HomeMy WebLinkAboutPackets - Council Packets (2009)Town Council Meeting
Regular and Study Session
February 4, 2026
Upcoming Meeting
Announcements
Upcoming meetings
Meetings are subject to change. Check the Town website for meeting status.
Water Utility Commission Regular Session
February 09 at 5:00 p.m.
Hopi Room
Budget and Finance Commission
February 17 at 4:00 p.m.
Council Chambers
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
February 17 at 6:00 p.m.
Hopi Conference Room
Town Council Regular Session
February 18 at 6:00 p.m.
Council Chambers
4
Mayor and Council Reports
6
Mayor and Council Reports
7
Mayor and Council Reports
Town Manager’s Report
Survey link: bit.ly/4pTRCBh
Town Council Meeting
Regular and Study Session
February 4, 2026
Mechanical Equipment Screening
&
Yard Wall Heights
Town Council
February 4, 2026
Public Hearing
Zoning Code Amendment regarding walls on
residential properties
Purpose
Topic 1: Mechanical equipment screening
•Issue A: Screen wall height
•Issue B: Location of screen wall
•Issue C: Rooftop units
Topic 2: Yard wall heights
•Issue A: Front yard wall height for pool safety
•Issue B: Side and rear yard wall height
•Issue C: Height measurement
Yard wall
Walls screening pool and a/c equipment
Yard Wall Heights
Topic 1: Mechanical Equipment Screening
“…Mechanical equipment shall include
HVAC units, air conditioners, pool heaters,
pool filters, and pool circulation pumps,
among others.”
Issue A: Wall Height of Mechanical Equipment Screens
4’
unit
5’
wall
Current
•“Mechanical equipment shall be screened by a
minimum four (4) foot solid wall…..”
Proposed
•Wall shall be one (1) foot taller than the equipment
Reason
•One height required may be too tall for small
mechanical units and not tall enough for a larger
units
Topic 1: Mechanical Equipment Screening
Issue B: Clarify Additional Wall for Screening
Current
•“Mechanical equipment shall be screened by a
minimum four (4) foot solid wall…..and placed no
further than ten (10) feet from the screen wall.”
Proposed
•Continue the 10’ distance requirement but allow
an exception if the yard wall provides the
property screening
Reason
•The extra screening wall may not be needed and
is an extra costs to the homeowner
Topic 1: Mechanical Equipment Screening
Issue C: Rooftop Mechanical Equipment Treatment
Current
•Only reference was in the Design Standards
Proposed
•Rooftop mechanical equipment, vents and ducts added
on new buildings or additions shall be screened or
painted to match the roof color with low reflectivity
values (LRV) listed in the Design Standards. Screening
shall be consistent with building design .
Reason
•Include Design Standard language in the zoning code to
clarify treatment of roof top units on new residential
buildings
Topic 1: Mechanical Equipment Screening
Topic 2: Yard Wall Height
“A structure or device required or allowed by
this code forming a physical barrier,
constructed such that fifty percent (50%) or
more of the vertical surface is closed and
prevents the passage of light, air, and vision
through said surface in a horizontal plane. ….”
International Residential Building Code
Recently adopted building code
•Formally limited to 6’ tall yard wall
•Allows up to a 7’ tall yard wall
•Pool wall safety barriers minimum of 5’ tall
Effective January 2026
Topic 2: Yard Wall Height
Issue A: Front Yard Wall Height (pool safety barrier)
Current
•Front yard: 4’6” tall
Proposed
•Allow a 5’ tall wall for
pool safety barrier
Reason
•To be consistent with the
building code heights
Topic 2: Yard Wall Height
Issue B: Side and Rear Yard Wall Height
Current
•Side and Rear: “Walls equal to or less than
six (6) feet in height may be located on the
property line. Walls taller than six (6) feet
must meet the side setback of the applicable
zoning district.”
