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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPackets - Council Packets (1446)Stine, Michelle From: Randall, Diana Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 10:17 AM To: Standish, Michael; Stine, Michelle Subject: FW: Canadian for Pusch Ridge! Please see below for constituent comments. Sincerely, Diana Randall Executive :assistant Town Manager, Mayor and Council From: DeeAnn Leuzinger Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 10:01 AM To: Winfield, Joe <jwinfield@orovalleyaz.gov>; Jacobs, Mary <mjacobs@orovalleyaz.gov>; Town Council <cou nci I @o rova I leyaz.gov> Cc: Donna Gustafson Subject: Canadian for Pusch Ridge! This e-mail is a plea from a Canadian snowbird who has played golf at Pusch Ridge since vacationing in Tucson beginning in 2005. We thoroughly enjoyed bringing guests who visited us to enjoy the challenge & beauty of this spectacular course. I have been fortunate to be a member of the Ladies Quail Golf League since the Fall of 2015 & have faithfully golfed there every Tuesday for the 5 months we vacation in Tucson and am very anxious to return once the U.S./Canada border opens to the public. I implore the people making decisions to rethink the closing of this picturesque course. It is truly an attraction and unique landmark for the city of Tucson. Thank you. Sincerely, Donna Gustafson, Fort Frances, Ontario, Canada CA Sent from my Pad National Golf Foundation facts: 15 "Percent increase in nine -hole rounds as a percentage of total rounds. Has the coronavirus changed golfer behavior? It seems like it has. The NGF hypothesized that there is an uptick in the so-called "Emergency 9" where golfers squeeze in a round before or after work. Despite the workforce reportedly spending longer hours at their computers than ever, schedules have more flexibility and many commutes have been eliminated altogether, leading to the overall increase. So just how often do golfers play nine holes instead of 18? For "core golfers," some 33 percent of total rounds are nine -hole affairs. But "occasional golfers" stick to nine more often to the tune of 48 percent. Speaking of which ... The Emergency Nine Have you gotten out to play nine holes in recent months? If so, you're not alone. Golf course operators report that afternoon and evening tee times have been popular, which seems right given that Covid-19 has changed the contours of the work day for many. Sorting through recent golf participation and engagement research, the number of short loops (as a percentage of total loops) is up over 15% in 2020. Core golfers report that 33% of their rounds this year have been of the nine -hole variety, while occasional golfers tell us that nearly half (48%) are playing nine holes. This will be seen as good news by many, especially the USGA given their PLAY9 initiative, and would indicate that the "time barrier" to golf is being overcome by more golfers. We've talked about the increase in beginners and youth golfers (see below), so clearly the late - day tee times aren't just for the work -at-home crowd. With late summer days, those nine -hole twilight rounds present the perfect opportunity for families to get to the course after an early dinner, or newcomers to get more comfortable with the game. " 20 Percent increase in junior golfers by year's end, according to NGF projections. Because 2019 saw 2.5 million juniors get out on course, this estimate would mean that roughly 3 million juniors will get out by the end of this year. If they stick around the game, that's fantastic news for golf's future. So if you see a junior golfer on the course, give them a wave — it might be their first time out there." The September numbers are in and Golf Datatech is reporting almost a 26% jump in rounds played versus a year ago." I am a member of a nine -hole women's league at El Conquistador, the mother of two junior golfers (high school and collegiate) and wife of a 30 year Midwest golf course superintendent who is playing in three golf leagues in the area. Saying golf has been a big part of my adult life would be an understatement. Right now the game of golf is making a huge resurgence (25% ... see the National Golf Foundation facts above!). The interesting gain in popularity is the nine hole game. (up over 15%) It is perfect for these times and the only place we can play nine in Oro Valley is at The Views. And that course is booked daily. This would be the perfect time to open and promote the nine holes at Pusch Ridge in OV. Here are a few reasons: 1) There is already a base of customers.... 