
and encourage participation.
To achieve this, all members of the 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
Stormwater Utility Commission
Water Utility Commission
Youth Advisory Council
The final product of the advisory group is the General Plan's name, logo, tagline and other branding elements. The
results of this effort will be presented to the community during the public kick-off in October.
DISCUSSION:
The Community Engagement Plan (Attachment 1) provides the foundation for the upcoming General Plan effort. It
includes guiding principles, or must-do's, that must be reflected during all aspects of the process, including the
project's identity.
The guiding principles include:
Be Inclusive and Prioritize Community Input
Ensure that community engagement for all residents remains the highest priority and provides
opportunities for everyone to be involved and share their input.
Plan for a variety of outreach options—including meeting people at places they already frequent—to
reach a broad range of audiences, especially those who aren’t typically engaged.
Be Engaging and Effective
Make outreach efforts sincere, creative, collaborative, interactive and fun.
Be intentional, with clearly stated objectives and messaging.
Be Organized, Efficient and Timely
Maximize the use of existing resources and add resources that improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Provide regular public updates throughout the General Plan development process.
Be Fair and Open
Provide a comprehensive and equitable process that yields meaningful, purposeful and authentic
results.
Provide Understandable and Accessible Information
Utilize open communication and transparency to show results and impact.
Ensure information and opportunities are accessible to all geographical areas of the community and to
residents of all ages and abilities.
Meeting on September 28
Using the principles as a guide, the advisory group will gain an understanding and discuss key components of the
project's brand. The advisory group's role is focused on the broader concepts that will invoke community ownership
and participation in the next General Plan process. The meeting will provide an opportunity to further develop some
of the ideas and unique perspectives about the community previously shared through a short survey that was
administered to all advisory group members. The group will walk through an exercise to discuss:
What words describe Oro Valley?
What should the community feel or think when they see the General Plan?
How do you envision the "look" of the General Plan?
The agenda for the meeting is included in Attachment 2.
Next Steps:
Staff and Gordley Group will take the feedback received from the meeting and short survey to create a cohesive
project identity. The project identity will be presented to the advisory group on October 16.
FISCAL IMPACT:
NA
SUGGESTED MOTION:
This item is for discussion only.
Attachments
Attachment 1 - Community Engagement Plan
Attachment 2 - Agenda
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PLAN
FOR THE ORO VALLEY
2026 GENERAL PLAN
March 2023
Community Engagement Plan
2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Oro Valley Town Council
Mayor Joseph Winfield
Vice Mayor Melanie Barret
Councilmember Tim Bohen
Councilmember Harry Greene
Councilmember Joyce Jones-Ivey
Councilmember Josh Nicolson
Councilmember Steve Solomon
Planning & Zoning Commission
Jacob Herrington, Chair
Joseph Nichols, Vice Chair
Commissioner Anna Clark
Commissioner Kim Outlaw-Ryan
Commissioner Skeet Posey
Commissioner Dan Sturmon
Advisory Group Members
All Town Council, board and commission members were invited to participate in the advisory group.
Special thanks to the following contributors:
Board of Adjustment
Joseph Affinati • Thomas Gribb • Stephen Roach
Budget and Finance Commission
James Beasley* • Jennifer Carr
John Fortunato • Heather Laird
Historic Preservation Commission
Auvie Lee • Michael Paul • Joan Pliego
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Joanne Moothart • Phillip Saletta
Gary Temple • Matthew Wood
Planning and Zoning Commission
Hal Bergsma* • Anna Clark • Jacob Herrington
Joseph Nichols • Kim Outlaw-Ryan • Skeet Posey
Dan Sturmon
Stormwater Utility Commission
Richard Hawkinson • Gary Mattson
Water Utility Commission
Kay Lantow • Tom Marek
Youth Advisory Council
Kennedy Blanchard • Kenna Brock • Liam DaDeppo
Tanish Doshi • Riley Goodwin • Elena Hendrix
Emma Kim • Allison Kuester • George Li • Amiya Lotun
Alexei Mendez • Faith Ryan • Jaden Wu
Town Council
Mayor Joseph Winfield • Vice Mayor Melanie Barret
Councilmember Tim Bohen • Councilmember Harry Greene
Councilmember Joyce Jones-Ivey
Councilmember Josh Nicolson
Councilmember Steve Solomon
*Terms ended during this process.
