Oro Valley council members discussed potential tax changes and approved parks and recreation fee increases during a recent meeting, according to the town.
Town officials cited rising operational costs tied to public safety and road maintenance as a pressure on the town’s general fund. The council has not approved any new taxes, but proposals under consideration include a potential use tax, commercial rental tax, and telecommunications tax.
Parks and stormwater fees
The council approved parks and recreation fee increases unanimously. The changes affect memberships, facility rentals, and field rentals. Officials said it is the first increase in over 10 years.
The meeting also included approval of a “notice of intent” to increase the stormwater utility fee, which triggers a public review period. The proposed plan would raise the base rate from $4.50 to $6.50 by July 2028 over three years.
A public hearing on the stormwater rate is scheduled for mid-January. The proposed increases would support drainage projects, stormwater management, and flood prevention, according to the town.
Business concerns and next steps
Officials said final tax decisions have not been made and that the council will continue studying long-term impacts. Residents and local business owners are expected to have opportunities to provide input at public meetings and hearings.
Robert Tomlinson, representing several commercial properties in Oro Valley, said business owners see higher operating costs in Oro Valley than in neighboring Tucson and expressed concern that additional taxes could affect tenants and investment.
The town said the new parks and recreation fee schedule will take effect and that information about proposed 2025 changes is available on the town’s official “2025 Taxes and Fees” page.