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AGENDA
ORO VALLEY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
May 6, 2024
HOPI CONFERENCE ROOM
11000 N. LA CANADA DR.
REGULAR SESSION AT OR AFTER 5:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
HISTORICAL SOCIETY REPORT ON CURRENT EVENTS
DEPARTMENT REPORT ON CURRENT EVENTS
COUNCIL LIAISON REPORT ON CURRENT EVENTS
CALL TO AUDIENCE - at this time, any member of the public is allowed to address the Commission on any
issue not listed on today’s agenda. Pursuant to the Arizona open meeting law, individual Commission
members may ask Town staff to review the matter, ask that the matter be placed on a future agenda, or
respond to criticism made by speakers. However, the Commission may not discuss or take legal action on
matters raised during "Call to Audience." In order to speak during "Call to Audience", please specify what
you wish to discuss when completing the blue speaker card.
CONSENT AGENDA
1.Review and approval of the February 5, and March 4, 2024 Meeting Minutes
REGULAR SESSION AGENDA
1.WELCOME NEW MEMBER
2.PUBLIC HEARING, DISCUSSION, AND POSSIBLE ACTION FOR THE PURPOSE OF HISTORICAL
LANDMARK DESIGNATION OF THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 132 E SUFFOLK DRIVE
3.PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION TO APPROVE CHANGES TO THE ORO
VALLEY CULTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION PLAN
4.DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION TO SELECT A HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MEMBER TO DRAFT A REPORT ON 2023 COMMISSION ACTIVITIES FOR SUBMISSION TO THE
TOWN COUNCIL AND THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE AS PROVIDED IN OVTC §
6-10-5(F)(16)
ADJOURNMENT
POSTED: 04/30/24 at 5:00 p.m. by dt
POSTED: 04/30/24 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.
INSTRUCTIONS TO SPEAKERS
Members of the public have the right to speak during any posted public hearing. However, those items not listed as a public hearing are
for consideration and action by the Commission during the course of their business meeting. Members of the public may be allowed to
speak on these topics at the discretion of the Chair.
If you wish to address the Commission on any item(s) on this agenda, please complete a blue speaker card located on the Agenda table at the
back of the room and give it to the Recording Secretary. Please indicate on the blue speaker card which item number and topic you wish to speak
on, or if you wish to speak during “Call to Audience,” please specify what you wish to discuss when completing the blue speaker card.
Please step forward to the podium when the Chair announces the item(s) on the agenda which you are interested in addressing.
1. For the record, please state your name and whether or not you are a Town resident.
2. Speak only on the issue currently being discussed by the Commission. Please organize your speech, you will only be allowed to
address the Commission once regarding the topic being discussed.
3. Please limit your comments to 3 minutes.
4. During “Call to Audience”, you may address the Commission on any issue you wish.
5. Any member of the public speaking must speak in a courteous and respectful manner to those present. Thank you for your cooperation.
“Notice of Possible Quorum of the Oro Valley Town Council, Boards, Commissions and Committees: In
accordance with Chapter 3, Title 38, Arizona Revised Statutes and Section 2-4-4 of the Oro Valley Town
Code, a majority of the Town Council, Board of Adjustment, Historic Preservation Commission, Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board, Stormwater Utility Commission, and Water Utility Commission may attend the
above referenced meeting as a member of the audience only.”
Historic Preservation Commission 8. 1.
Meeting Date:05/06/2024
Submitted By:MaryAnne Tolmie, Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT:
Review and approval of the February 5, and March 4, 2024 Meeting Minutes
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
I MOVE to approve (approve with changes) the February 5, and March 4, 2024 Meeting Minutes of the Historic
Preservation Commission.
Attachments
2024 02 05 HPC Draft Minutes
2024 03 04 HPC Draft Minutes
D R A F T
MINUTES
ORO VALLEY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
February 5, 2024
HOPI CONFERENCE ROOM
11000 N. LA CANADA DR.
REGULAR SESSION AT OR AFTER 5:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Lee called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. noting that Commissioner Pliego was on her way.