Community Engagement Plan
3
I. Introduction ...............................................................................................................4
I. Purpose ......................................................................................................................6
III. Creating the Community Engagement Plan .................................................................8
IV. Changes in the Community .......................................................................................10
V. Community Engagement Guiding Principles ..............................................................12
VI. Key Stakeholders ......................................................................................................13
VII. Communication Methods and Techniques ................................................................14
VIII. Accessibility and Accommodations ...........................................................................21
IX. Strategy for Community Engagement ........................................................................22
X. Accountability and Changes to the Community Engagement Plan .............................24
Attachment #1 – Community Stakeholders in the General Plan Process ...........................25
Attachment #2 – Terms & Definitions for Community Engagement Methods ...................30
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Community Engagement Plan
4
I. INTRODUCTION
The Town of Oro Valley is preparing for the 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
in 2026.
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, composed of Town Council, board, and commission
members, 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
6. Ratification: A community outreach education campaign resulting in informed voting on the updated
General Plan by Town voters.
Community Engagement Plan
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.
• Instill a high level of confidence to prioritize completion of identified General Plan action items over the
next ten years.
• Help translate intensive community awareness and involvement into a high voter approval margin
results in 2026.
Understanding what residents’ concerns are and the aspirations they hold for their community are essential to the
success of the General Plan process. Using the Community Engagement Plan as a guide will promote a sense of
community ownership ultimately resulting 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 and shape Oro Valley’s future.
Community Engagement Plan
6
II. PURPOSE
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
An Arizona state law known as the Growing Smarter Act mandates community planning. In terms of process,
Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) 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 new 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
Community Engagement Plan
7
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 resonate with
the community and are 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
• 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
Community Engagement Plan
8
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 a public survey promoted to residents throughout the month of January 2023. The
result is a sound Community Engagement Plan with proven techniques to engage stakeholders as well as new
methods to reach and involve more of the community. The CEAG comprised members of the Town Council and the
following Town of Oro Valley 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 Community Engagement Advisory Group (CEAG), February 2023
Community Engagement Plan
9
The Oro Valley residents who formed the advisory group were tasked with shaping 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 identified 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
• Collaborated to create customized community engagement strategy
• Achieved consensus on the community engagement plan
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:
• The Town’s Vista Newsletter
• Explorer Newspaper print ad and article
• Social media
• Citizen blogs and social media posts
• Direct emails to Community Academy graduates and stakeholder groups
• Rancho Vistoso Newsletter and other HOAs
• The Town’s Boards and Commissions
The Community Engagement Survey was completed by 706 people. The overall results have a precision of at least
+/- 3.7 percent at the 95 percent confidence level (meaning there is 95 percent 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 survey takeaways include:
• Notification methods: Residents currently receive information about Town programs and events
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 be 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 advisory group incorporated the survey results to create the primary components of this plan. This includes
the communication methods, tools and an engagement strategy that was selected from multiple options. The
group achieved consensus on the engagement strategy and plan that will be considered by the Planning and Zoning
Commission on March 7 and the Town Council on March 15, 2023.
Community Engagement Plan
10
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 thousands of
comments, numerous events and committee meetings (see
graphic). This resulted in a plan that resonated with the
community and was supported by 71 percent 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.
The recent survey conducted in January 2023 indicated that
307 of the 709 survey respondents did not participate in
the 2016 General Plan process. Of those 307 indviduals, 55
percent were not Oro Valley residents at the time, and 40
percent were unaware of the General Plan. This provides an
opportunity to increase awareness and transparency of the
General Plan effort.
DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGES
Oro Valley’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 a
slightly lower percentage of family households 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%
Not Hispanic or Latino 36,401 39,374 8%
Source: U.S. 2020 Census
Community Engagement Plan
11
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
more than 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
• 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 that 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
Community Engagement Plan
12
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 broadly-supported and more sustainable
decisions.
The advisory group established the following guiding principles for community engagement. These 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
• Ensure that community engagement for all residents remains the highest priority and provides
opportunities for everyone to be involved and share their input.
• Plan for a variety of outreach options—including meeting people at places they already
frequent—to reach a broad range of audiences, especially those who aren’t typically engaged.
• Be Engaging and Effective
• Make outreach efforts sincere, creative, collaborative, interactive and fun.
• Be intentional, with clearly stated objectives and messaging.
• Be Organized, Efficient and Timely
• Maximize the use of existing resources and add resources that improve efficiency and
effectiveness.
• Provide regular public updates throughout the General Plan development process.
• Be Fair and Open
• Provide a comprehensive and equitable process that yields meaningful, purposeful and
authentic results.