Proposed
•Allow Seven-foot (7’) tall wall on property
lines
Reason
•To be consistent with the new building code
heights
6’ tall
7’ tall
Topic 2: Yard Wall Height
Issue C: Yard Wall Height Measurements
Current
•Not defined
Proposed
•Clarify that yard wall height does not
include the retaining wall
Reason
•Provide clarity to wall height
Topic 2: Yard Wall Height
Summary
Zoning Code Amendments
Topic 1: Mechanical equipment screening
•Issue A: Screen wall height
•Issue B: Location of screen wall
•Issue C: Rooftop units
Topic 2: Yard wall heights
•Issue A: Front yard wall height for pool safety
•Issue B: Side and rear yard wall height
•Issue C: Height measurement
Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval
Item B: Wall Height Location Sample
Side lot line
Side lot line
Driveway
House Porch Pool
Town Council Meeting
Regular and Study Session
February 4, 2026
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
TOWN OF MARANA
CYCLING/BIKING INITIATIVE
PAUL MELCHER
COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
FEBRUARY 4, 2026
Establish the Framework for TOV/MAR Cycling/Biking Collaborations
IGA SPECIFICS
1.Develop initiative branding
2.Parties share expenses equitably or
TBD
3.Separate agreements for each future
cycling/biking event
4.Strategic Planning
5.Post Event Meetings
Establish the Framework for TOV/MAR Cycling/Biking Collaborations
PURPOSE
Current Collaborations
Tucson Bicycle Classic
Project Echelon
Goals
1.Establish the Oro Valley and Marana Region
as premier cycling destination
2.Co-host amateur and pro cycling teams to
increase bed/sales taxes
3.Use this initiative as a catalyst for future
initiatives
POSSIBLE TOURISM COLLABORATIONS
Town Council Meeting
Regular and Study Session
February 4, 2026
Study Session: Discussion regarding the draft Oro
Valley Leisure Travel Management Plan
Town Council
February 4, 2026
Public Hearing
LEISURE TRAVEL DESTINATION MANAGEMENT PLAN
FOR THE TOWN OF ORO VALLEY, ARIZONA
SEPTEMBER 10, 2025February 4, 2026
THE PROJECT’S OBJECTIVE
•Define a clear vision for OV’s future as a distinctive leisure destination
•Identify, prioritize, and implement investments, policies, and programs that leverage OV’s unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, wellness orientation, and community character
•Build on extensive research , resident and stakeholder input, and alignment with regional initiatives
•Balance the Town’s economic objectives with tourism development
•Ensure that growth enhances quality of life for residents
•Elevate Oro Valley’s profile among visitors
•Articulate a market -driven framework for sustainable tourism
•Celebrate authenticity, foster community pride , and position Oro Valley as a leading desert destination for outdoor recreation, culture, wellness, and inclusive experiences
TODAY’S OBJECTIVE
•Review, Discuss and Comment on Draft Plan
•Achieve Consensus on any Edits, Changes,
Revisions to be Made
*Proofing and wordsmithing edits will be
collected separately.
Today’s Workshop
• Crafting the DMP
• Project Research (6 Deliverables)• Key Target Market Segments & SWOT
• Key Tourism Trends• Recommendations• Big Ideas
• Priority Criteria & Scoring• 10-Year Implementation Roadmap
• Explore Oro Valley DMMO• Explore Oro Valley & Visit Tucson• Vision for Oro Valley Tourism
• Quick Wins• Implementation
CRAFTING THE LEISURE TRAVEL DESTINATION MANAGEMENT PLAN
▪Kickoff Meeting
▪Data and Information
Collection
▪Site / Asset Review
▪Stakeholder Engagement
▪Steering Committee
Workshop
▪Industry Performance and
Hotel Statistics
▪Comprehensive Plans
▪Sustainability Plans
▪Transportation
Performance and Plans
▪Tourism Asset / Venue
Performance
▪Economic Development
Strategies and Plans
▪Festivals and Event
Performance
▪Regional Infrastructure
▪Public Sector Protocols,
Policies and Procedures
▪History and Background
▪Brand Story
▪Marketing Vision
▪Sustainability and DEI
▪Industry Context
▪Marketing Perf. and
Insights
▪Target Audience
▪Reaching Each Audience
▪Campaign Thought
Starters and Co -
Marketing Concepts
▪Resident Engagement
▪Marketing Materials,
Plans and Rollout
▪Situational Analysis
▪Vision for the Future
▪Opportunities, Investments
and Priorities
▪Markets
▪Products
▪Assets
▪The Research
▪Recommendations
▪Strategies and Plans
▪Roles and Responsibilities
▪Timeline for Implementation
▪Performance Metrics
▪Report and Presentations
▪Stakeholder Engagement
and SWOT Report
▪Resident Survey and
Report
PROJECT KICK-OFF AND FAMILIARIZATION TOUR
LEVERAGING IMPORTANT EXISTING RESEARCH and ASSET REVIEW
STAKEHOLDER AND RESIDENT ENGAGEMENT
DESTINATION BRANDING AND MARKETING ASSESSMENT
SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS AND VISIONING WORKSHOPS TOURISM MANAGEMENT PLAN
FAM TOUR REPORT EXISTING DOCUMENTS REVIEW REPORT & TOURISM
RESEARCH REVIEW REPORT
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT REPORT & RESIDENT
SURVEY REPORT
BRANDING AND MARKETING REPORT PRIORITY REPORT FINAL LEISURE TRAVEL DESTINATION MANAGEMENT
PLAN
•Existing Assets: Natural areas, historic/cultural venues, wellness resorts, sports complexes, and
event spaces.