ROLL CALL
Present: Karen Giuffre, Commissioner
Richard Nielsen, Commissioner
Michael Paul, Commissioner
Joan Pliego, Commissioner
Auvie Lee, Chair
Staff Present:Tobin Sidles, Legal Services Director
Rosalyn Epting, Parks and Recreation Director
Matthew Jankowski, Parks and Recreation Deputy Director
MaryAnne Tolmie, Recording Secretary
Attendees: Steve Solomon, Council Liaison
DEPARTMENT REPORT ON CURRENT EVENTS
Mr. Jankowski reported that staff continue to work on the Town's 50th Anniversary events and
encourages community participation. The Naranja Park expansion project is progressing, a grand
opening is being planned in the near future. After 18 months of work, the Community and Recreation
Center now accepts Silver Sneakers, Renew Active and Silver and Fit. Approximately 1,000 members
have signed up, half converted their existing membership and half are new members. An informational
sign was placed at Steam Pump Ranch on January 30th with the help of the Historical Society and
Santa Cruz National Heritage Alliance. The CRC staff is working with a contractor to install shade at
the pickle ball courts.
COUNCIL LIAISON REPORT ON CURRENT EVENTS
Mr. Solomon welcomed Karen Guiffre and Richard (Rick) Nielsen to their first meeting.
CALL TO AUDIENCE
CALL TO AUDIENCE
Chair Lee opened Call to Audience.
There were no blue cards.
Chair Lee closed Call to Audience.
CONSENT AGENDA
1.Review and approval of the December 4, 2023 and January 8, 2024 Meeting Minutes
Motion by Chair Auvie Lee, seconded by Commissioner Michael Paul to approve the December 4,
2023, and January 8, 2024 meeting minutes.
Vote: 4 - 0 Carried
REGULAR SESSION AGENDA
1.WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
Chair Lee welcomed Ms. Guiffre and Mr. Nielsen and they introduced themselves. Both have moved
here from out of state, been here approximately three years, have been educators, and Mr. Nielsen has
a background in historical preservation.
2.ELECTION OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION CHAIR
Motion by Chair Auvie Lee, seconded by Commissioner Richard Nielsen to elect Auvie Lee as
Commission Chair.
Vote: 4 - 0 Carried
3.ELECTION OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION VICE CHAIR
Motion by Chair Auvie Lee, seconded by Commissioner Richard Nielsen to elect Michael Paul as
Commission Vice Chair.
Vote: 4 - 0 Carried
4.DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION TO AMEND THE CALENDAR YEAR 2024 HISTORIC
PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING SCHEDULE FOR NOVEMBER
Discussion ensued among the commission and staff regarding item #4.
Motion by Chair Auvie Lee, seconded by Commissioner Karen Giuffre to amend the 2024 Historic
Preservation Commission's regular scheduled meetings to remove Tuesday, November 12 and add
Monday, November 4.
Vote: 4 - 0 Carried
5.PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION TO APPROVE CHANGES TO THE ORO
5.PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION TO APPROVE CHANGES TO THE ORO
VALLEY CULTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION PLAN EXCLUDING APPENDICES
Discussion ensued among the commission and staff regarding item #5.
Motion by Chair Auvie Lee, seconded by Commissioner Michael Paul to approve the Oro Valley
Cultural Heritage Preservation plan excluding photos and appendices.
Vote: 4 - 0 Carried
6.REVIEW OF THE 2024 WILLIAM H. ADLER HISTORICAL WRITING CONTEST APPLICATION AND
STUDENT ENTRY FORM AND DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION OF TIMELINE FOR JUDGING
AND AWARDING PRIZES
Commissioner Pliego arrived. A plan of action was discussed at length. MaryAnne Tolmie, will collect
the submittals and forward them to the Commissioners on March 26th. It is planned that the
Commissioners will review and score the entries to be ready to vote at the Monday, April 1 meeting.
Staff will secure the gift cards for prizes and inquire if the students can be acknowledged and awarded
at the April 17th council meeting.
7.DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING HPC'S PARTICIPATION IN TOWN'S 50TH
ANNIVERSARY EVENTS
Discussion ensued among the commission and staff regarding item #7.
Motion by Chair Auvie Lee, seconded by Commissioner Joan Pliego to insruct Town staff to
coordinate and prepare a booth for the April 13 event at JDK Park.
Vote: 5 - 0 Carried
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Chair Auvie Lee, seconded by Commissioner Joan Pliego to adjourn at 5:49 p.m.
Vote: 5 - 0 Carried
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the regular session of the
Town of Oro Valley Historic Preservation Commission of Oro Valley, Arizona held on the 5th day of February
2024.
___________________________
MaryAnne Tolmie
Senior Office Specialist
D R A F T
MINUTES
ORO VALLEY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
March 4, 2024
HOPI CONFERENCE ROOM
11000 N. LA CANADA DR.
REGULAR SESSION AT OR AFTER 5:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Lee called the meeting to order 5:07 p.m. He indicated that all agenda items would be moved to the
next regular meeting and then adjourned the meeting at 5:07 p.m. due to lack of quorum.