40 + women in a Tuesday morning league, not to mention the potential of junior golfers, resort visitors and people looking for a quick nine hole round of golf in a beautiful setting. 2) Opening play there would relieve the pressure at El Conquistador and Canada... allowing 18 hole income to continue and expand there. Right now, it is booked and busy. We nine hole players feel squeezed into a system designed specifically for 18 holers. (tho we do appreciate being accommodated!) 3) It would have the village recognizing the potential for income to offset any expenditures for a recreational opportunity benefitting a large portion of our residents, as well as out of town golfers. The busy golf season is upon us and because of Covid restrictions almost everywhere, there are limited outlets for entertainment. See the potential here!! Please look at the numbers! Thank you for your consideration, DeeAnn Leuzinger Stine, Michelle From: Standish, Michael Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 9:35 AM To: Stine, Michelle Subject: FW: Opening Pusch Ridge 9 hole gplf course From: Karen Knotek Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 9:29 AM To: Standish, Michael <mstandish@orovalleyaz.gov> Subject: Opening Pusch Ridge 9 hole gplf course Good Evening Council and residents, I would like to see Pusch Ridge opened and made available to the many residents and visitors that spend time in our beautiful town. With a program of advertising the availability of golf at this course, I feel it will be an asset to not only the town but also the hotel. Visitors have a hard time making Tee times in this area due to the closers of courses and other recreational activities due to Covid. It is a beautiful spot to play without paying a membership fee. It adds to the hotel and to the residents property value. Please do not be short sighted and allow this facility to go to ruin. Once lost it will be hard to redeem. I have played at this course once a week for almost 20 years and love it. It is part of my home. Karen Knotek Oro Valley, AZ Stine, Michelle From: Randall, Diana Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 2:37 PM To: Stine, Michelle; Standish, Michael Subject: FW: Pusch Ridge and Vistoso Please see below for constituent comments. Sincerely, Diana Randall Executive Assistant Town Manager, Mayor and Council From: James King Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 2:35 PM To: Town council <council@orovalleyaz.gov> Subject: Pusch Ridge and Vistoso Dear Oro Valley Council Member I have been a resident and voter in Oro Valley for 17 years. During that time I have played golf at Pusch Ridge weekly with The Quails (a ladies golf league), as well as numerous other times outside the league. I've enjoyed my games at Pusch, and as I've aged, have found that I would rather play 9 holes than 18. Unfortunately, there are relatively few courses in Oro Valley or even in the Tucson area, that encourage the play of 9 holes instead of 18. Further, the value of homes through Oro Valley will be affected by the closure of both Pusch Ridge and Vistoso golf courses. This will be especially true if the courses are just left to "return to desert" rather than maintained as green areas. As a geologist, I know that it would be difficult to develop them as home sites because many parts of both courses act as waterways during monsoons and other strong rainstorms. I urge you to think carefully about simply closing Pusch Ridge rather than considering other options. The future of Oro Valley may be at stake. Jamie Lytle Kina Oro Valley, AZ Stine, Michelle From: Randall, Diana Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 2:33 PM To: Stine, Michelle; Standish, Michael Subject: FW: Pusch Ridge Golf Course Please see below for constituent comments. Sincerely, Diana Randall Executive Assistant Town Manager, Mayor and Council From: Elizabeth Valenzuela Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 2:17 PM To: Town Council <council@orovalleyaz.gov> Subject: Pusch Ridge Golf Course Dear Oro Valley Council Members, As I am sure you are aware, the Pusch Ridge golf course has been the home of the Quails ladies golf group for over 30 years. This is a large group of wonderful ladies, many of whom golf year round, and a significant number of whom own their homes on surrounding properties. As you can imagine, the fate of the Pusch Ridge course is extremely important to these Quails golfers and their families. 