•Current Challenge: Assets are underutilized; need targeted investment, infrastructure upgrades,
and marketing.
•Opportunities:
•Expand ecotourism and wellness experiences
•Enhance youth & amateur sports facilities for regional tournaments
•Elevate culinary and beverage scene
•Leverage cultural heritage (e.g., Steam Pump Ranch)
•Recurring Issues: Limited parking, aging facilities, underdeveloped event amenities, untapped
marketing potential.
•Impact: Addressing these gaps could significantly strengthen Oro Valley’s visitor economy and
community life.
FAMILIARIZATION TOUR REPORT
•Existing Assets: Oro Valley benefits from a foundation of existing municipal plans, strategic
frameworks, and regional tourism documents that address growth, conservation, parks, mobility,
and cultural heritage.
•Current Challenge: The community faces infrastructure limitations, branding gaps, and
connectivity issues, with tourism efforts often overshadowed by Tucson.
•Opportunities:
•Expand eco-tourism and sustainable outdoor recreation.
•Leverage heritage assets like Steam Pump Ranch for cultural tourism.
•Strengthen sports and athletic tourism offerings.
•Develop year -round events and bilingual/digital marketing campaigns.
•Recurring Issues: Lodging shortages, outdated event spaces, limited regional collaboration, and
seasonality challenges.
•Impact: Aligning town strategies with tourism development priorities can create a cohesive path
toward long-term sustainability, competitiveness, and community benefit.
EXISTING DOCUMENTS REVIEW REPORT
TOURISM RESEARCH REVIEW REPORT
•Existing Assets: Oro Valley’s tourism base includes two anchor resorts, Catalina State Park,
Honeybee Canyon, and complementary cultural and recreation sites.
•Current Challenge: Despite strong ADR and RevPAR, the town’s limited lodging inventory, under-
leveraged retail, and weak nightlife constrain tourism growth.
•Opportunities:
•Expand boutique and experiential lodging.
•Create stronger cross -promotion among attractions.
•Enhance culinary and retail environments to encourage longer stays.
•Target Phoenix, California, and Midwest drive/fly markets more effectively.
•Recurring Issues: High seasonality, short lengths of stay, concentration of activity along Oracle
Road, and reliance on older, affluent visitors.
•Impact: Investments in lodging diversity, visitor services, and off-season programming could grow
visitation nights and broaden market reach.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT REPORT
•Existing Assets: Stakeholders highlighted Oro Valley’s arts/maker community, safe cycling
environment, wellness appeal, and strong quality of life.
•Current Challenge: Limited nightlife, family entertainment, housing affordability, and
underutilized facilities (e.g., Community Center) constrain tourism development.
•Opportunities:
•Revitalize Steam Pump Ranch and develop a stronger local culinary scene.
•Leverage arts, festivals, and cycling events as signature experiences.
•Differentiate Oro Valley from Tucson through branding and identity.
•Explore long-term investments in indoor recreation and event venues.
•Recurring Issues: Branding inconsistency, lack of regional collaboration, and demographic
imbalance (retiree-heavy base limiting workforce).
