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Town manager reports population growth, Easy Permit pilot and splash pad updates; council hears vandalism report
Summary
Town Manager Shane reported Sahuarita’s population rose to 37,488 in the 2024 U.S. Census estimate, community development will pilot an Easy Permit program over nine months, and the new splash pad opened with partners; staff also reported vandalism in the splash pad restrooms and temporary exterior cameras are in use.
Town Manager Shane told the Town of Sahuarita Town Council that newly released U.S. Census estimates put the town population at 37,488 for July 1, 2024, a roughly 3% increase over the prior internal estimate. Shane said the higher count is positive because state shared revenues are allocated in part by population figures.
Shane and Community Development Director Anna outlined several development-related items: a pilot “Easy Permit” program to simplify permitting for small homeowner projects will run for about nine months starting this summer; the town expects to reach its target of roughly 320 single-family residential permits for the fiscal year; and community development staff are reviewing the 2024 International Building Code, with further vetting expected for the new energy code component.
“We're gonna test run this application over the summer,” Anna said of the Easy Permit pilot, adding staff will return in early fall with an update. Shane noted the town was coordinating regionally on building-code adoption to reduce costs and make standards consistent across nearby jurisdictions.
Parks and recreation updates included the successful opening of the town’s new splash pad and newly installed wayfinding signs at Amado Park (La Cañada and Las Quintas). Shane recognized partners including Pima Health, United Way and local organizations for support at opening day.
Council members asked about vandalism at the splash pad restrooms. Parks staff said the vandalism occurred inside a restroom and that temporary exterior cameras are in place while permanent cameras are installed. Staff described damaged fixtures including a light switch, torn shower handle and a bench that fell off the wall; park crews are reinforcing installations and have filed a police report.
Staff asked for community assistance in identifying suspects because heavy attendance makes internal review challenging. No arrests or suspects were announced in the meeting record.
Council members were reminded that the council’s next regular meeting is June 23, when further budget and CFD items will be discussed.