ROLL CALL
Present: Richard Nielsen, Commissioner
Michael Paul, Commissioner
Auvie Lee, Chair
Absent: Joan Pliego, Commissioner
Staff Present:Tobin Sidles, Legal Services Director
Matthew Jankowski, Parks and Recreation Deputy Director
Rene Olvera, Senior Planner Community and Economic Development
Casey Wilson, Recording Secretary
Attendees: Steve Solomon, Council Liaison
Devon Sloan, Oro Valley Historical Society
CONSENT AGENDA
REGULAR SESSION AGENDA
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the regular session of the
Town of Oro Valley Historic Preservation Commission of Oro Valley, Arizona held on the 4th day of March 2024.
___________________________
Casey Wilson
Historic Preservation Commission 1.
Meeting Date:05/06/2024
Submitted By:MaryAnne Tolmie, Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT:
WELCOME NEW MEMBER
RECOMMENDATION:
N/A
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
On April 3, 2024, Town Council approved the appointment of Patricia Brown to the Historic Preservation
Commission (HPC), for a partial term that expires on 12/31/2026.
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
N/A
Historic Preservation Commission 2.
Meeting Date:05/06/2024
Submitted By:MaryAnne Tolmie, Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT:
PUBLIC HEARING, DISCUSSION, AND POSSIBLE ACTION FOR THE PURPOSE OF HISTORICAL
LANDMARK DESIGNATION OF THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 132 E SUFFOLK DRIVE
RECOMMENDATION:
N/A
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
N/A
Attachments
132 E Suffolk Drive
Application for Oro Valley Historic Landmark
APPLICANT INFORMATION
APPLICANT/PROPERTY OWNER: Michel R Graff and Susan E Jaap
ADDRESS: 132 E Suffolk Drive
CELL PHONE: 408 460 8237
EMAIL: graff4481@ gmail.com
I hereby authorize the Town of Oro Valley to review these materials with the purpose of including my property
on the local Oro Valley Register of Historic Places.
SIGNATURE OF OWNER: Michel R Graff DATE: 10/08/2023
PROPERTY LOCATION INFORMATION
SUBDIVISION/NEIGHBORHOOD: Suffolk Hills
PROPERTY ADDRESS: 132 E Suffolk Drive
IS PROPERTY A LUSK CORPORATION DESIGN/BUILD: Yes
ARCHITECT (if known): _______________________________________
BUILDER: Lusk Homes Inc / Broadway Construction Company
PLAT NAME: Suffolk Hills BLOCK: ____________________LOT:102
PIMA COUNTY PARCEL NUMBER/S: 225-51-1220
WRITTEN REPORT OF PROPERTY
Original physical appearance and characteristics.
The Pima County permit card #26241 lists the residence and carport constructed beginning 1/29/1959.
The total living space, as noted from an article inserted below - Tucson Daily Citizen, is 1900 square
feet. The home sits on a concrete foundation with exterior walls made from mortar-washed concrete block, a
shed quartz roof and an open porch. The interior of the home featured either three or four bedrooms, a
family activity room, two baths, a patio, large living room and double car port.
Alterations to physical appearance and characteristics
The Town of Oro Valley permit number B0900138 lists the demolition and replacement of original
porch and roof structure beginning 8/10/2009.
The current porch replaced a metal structure with modern material including 4 x 4 posts and 2 x 6
rafters and covered and sealed plywood roof. The current porch is in the identical location and size (length,
depth, and height) of the original porch constructed in 1959.
Original Porch
Current Porch
Description of property
The home was developed, built, and marketed by Lusk Corporation. The Lusk Corporation, founded in
1950, was Tucson based developer / home building company that was responsible for developing unique, mid-
century modern neighborhoods in Tucson. Lusk Corporation also developed mid-century modern
neighborhoods in many states including Nevada, Texas, Indiana, Missouri, California, New Mexico, and New
York. Lusk Corporation became the 5th largest home builder in the US during the 1950’s. Lusk Corporation
was responsible for all phases of development including planning, design, construction, and sales.
The homes located within Suffolk Hills development were incorporated by Oro Valley in 2003.
Suffolk Hills properties was originally part of the estate of an American-born British royal named Margaret
Howard, the Countess of Suffolk who bought the property in 1934. In the late 1950’s, Lusk Corporation
purchased a portion of the land a developed a substantial number of lots on 320 acers. Lusk won the National
Homebuilders Award in 1960 for the Suffolk Hills tract, for both for the midcentury centric house design and
using the natural topology of the desert when positioning the homes.
