View as Webpage

RTA CONSTRUCTION ON GRANT

Rob Lane: (520) 400-3496 

rob.lane@tucsonaz.gov

GDNA RECENT POLICE INCIDENT REPORTS- also reports for other neighborhoods

COOLING CENTERS

CALL 311 Help Line for non-emergency assistance - TPD, City services, report violations, etc.

www.tucsonaz.gov/311

FRONT DESK AT HARDESTY POLICE STATION 791-4253 8 to 5 pm M - Th

FILE ONLINE POLICE REPORT

NonEmergency Number (520)791-4444

LEAD POLICE OFFICERS:

Scott Wakefield (520)589-8822

Scott.Wakefield@tucsonaz.gov 

Tues.-Fri. 5:30am until 3:30pm

Dennis Sinclair. ‭(520) 589-8710‬

Dennis.Sinclair@tucsonaz.gov

Mon.-Thurs. 5:00pm until 3:00am.

Lt. Lisa Rizzi, lisa.rizzi@tucsonaz.gov

CSO Lori Oien lori.oien@tucsonaz.gov

HOMELESS CONCERNS:

Homeless Outreach Team (HOT)

• HOMELESS PROTOCOL
• ONLINE FORM TO REPORT HOMELESS CAMP

Services & Resources for Homeless:

Call: 520-791-2540

Tucson Pima Collaboration to End Homelessness

TRAFFIC WATCH - report dangerous driving.

AGI COMMUNITY SAFETY RESOURCES PAGE

CONTACT GARDEN DISTRICT NA

CODE ENFORCEMENT, REPORT CODE VIOLATIONS 520-792-CITY (2489)

GARDEN DISTRICT WEBSITE

STATUS OF CODE VIOLATIONS REPORT

REPORT GRAFFITI

POTHOLES, STREET SWEEPER, SIGNS, etc. 520-792-CITY (2489)

SHOPPING CARTS - . Call 520-791-3171 or email to ESHelp@tucsonaz.gov.

IF THE WRIGHT SCHOOL PARK IS LOCKED OR IF YOU SEE ANYTHING SUSPICIOUS ON CAMPUS, CALL TUSD SECURITY 520-584-7676

TRASH AND RECYCLING

THIS WEEK

BAG TRASH,

BUT

NO PLASTIC BAGS IN

BLUE RECYCLING BIN.

RECYCLING OR TRASH CAN BROKEN?

GET A FREE REPLACEMENT

520-791-3171 or contact ES.

All City of Tucson offices, except for emergency services, will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day. All trash and recycling collections will remain on schedule, so make sure to roll out your bins as usual. The Los Reales Sustainability Campus and landfill services will be open Tuesday. Public transit will run on regular schedules. 

Environmental Services

Sun Tran/Sun Link holiday schedules

Alvernon Grant Initiative (AGI):

Tucson Police and the Neighborhoods,

and Businesses surrounding

Grant and Alvernon Intersection

Tuesday, Nov.11, 2025

6 - 7 PM

EMMANUEL CHURCH

1825 N ALVERNON

Join us for dinner

at the beginning of the meeting.

Emery and Scott from San Carlos Neighborhood will once again be whipping up their delicious dinner of: spaghetti (veggie option, too), garlic bread, salad, and Dessert.

Homeowners, Businesses, students, and tenants are welcome to this monthly meeting with Tucson Police officers to recognize, report, and prevent criminal activity in our neighborhoods, and Speak directly with police officers. Hear what actions the police have taken and what criminal activity there has been in the past month in our neighborhoods. Help determine priorities for police to target this month.

If you cannot attend, but have concerns about suspicious activity in the neighborhood, send a detailed email GDNABoard@gmail.com, or respond to this reminder. Concerns you have observed about on-going criminal activity? Bring specific information(addresses, descriptions of vehicles and people, etc.).

The direct reduction of crime 

in our neighborhoods is

OUR responsibility,

as well as that of the police.

Crime Prevention is

a community commitment.

December Meeting - Sgt. Legarra - K9 Unit will be attending with Hondo, plus Ranger and his handler to model the vests that AGI helped purchase, and thank us for our partnership to help keep Tucson safe!   



Last night someone set a fire (about 3' X 3' in size) at the bus stop on the northside of Pima between Desmond and Louis. It was at the base of the bench which is luckily metal. Fortunately, the fire did not spread to all the vegetation or trees surrounding the bus stop which could have spread then to the nearby homes.

Thanks to our Litter Busting Ladies, Mary and Marsha, who told me about the fire and cleaned up as much of the debris as they could this morning off the pad. There is still some kind of debris melted to the concrete pad.

As temperatures drop, unhoused individuals may use our easements and alleys and build warming fires. Warming fires are not permitted in easements, alleys, OR bus stops, and you should call 911 if you see one.