1 was accepted into the Quails a couple of years ago, and besides simply enjoying the golf and social contacts, I found the Pusch Ridge course to be stunningly beauiful! So although I live in Tucson, it was well worth the half-hour drive for me to play golf on this gorgeous and challenging course. 1 had been aware of the agreement between Oro Valley and HSL Properties, and expected that the Quails would be returning to play our regular season at Pusch Ridge this year, so I was very disappointed to learn that that would not be the case. It is my understanding that HSL Properties had reservations about taking back the lease on Pusch Ridge beginning October 1st, per the Memorandum of Understanding, due to concerns about COVID-19. I also understand that HSL now has until January 31, 2021, to make the decision regarding taking back the lease. In the meantime, if I understand correctly, the Town of Oro Valley should be continuing to maintain the Pusch Ridge course. However, some of the ladies who live around the course are reporting that not only was the course not seeded and made ready for play, it was not even being maintained, and is looking terrible. Apparently the Town made a sudden decision not to seed and re -open the course, which was devastating news! Though COVID-19 is making life difficult for all of us in different ways, golf is still a safe, fun, and healthy activity that can be enjoyed by many people of various ages and skill levels. In fact, golf is experiencing a resurgence of interest BECAUSE it is considered a safe activity! The popularity of golf has proved to be a revenue producer during these hard times. The problem of Covid will eventually be resolved, possibly by the promise of effective vaccines. In the meantime, the health of the Town of Oro Valley seems to be inextricably linked to the health of its golf courses. If HSL Properties is to be convinced that it should take back its lease on the Pusch Ridge Course, it seems logical that having a well-maintained course would best influence their decision in a positive way. Therefore, 1 urge you, the Town Council of Oro Valley, to work with HSL Properties, local HOAs, or any other interested parties, to restore the Pusch Ridge Course to operating condition so that it may be opened once again as a beautiful golf course. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Elizabeth Valenzuela Tucson, Arizona Stine, Michelle From: Randall, Diana Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 2:32 PM To: Stine, Michelle; Standish, Michael Subject: FW: Pusch Ridge Golf Course Please see below for constituent comments. Sincerely, Diana Randall Executive Assistant Town Manager, Mayor and Council From: marcia Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 2:29 PM To: Winfield, Joe <jwinfield@orovalleyaz.gov>; Jacobs, Mary <mjacobs@orovalleyaz.gov>; Town Council <council@orovalleyaz.gov> Subject: Pusch Ridge Golf Course I have been playing the Pusch Ridge Golf Course since 2001 with the Pusch Ridge Quails 9 -hole golf league. It is a wonderful and unique course to which I have also enjoyed taking out of town friends and relatives. Please consider reopening this facility and maintaining it until the hotel is in a position to operate it once the economy starts to recover from Covid. Neither of the 18 -hole courses at the Community Center are built for 9 -hole play. In my opinion, the Quails are treated as second class citizens and I resent and have concerns for safety since we are required to drive our golf carts on public streets and down fairways which are in play with other golfers in order to access playing only 9 -holes. The current trend in golf is towards less time spent on the course and Pusch Ridge is the perfect place to do it- -challenging and beautiful. PLEASE REOPEN I I I Thank you, Marcia Williams PS I live in Skyline Country Club and do most of my shopping on the way home from playing at Pusch Ridge. have no incentive to spend money in Oro Valley when playing at the La Canada or EI Conquistador courses since I don't drive down Oracle --just something else to consider. I don't think I am alone in this practice. Stine, Michelle From: Pat Tebo Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 2:06 PM To: BlueCard Subject: Preserving Open Space for Oro Valley Northside Attachments: Comments to Vistoso Zoom meeting of 18 Nov 20.docx Attached hereto are my comments relative to the 18 Nov 2020 Townhall meeting on preservation of open space on the North side of Oro Valley. Thank you, Pat Tebo Oro Valley, AZ Sent