• Provide Understandable and Accessible Information
• Utilize open communication and transparency to show results and impact.
• Ensure information and opportunities are accessible to all geographical areas of the community
and to residents of all ages and abilities.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Inclusivity Inclusive of all ages Inclusive Inclusive of all rep-resented groups
All age groups are included
Disabled are includ-ed Inclusion Diversity Inclusive Diverse Enlists participation by citizens Outreach
must be
inclusive to
reach a broad
and diverse
audience
Includes people from all parts of the community
No one feels left out
Find people who do not normally get involved
Inclusive Broad Diverse
Includes different demographics and regions
Reaches all ages Inclusive of all rep-resented groups
Includes all stake-holders
Who-Level of ParticipationInvolves as many people as possible
Everyone is included High participation There is opportunity for involve-ment
Public involvement
Space for unheard members of the com-munity
Covers everyone Everyone can provide input
Focus on OV residents
High % of the population is included
Public
involvement
is the highest
priority and
must include
everyone
in the
community.
Participants are invested in the community
Focus on HOA to encourage participa-tion
Available to all Everyone is involved Participa-tion is high Many people participate
People have gone through the development process
People live here and invested in the community
Community Engagement Advisory Group Meeting #2
Community Engagement Plan
13
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 regulatory
agencies. The Community Engagement Advisory Group refined the list of stakeholders by reviewing those identified
during the last General Plan process and updating the list to ensure an inclusive process
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 opportunities
for community involvement.
The advisory group also 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, goals and
elements of the General Plan.
• Young adults (16-24)
• Workforce (25-64)
• 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.
• Parks and Recreation Groups
• Water and Resources Groups
• Environment / Open Space Groups
• Public Health and Safety Groups
• Business / Employment Groups
• Development / Growth / Housing
Groups
• Faith-Based Organizations
• Schools
• Arts and Culture Groups
• Transportation Groups
• 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.
• Government agencies (State, local, etc.)
• Regional jurisdictions
All boards, commissions, advisory groups and councilmembers will be routinely updated throughout the General
Plan process and invited to participate in all the engagement methods described in the following section.
Community Engagement Plan
14
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 a greater
likelihood of voter support. Building a General Plan that
stays relevant as it guides Town decisions over the next
10-years must also be is reflective of the community’s
broad range of demographics.
To provide ample opportunity for residents and
stakeholders to participate, a variety of communication
methods and techniques will be employed. Singular
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, ensuring
participation by Oro Valley’s diverse age demographics.
By ensuring opportunities are welcoming and convenient,
the pool of participants will be expanded. To that end,
social media tools and small gatherings in convenient
locations are key engagement 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 defined
• 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
Purple stars were
added by the
advisory group
Youth
(18-24)
Workforce
(25-64)
Older
Adults
(65+)OutreachAmbassadors
Digital Ads
Print Ads
Online EngagementWebsite
Info Videos
Social Media
Online Surveys
E-newsletters
Online/hybrid
meetings
In-personFocus Groups
Committees
Instant Polling
Topic-based
open houses/
booths in the
community
Small group
meetings
Community Engagement Advisory Group Meeting #3,
purple stars added by group
Community Engagement Plan
15
The tables on the following pages include a toolbox of recommended methods and techniques, with the
corresponding target audiences. The methods are broken out between general awareness efforts and those
that are intended to target and engage 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.
Community Engagement Plan
16
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.
Let’s
Talk
Let’s
Think
Make it
So!
General Plan interactive website/web page 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
Informational 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:
For example: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and/or Nextdoor.
X X X
Advertisements placed at various levels throughout the
process:
Print and digital ads in the following publications:
• Explorer Newspaper
• Sun City Tipster
• Digital ads and sponsored social media posts
• Vista Newsletter
• Water Utility bill inserts (through mail and email)
• Oro Valley Style Magazine
X X X
Articles or interviews to educate and celebrate key
milestones:
• Vista Newsletter
• Pitch stories to media outlets, including print,
television and radio
X X X
Other Town resources to provide updates at key milestones:
• Media releases
• Parks and Recreation email blast
• Oro Valley Police Department Citizen Academy and
volunteers
• Community Academy graduates
• Town’s main website: featured content and calendar
of events
X X X
1. GENERAL AWARENESS FOR ALL STAKEHOLDER GROUPS
Community Engagement Plan
17
Other potential 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 events and
gatherings
X X X
Promotion at meetings or events out in the community:
• Public meetings and open houses
• State of the Town Address
• Town events
• At gathering areas or community organizations (e.g.,
parks or the library)
X X X
Ambassadors and advocates:
• Phases 1 and 2: Residents and/or representatives of
all age groups, HOA, etc. who 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 the 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
X X
Direct correspondence at key milestones and engagement
opportunities
• Postcards mailed to all homeowners and/or voters
• Text messages to subscribers
X X
Community Engagement Plan
18
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.