There has definitely been an uptick in transient activity in the ungated easements in the NW Quadrant this week, and probably elsewhere in the neighborhood. Late last night, two men were walking behind the homes in the easement between Justin and Desmond. Earlier in the week, a garbage can was found a few houses into the same easement with trash and items that looked like they had been stolen from a shed. The residents that back up to that easement are working together and chipping in to gate the mouth of the easement at Pima. (A used menstrual pad and wet toilet paper were picked up yesterday at the mouth of a different ungated easement.)

Next week, I will put in the newsletter, the information we have about gating easements -- unfortunately, alleys are public Right of Ways and cannot be gated.

REGARDLESS OF EASEMENT OR ALLEY,

CALL 911 IF YOU SEE SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY

ALLEYS are wide enough for a vehicle to drive down, the City may pick up trash in the alley. They are PUBLIC right of ways. Strangers are allowed to travel them unrestricted and residents are not allowed to gate them. However, other neighborhoods have had success in blocking one end of some of their alleys with bollards, to deter foot and vehicle traffic. In order to block one end of an alley, you would need to ask for the help of the Ward VI office and the costs would probably not be covered by the City.

Even though alleys are public property, no one is allowed to do illegal activities or live in an alley. Contact police if you have suspicious activity happening in your alley. If someone is living there, report it through the online Homeless Encampment Tool. If it is illegal activity, call 911. In your 911 call, acknowledge that you know your alley is a public right of way, but focus on what the individual is doing that is suspicious, what they look like, which direction they are headed, etc. BE SPECIFIC. GIVE DETAILS.

EASEMENTS are narrow (10 - 12 ft wide usually) and are meant for utility access, not for garbage pickup. They are PRIVATE property. You OWN the easement to the halfway point and YOU are responsible for maintaining your section.

Utility personnel and neighbors are the only people who should be in your easement. You have the right to tell an unwanted person to leave and the right to gate the entrance to your easement as long as all neighbors and utilities have access. You should also post a No Trespassing sign behind your home.

If someone is in your easement and they are not a neighbor or utility personnel, they are considered trespassing and you can call 911. Make sure the 911 Operator understands you are calling in regards to a Utility Easement which is private property, and not an alley.

Above is a photo of the bus stop where the fire was set last night.

Once again, thanks to Mary and Marsha for cleaning up the big mess from the fire. They make such a difference in our neighborhood by carrying along a trash grabber and a bag on their daily walks.

LOCATED IN GARDEN DISTRICT: His Presence Church, 4108 N. Street. 1 p.m.-5 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month. (3 blocks west of Columbus, one block south of Grant -- North is not a through street so must enter from Columbus.)

LOCATED ACROSS FROM GARDEN DISTRICT on westside of Alvernon, north of Pima, Emmanuel Baptist Church - Every Tuesday at 11:00 a.m., food distribution in the church parking lot. Both drive-in and walk-in participants are welcome. This distribution is open to everyone, and we will continue to run it as we already have donors lined up. Additionally, we are launching an Emergency Food Box Program for church members and those in the neighborhood due to the government shutdown. This program will run from now until the end of December. There are specific requirements for this program: applicants need to fill out a form, and we will approve and distribute emergency food boxes to them. Recipients will be able to pick up their boxes on a designated day and time each week. We are also collecting food items specifically for the Emergency Food Ministry.

Z Mansion, 288 N Church Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, Sundays at 8am.

ZMansion

St. Michael's Episcopal on Fifth and Wilmot has a food pantry M - W- F from 9-10 am.

Northminster Presbyterian on Tuesdays 8am to 10am Fort Lowell and Tucson Blvd gives away free food

5140 E Speedway, in the back of the Estate Treasures Tucson Thrift Shop, Between Rosemont and Craycroft across from QT, Open Tues. Thurs. Sat, 9-12. Mostly produce. 1 bag per person, but no limits on how often they can come. No paperwork, no requirements. 

Hours and locations are subject to change. Make sure to check ahead with the organizations before visiting. Only food distribution hours are listed. Links to each location will provide information on how you can donate and volunteer.

Midtown/Downtown

- St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 8051 E. Broadway. 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Mondays-Fridays.

- Trinity Presbyterian Church, 400 E. University Blvd. Food pantry is open noon-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

- Tucson Indian Center, 160 N. Stone Ave. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays.

- Grace St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 2331 E. Adams St. 9 a.m.-noon, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

- His Presence Church, 4108 N. Street. 1 p.m.-5 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month.

- Passion Church, 1212 S. Palo Verde Ave. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursdays.

Eastside

- Christ Church United Methodist, 655 N. Craycroft Road. 9 a.m.-noon Tuesdays-Thursdays.

- God's Vast Resources, 6161 E. 22nd St. 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays.

