Tucson residents oppose La Mariposa development citing severe flooding risks

The Tucson City Council meeting held on March 18, 2025, focused primarily on a contentious rezoning proposal for the La Mariposa development, which has drawn significant opposition from local residents and neighborhood associations. The meeting began with procedural discussions regarding the presence of the applicant and the format for public comments, allowing for a structured presentation from both supporters and opponents of the project.

The first speaker, Jim Trego, representing the Tanque Verde Valley Association, expressed strong opposition to the rezoning, citing concerns about the environmental impact on critical floodplain areas and the preservation of riparian habitats. He emphasized the importance of maintaining open space and the need for intelligent development that considers community input.

Fawn Latour, a past president of the Bear Canyon Neighborhood Association, criticized the council for ignoring historical precedents that have denied similar developments due to flooding concerns. She highlighted issues with the developer's flood studies and the lack of adequate traffic assessments, arguing that the proposed development would exacerbate existing problems rather than alleviate them.

Several residents shared personal experiences with flooding, detailing past incidents that have caused significant property damage and posed risks to life. They raised concerns about the adequacy of the city’s flood management practices and the potential for increased flooding as a result of the proposed development. Testimonies included vivid accounts of past flooding events, underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues before approving any new construction.

Hydrologist Dr. Brian Wallen, hired by the Bear Canyon Neighborhood Association, presented findings that questioned the reliability of FEMA floodplain models used in the development's assessments. He argued for the need for more accurate, independent hydrological studies to evaluate the risks associated with the proposed project.

The meeting concluded with a call for the council to reconsider the rezoning proposal, with many speakers urging a vote against it until further studies could be conducted to ensure community safety and environmental protection. The council members were reminded of their responsibility to prioritize the well-being of residents over developer interests, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the community's deep concerns regarding flooding, environmental preservation, and the integrity of local governance, setting the stage for ongoing discussions about the future of development in Tucson.