City of Tucson News
Public Safety in Tucson
Last year the Tucson Association of REALTORS® participated in a survey of Southern Arizona that
surveyed residents on how they felt about issues facing Southern Arizona. They were asked a wide
range of questions about a variety of issues. This survey was the largest political survey ever
done in Pima County and the number one issue among voters was Public Safety. After this survey we
met with both the Police and Fire Associations to start a conversation on what we can do to truly
make public safety first in our community. After many meetings and many conversations the Public
Safety First Initiative was born. Yesterday the Public Safety First Campaign which is Chaired by
Bill Arnold and whose Treasurer is Rick Hodges filed their initiative with
the City Clerk of Tucson.
If passed by the voters the initiative would;
- Set minimum staffing level for the Tucson Police Department at 2.4 full-time sworn officers per 1000 city residents. (Currently they are at 1.8)
- Adopt, in its entirety, the National Fire Protection Association 1710, a standard for the organization and deployment of fire suppression operations, emergency medical operations and special operations to the public by fire departments.
- Ensure that hiring standards or qualifications are not lowered in either department.
The Public Safety First Committee is working closely with
both the Tucson Police Officers Association as well as the
Tucson Firefighters Association and both Police and Fire
have already made a substantial contribution to the
campaign. In addition to the REALTORS® supporting this
campaign the Southern Arizona Home Builders have pledged to be a partner in this campaign
and other business leaders will be stepping forward. If you would like to be involved in this important initiative or just want more information don’t hesitate to contact the Public Affairs Department here at the Association.
Rental Tax – The City 2% Rental Tax
The City of Tucson is looking at ways to increase its revenue for the 09/10 budget. Because of an unforeseen shortfall the Mayor and Council asked a committee of various city staff to make a recommendation for new revenue streams. The committee came back with $20 million worth of new taxes including a 2% tax on all residential rental property which would bring in an estimated $12 million. The Tucson Association of REALTORS® opposes a rental tax because of the regressive nature of such a tax. The Tucson Association of REALTORS® is committed to finding solutions for affordable housing and affordable rentals are a critical part of affordable housing.
Pima County News
Safe Routes To Schools
The County is trying to mandate that all trails within private developments near schools must be open to the public and planned in a manner that connects the neighborhood to the school or future schools. County Planning and Zoning agreed to a 90-day continuance so that staff can work with the private sector on different concerns presented.
Marana News
FEMA accepted the study performed by the Town of Marana regarding the flood hazard risk of the community. The newly accepted study better identifies which parts of the town are in high risk flood areas. Based on the new study, many areas previously identified as high risk flood areas, are no longer identified as such.
Sahuarita News
The Tucson Association of REALTORS® Candidate and Ballot Measure Task Force has announced two endorsements for the Candidates in Sahuarita and have one additional interview scheduled. We may announce an additional endorsement. Please note, all names will remain eligible for consideration until the process is complete. Endorsed:
Kara Egbert and Duane Blumberg
Oro Valley