Northside

- Salvation Army Tucson Amphi Corps Community Center, 218 E. Prince Road. 9 a.m.-noon Mondays-Thursdays.

- Flowing Wells Family Resource Center, 4545 N. La Cholla Blvd. Center is open 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Mondays-Fridays; Contact the center for information on how to obtain emergency food boxes.

Southside

- Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona (main warehouse), 3003 S. Country Club Road. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays; noon-6 p.m. Thursdays; 9 a.m.-noon each fourth Saturday of the month.

- Santa Cruz Lutheran Church, 6809 S. Cardinal Ave. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesdays.

- Primavera Foundation Resource Center, 702 S. Sixth Ave. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mondays-Fridays.

- Pio Decimo Center, 848 S. Seventh Ave. 8:30 a.m.-noon and 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m., Mondays-Fridays.

Northwest side/Oro Valley/Marana

CDO Assembly of God, 2950 W. Lambert Lane. 9 a.m.-noon Wednesdays.

Avra Valley Fire District Station 191, 15790 W. Silverbell Road. 8 a.m.-10 a.m. each second Friday of the month.

Picture Rocks Park, 5615 N. Sanders Road. 8 a.m.-10 a.m. Check website for details.

IMPACT of Southern Arizona, 3535 E. Hawser St., Catalina. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mondays and Fridays; 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Interfaith Community Services Northwest Food Bank, 2820 W. Ina Road. 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Marana Food Bank and Community Resource Center, 11734 W. Grier Road, Marana. 9 a.m.-noon Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays.

Foothills

St. Philip's in the Hills Food Pantry, 4440 N. Campbell Ave. 9 a.m.-noon Tuesdays.

You can sign up for weekly alerts on Friday with the Saturday schedule and list of items.

Market On the Move (MOM) alerts go out every Friday around 11am-noon or after the last truck comes in!

$10 donation for up to 60 pounds! Cash only

There is no qualifying, no pre-paid, no sign up! Just go to the site closest to you! 

Groceries are shared Mondays 4:30 - 6 pm, Thursdays 6 - 7:30 pm, and Saturdays from 8 - 9:30am.

https://tucsonfoodshare.org/ has more information about volunteering, donating, or requesting delivery.



Various businesses and restaurants around Tucson have stepped up to help Federal Employees and those who are cut off from SNAP/EBT benefits. Look online and watch local news to find locations who are participating. Below are a few:

HEIRLOOM FARMER'S MARKETS: Food Bucks Now is a temporary limited-time program for SNAP participants in Arizona that provides flexibility for food purchases during the federal government shutdown and lapse in SNAP benefits.

Who can participate in Food Bucks Now?

SNAP participants with an active SNAP/EBT card.

How does Food Bucks Now work? Who does it support?

Food Bucks Now provides $30 in special Food Bucks Now credits to SNAP households that can be redeemed for SNAP eligible food purchases at participating farmer’s markets, food stands, and community grocery stores for a temporary period beginning in November as the government shutdown continues and SNAP benefits aren’t available.

Where is it available?

The special temporary Food Bucks Now program is available at select Double Up Arizona locations which can be found here: https://doubleupaz.org/locations/. (The closest location to us is the Rillito River Park Market at 4502 N 1st Ave.)

Carniceria Wild West Mini market on the northwest corner of Grant and Swan in the shopping center on the Swan side where Panda Express is. Kids with a school ID or SNAP/EBT card eat free all November. No purchase necessary.

Google AI Overview

FindHelp.org emerges as a valuable tool for libraries, social workers, and other community organizations working to connect individuals with critical social services



Findhelp is a technology platform that connects individuals with free or reduced-cost social services in their local area. It functions as a search engine (findhelp.org) where users can enter their zip code to find programs for food, housing, healthcare, and more. The company also offers a premium, integrated software platform to organizations like nonprofits, governments, and healthcare systems, allowing them to manage and coordinate care, track impact, and streamline referrals. 

For individuals

• Search for help: Enter your zip code on Findhelp.org to find a wide range of social services.
• Find assistance: The platform lists programs for food, housing, healthcare, financial assistance, and other needs.
• Free and confidential: It is free to search for services on the platform, and the company does not sell user data or place ads. 

100% of the students at Wright Elementary qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch and are at risk at home of Food Insecurity with the shut down of SNAP benefits. Children from 19 countries attend Wright.

Wright staff work hard to make sure that no child goes hungry and often send food home with certain students. If you would like to do something during this food crisis, you can donate NONPERISHABLE food items to Wright and they will make sure it makes it into the hands of children who are in need.

A simple thing YOU can do to make a difference in our world is to pick up an extra jar of peanut butter, box of cereal, can of beans when you are at the grocery. Drop off at Wright's office during school hours and until 4 pm.