•Impact: Engaging local stakeholders and aligning on shared priorities can strengthen Oro Valley’s
distinctiveness and visitor readiness while enhancing resident life.
RESIDENT SURVEY REPORT
•Existing Assets: Residents consistently praised Oro Valley’s scenic beauty, safety, and abundant
outdoor recreation, reinforcing these as core assets.
•Current Challenge: Affordability, traffic congestion, limited nightlife, and lack of diverse
dining/retail options weaken livability and visitor appeal.
•Opportunities:
•Invest in more diverse dining and cultural venues.
•Develop amphitheater or performing arts spaces.
•Expand trail systems and create a cohesive town center.
•Enhance wayfinding and visitor information.
•Recurring Issues: Older, affluent demographic; low local staycation participation.
•Impact: Addressing gaps in entertainment, dining, and accessibility will align resident and visitor
priorities, improving both quality of life and destination competitiveness.
BRANDING AND MARKETING REPORT
•Extensive Assets: Oro Valley has organically developed a brand identity rooted in tranquility,
natural beauty, wellness, and prosperity.
•Current Challenge: Without a formalized brand framework, the town lacks cohesion and visibility
compared to competitors.
•Opportunities:
•Define and codify vision, mission, brand promise, and positioning.
•Build marketing campaigns targeting both loyal retirees and growth segments like affluent
families and wellness travelers.
•Leverage digital storytelling, SEO, and influencer partnerships.
•Create a branded tourism platform to unify visitor messaging.
•Recurring Issues: Inconsistent past branding, underinvestment in structured campaigns, and
overshadowing by Tucson.
•Impact: A cohesive brand and targeted marketing can amplify Oro Valley’s distinct appeal,
expand market share, and generate long -term loyalty.
KEY TARGET MARKET SEGMENTS
KEY TARGET MARKET SEGMENTS
STRENTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES & THREATS (SWOT)
Strengths
Exceptional Natural Beauty
Extensive Trail Networks
Wellness Reputation
High-Quality Golf Courses and Facilities
Safe, Welcoming Community
Rich Cultural Heritage Sites
Proximity to Regional Attractions
Weaknesses
Limited Accommodation Options
Seasonality Impact
Underdeveloped Public Transit and Connectivity
Limited Awareness Outside Region
Aging Demographic Dominance
Insufficient Event Facilities
Overreliance on Neighboring Tucson
Opportunities
Growth in Wellness and Eco -Tourism
Expanding Culinary Scene
Enhanced Regional Collaboration
Targeted Digital and Influencer Marketing
Investment in Boutique and Luxury Accommodations
Improved Infrastructure and Connectivity
Signature Events Creation
Threats
Climate and Environmental Concerns
Regional Competition
Economic Instability and Inflation
Political and Social Perception
Limited Workforce and Talent Retention
Potential Over-Tourism and Sustainability Issues
Aging Infrastructure
Key Tourism Trends for Oro Valley
• Heritage and Cultural Tourism
• Wellness Culture• Adventure Tourism
• Purpose-Driven Travel• Experiential Luxury• Nature-Positive Tourism
• Sports Tourism
THE VISIONING WORKSHOP
20 Recommendations
The plan is rooted in a series of practical, short -
to medium-term strategies that focus on improving what already exists:
• Infrastructure Enhancements• Experience & Program Development
• Destination Readiness• Marketing, Management and Governance• Equity & Engagement
Realistic, actionable, and grounded in existing
resources, making them achievable with modest new investment and strategic coordination.
Recommendations & Action Plans
• Overview
• Goal Statement• Recommendation
• Comprehensive Action Plan• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)• Lead and Supporting Entities
• Time Frame for Implementation• Capital Investment and Operating Costs
1. Capital Investment Estimate2. Annual Operating Budget Estimate*Planning and Progress to Date
RECOMMENDATION #1
Activate Steam Pump Ranch As A Cultural,
Culinary, And Community -first Event Venue
•Transform into a flagship destination with year-round markets, concerts, and culinary events.
•Highlight Oro Valley’s heritage and local talent through storytelling, hands-on arts, and community-driven programming.
•Invest in infrastructure to create a vibrant, resident-first gathering place that also draws visitors.