The residence is located near the intersection of Suffolk Drive and Oracle Road.
Map – 132 E. Suffolk Drive
The residence is situated within a hilltop and provides views of the nearby mountains and surrounding
cities, and the site takes advantage of the natural topography of the desert.
The property is a single story with a concrete block exterior with a midcentury modern style of
architecture. The home was built using post and beam construction which relies on vertical posts to support
horizontal beams. Post and beam construction allows for a sense of open transparency as you’re able to see
clearly how the house was constructed. In addition, the post and beam style construction allow for expansive
use of floor to ceiling glass since the load is off the walls and placed between reinforced posts.
The home is based upon the “Skylark” model home and described by the Lusk Corporation as a “home
of elegant simplicity and as ageless as a marquise diamond”. The home includes three or four bedrooms, a
dining room, breakfast room, two baths, terrace, patio double car port on approximately one acre. The
property includes expansive glass in the living room and a fireplace.
Lusk Sales Brochure – Description Skylark Model Home
Current - 132 E. Suffolk Dr.
Condition of property
The condition of the property remains excellent and there exists no known threats. The home has
been meticulously enhanced while maintaining the classic exterior features of a Lusk designed midcentury
modern home.
Architectural description of the exterior of the building
Drive-Up View
Upon arrival – the home introduces floor to ceiling expansive glass located in the living room area of
the home. To the far left of the home - the original 2-stall car port was enclosed and used as a “bonus room”
by a previous unknown owner and no permit exists. The siding the previous owner used to enclose the
original car port structure was delaminating and not repairable. The siding was recently replaced with custom
fabricated “thin line” vertical grooved plywood siding made popular by Joseph Eichler, a renowned midcentury
modern home developer in the San Francisco Bay area.
Thin Line custom grooved plywood used on Eichler mid-century modern homes.
Porch - Front View
The front of the home includes a 68-foot-long covered patio with paver accents, desert flora and
expansive views. The patio also includes midcentury modern era – “breeze blocks” to provide privacy
between the driveway entrance and covered patio while still allowing air circulation. The porch presents
views of the Catalina Mountains, Picacho Peak, and Safford Peak.
Courtyard – Rear View
The back of the home includes a courtyard with a sitting area, pavers, and desert flora.
Side View
The west side of the home includes a paved patio with basketball court and a tennis practice backboard.
Description of the interior
Floor Plan
Living Room and Fireplace
Dining Area
The post and beam construction allows for a typical midcentury modern open plan concept. The living room
includes a wall of windows with floor to ceiling glass with views toward the Catalina Mountains and stone
flagstone fireplace. The dining area wall contains a large picture window with views towards Oro Valley and
Picacho Peak. All interior doors leading to the outdoors are 6’ wide x 7’ high aluminum glass 1950 style sliding
doors helping to visually bring the outside topology features to the inside of the home.
Past Owners – 132 E. Suffolk Drive
The list of past owners is a partial list.
1. Dryden Eberhart - 1960 to approximately 1973.
Mr. Eberhart was the original owner and used primarily as a winter residence.
2. Sam Mc Clung – approximately late 1980’s to 2010.
Mr. Mc Cung was the former principal of Ironwood Ridge High School.
Description of the surrounding area
The residence is located within Suffolk Hills development. The specific location – Oracle and Magee South to
Suffolk Drive East through first stop sign to address on the right.
The neighborhood is one of two neighborhoods that the Lusk Corporation developed in Oro Valley. The
neighborhood was named after the Countess of Suffolk who purchased the home in 1937 to build her winter
home. She sold the land in 1957 to the Lusk Corporation. Lady Suffolk sold her home to the Sisters of the
Immaculate Heart of Mary who still use it to operate the Immaculate Heart Schools.
The Suffolk Hill development is a quiet neighborhood and close to shopping, schools, and restaurants. The
development is in the foothills of the Catalina Mountains with desert landscapes and views over Tucson and
Oro Valley. Location in the foothills hosts a wide variety of wildlife including several bird species, Gila
monsters, lizards, rabbits, bobcats, javelinas and even mountain lions.
STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE
The town Oro Valley and Tucson experienced significant growth after WWII.
The Lusk Corporation responded to the immense demand for housing and was able to mass produce
affordable and practical homes with a designer feel. The key components that the Lusk Corporation offered
were 3- or 4-bedroom homes, two bathrooms, open plan family and living rooms with their signature glass
walls and post and beam construction.
The Lusk Corporation embraced the mid-century modern architectural style which kicked off after WWII and
became popular throughout the 1950’s and 1960’s. The mid-century modern style house plan is
characterized by a very wide, low footprint with large, open spaces and large floor to ceiling windows.