Have you ever wondered what community support is provided by VIVA PIMA!, the thrift shop on Alvernon that used to be called the Assistance League of Tucson. They have some wonderful treasures from furniture to clothing to household goods, but how are the funds from your purchases used to support our community?

Come take a "Behind the Scenes" tour and find out about all the beneficial programs they power!

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and Tucson Water recently announced that the water utility will not conduct any residential water shutoffs due to nonpayment during the ongoing federal government shutdown. The temporary moratorium ensures that no household will lose access to essential water service while federal employees and other community members face delays in pay or economic hardship tied to the shutdown. The City of Tucson | Tucson Water maintain that water security is foundational for community resilience. Tucson Water will continue to support customers through flexible payment plans, bill assistance programs, and water conservation tools.

Read the news release

Tucson Water CARES Utility Bill Assistance Program

Fall Planting Tips

With cooler temperatures and winter rains ahead, autumn is the best time of year to plant new plants. When you plant, consider selecting native species adapted to the Sonoran Desert. Natives need less water and provide the best habitat for wildlife.

If you’re considering adding plants to your landscape, use these helpful resources to make smart landscape decisions.

• Plant ahead to enjoy healthier plants and wildflowers next spring. Learn more about the benefits of fall planting in this Water Use It Wisely blog.
• Select plants wisely. This new digital version of the Landscape Plants for the Arizona Desert provides a variety of plant options and includes information on sun/shade, watering, size, form, growth rate, pollinator attraction, and many other important elements that one might consider when beautifying their yard.
• Let’s not forget, water matters! Adjusting your irrigation schedule based on seasonal watering guidelines can save you water and money. Less irrigation is needed during the fall and winter months.
• Find more information about planting wisely this fall season.

Congratulations to Miranda Schubert for winning the Ward VI Council Member position in the election last week. We look forward to working with her!

Our aides from Ward VI under Karin Uhlich's stewardship have taken other positions in different departments and Ward offices within the City. At this point, it is a month of transition as Karin hands the reins of Ward VI over to Miranda who will be bringing in her own team.

If you need assistance at this time from the Ward VI office, they recommend that the best way to communicate for the near future will be via email to Ward6@tucsonaz.gov. The incoming email will be monitored and responses coordinated with the incoming Council Member.

This week is actually a perfect time to attend the online BaRN Block Connector orientation.  We’re not at high risk of extreme heat in the immediate future, but there is always a risk of a protracted power outage or other disaster that might make us wish we were more prepared.  The orientation offers thoughtful insights of what your neighborhood might be like during a community disaster or weather challenge that impacts local resources.  It is a relaxing way to spend an hour in the evening.



Personally, this season I’m preparing my water pipes for a potential freeze but I’m also replenishing my “TO GO” bag and thinking ahead for summer 2026. This year our first 100° day was in early April!  That is only 5 months away!  

Building a Resilient Neighborhood (BaRN)

Online workshop

Wednesday, November 12

6-7 pm

The weather’s getting cool. That means we have time to learn how to prepare our homes for extreme heat and power outage, and to encourage others to do so as well.  In this 1-hr online meeting, we take a quick look at heat trends in the desert Southwest, review BaRN’s Household Checklist, and discuss ways to reach out to nearby neighbors -- building connections and enhancing community resilience.

REGISTER HERE



Presented by: Building a Resilient Neighborhood (BaRN), a coalition of Tucson residents from diverse neighborhoods, dedicated to community connections and climate protection.

For more info, write to rbolza@me.com or stuart@sustainabletucson.org

Tucson Parks and Recreation invites the community to celebrate the season at the annual Fall Family Festival at Gene C. Reid Park. Enjoy a full day of free, family-friendly fun, live music, and festive fall activities for all ages. 

Date: Saturday, Nov. 15

Time: noon-7 p.m. 

Location: Reid Park Festival Area (South Lakeshore Lane, Tucson, AZ 85716)

Cost: Event is free, but a donation to the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona is appreciated. Drop off your donation at the main event area or by the Reid Park Zoo.  

Event Highlights: 

• $1 admission all day at Reid Park Zoo 
• Free games and inflatables 
• Arts and crafts 
• LEGO® building station 
• Food trucks (items for purchase) 
• Live music by Groundworks Tucson 
• Evening s’mores and glow walk to close out the night 

Food Trucks: 

• Bisou Burger 
• Odd Dogs 
• Parkie’s Sandwiches

Music Curated by Groundworks Music and Art Space, featuring: 

• Splitwick 
• Synesthezia 
• Jamie Quintero 

For more information and updates, follow us on social media or visit our website.  

Senior Olympic Festival Registration Opens

Monday, Nov. 3

Clements Center Open House

Friday, Nov. 7, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Winter Pool Schedule Goes Into Effect

Monday, Nov. 10

Palo Verde Park Ribbon Cutting

Friday, Nov. 14, 1:30 p.m.