RECOMMENDATION #2
Address Summer Seasonality With Shaded,
Indoor, Or Evening Visitor Experiences
•Develop climate-conscious amenities like shaded venues and cooled markets.
•Expand indoor recreation and evening events for year-round activity.
•Position Oro Valley as a summer -ready destination.
RECOMMENDATION #3
Build And Promote Themed Itineraries And
Trip-planning Tools
•Package attractions into multi-day experiences (wellness, family, cycling, culinary).
•Launch digital trip-planning tools for easy visitor use.
•Highlight both iconic and hidden gems across town.
RECOMMENDATION #4
Clarify Tourism Governance, Staffing, And
Stakeholder Engagement Structure
•Establish a formal tourism leadership structure (DMO).
•Ensure inclusive representation from hotels, small businesses, and residents.
•Dedicate staff to execute strategy and build partnerships.
RECOMMENDATION #5
Create Unified Visitor Guides And Accessible
Trail/Outdoor Maps
•Publish engaging, mobile-friendly visitor guides with bilingual access.
•Standardize trail maps and cultural highlights.
•Ensure ADA accessibility and clear wayfinding.
RECOMMENDATION #6
Develop A Cohesive Culinary Tourism Strategy
And Local Dining Enhancement Plan
•Support destination dining and local food growth.
•Introduce chef residencies, food halls, and culinary events.
•Partner with Tucson’s food scene to boost regional attention.
RECOMMENDATION #7
Develop A Regional Events And Festivals
Strategy To Combat Seasonality And Celebrate
Identity
•Build a balanced annual calendar of wellness weekends, concerts, and cultural events.
•Focus on resident-centered programming that draws visitors.
•Activate summer and shoulder seasons with signature experiences.
RECOMMENDATION #8
Develop And Activate A Distinctive Oro Valley
Brand Identity
•Create a compelling tourism brand with logo, tagline, and narrative.
•Differentiate from Tucson by highlighting wellness, beauty, and creativity.
•Guide all marketing with a cohesive identity platform.
RECOMMENDATION #9
Encourage Development Of Youth/Family-
friendly Venues And Experiences
•Invest in interactive attractions like children’s museums and playscapes.
•Provide educational and multi-generational programming.
•Enhance family experiences that also benefit local residents.
RECOMMENDATION #10
Enhance Regional Tourism Collaboration And
Cross-promotion
•Partner with Tucson, Marana, and Pima County to co-market itineraries.
•Share event calendars and cross -promote regional assets.
•Position Oro Valley as a key Sonoran Desert destination.
RECOMMENDATION #11
Expand KPIs And Establish A Resident Tourism
Sentiment Monitoring Program
•Launch a Resident Tourism Index to monitor community sentiment.
•Use dashboards to align tourism with quality -of -life goals.
•Adjust strategies based on real -time resident feedback.
RECOMMENDATION #12
Expand Lodging Options Including Boutique,
Eco-luxury, And Wellness -focused Hotels
•Attract boutique, eco-luxury, and wellness-focused hotels.
•Align new properties with Oro Valley’s scale and desert setting.
•Grow experience-driven accommodations for extended stays.
RECOMMENDATION #13
Expand Tourism Infrastructure And Support
Facilities At Parks And Venues
•Upgrade restrooms, shaded seating, water access, and lighting.
•Improve facilities at parks, trailheads, and venues.
•Emphasize sustainability and dual resident/visitor use.
RECOMMENDATION #14
Improve The Retail Environment With
Experiential Districts And Cultural Hubs
•Redevelop spaces like Oro Valley Marketplace into walkable, mixed-use hubs.
•Blend arts, dining, and outdoor gathering areas with retail.
•Create cultural hubs that are both commercial and social.
RECOMMENDATION #15
Integrate Tourism Goals Into Broader Economic
And Capital Planning
•Weave tourism goals into land use and capital planning.
•Focus development on strategic parcels with community benefit.
•Balance open space preservation with visitor-supportive projects.
•Consider tourism/hospitality-related development in future annexations.
RECOMMENDATION #16
Leverage Oro Valley’s Assets To Position It As A
Wellness And Active Lifestyle Destination
•Promote retreats, fitness events, and restorative travel experiences.