The proposed residence at 132 E. Suffolk Drive embodies all the features listed above and would be
considered a mid-century modern style home. It consists of clean lines, muted curves, minimal
ornamentation, large windows, and interior design based on functionality and open floor plans intent on
making indoor and outdoor living spaces complement each other.
Map - properties within 300’ of the designation request.
Lot 101
Michael Judd Whitfield
7632 Village Ave
Tucson AZ 85704
The property is currently not occupied. Former owner listed above deceased – July 31, 2023.
Lot 102
Mike Graff & Sue Jaap
132 E. Suffolk Drive
Tucson AZ 85704
This property is owned by the applicant.
Lot 103
Don Hughes
202 E. Suffolk Drive
Tucson AZ 85704
Lot 100
7610 North Village Drive
Tucson AZ 85704
This lot is vacant. No home has ever been constructed. This lot is jointly owned by owners of lots 101, 102,
103 and 99.
Lot 99
Steve Bonnist
7602 N. Village Ave
Tucson AZ 85704
Site Plan 132 E. Suffolk Drive
Reference Links
1. Suffolk Hills – Overview
https://suffolkhills.com/
2. Suffolk Hills – History
https://suffolkhills.com/history
3. Lusk Corporation – Mid Century Modern Home Neighborhoods – Tucson
https://realtucson.com/2015/06/14/lusk-corporation-built-many-great-mid-century-tucson-homes/
4. Joseph Eichler – Mid Century Modern Home Developer
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Eichler
5. Overview – Characteristics of Mid-Century Modern Architecture
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/midcentury-modern-architecture-everything-you-should-know
Historic Preservation Commission 3.
Meeting Date:05/06/2024
Submitted By:MaryAnne Tolmie, Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT:
PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION TO APPROVE CHANGES TO THE ORO VALLEY
CULTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
On February 5, 2024, the Commission approved grammatical and content changes to the plan. The staff added
photos, removed appendices and replaced them with a resources page of appropriate links to additional
documents, including those previously found in the appendices.
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
I MOVE to approve (approve with changes) the Oro Valley Cultural Heritage Preservation Plan.
Attachments
2024 CULTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION PLAN final draft
Oro Valley Cultural Heritage Preservation Plan: Developing and Sustaining a
Community Sense of Place
Revised 2024
Oro Valley Historic Preservation Commission
Auvie Lee, Chair
Michael Paul, Vice Chair
Patricia Brown
Richard Nielsen
_____________
Oro Valley Town Council
Joseph C. Winfield, Mayor
Melanie Barrett, Vice-Mayor
Tim Bohen
Harry Greene
Joyce Jones-Ivey
Josh Nicolson
Steve Solomon
Revised 2015
Oro Valley Historic Preservation Commission
Ellen Guyer, Chair
Marilyn Lane, Vice Chair
Dan Huff
Dean Strandskov
Jenni Sunshine
Eric Thomae
Connie Trail
Oro Valley Town Council
Satish I. Hiremath, D.D.S, Mayor
Lou Waters, Vice Mayor
Brendan Burns
William Garner
Joe Hornat
Mary Snider
Mike Zinkin
Revised 2014
Oro Valley Historic Preservation Commission
Ellen Guyer, Chair
Dean Strandskov, Vice Chair
Ed Hannon
Marilyn Lane
Eric Thomae
Connie Trail
Oro Valley Town Council
Satish I. Hiremath, D.D.S, Mayor
Lou Waters, Vice Mayor
Brendan Burns
William Garner
Joe Hornat
Mary Snider
Mike Zinkin
Originally Prepared in 2011
WSA Technical Report No. 2011-18
by John C. Ravesloot, Ph.D., Scott O’Mack, M.A., and Patricia Spoerl, Ph.D. Submitted by John C.
Ravesloot, Ph.D. Principal Investigator
Oro Valley Historic Preservation Commission
Daniel Zwiener, Chair
Lois Nagy, Vice Chair
Barbara Campbell
Ellen Guyer
Ed Hannon
Sam McClung, Ph.D.