Fall Family Festival

Saturday, Nov. 15, noon-7 p.m.

TPRC Meeting

TBD (online and in-person)

Winter Leisure Classes Viewable Online

Friday, Nov. 21

Tucson Holiday Ice Sunday, Nov. 23-

Sunday, Jan. 4

School's Out Winter Break Registration Opens

Monday, Nov. 24

Holiday Arts and Craft Fair

Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 29-30

Pima County Parks & Recreation invites

public’s input on proposed master plan

Pima County is planning the next two decades of its parks and recreation programs – and it needs the community’s feedback.

The County has released a draft version of the Parks & Recreation Master Plan, a 20-year roadmap designed to guide the future of the County’s parks, facilities and recreation programs, from expansion and improvement of current facilities to the programs' long-term sustainability.

Residents can review the draft plan online and share their thoughts through a short survey, open Nov. 3-14. After refinement, the final version of the plan will be presented to the Pima County Board of Supervisors for consideration on Dec. 16, 2025.

Some of the most commonly voiced priorities include updating existing parks, pools and community centers; adding more dog parks, walking paths and playgrounds; expanding aquatics and community events; and improving access to parks and sports fields.

“Our goal with the Master Plan is to build the right amenities in the right places, based on what our community wants,” said Pima County Parks & Recreation Director Vic Pereira.

“Residents have given us a strong foundation to start from. Now, it’s our responsibility to align resources and funding to turn these aspirations into reality.”

To review the draft version of the Parks & Recreation Master Plan and complete the survey, visit engageberrydunn.mysocialpinpoint.com/pima-play

SHARE FEEDBACK ON MIDDLE HOUSING AT

PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOVEMBER 12

On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, the City of Tucson Planning Commission held a study session to review the proposed Middle Housing Code Amendment. During that meeting, the commission scheduled a public hearing on Middle Housing. Originally scheduled for Wednesday, October 15, 2025, the meeting was rescheduled to November 12, 2025, due to a notice issue. 

The public hearing is an opportunity for the community to provide input. Community members can provide feedback to the Planning Commission by attending and speaking in person or virtually, or by submitting comments to PlanningCommission@tucsonaz.gov.



WHEN: Wednesday, November 12, 2025

TIME: Beginning at or around 6 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)

IN PERSON: Mayor and Council Chambers (1st Floor, City Hall, 255 W. Alameda)

VIRTUAL: Accessible via Zoom

The agenda and meeting materials related to the proposed Middle Housing Code Amendment are available on the Planning Commission page.

LEARN MORE

If you are interested in learning more about the Middle Housing Code Amendment, please visit our website to explore background information, the proposed code amendment, and recordings of previous meetings.

Project Contact

Nicholas Martell, Long-Range Planning Section Manager

Nicholas.Martell@tucsonaz.gov | 520-603-1273

RTA Plan to go before Voters in March

Included in the plan total is $257.6 million to complete seven roadway corridor projects, including completing Phases 5 and 6 of Grant Rd., from the original RTA plan, which Pima County voters approved in 2006. The projects either are re-scoped or require additional funding that require voter approval.

Voters will consider $2.67 billion

regional transportation plan in March

PART I: RTA NEXT PLAN OVER VIEW

The first installment in this series of articles featuring information about the Regional Transportation Authority’s proposed $2.67 billion regional transportation plan, starts with an overview of RTA Next and what it is being presented to voters and why. Other articles in the series will look at each of the plan elements.

WHAT: Pima County voters will consider the RTA’s $2.67 billion plan on March 10, 2026. The plan, if approved by voters, will continue the work of the RTA, which began with the 2006 voter-approved plan that currently is in effect through June 2026.



REVIEW THE PLAN

Watch for Part 2 - Pavement Rehabilitation

Submit your questions

Upcoming RTA Next Plan Q&A Sessions

The RTA is hosting in-person and virtual RTA Next Plan Q&A Sessions to answer questions you may have regarding the $2.67 billion regional transportation plan voters will consider next month.

Upcoming Events

The City of Tucson is seeking feedback from residents regarding the budget for fiscal year 2027. The City will host a series of in-person forums called "The Housing Equation." This series serves as a bridge between government and the community, offering a transparent space for City leadership to connect, share, and collaborate with Tucson residents on the topics of housing, homelessness, and public safety.

Eight Housing Equation Forums for Tucson residents will take place this month. The first forum is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 10, from 6-8 p.m., at the Fred Archer Center (Spanish translation available), 1665 S. La Cholla Blvd. Each event will be held in-person in five different wards, and registration is required. Forums will include budget education, expert panels and roundtables, and opportunities for resident feedback. For more information, a list of meetings, and registration, follow the link below.