Let’s
Talk
Let’s
Think
Make it
So!
Young Adults
(18-24)
Ambassadors X X X
Phone and online surveys X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Focus groups X X X
School clubs, classes or presentations X X X
Website X X X
Committees X
Workforce
(25-64)
Ambassadors X X X
Phone, online and print surveys X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Website X X X
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 X
Committees X
Older Adults
(65+)
Ambassadors X X X
Phone, online and print surveys X X X
Focus groups X X X
Website X X X
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 X
Committees 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 potential ways to gather information and feedback for the General Plan effort.
Community Engagement Plan
19
Priority 2: Field Experts and Community Groups/
Organizations PHASES
Objective: Work together with interested parties and field
experts to share information and ideas.
Let’s
Talk
Let’s
Think
Make it
So!
Development,
Growth or
Housing
Groups
Representation at their meetings or events X X X
Neighborhood gatherings X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Focus group meetings (e.g., with realtors,
landowners and apartments)X X X
Forums or Summits X X X
Open houses or booths in community gathering
areas X X X
Committee participation X
Parks and
Recreation
Groups
Representation at their meetings or events X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Focus group meetings X X X
Committee participation X
Business and
Employment
Groups
Representation at their meetings or events X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Focus group meetings X X X
Forums or summits X X X
Open houses or booths at businesses X X X
Committee participation X
Water
Resource
Groups
Representation at their meetings or events X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Focus group meetings X X X
Committee participation X
Environment
and Open
Space Groups
Representation at their meetings or events X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Focus group meetings X X X
Committee participation X
Public Health
and Safety
Groups
Representation at their meetings or events X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Focus group meetings X X X
Committee participation X
Community Engagement Plan
20
Arts and
Culture
Groups
Representation at their meetings or events X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Committee participation X
Transportation
Groups
Representation at their meetings X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Committee participation X
Churches
Representation at their events X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Member led booths at events or meetings X X X
Focus groups X X X
Committee participation X
Schools
Representation at their events X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Youth led booths at events or meetings X X X
Focus groups with PTA, clubs, etc. X X X
Ambassadors X X X
Homeowner
Associations
Representation at their events X X X
Member led booths at events or meetings X X X
Ambassadors X X X
Other
Community
Organizations
Representation at their events X X X
Instant polling at meetings X X X
Member led booths at events or meetings X X X
Priority 3 – Regulatory Groups PHASES
Objective: Work with regulatory groups to gather
information and consult on goals, policies, and
actions.
Let’s
Talk
Let’s
Think
Make it
So!
Regulatory
Groups
Final review X X X
Representation at their meetings or events X X X
Committee participation X
Community Engagement Plan
21
VIII. ACCESSIBILITY AND ACCOMMODATIONS
When planning public and stakeholder meetings, small gatherings, focus groups and other outreach activities,
opportunities will be made as accessible and convenient as possible while considering available resources. For
example:
• In-person meetings and events will be held in locations accessible to people with disabilities and
whenever possible
• Outreach opportunities will be scheduled at different times, including non-traditional business hours
such as weekend and evening events, 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. Opportunities will be actively mapped and evaluated throughout the process
to ensure equitable distribution, balance and inclusion.
• When applicable, online or hybrid meetings will be conducted
• When possible, meetings and/or events will be recorded
• When possible, QR codes will be printed on marketing material that guides people to the website,
survey, etc.
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.