Valerie Pullara
Oro Valley Town Council
Satish I. Hiremath, D.D.S, Mayor
Mary Snider, Vice Mayor
Bill Garner
Barry Gillaspie
Joe Hornat
Steve Solomon
Lou Waters
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................. 4
A GUIDE FOR IMPLEMENTATION: ORO VALLEY CULTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION PLANNING ............. 4
1. Public Participation and Heritage Education ........................................................................................ 5
2. Historic Steam Pump Ranch ................................................................................................................. 6
3. Historic Neighborhoods ........................................................................................................................ 6
4. Town History Records and Reports ...................................................................................................... 7
5. Undeveloped Areas of the Town .......................................................................................................... 8
6. Honey Bee Village Archaeological Preserve ......................................................................................... 9
CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................................................. 9
RESOURCES ................................................................................................................................................. 10
INTRODUCTION
Among the most important aspects of historic preservation
today is ensuring that it is relevant to a community and will
attract visitors—to learn about special places of the past, and
to contribute to the overall economic sustainability of a
community. Oro Valley holds unique and authentic cultural
resources that can make places of the past come alive. In
collaboration with partners, the Town can develop an
exceptional cultural heritage program. This is a plan for
preserving the special historic places of Oro Valley, and for
maintaining an awareness and appreciation of its heritage
within the community. This plan is a statement of the community’s goals for its historic
properties and programs and provides guidance to reach those goals.
This plan provides a guide for moving forward in developing and maintaining historic properties
and programs. Six components are identified, each of which contains suggested action items.
The components are public participation and heritage education; Historic Steam Pump Ranch;
historic neighborhoods, Town history and records, undeveloped areas of the Town, and Honey
Bee Village Archaeological Preserve. This plan emphasizes the importance of having educational
preservation programs, operating efficiently, and taking advantage of diverse funding and
volunteer opportunities.
A preservation plan is most effective when it is integrated with related local and regional plans
and policies. This plan is flexible in bringing together citizens, interest groups, and local
government to collaborate in preserving their shared heritage. The key to successful
implementation is having informed policymakers who integrate Oro Valley’s cultural heritage
into its social and economic development.
A GUIDE FOR IMPLEMENTATION: ORO VALLEY CULTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
PLANNING
The context for implementing this cultural heritage program plan includes six
major components. It also incorporates the goals of the Arizona State Historic
Preservation Plan1. Residential neighborhood surveys and future preservation
incentives are included below because they apply directly to residents. As with
all plans, this one should be seen as a flexible document that can be updated
as warranted based on recommendations and involvement of the Historic
Preservation Commission, Town staff, Town Council, and citizens.
The six components are public participation and heritage education; historic Steam Pump
Ranch; historic neighborhoods; Town history and records; undeveloped areas of the Town; and
Honey Bee Village Archaeological Preserve. General responsibilities are identified below and
include Town staff (including the Parks & Recreation Department, Development and
Infrastructure Services, Communications Department, and the Town Manager’s staff), Historic
Preservation Commission (a five-member volunteer advisory commission)2, and volunteers
(individuals and organizations). These responsibilities may shift among staff and volunteers
depending upon a specific program or project and are intended here only to provide general
guidelines for implementation.
The Historic Preservation Commission should review this plan annually. Based on this
review, the Commission may make recommendations to Town staff and will coordinate this plan
with the annual Historic Preservation Commission work plan. Town staff can review the plan
and the Commission’s recommendations and provide a summary to the Town Council.
Many of the following components can be implemented in phases within the overall context of
the Town’s cultural heritage program3. Most are designed to require minimal expenditure of
funds and maximum potential for partnerships.
1. Public Participation and Heritage Education
Ongoing preservation education among a wide
variety of audiences is essential to a successful
historic preservation program and can be
integrated and implemented, in most cases, with
limited funds, into the Town’s existing programs
and facilities4,5. Literature describing the Town’s
cultural resources in the form of a brochure6 has
been designed and distributed to inform Oro
Valley residents of the Town’s inventory and to
encourage public participation in preservation. Information has also been made available on
the Town’s website7, which should be continuously updated. Current public outreach includes
the annual William H. Adler Historic Expository writing contest8 for local fourth-grade students
and a booth at the Town’s annual festival. Additional outreach should also be considered and
could include a lecture series, classroom curricula, special events, and the submission of stories
in various publications. On-site tours of Steam Pump Ranch are currently available and plan to
continue. Adding a special collections section of the Town’s historical documents, records, and
reports at the Pima County Public Library – Oro Valley Branch could also be considered9.
The Historic Preservation Commission should work diligently to establish and foster
relationships with the Oro Valley Historical Society10, consultants, educators, and other historic
preservation organizations throughout southern Arizona to implement strategies to increase
public participation and heritage education.
2. Historic Steam Pump Ranch
The Historic Steam Pump Ranch11 is an important part of
the Town’s heritage. It is recognized nationally through a
listing in the National Register of Historic Places12; it is
recognized locally in that Pima County voters approved
expenditure Resolution 04-3813, May 5, 2004, of $5 million
for its acquisition for historic preservation and public use.