The Housing Equation

SERI (Sonora Environmental Research Institute, Inc.) had its funding cut earlier this year under our federal government administration. 

They are managing to carry on through other means to serve the needs of the residents and are branching into different areas while still serving the local community.

SERI is launching a new project to assess housing conditions and protect families from housing deficiencies. Tucson is one of the fastest-warming cities in the U.S. Many families live in homes that get too hot or have other risks, like mold or safety hazards.

SERI will conduct 500 free home assessments to identify problems like:

extreme heat indoors

mold & leaks

fall hazards & safety risks

Contact SERI for a FREE home assessment!

SERI Also Offers Loans for

Home Improvements for Low-Income Families

Program Overview

Do you want to prevent major damages to your home? Are you interested in protecting and increasing your home’s value? Do you want to live more comfortably, feel safer and healthier in your home? Homes require regular maintenance due to weather, wear-and-tear and aging. Your home is one of the biggest investments you will make and with maintenance you are less likely to have it deteriorate and break down. To ensure everything is safe and running in your home, let us help you with home repairs! We provide low-income families financial assistance for home repairs and arrange for certified contractors to make the repairs. Qualifying participants can optionally receive SERI’s help throughout the program process. This program is funded by the National Fair Housing Alliance.

We do not provide emergency home repairs. If you need immediate assistance with repairs, please contact an emergency repair organization or business in Tucson.

Loans Available:

0-Interest loans of up to $2,000 (on a first-come-first-serve basis).

• Loans can be used for certified contractor work and home repair supplies and materials.
• The loans are structured as ‘revolving loans’ where we provide families loans and once they are paid back we are able to distribute loans to new families.
• Smaller loans are to be be paid back within 12 to 24 months and larger loans you can discuss a payment plan with SERI staff.
• Attend a FREE energy efficient workshop to receive a FREE energy efficiency kit to self-install (on a first-come-first-serve basis).

FOR MORE INFO

The NAACP Tucson Branch and the City of Tucson are cosponsoring the Housing Resource Fair on Saturday, November 15, 2025,from 9 AM to noon at the Donna R. Liggins Recreation Center at 2160 N. 6th Avenue. Representatives from non-profit organizations, city government agencies, behavioral health organizations, utility companies, and faith-based organizations who are actively engaged in helping members of our community improve their housing situations and their overall quality of life.  

Click HERE for flyer in Spanish

From Steve Kozachik, Director PACC:

Nov. 3, 2025: PACC is opening an east side adoptions center. My hoped-for goal is to open the doors mid-February, 2026. It’s construction though so that’s aspirational. There’s a lot of work to do, and we’re primed to get started.

On Monday, November 17th we’re going to host a neighborhood meeting at what will be the new PACC East. The event will give you an opportunity to tour the building before we begin construction – see the before before you come out and see the after. The meeting will run from 5:30 until 7pm on the 17th. We’d love to show you what we’ve got planned.

PACC adding new eastside location,

thanks to funding from Friends of PACC

Tue, Oct 14, 2025. Pima Animal Care Center is adding a new location on Tucson’s east side, thanks to funding from Friends of Pima Animal Care Center, PACC’s official nonprofit partner. The Pima County Board of Supervisors at its Oct. 14 meeting voted 5-0 to accept up to $1 million from Friends of PACC to get the facility up and running. 

The County is pursuing leasing a building on the eastside near Broadway and Kolb. The location will be announced when the lease is finalized. 

The satellite facility will enable PACC to provide adoptions to eastside residents and will also help ease the capacity burden at PACC's main location, 4000 N. Silverbell Road. The shelter was built to comfortably house approximately 300 dogs, but recent census numbers have been closer to 600 dogs. 

“Since early in the year, we’ve been trying a variety of new approaches to curb the rising census,” said PACC Director Steve Kozachik. “Much of the issue lies out in the community with spaying, neutering, properly confining pets, and microchipping. We’re hopeful that by taking our pups and cats closer to the eastside families, we’ll be able to increase our adoption rate with that group, and — with that — relieve the stress that exists at the main PACC shelter. We’ve still got a lot of work to do before opening, but we’re looking forward to this opportunity to expand PACC’s reach.” 

The facility, which will only be offering adoptions, has been a work in progress for years, with PACC leadership and County leadership discussing ways to assist people who don’t live near the Silverbell location. 

Adoption data show 65% of animals adopted go to homes near the Silverbell facility, with few adopters from the east side. PACC staff hopes that by adding this new adoption center, it could ease the burden for east siders of having to make the roughly 15-mile trip to the Silverbell location. PACC plans to move 35-50 dogs into the new location once finished. 

Chief Executive Officer at Friends of PACC, Torre Chisholm, said the eastside adoption satellite will be a significant step forward. 

