Oro Valley residents debate OVCN expansion amid community concerns

Oro Valley residents are facing a pivotal moment as the Town Council deliberates on the proposed expansion of the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene (OVCN). During the regular session on April 2, 2025, community members voiced strong opinions both in favor of and against the church's plans, highlighting the ongoing debate over development and neighborhood impact.

Lisa Stussel, a long-time resident and member of OVCN, advocated for the church's expansion, emphasizing its role in supporting families and fostering community connections. Stussel shared her experiences with the church's programs, which provide mentorship and resources to single mothers and young families. She urged the council to approve the continuance of the church's plans, framing it as a vital investment in the community's future.

Conversely, Tricia Tozier, another resident, expressed her opposition to the continuance, citing concerns about traffic and noise that the expansion could bring to the neighborhood. Tozier highlighted that many council members do not live close to the church and argued that the voices of nearby residents should be prioritized. She criticized the lengthy planning process, which has spanned over five years, and called for a resolution to the ongoing discussions.

Philip Vandevoort also weighed in, sharing his support for Tozier's stance and emphasizing the need for fair planning that considers the impact on local residents. He pointed out that the church has had ample time to present its case and urged the council to move forward without further delays.

As the council considers the feedback from the community, the outcome of this decision will have significant implications for Oro Valley's development and the balance between community growth and resident concerns. The council's next steps will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents of the church's expansion, as the discussions continue to shape the future of the town.