Successful development of the Ranch is dependent on the
citizens of Oro Valley becoming aware of and supporting
the vital role the site can play in the community with an emphasis on local involvement and
public access. The property provides an excellent locale for developing a “sense of place” for
Oro Valley and holds economic viability as an educational facility, special event venue, and
heritage park. Documents about the preservation and maintenance of the property include the
Intergovernmental Agreement Resolutions with Pima County 04-114 (2004)13 and the Library
District (2004-LD-2)13 and the IGA between Pima County and the Town of Oro Valley for
Implementation of the 2004 Bond Issue Project for the Steam Pump Ranch Acquisition
Resolution 06-8714 (2006), Deed of Preservation Easement between the Town of Oro Valley and
Pima County Resolution 08-2615 (2008), the original Steam Pump Ranch Master Plan Resolution
08-4016 (2008), and current iteration17 (2015); Circulation and Programming Update Resolution
15-5318(2015). Of primary concern in the future is the protection of the historic core (as noted in
the Master Plan) at the ranch. Town staff will coordinate with the Historic Preservation
Commission to ensure that the integrity of the historic core is always preserved in accordance
with state and national guidelines. Town staff should review the Steam Pump Ranch Master Plan
periodically to ensure that it reflects current planning.
3. Historic Neighborhoods
The Town of Oro Valley was incorporated
in 1974. The first subdivision was platted
in 1930. Construction of residential
neighborhoods generally did not occur
until the late 1950s.
Nineteen subdivisions were platted before 1974. (Actual development is not always associated
with the plat date). Subdivisions that have reached or will be reaching the 50 -year-old threshold
for consideration as historically significant are identified in Rock Art, Ranch, and Residence:
Cultural Resources in the Town of Oro
Valley and Its Planning Area19. Individual
buildings with possible historical
significance are also noted. The Oro Valley
Article 6-10 Historic Preservation Code20
outlines the process for local landmarks
and neighborhood district designations.
A. The Historic Preservation Commission
will concentrate some of its educational
outreach on the Town’s historic
neighborhoods. These neighborhoods
include, but are not limited to, Oro
Valley Estates, Suffolk Hills, Campo Bello,
and Shadow Mountain Estates.
B. The Historic Preservation Commission and Town staff will participate in outreach to highlight
historic districts, neighborhoods, and individual properties and explain the process/benefits of
designation. The Commission and Town, including the Planning Division,21 will encourage Oro
Valley residents to contact them regarding properties they may own or have knowledge of
that need to be preserved.
C. The Historic Preservation Commission (and other interested community members) will
pursue an inventory of neighborhood historic districts or structures as identified in Rock Art,
Ranch, and Residence. “Windshield surveys” could be a first step in identifying such districts or
structures.
Town staff, the Historic Preservation Commission, volunteers, and consultants (as
appropriate) should consider developing tours of historic neighborhoods/areas of the
Town to focus attention on community heritage. An example would be walking tours of
James D. Kriegh Park, Canyon Del Oro High School, or Catalina Shadows development and
their role in establishing the Town of Oro Valley. The Town will consider financial
incentives related to historic preservation, heritage tourism22, and education as part of
the annual budget process. Linking tourism and preservation can do more for local
economies, tourism, and preservation than promoting them separately. Heritage
tourism saves and preserves your heritage. Share it with visitors and reap the economic
benefits.
4. Town History Records and Reports
A Town’s archives contain primary source documents that have
accumulated over time and are kept showing the function of the
Town. Archives are records that have been naturally and
necessarily generated as a product of regular legal, commercial,
administrative, or social activities. Archives provide a basis for
the proper understanding of the past that is important to inform
as the Town develops. Archives are a special resource for dealing
with the social memory of the Town. The Oro Valley Historic
Preservation Commission encourages the development and
maintenance of a Town archive.
The original Town Historian, Marjorie Kriegh, maintained records of the Town’s incorporation
from 1974 through 1977. These records reflect the fight for annexation and Oro Valley’s
ultimate success. Available documented history is stored with the Town Clerk23. The Historic
Preservation Commission, with the assistance of Town staff, should prepare an annual Town
report on accomplishments for the prior year to be included in the proposed Town archive. This
report should also serve as the required annual report to the Arizona State Historic Preservation
Office to maintain certified local government24 status. The Historic Preservation Commission
should be directly involved with the Town’s annual cultural resources inventory update.