from Mail for Windows 10 Preserve Vistoso Remarks for Zoom Meeting 28 Nov 20 Patrick Tebo: Stone Village Time is moving on as we sit and wait for Romspen to do whatever it is they intend to do; we can only guess. In the meantime, the property continues to decay. Thousands of branches, gross amounts of parched, flammable brush continue to amass. Many more trees are down or near to falling. This is not a sign of benign neglect but dismissive if not purposeful lack of care while the developer waits us out, hoping to wear us out. If anyone hopes that Romspen intends to take care for whatever might remain as any kind of park area or that they will take a financial position for repairs and maintenance, that hope is vain IMHO. Meanwhile it seems that wait and see is the order of the day. A valid plan was presented to Romspen for purchase of the property as open parkland space for the Rancho Vistoso region of Oro Valley but was rejected. Why? I can only suppose that Romspen believes they can make a good profit off the backs of Oro Valley residents as they clutter this only remaining space with still more homes and streets. But once it is gone, it is gone forever. There is no more such space. And what of us residents? What is our individual and collective standing insofar as making a physical and financial statement to keep this property open for the good of all, including residents of the greater Oro Valley area. Some among us are making intense efforts of time, talent and finances, perhaps even volunteering to clear, repair and maintain the area once acquired. Others are content to litter the decaying area with dog poop. Who will take the reins if Romspen's development goes through? Not Romspen I'd venture. There have been good examples even locally where hopes for developer improvements have fallen by the wayside and I've been conditioned to believe this was the intent all along, no doubt through baked in loopholes in contracts. So, we're at the hour of decision. A wait and see attitude is only likely to erode any chances we have to attain this treasured open space or see it forever gone, replaces by higher density and more traffic. If there is anything we can do while waiting — again — on Romspen, I believe we need to do it sooner than later. Stine, Michelle From: Randall, Diana Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 1:31 PM To: Standish, Michael; Stine, Michelle Subject: FW: Pusch Ridge Golf Course Plcase see below for constituent comment Sincerelj-, Diana Randall Executive Assistant Town Manager, Mayor and Council From: Patty Evans Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 1:28 PM To: Winfield, Joe <jwinfield@orovalleyaz.gov>; Jacobs, Mary <mjacobs@orovalleyaz.gov>; Town Council <council@orovalleyaz.gov> Subject: Pusch Ridge Golf Course Dear Mayor Winfield, Town Manager & Council Members, understand that the Pusch Ridge golf course is on the agenda for tonight's meeting. Briefly, I would very much like to see the golf course remain open, but also think that HSL should taken over the lease of the course as previously agreed. Perhaps the homeowners association could contribute as was done by the Canada Hill homeowners for the Conquistador and Canada courses. If probably managed and advertised, Pusch Ridge might also be profitable. It should not remain a drain on the town budget. Respectfully, A concerned citizen & golfer Stine, Michelle From: Randall, Diana Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 9:53 AM To: Standish, Michael; Stine, Michelle Subject: FW: Pusch -Nine hole play up 15%1 Attachments: Letter to OV council.docx Good morning, Please see attached for constituent letter to Council. Sincerely, Diana Randall Executive Assistant Town Manager, Mayor and Council -----Original Message ----- From: Dee Leuzinger Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 9:05 AM To: Town Council <council@orovalleyaz.gov> Subject: Pusch -Nine hole play up 15%1 Dee Leuzinger Learn to enjoy where you are, while you are waiting to get to where you want to be. National Golf Foundation facts: 15 "Percent increase in nine -hole rounds as a percentage of total rounds. Has the coronavirus changed golfer behavior? It seems like it has. The NGF hypothesized that there is an uptick in the so-called "Emergency 9" where golfers squeeze in a round before or after work. Despite the workforce reportedly spending longer hours at their computers than ever, schedules have more flexibility and many commutes have been eliminated altogether, leading to the overall increase. So