Tucson Metro Chamber Updates from June: Elections, Governance, Policy, and Good Deeds

                                              Candidate Evaluation Guides are LIVE!

As we approach the 2024 elections, the Tucson Metro Chamber is proud to announce the release of our Candidate Evaluation Guide for Pima County candidates! This comprehensive resource is the result of in-depth interviews with 22 candidates running for various county positions, including Sheriff, County Attorney, Supervisors for Districts 1-5, Assessor, and Treasurer. Our Candidate Evaluation Committee, comprising members from diverse industry backgrounds and a balance of Democrats, Republicans and independents, has carefully rated each candidate on metrics important to Chamber members, using a 1-10 scale.

This guide is an invaluable tool for voters seeking to make informed decisions about which candidates will best support our local business community. We encourage all our members and the wider Tucson community to review the guide, available HERE!

Key Primary Election Dates:

July 1^st, Primary Election Voter Registration Deadline

July 3^rd,  Primary Early Voting Begins/ Ballots Mail

July 19^th, Last Day to Request Primary Ballot by Mail

July 30^th, Primary Election

Find a Primary Election Voting Location

Supreme Court Reverses Grants Pass Homelessness Case

The landscape of addressing homelessness in our cities is evolving, as shown by a recent Supreme Court decision that has significant implications for local governments and communities across the nation, and Tucson in particular. On Friday, June 28th, the Supreme Court made a pivotal ruling in the Grants Pass homelessness case, overturning previous restrictions on public camping laws.

In a 6-3 decision, the justices determined that city ordinances prohibiting public camping do not constitute "cruel and unusual punishment."

The Court's decision stems from the understanding that previous rulings, such as those in the Boise and Grants Pass cases by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, may have inadvertently exacerbated homelessness issues by limiting the options available to cities. The justices clarified that the restrictions in Grants Pass do not criminalize the status of being homeless, but rather address specific behaviors.

This ruling is a significant development for cities like Tucson, which have been grappling with increasing homelessness. It allows jurisdictions more flexibility in implementing creative solutions to address a complex problem that has severely impacted both the business community and the broader population.

Pima County and City of Tucson Heat Ordinances

Pima County is taking proactive steps to address rising temperatures, demonstrating the power of collaborative policymaking. Following Governor Hobbs' directives, the County is exploring a heat ordinance requiring businesses working with the County to implement extreme heat mitigation measures for employees.

Their collaborative approach to pursuing heat-related policies is commendable. The County has proactively engaged business groups early in the process, seeking input on potential challenges and impacts. The County is also showing flexibility by considering adjustments to existing ordinances, such as noise regulations, to help businesses adapt - perhaps by allowing earlier start times or later end times to avoid peak heat.

By involving business owners and advocacy organizations from the outset, Pima County is working towards a heat ordinance that will protect workers while also considering the needs of local businesses. The Chamber will remain an active partner in the development of these policies and remain a vocal advocate for those that align with the needs of our members.

                                  Military Affairs Committee Treats Davis-Monthan Airmen

Our Military Affairs Committee (MAC) brought some welcome relief to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in June. On one of the hottest, most humid days of the month, MAC members distributed approximately 100 Eegees to hardworking airmen braving the extreme weather.

Want to be part of these rewarding community initiatives? Join the MAC! Contact Stephanie Spencer at sspencer@tucsonchamber.org for more information.

Chamber Staff attends City of Tucson Heat Action Plan Stakeholder Meeting and Volunteers to Assemble Heat Relief Kits

The City of Tucson recently hosted a stakeholder meeting to discuss its new Heat Action Plan and Heat Ordinance adopted in June. The meeting outlined the plan's principles, the formation of a heat advisory committee, and opportunities for volunteer involvement. Tucson Metro Chamber staff actively participated, not only attending the meeting but also helping assemble hundreds of heat relief kits for the local unsheltered population. This hands-on involvement demonstrates our commitment to engaging prominent issues to ensure best outcomes for both our member businesses and the overall community. 

If you would like to contribute to the Heat Action Plan's implementation, we encourage you to apply using the code below.

       City of Tucson Mayor and Council Adopt Development and Permit Fee Increases for PDSD

Tucson's City Council has approved the first development permit fee increase since 2010, effective July 1, 2024. This decision follows collaborative discussions between the Chamber and city officials, balancing concerns about housing affordability with the need for a well-funded, efficient permit process and planning department. Mayor Romero and key Council members emphasized ensuring a good return on investment for the community. This collaborative approach highlights our commitment to balanced growth and efficient city services. The Chamber will continue to monitor the impact and work with officials to evaluate outcomes against department performance in the coming year.

Important Upcoming Meetings

1. Tucson Pima County Joint Code Committee

   Date: July 9 Time: 9 AM Format: In-person and virtual

   More info here.

2. TEP Midtown Reliability Project Arizona Line Siting Committee Public    
    Hearing

   Date: July 8 Time: 5:30 PM Format: In-person

   More info here.

3. Regional Transportation Authority Board Meeting

   Date: July 25 Time: TBD Location: In-person and virtual

   More info here.

Want to help create a more prosperous Tucson and Pima County? You can make a difference for as little as $5! Every contribution, big or small, supports our mission to build a thriving business environment and stronger local economy. Ready to invest in our community's future? Click HERE to contribute now.

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