Community Engagement Plan
22
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, in print and
online, 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 selected
and customized their preferred strategy
during their meeting on February 16,
2023, as shown below:
Consultant Services and Website Quantity
Brand development ✓
Creative materials, displays, templates ✓
Design and publishing of General Plan ✓
Research, compiling information, drafting and review ✓
Marketing/Media planning, strategy, placement ✓
Community engagement, strategy, planning and project administration ✓
Interactive website 1
Consultant designed video 2
Statistically valid survey 1
Advertising Quantity
Explorer Newspaper Ad - Full Page 1
Explorer Newspaper Ad - Half Page 3
Explorer Newspaper Ad - Quarter Page 20
Digital advertising schedules 3
Water Utility bill insert 1
OV Style Magazine ads 4
Strategy for Community Engagement
Has everything you want
Has a good mix w/out overloading
Probably the best compromise
A good increase from the base last time
Good compromise w/ good engagement
Comprehensive is too big of a jump (base was successful last time)
Increase population = increased costs
Midterm election as well. So good compromise
Good compro-mise but need some compre-hensive level supplies
Better, more services for the money
Jump in price manageable from Base to Intermediate
Good value, but large difference between this and compre-hensive costs
Good balance, but be judicious
Opportunity to re-evaluate if things should change or not workout
Community Engagement Advisory Group Meeting #4
Community Engagement Plan
23
Vista Newsletter Multiple
E-newsletter (Town and stakeholder groups)Multiple
Social media (Price to sponsor is included in digital ads)Ongoing
Town website Ongoing
Media releases Multiple
Banner on Town emails Ongoing
Info videos 10
Informal paper or online surveys 10
Text messaging (to people opted in)Y
Promotion and Supplies Quantity
Ambassador rewards and incentives 48
New retractable banner stands 1
Retractable banner inserts for Town-owned banner stands 2
Tablecloths 2
Branded polo shirts or sweatshirts 175
Advertising on Town vehicles 60
Event promotional items (stickers, pens, small car magnets)5000
Signage for streets and community gathering places 24
Printing and Mailing Quantity
Postcards mailers 3*
Materials printing 3.5 years
* Two mailers to all households and 1 mailer to registered voters only.
Meetings and Events Quantity
Instant polling 3.5 years
Rental fees for space 3
Speaker in a box 24
Small meetings (stakeholder group meetings, interviews and 1:1, focus groups, school clubs,
and Town dept. meetings)20
Medium-sized meetings (Board/Commission workshops, neighborhood gatherings, forums,
summits, and open houses)35
Committee meetings 36
Stakeholder meetings 20
Large meetings or events (Kick-off, open houses, community events)39
Personnel and Training Quantity
Senior Planner (Temporary position)✓
Office Specialist (PT- temporary position)✓
Training ✓
Community Engagement Plan
24
X. ACCOUNTABILITY AND CHANGES TO THE COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT PLAN
ACCOUNTABILITY
The Community Engagement Plan was created by an advisory group with input from other residents through
their participation in an online survey. Throughout the process, accountability for plan implementation will be
maintained and presented to the community and the advisory group.
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 will include:
• The final adopted Community Engagement Plan
• Copies or links to information and educational materials
• List of earned media/publicity obtained and, to the extent possible, links to or copies of news articles,
stories, 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 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 will be 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.
Community Engagement Plan
25
ATTACHMENT #1 – COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDERS IN THE
GENERAL PLAN PROCESS
Priority 1 - Work closely together with residents to involve and reach consensus on the community’s vision,
values, goals and elements of the General Plan.
Residents: Total Population: 47,070
Older adults/retirees (65+): 34%
Workforce (25-64): 42%
Students (24 & under): 24%
Total households: 20,754
Households with children: 20%
Households without children: 80%
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 living
Priority 2 - Work together with interested parties and field experts to share ideas and information.
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
Community Engagement Plan
26
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)
Arizona Heroes Memorial
Friends of Pusch Ridge
Oro Valley Sports Alliance
Southern AZ Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery
Bicycle clubs
Running groups
Visitors/Tourists
Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists
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
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
Preserve Vistoso
Community Engagement Plan
27
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)
Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
Roche Tissue Diagnostics
Amphitheater 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
Vistoso Community Church
King’s Cross Anglican 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
North Valley Baptist Church
Summit Ridge Community Church
Community Engagement Plan
28
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 Oro Valley 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 Cañada 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)
Community Engagement Plan
29
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 Arizona Arts Guild
Sun City of Oro Valley
Oro Valley Theatre Company
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
* Priority 3 - Work with regulatory groups to gather information and consult on goals, policies, and actions.
Community Engagement Plan
30
ATTACHMENT #2 – TERMS & DEFINITIONS FOR COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT METHODS
Ambassadors: A community member who acts as a
representative or promoter of the project.
Boards & Commissions Workshops: Individual
sessions with all Town boards and commissions
to invite participation, identify issues and review
General Plan items. Topics will be oriented toward
the specific focus of each board and commission.
Committee(s): Each committee comprises Oro
Valley residents and is categorized by specific topic
areas. Committees are responsible for reviewing
drafts developed by staff.