•Leverage Oro Valley’s health-conscious culture and desert landscape.
•Build reputation as a wellness -focused destination.
RECOMMENDATION #17
Position Oro Valley As A Premier Cycling And
Active Recreation Destination
•Invest in cycling infrastructure and safe access to The Loop.
•Develop staging areas for events and independent riders.
•Market Oro Valley as a year-round hub for active recreation.
RECOMMENDATION #18
Promote Youth, Senior, And Multigenerational
Tourism Programming
•Develop inclusive activities that engage both younger families and active seniors.
•Highlight multigenerational experiences like festivals, workshops, and outdoor recreation.
•Position Oro Valley as a welcoming destination for all ages.
RECOMMENDATION #19
Revitalize The Oro Valley Community Center
With Tourism-serving Amenities
•Reimagine the Community Center with tourism-friendly amenities such as dining, events, and enrichment programs.
•Activate the facility as a hub for visitors and residents, integrating recreation with cultural experiences.
•Create a more vibrant and visitor-ready asset that enhances both quality of life and tourism appeal.
RECOMMENDATION #20
Increase sports tourism development and
advocate additional sports and recreation
facilities / venues
•Promote OV as a regional sports tourism destination.
•Support year-round visitation and improve resident wellness.
•Feature the aquatic center, tennis/pickleball facilities, trails,, regional parks and more.
5 Big Ideas
The plan also offers a set of transformational Big
Ideas that are longer-term, visionary, high-impact opportunities that aim to set Oro Valley apart in the regional and national tourism landscape:
• Anchor Attractions
• Signature Events & Storytelling• Destination Defining Spaces• Creative & Economic Activation
These concepts require larger investment,
partnerships, and longer planning timelines, but have the potential to reshape the Town’s position in Southern Arizona.
1. ORO VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS VENUE AND/OR AMPHITHEATER
CONCEPT RENDERINGS
2. NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART INDOOR RECREATION CENTER
CONCEPT RENDERINGS
3. EXPANSION OF TOHONO CHUL
CONCEPT RENDERINGS
4. STEAM PUMP RANCH PUBLIC MARKET HALL
CONCEPT RENDERINGS
5. RESIDENT-DESIGNED FESTIVAL OR TOWN CULTURAL SHOWCASE
CONCEPT RENDERINGS
Recommendations & Big Idea Priority Criteria
1. Economic Impact
2. Total Capital and Operating Costs3. Return on Investment (ROI) Timeframe
4. Opportunity for the Town of Oro Valley to Impact5. Cultural or Historic Preservation Value6. Ease of Implementation / Feasibility
7. Resident Benefit / Community Livability8. Seasonality Mitigation
9. Environmental Sustainability
*These rankings are advisory in nature and should not be interpreted as fixed directives. Further due diligence should be conducted prior to final decision-making. While the prioritization framework explicitly considers relative economic impact and return on investment, it is not possible—nor methodologically sound—to quantify the specific impact of individual recommendations on future visitor volumes, visitor spending, or tax receipts at this stage.
Recommendations in Priority Order
Recommendation
Total Score
(out of 90)
2 Address summer seasonality with shaded, indoor, or evening visitor experiences 72
1 Activate Steam Pump Ranch as a cultural, culinary, and community -first event venue 66
17 Position Oro Valley as a premier cycling and active recreation destination 66
7 Develop a regional events and festivals strategy to combat seasonality and celebrate identity 65
13 Expand tourism infrastructure and support facilities at parks and venues 62
20 Increase sports tourism development and advocate additional sports and recreation facilities / venues 62
6 Develop a cohesive culinary tourism strategy and local dining enhancement plan 61
9 Encourage development of youth/family -friendly venues and experiences 61
16 Leverage Oro Valley’s assets to position it as a wellness and active lifestyle destination 61
19 Revitalize the Oro Valley Community Center with tourism -serving amenities 60
12 Expand lodging options including boutique, eco -luxury, and wellness-focused hotels 59
18 Promote youth, senior, and multigenerational tourism programming 59
3 Build and promote themed itineraries and trip-planning tools 57
15 Integrate tourism goals into broader economic and capital planning 57
4 Clarify tourism governance, staffing, and stakeholder engagement structure 56
14 Improve the retail environment with experiential districts and cultural hubs 56
5 Create unified visitor guides and accessible trail/outdoor maps 55
8 Develop and activate a distinctive Oro Valley brand identity 54
10 Enhance regional tourism collaboration and cross -promotion 50
11 Expand KPIs and establish a resident tourism sentiment monitoring program 50
Big Ideas in Priority Order
Big Idea Total Score
(out of 90)
5 Resident-Designed Festival or Town Cultural Showcase 70
4 Steam Pump Ranch Public Market Hall 68
3 Expansion of Tohono Chul 67
1 Oro Valley Performing Arts Venue and/or Outdoor Amphitheater 65
2 New State-of-the-Art Indoor Recreation Center 64
10-Year Implementation Roadmap
Years 1–3: Foundation & Early Wins
Build organizational capacity, strengthen marketing fundamentals, pilot quick wins, and engage residents.