“Friends of PACC is thrilled to work with PACC and Pima County to make this long-needed resource a reality,” Chisholm said. “Thank you to our incredible donors whose support makes this project possible.” 

Adoptions, free prizes and more

on tap at Pima Animal Care Fall Festival Nov. 16 

PIMA COUNTY, Nov. 6, 2025 – Pima Animal Care Center’s third annual Fall Festival kicks off on Sunday, Nov. 16, noon to 4 p.m., with games, music, food and more.  

Adoption fees will be waived for all animals – puppies and kittens included. Dog adopters will go home with a doggie jacket and fall-themed stuffed animal. Cat adopters will take home a blanket and cat toy. Both offers are first-come, first-served. 

KIIM-FM 99.5 and K-HIT 107.5 will be on site with music and a prize wheel. Festival-goers also can win gift cards to Bookmans, Antigone Books, Baja Cafe, Beyond Bread, Central Pet, and PetSmart. 

This will be a family-friendly event with a scavenger hunt, glitter tattoos, bean bag toss, candy corn bowling, pumpkin toss, and more. Families will also be able to purchase snacks and drinks from one of the food vendors including Scoop Together, Cody’s Coyote Kettle Corn, and Charquita’s Mexican Food. 



For people who cannot adopt or foster, donations to PACC’s nonprofit partner, Friends of Pima Animal Care Center , can go a long way. Make a donation via the FOP webpage or purchase items from their Wish Lists. 

Sunday Sales

Iskashitaa Refugee Network

2301 N. Santa Rita Avenue

Every Sunday in November

10am - 3pm

All sorts of interesting items and hand-made crafts and gifts. 

The sales will benefit Iskashitaa Refugee Network

Iskashitaa Refugee Network 501(c)(3) (QCO#22664) 520.440.0100

Harvesting Hope, Empowering Change

|facebook.iskashitaa.org| iskashitaa_rn| Donate

Palo Verde Neighborhood Association (PVNA) is working with Catalina High School (CHS) to make Thanksgiving and the Holiday Season a bit better for some of the families. PVNA is providing 30 Thanksgiving Meal Bags for CHS. Unfortunately that is only half of what CHS needs. PVNA also has a goal of 50 gift cards for the Holiday Season for families to purchase gifts or food.   

Catalina High School is unique.

CHS: 534 Students

From: 47 different countries

Speaking: 33 different languages 

With: 80 refugee status

Youth On Their Own (YOTO) has 19 students enrolled at Catalina - YOTO helps with the basic needs of high school students living on the streets, in their cars, couch surfing, living with friends, living with grandparents, aunts & uncles. Some are even head of household supporting siblings. 

Do you live in an old adobe home? Is it cracking and crumbling? The Vista del Monte Neighborhood Association wants to teach you how to repair it and care for it properly. We’ve recruited an experienced adobe-making teacher for a hands-on class at one of our local 1930s adobe bungalows. We’re still working on the timing and syllabus, but we’re aiming for early 2026.

Right now, we’re just trying to gauge interest. Please take a quick survey to let us know what you want out of adobe classes.

Please share the survey link with anyone you know who lives in an old adobe house, too! Or anyone who just wants to learn about adobe for the fun of it.

It is with great gratitude that the Garden District would like to thank for sponsoring Porch Fest 2025:

Kenton Electrix Tube AMP Repair

in conjunction with

J. K. Clow Estimating and Consulting Service, LLC.

Kenton Electrix Specializes In The Repair and Restoration Of Vintage Vacuum Tube Amplifiers For Guitar And Bass.

Modern Tube Amps, Vintage Analog Effects, Select Solid State/Hybrid Amps, and Select All Tube HI-FI Preamps And Power Amps Are Also Repaired.

Although still completely independent - Gabriel’s Guitars will now be the exclusive place for drop-off/pickup and general phone calls. This helps me provide the same quality service to even more customers with massively reduced turnaround time and no need for appointments.

520-849-7692

admin@gabrielsguitars.com​

6061 E Broadway Blvd #124 Tucson AZ, 85711

Thank you to Beto and Egla, Garden District residents and owners of El Sinaloense Sonoran Hot Dog Stand. They generously donated to the neighborhood association all the proceeds they made during Porch Fest from their stand.

Their donation will more than cover the costs of the Constant Contact program that is used to produce this e-newsletter. Since we have over 1500 readers now we had to up our plan one level and that was pricey, but definitely worth it. We value the newsletter as the main avenue for bringing our one square mile neighborhood of almost 7000 residents together as a community. It is an invaluable conduit for distributing current information to improve quality of life and safety in our neighborhood.

If you find this newsletter a valuable resource, please share with your neighbors. And, make sure they understand you are talking about the weekly email newsletters, not the twice-a-year PAPER newsletter that the City mails.