Citizen Academy: A cohort of citizens that participates
in a twelve-week program that provides them
information about Oro Valley’s Police Department
to dispel suspicions and misconceptions within
the community and provide officers and staff with
feedback and concerns.
Community Academy: An educational program
that provides residents with the opportunity
to learn more about their community and local
government.
Community Engagement: A general category of
methods used to engage the larger community for
sharing and receiving information. Also known as
Community Outreach and Public Participation.
E-Newsletters: An electronic report containing
news updates provided by a particular agency or
group.
Focus Group(s): Group meetings convened to
discuss topics with special training and interest in a
specific topic.
Informal Surveys: Surveys that are created to
directly gather input at specific events or online by
self-selected respondents.
Instant Polling Tool: A program that supplies quick,
informal polls or surveys that can be used to gauge
understanding at various points during the learning
or engagement process.
Interactive Website: A site that promotes
interactions with users. Rather than a traditional
website that is more of a one-way form of
communicating information, an interactive
website encourages two-way communication
and engagement among visitors using interactive
elements.
Neighborhood Gatherings: Neighborhood block
meetings organized by interested residents.
Ambassadors or staff members will initiate
discussions regarding the vitality of the community.
Media/News Release: Media alerts to invite
participation and share important milestones in the
process.
Newspaper Article: Articles inviting participation,
analysis of key community issues and reporting
general plan update progress.
Open House: Opportunity for residents to meet
with staff and community leaders to discuss quality
of life issues and/or elements of a draft General
Plan.
Orovalleyaz.gov: The Town’s primary website,
which will be used to display General Plan
information, meeting announcements and
background reports.
Paid Newspaper Ad (e.g. Explorer, OV Style):
Paid or sponsored print advertising to increase
participation in event, meeting, survey and web-
based discussion opportunities.
Pitched Stories: A story idea sent to a news
reporter or media outlet intended to convince
them to publish a story on the topic or subject
described.
Ratify/Ratification: Voters’ formal consent of the
Town’s adoption of the General Plan through a
general election ballot measure, which makes the
adoption valid and allows the Town to implement
the plan.
Community Engagement Plan
31
Postcards: Mailed cards to invite participation in
events, electronic surveys and voter ratification.
Public Meetings: An established way for people
to come together to express their opinions, hear a
public speaker or proposed plan, engage in shared
learning about a topic, or work together to develop
solutions. Public meetings do not have to follow
any specific script or agenda.
Social Media: Web-based platforms that provide
for content creation and information sharing,
which will be used to invite residents to participate
and share input. Also, notices and updates may be
posted to inform and collect comments.
Stakeholder Meeting(s): Staff meeting(s) with key
stakeholders to discuss potential issues or concern.
State of the Town Address: An annual event of
approx. 650 attendees and hosted by the Oro
Valley Chamber of Commerce, at which the Oro
Valley Mayor provides an update on the Town. The
event attracts a broad cross-section of community
leaders and stakeholders.
Surveys in the Explorer Newspaper: Published
(printed) survey to identify community values and
needs that respondents mail back to the Town. The
aim is to reach a broader audience than can be
anticipated at meetings.
Targeted Digital Ads: A web-based advertisement
that is served to a specific audience, which could
be a particular demographic, a group or an
individual.
Targeted Participation: Methods used to “target”
specific community groups, locations, and/or
topics; rather than the community as a whole.
Technical Reports: Baseline information such as
census or housing data to use in decision-making.
Town Department Review: Internal review process
involving Town agencies to ensure timeliness and
validity.
Town Hall I: Project Kick-off & Future Search:
A large event for residents to define project
objectives, invite participation and discuss quality
of life issues.
Traveling Mobile Display: An informational display
booth to be used at various events throughout the
process.
Vista Newsletter: Monthly newsletter published by
the Town of Oro Valley. It is distributed in hard copy
form as a Water Utility bill insert, posted online and
emailed to a subscriber list.
Voter Education Postcards or Newsletter: Mailer
used to describe the General Plan ballot measure.
Water Utility Bill Inserts: A printed piece of
collateral inserted in monthly OV Water Utility bills.
2026 General Plan Community Engagement Advisory Group
Meeting #5, Thursday, September 28 at 6PM
Town Hall – Council Chambers
1. Welcome and introductions 6:00 PM
2. Purpose of the General Plan and
Importance of Community Engagement 6:10 PM
3. Creating a project identity 6:20 PM
4. Project identity Exercise and Discussion 6:30 PM
5. Summary of discussion and last thoughts 7:40 PM
6. Next Steps and Adjournment 7:55 PM