Years 4–6: Building MomentumAdvance infrastructure improvements, support venue development,
deepen regional brand.
Years 7–10: Long-Term TransformationExecute transformative projects, enhance visitor infrastructure, and cement destination identity.
EXPLORE ORO VALLEY DMMO
The town must invest in the growth and professionalization of Explore
Oro Valley into a comprehensive Destination Marketing and Management
Organization (DMMO). A fully resourced DMMO will not only elevate the
town’s visibility in regional and national markets but also ensure that
tourism development aligns with local values, infrastructure capacities,
and quality-of-life goals.
EXPLORE ORO VALLEY DMMO
Phase 1 (Year 1–2): Build the Foundation
Staffing core leadership and marketing functions, creating organizational structure, and securing baseline operating resources.
Phase 2 (Year 3–5): Expand Programming and PartnershipsElevating events, PR, sales channels, and strategic destination
management.
Phase 3 (Year 6–10): Full DMMO MaturityDestination stewardship, tourism investment strategies, long -term impact monitoring.
EXPLORE ORO VALLEY DMMO
Option A (Current Structure)
Create a formal tourism leadership structure as part of the Community
and Economic Development Department, with inclusive stakeholder
representation from hotels, small businesses, residents, and nonprofits
that are affiliated with or have a stake in the local tourism economy.
Hire dedicated Explore Oro Valley staff to manage strategy execution
and community relations.
EXPLORE ORO VALLEY DMMO
Option B
Create an independent 501c6 with formal tourism leadership structure
(Board of Directors), with inclusive representation from hotels, small
businesses, residents, and nonprofits. Appoint dedicated Explore Oro
Valley staff to manage strategy execution and community relations.
Potential Advantages of Re-Connecting with Visit Tucson
• Access to Regional Scale and Reach• Air Service and Market Access Leverage• Enhanced Media, PR, and Content Distribution
• Research, Data, and Sales Infrastructure• Cost Efficiency Through Shared Services
• Strategic Alignment with Peer Communities
Potential Challenges and Trade-Offs
• Reduced Autonomy Over Messaging and Priorities• Risk of Brand Overshadowing
• ROI Transparency and Accountability• Competing Internal Priorities
• Financial Commitment
Strategic Consideration Going Forward
The question is not whether regional collaboration is inherently good or bad, but
under what conditions it creates net value.
Vision for Oro Valley Leisure Tourism
Oro Valley will be recognized as a vibrant desert destination where wellness, creativity,
and outdoor adventure converge. Rooted in its breathtaking Sonoran landscape and authentic
community spirit, Oro Valley will offer visitors and residents alike a rich tapestry of experiences—from cultural performances
under the stars and immersive wellness retreats to culinary journeys, artisan markets,
and multigenerational learning adventures.
Vision for Oro Valley Leisure Tourism
Through thoughtful stewardship and inclusive planning, the Town will cultivate a tourism
ecosystem that enhances quality of life, sustains local businesses, and celebrates the
unique identity of Oro Valley. With a blend of near-term enhancements and bold long-range investments, Oro Valley will grow into a
distinctive, year-round destination that reflects the values of its residents, attracts
responsible travelers, and stands out across the Southwest as a model for community -first tourism.
THANK YOU!