Tucson residents advocate against La Mariposa rezoning citing flood risks

The Tucson City Council meeting on April 22, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding local development and community safety, particularly focusing on the proposed rezoning for a new housing project known as La Mariposa.

During the meeting, community member Kate Brett Calhoun expressed her strong support for La Mariposa, highlighting its positive impact on her life and the community over the past 25 years. She emphasized the importance of the project in generating tax revenue and enhancing community well-being.

Conversely, resident Jane Rojas voiced her opposition to the rezoning, citing concerns about flooding risks associated with the proposed development. Rojas detailed her experiences with flooding on her property and argued that the rezoning would exacerbate these issues. She presented evidence, including hydrological studies and public petitions, to support her claims. Rojas urged the council to prioritize resident safety and reject the rezoning proposal, suggesting alternative solutions that would not compromise community safety.

The meeting also included comments from Ruben Anaya, who raised concerns about workplace harassment and the handling of his complaints by city management. Anaya described incidents of mockery and inappropriate behavior from a maintenance manager, calling for accountability and better oversight within the city’s workforce.

The discussions highlighted a divide in community sentiment regarding development and safety, with residents advocating for both progress and protection. The council's decisions in response to these concerns will be crucial in shaping Tucson's future development and community relations.