just how often do golfers play nine holes instead of 18? For "core golfers," some 33 percent of total rounds are nine -hole affairs. But `occasional golfers" stick to nine more often to the tune of 48 percent. Speaking of which ... The Emergency Nine Have you gotten out to play nine holes in recent months? If so, you're not alone. Golf course operators report that afternoon and evening tee times have been popular, which seems right given that Covid-19 has changed the contours of the work day for many. Sorting through recent golf participation and engagement research, the number of short loops (as a percentage of total loops) is up over 15% in 2020. Core golfers report that 33% of their rounds this year have been of the nine -hole variety, while occasional golfers tell us that nearly half (48 %) are playing nine holes. This will be seen as good news by many, especially the USGA given their PLAY9 initiative, and would indicate that the "time barrier" to golf is being overcome by more golfers. We've talked about the increase in beginners and youth golfers (see below), so clearly the late - day tee times aren't just for the work -at-home crowd. With late summer days, those nine -hole twilight rounds present the perfect opportunity for families to get to the course after an early dinner, or newcomers to get more comfortable with the game. " 20 Percent increase in junior golfers by year's end, according to NGF projections. Because 2019 saw 2.5 million juniors get out on course, this estimate would mean that roughly 3 million juniors will get out by the end of this year. If they stick around the game, that's fantastic news for golf's future. So if you see a junior golfer on the course, give them a wave — it might be their first time out there." The September numbers are in and Golf Datatech is reporting almost a 26% jump in rounds played versus a year ago." I am a member of a nine -hole women's league at El Conquistador, the mother of two junior golfers (high school and collegiate) and wife of a 30 year Midwest golf course superintendent who is playing in three golf leagues in the area. Saying golf has been a big part of my adult life would be an understatement. Right now the game of golf is making a huge resurgence (25% ... see the National Golf Foundation facts above!). The interesting gain in popularity is the nine hole game. (up over 15%) It is perfect for these times and the only place we can play nine in Oro Valley is at The Views. And that course is booked daily. This would be the perfect time to open and promote the nine holes at Pusch Ridge in OV. Here are a few reasons: 1) There is already a base of customers.... 40 + women in a Tuesday morning league, not to mention the potential of junior golfers, resort visitors and people looking for a quick nine hole round of golf in a beautiful setting. 2) Opening play there would relieve the pressure at El Conquistador and Canada... allowing 18 hole income to continue and expand there. Right now, it is booked and busy. We nine hole players feel squeezed into a system designed specifically for 18 holers. (tho we do appreciate being accommodated!) 3) It would have the village recognizing the potential for income to offset any expenditures for a recreational opportunity benefitting a large portion of our residents, as well as out of town golfers. The busy golf season is upon us and because of Covid restrictions almost everywhere, there are limited outlets for entertainment. See the potential here!! Please look at the numbers! Thank you for your consideration, DeeAnn Leuzinger Stine, Michelle From: irene swain Sent: Tuesday, November 17, 2020 11:53 AM To: BlueCard Subject: regarding preserve vistoso Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged I am a homeowner in Rancho Vistoso. I moved here last year from Santa Fe NM. One of the most important and top drawing points of my decision to buy in Oro Valley was the many walking nature trails ... the natural beauty. I discovered the Vistoso Preserve and found it to be one of the most wonderful.... well... "Preserve's of Nature" for us Oro Valley residents to enjoy. I was greatly disappointed to hear that the present owner's would not honor the perspective deal with the Conservancy. What a wonderful addition to Oro Valley the purchase would have been and hopefully still will be. I am reaching out to the City to keep the golf course a preserve for its citizens and the natural habitants that have now made it their home. So, this is my vote and voice! Thank you for listening! Irene