Communicating information and making connections with each other -- that is what will turn us from a collection of houses and apartments into a neighborhood, from strangers into neighbors. 

Garden District is 75% rentals. Our biggest challenge is reaching those neighbors who are tenants. We want to create a neighborhood where people love where they live and stay long term in our community. Please forward the newsletter or ask a neighbor to join.

To sign up, either reply to a newsletter or

sign up on our neighborhood website. 

thegardendistrict.org  

THANK YOU TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS

WHO MADE PORCH FEST

SUCH A SUCCESS!

Porch Fest is a massive event that requires hours and hour of prep and effort. I am 100% sure that I will miss some names because so many people have helped over the span of months and months, but in an effort to try and personally thank at least most of the volunteers:

Thank you to Michael (Major Workhorse, including banner hanging, table and chair set up) Debby (Kids' Porch), Fran (our graphic artist who creates the attractive flyer/poster -- a ture artist!) Thania (Queen of Pop Ups and PR), Sally (PR), Lois (sign and food truck set up), Dee (photographer & flyers), Anna Marie (Sign prep & set up), Judy (Instagram account & PR), Peter (Sign prep & set up), Mary (Muscle & sign prep & set up), Carol (potholes & pop ups), Maya (Kids' Porch), Andrea (Kids' Porch), Sandy (Kids' Porch and Litter), Christina E. (Flyer delivery & Litter), James (Flyer Delivery), Michele (Sign prep & set up, copying and Flyer prep), Yvette (Flyer delivery), Gloria (Litter), Alice (Litter), Lisa T (Flyer delivery), Denise (Flyer delivery), Kelli (Flyer and Porch Host supplies delivery), Cindy (Flyer Delivery), Joe (Flyer Delivery), Christina O. (Flyer delivery), Karen (Flyer Delivery), and Elise (Flyer Delivery).

And, of course, to all our fabulous bands and tasty food trucks!

Oh, and we cannot forget the heavy-lifters of Porch Fest 2025, the Co-Chairs, Meg and Lisa. Both have spent many days “recovering” after this one. These old bodies are not what they once were and fighting with the City over requirements really took it out of us this year!  But they are both so very grateful for all the fine helpers who have made this a great success.

If Porch Fest is to continue into the future . . .

We need volunteers to step up as co-chairs and take over the heavy-lifting (permits and meeting City requirements, arranging for bands and food trucks, etc.). Lisa and Meg will be glad to hold hands, share notes, advise, and share lessons learned. Also many City employees have committed to using this past Porch Fest as a model to revise, simplify, streamline the process for ALL groups in town who want to plan their own. We are just now starting to hear from other neighborhoods as they butt heads with city requirements that magically appear, and often change from time to time. This process must be made simpler while still protecting all stakeholders.    

Gratefully, funding for Porch Fest 2026 has already been promised by this year's donors, Kenton Electrix Tube AMP Repair and J. K. Clow Estimating and Consulting Service, LLC. This is a huge comfort as we think about Porch Fest going forward.

Porch Fest has been a very rewarding passion project for both of us for 10 years and for many of you, but truly, we need to hand the reins over to a roster of organized, driven, detail-oriented problem solvers who volunteer to drive this train into the future. Never fear, though, Meg and Lisa are glad to go along for the ride.

Click below to read this week's or past Ward VI newsletters.



Answers to where you can recycle just about anything and everything from auto parts to TVs and everything in between. 



Tucson Clean and Beautiful Complete Recycling Directory

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

Alvernon/Grant Initiative (AGI) - meet with police and neighborhoods in our area. 2nd Tuesday of EVERY month. 6 - 7pm at Emmanuel Church.

GDNA HOLIDAY PARTY - Dec. 14, noon to 2, Tucson Botanical Gardens

Garden District Neighborhood Association Meeting - January 24, 10:30 11:30 am, Martha Cooper Library

Garden District Neighborhood Association Annual Meeting and Election - Feb. 19, 6 -7 pm Martha Cooper Library

WIDENING OF GRANT RD CONSTRUCTION - Has started. Not expected to be completed until sometime in early 2027.

GRANT RD INVESTMENT DISTRICT OVERLAY GRID - will be developed this year working with neighborhoods bordering Grant Rd and City of Tucson Planning & Development Services. It will be critical that our neighborhood have a strong voice from many GDNA residents in creating it.

The Tucson Water Conservation Program offers rebates for installing rainwater harvesting (up to $2,000) and permanent gray water irrigation systems (up to $1,000).

• Applicant must be a Tucson Water customer with active water service at installation address.
• Applicant must attend an approved FREE Rainwater Harvesting Rebate Program Workshop before submitting a pre-approval form. Starting January 2024, you must have taken a workshop no farther back than July 2023 or you will need to re-take the workshop before you submit your pre-approval.

Watershed Management Group offers free rebate classes