The Environmentally Sensitive Lands Ordinance25 states that the Historic Preservation
Commission shall maintain a list of known significant cultural resources for consideration in
planning current and future development. The Town was to develop this list, based on the
Cultural Resources Inventory in the Rock Art, Ranch, and Residence, and the OV Zoning Code,
Section 21.9, Paragraph B.426. The Historic Preservation Commission recommends the Town
create and publish a list of its cultural resources.
5. Undeveloped Areas of the Town
The Town’s Environmentally Sensitive
Lands Ordinance applies to cultural
resources in undeveloped areas and to all
developments that require a rezoning,
preliminary plat, development plan, or amendment to these items. It provides for the
conservation of significant cultural resources in concert with other sensitive resources. Some
areas available for development contain known archaeological sites as identified in Rock Art,
Ranch, and Residence. The ordinance provides a sound basis for the identification, evaluation,
and treatment of known sites as well as ones that may be discovered in the future. Using the
standard cultural review process, Town of Oro Valley staff should review existing cultural
resources data compiled in the Cultural Resources Inventory report to provide a preliminary
knowledge base when stipulations are proposed for future developments. The Town will
review cultural resources and information obtained during the process of future site
development within Town boundaries to determine the potential for public interpretation and
education. The Town will also consider the value of prehistoric and historic resources in
potential annexations. The Historic Preservation Commission may review cultural resources
reports and may provide information and recommendations to Town staff.
6. Honey Bee Village Archaeological Preserve
The 13-acre Honey Bee Village Archeological
Preserve27 was donated to Pima County in
2008 and transferred to the Town on
January 4, 2012. The Preserve was part of
the 2004 Pima County Bond. The main area
of this Hohokam site is to be preserved for
public use. The Tohono O’odham Nation
and Oro Valley funded the construction of a
protective wall around the Preserve. The
area remains inaccessible and unused for
walking, education, and observation of past
cultural traditions.
A. In cooperation with Pima County, the Town will maintain a regular inspection
program of the Preserve by Arizona Site Stewards.
B. The Historic Preservation Commission will monitor ongoing Honey Bee Village
Archeological Preserve developments.
C. Future actions at the Preserve will include
ongoing site clean-up by the appropriate
responsible entities.
CONCLUSION
Partnerships will continue to be a key element in maintaining the property and providing public
access. As noted in the introduction, Oro Valley holds unique and authentic cultural resources
that make places of the past come alive. This Guide for Implementation sets the stage to make
Oro Valley’s history “come alive”.
RESOURCES
Hold down Ctrl key and click link
1 Arizona State Historic Preservation Plan
2 Five Member Commission Ordinance 24-05
3 Town’s Cultural Heritage Plan
4 Town’s Existing Programs and Facilities 1
5 Town’s Existing Programs and Facilities 2
6 Cultural and Historic Resources Brochure
7 Town's Website
8 William H. Adler Historical Writing Contest
9 Pima County Public Library – Oro Valley Branch
10 Oro Valley Historical Society
11 Historic Steam Pump Ranch
12 National Register of Historic Places
13 Pima County Voter Approved Expenditure Resolution 04-38
14 Steam Pump Ranch Acquisition Resolution 06-87
15 Deed of Preservation Easement Resolution 08-26
16 Master Plan Resolution 08-40
17 Current Steam Pump Ranch Master Plan (2015)
18 Circulation and Programming Update Resolution 15-53
19 Rock Art Ranch and Residence
20 Article 6-10 Historic Preservation Code
21 Planning Division
22 Tourism Itineraries Oro Valley
23 Town Clerk – Oro Valley
24 Certified Local Governments
25 Environmentally Sensitive Lands Ordinance
26 Oro Valley Zoning Code
27 Honey Bee Village Archeological Preserve
Historic Preservation Commission 4.
Meeting Date:05/06/2024
Submitted By:MaryAnne Tolmie, Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT:
DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION TO SELECT A HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEMBER
TO DRAFT A REPORT ON 2023 COMMISSION ACTIVITIES FOR SUBMISSION TO THE TOWN COUNCIL AND
THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE AS PROVIDED IN OVTC § 6-10-5(F)(16)
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
As part of a Certified Local Government, each year the Commission is required to write and approve an Annual
Report of the Historic Preservation Commission as part of the National requirements of Historic Preservation
Commissions. The report consists of last year's minutes, applications from newly appointed Commissioners,
current Oaths of Office, and a narrative of activities. Once completed, staff will add it to the existing records to
prove compliance.
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
I MOVE to approve the Annual Report to be assigned to _________ and that (he/she) present the report at the next
regular meeting.