Swain Oro Valley AZ Stine, Michelle From: Standish, Michael Sent: Thursday, November 12, 2020 3:44 PM To: Stine, Michelle Subject: FW: ECDudley's written comments from meeting Nov. 12, 2020 -----Original Message ----- From: Elisabeth Dudley Sent: Thursday, November 12, 2020 3:01 PM To: Standish, Michael <mstandish@orovalleyaz.gov>; ^"- Subject: ECDudley's written comments from meeting Nov. 12, 2020 Michael Standish, Town Clerk, Oro Valley, AZ Dear Mr. Standish; Per Mayor Winfield's request, I am sending you my written comments from a meeting today with Mayor Winfield Council Member Jones -Ivey Town Attorney Tobin Sidles Attorney Joe Andrew and Matt Bailey, my attorney. Elisabeth C. Dudley, as a resident at Tucson, 85 My comments follow: My connection with the Tucson area covers decades, 8 and still going, with countless family and friends and involvements . It continues with my children and grandchildren , one of whom has written the Planning Center and Westward Look Manager, expressing his dismay and questioning WWL's judgment turning this wonderful open desert land into more pavement, parking lots, shopping and commercial buildings. Before going any further, I should like to address the issue of the 99 -YEAR DEED RESTRICTION OF 1972 and ask that AS A CONDITION OF ANY REZONING, WESTWARD LOOK RESORT OWNERS MUST UPHOLD THEIR OBLIGATION TO HONOR AND RECORD THAT DEED AND ENTER IT INTO THE COVENANT THAT RUNS WITH THE LAND. I BOUGHT MY LAND, AS DID THE OTHER HOME OWNERS WHO ABUT THE 23 DEED -RESTRICTED ACRES, WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THESE 23 ACRES ARE TO REMAIN UNDEVELOPED AS NATURAL OPEN DESERT LAND. I NEED THE ASSURANCE THAT THIS IS PROPERLY RECORDED IN WRITING AND ENTERED INTO THE COVENANT THAT RUNS WITH THE LAND, AND REQUIRE WESTWARD LOOK RESORT OWNERS TO BE HELD TO THAT COMMITMENT. I have known this area since long before it was broken up, when these were beautiful unfettered desert foothills. Later as Westward Look Resort was established, there were lovely, appropriate desert plantings, labeled so guests could enjoy and learn what grows in the desert. I talk with the guests out walking and know how positively they react to that quiet beauty, it is restorative. They forget Ina Road traffic is roaring hell-bent 1/2 mile away. IT IS A UNIQUE SETTING, I'D LIKE TO ASK THAT IT BE KEPT GENUINE, NOT HUGE (no need for Olympic -size swimming pools) AND OVERBUILT, LOW KEY IN KEEPING WITH THE NEIGHBORHOOD, PLEASE. EMPHASIZE THE SETTING AND NATURAL BEAUTY AND SOUTHWESTERN HOSPITALITY. It could become a very sought-after desert retreat. With good management and a staff that delivers quality service, it could produce plenty of revenue if it is recognized as special. Another version of the Arizona Inn, perhaps! I DO NOT OPPOSE THE "IMPROVEMENT" of Westward Look Resort facilities and guest quarters, IF, and only IF, IT IS IN KEEPING WITH THE ORIGINAL RANCH HOUSE AND THE SURROUNDING ESTABLISHED COMMUNITY, ONLY IF THE TOWN OF ORO VALLEY AND OWNERS OF WESTWARD LOOK RESORT LISTEN TO AND ARE SENSITIVE TO THOSE WHOSE HOMES AND LIVES ARE TO BE DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY ANY CHANGES. I IMPLORE THOSE OF YOU GIVEN THE RESPONSIBILITY TO GOVERN FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE COMMUNITY, YOU WHO ARE IN A POSITION TO ACTIVELY PROTECT OUR ENVIRONMENT AND STOP THE RECKLESS OVERDEVELOPMENT IN FAVOR OF MORE PARKS AND OPEN SPACE FOR RESIDENTS AND VISITORS. LOOK AT THE NUMBERS OF PEOPLE THAT FLOCK TO TOHONO CHUL TO BE OUT IN THE DESERT. IT HAS NEVER BEEN MORE EVIDENT THAN WITH THIS COVID PANDEMIC HOW BADLY WE NEED MORE OPEN SPACE AND NATURAL AREAS FOR PEOPLE CRAVING THE OUTDOORS. I CANNOT SAY STRONGLY ENOUGH THAT WE MUST STOP SPLITTING UP IMPORTANT REMNANT NATURAL AREAS AND CONNECTORS FOR WILDLIFE, WHERE A BIT OF GREEN SPACE IS SO IMPORTANT TO PEOPLE AND NATURE! THIS IS THE ECOSYSTEM THAT SUSTAINS US ALL. THANK YOU ALL FOR LISTENING AND ALLOWING ME THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS MY SENTIMENTS! WE ARE SO FORTUNATE TO HAVE THIS LANDSCAPE OF MOUNTAINS AND DESERT AND THE WILDLIFE THAT HAS SURVIVED SO FAR. I HOPE IT WILL BECOME AN IMPORTANT PART OF OUR VALUE SYSTEM. Elisabeth Dudley NOVEMBER 12, 2020 Stine, Michelle From: Standish, Michael Sent: Tuesday, November 17, 2020 10:29 AM To: Stine, Michelle Subject: FW: Written comments for Town Council Meeting Nov 18, 2020 Attachments: Oro Valley Town Council Comments -Nov 2020.pdf From: Sent: Tuesday, November 17, 2020 10:16 AM To: Standish, Michael <mstandish@orovalleyaz.gov> Subject: Written comments for Town Council Meeting Nov 18, 2020 Please find attached comments on Agenda Items #2 and #4 for the Town Council Meeting on Nov 18. If there are any problems or questions, please contact me by return e-mail or phone at Thank you, John Cronin Sent from Mail for Windows 10 John and Cindy Cronin Oro Valley, AZ November 16, 2020 RE: Regular Agenda Items #2 and #4, Oro Valley Town Council Meeting, November 18, 2020 Dear Members of the Oro Valley Town Council: My wife and I are residents of Oro Valley. We reside at 1229 E. Camino Diestro, which is affected by Agenda Item #4 (DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE PUSCH-9 GOLF COURSE). We also own a rental property in the Vistoso Resort Casitas at 655 W. Vistoso Highlands Drive which has been and continues to be affected by Agenda Item #2 (DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE CLOSED VISTOSO GOLF PROPERTY). As we see it, these two agenda items deal with similar, yet distinct, issues facing the Town Council. The common factor in both is the desire of the neighborhood residents to have a key role in what happens to the property in question. We hope the Council's experience with the issues surrounding the Vistoso Golf Property will help guide you as you address the developing issues with the Pusch-9 Golf Course and those of us who reside in the surrounding neighborhood. Although similar, the Vistoso Golf situation is older and the residents of the surrounding community have expressed their desire to have the golf course maintained as natural open space. Although you have not provided any specifics regarding the discussion of this agenda item, I anticipate that the topic will involve the recent collapse of discussions between The Conservation Fund(TCF) and the property owner, Romspen Investments, regarding the purchase of the former golf course by TCF. The collapse scraps plans, at least for now, for the property to ultimately be donated to the town to be preserved as open space. Romspen has withdrawn a related proposal to develop part of the property, but intends to resubmit it in 2021. You can anticipate that the residents, as they have in the past, will object to Romspen's proposal. Exactly how this will ultimately work out will be up to you when the proposal and the residents' response come before the Council at some time in the future. The Pusch-9 Golf Course situation is much more amenable to resolution. The property is currently owned by the town. Fiscal support of the property is available by way of a portion of the local sales tax which is dedicated to supporting recreation and golf facilities. However, because of the fiscal impact of the Coronavirus pandemic, the anticipated exercise of a lease back option by HSL, the owner of the EI Conquistador Hilton Resort, is now no longer expected. The Town Council is now faced with exploring other options, which possibly could work to the satisfaction of the Town, the neighborhood residents and the HSL resort, should the Council pursue a solution quickly. The neighborhood residents, through their various home owner associations, are willing and eager to work with the Council and HSL to explore ways to maintain the property in a manner that best meets the needs of all the interests involved. Inaction, however, puts any possible solution at risk, as the property is rapidly deteriorating. In discussing this item on the Agenda, the Town Council needs to lay out its plan for addressing the next steps, with considerable weight to the interests of the neighborhood residents. We are members of the EI Conquistador Resort Patio Homes Association, which will be providing comments to the Council at the November 18 Town Council meeting. We support those comments. We urge the Town Council to be receptive to our friends and neighbors and the concerns they present. For our part, we would prefer that the property be maintained as a golf course, but we understand that the best option for all stakeholders may involve some other approach. The Town Council may not be able to do much with regard to Agenda Item #2 - the future of the Vistoso property depends in large part with the plans and future actions of Romspen Investments. With regard to Agenda Item #4, the Town Council has the opportunity to pursue a process that could lead to a creative solution that would satisfy the needs of the town, the neighborhood residents and the valuable resort that are key stakeholders. We urge you to do so. Sincerely, John A Cronin Cindy L Cronin