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Expansion of the BORDER CHECK POINT in TUBAC
rescind the vote of approval - our community needs input!
On January 21, 2026 the Santa Cruz County Supervisors voted to approve a Right-of-Entry to the U.S.Customs and Border Protection to review property just north of the current “temporary” checkpoint on I-19 by Tubac. Concern was expressed by the community about the implications and the potential of a much expanded and permanent checkpoint and encouraged the Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council to address the matter with the County. This letter was written following a meeting with the SCVCC Board representatives and the County Manger and Supervisor Davis at their request. They planned to discuss the matter with our Congressional delegation in Washington, D.C. this week and develop a “plan of action” following their trip."
February 21, 2026
County Supervisor Luis Carlos Davis, District 1
County Supervisor Rudy Molera, District 2
County Supervisor John Fanning, District 3
Santa Cruz County Complex
2150 N. Congress Drive
Nogales, AZ 85621
RE: Opposition to the County’s Action Approving a Right-of-Entry with the United States Custom and
Border Protection Department of Homeland Security for Parcel No. 111-14-005 for a Period of 12
Months. (January 21, 2026)
Dear Supervisors Davis, Molera and Fanning:
My name is Mary I. Vanis, I am the President of the Santa Cruz County Citizens Council, and I am writing
on behalf of our Board and over 450 Members who reside in Santa Cruz County. We have recently
become aware that County Manager Valdez recommended via Consent agenda, and the Board of
Supervisors approved without any input or public discussion from the community, a Right-of-Entry
Agreement with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Department of Homeland Security for 12
months for Parcel No. 111-14-005. This parcel is along I-19 and immediately north of Tubac and our
surrounding communities. Our understanding is that this time is to review the property for construction
of a permanent CBP Checkpoint. We are asking that you rescind the vote of approval to allow public
discourse on the matter.
Tubac and our surrounding communities strongly oppose the construction of a permanent CBP
Checkpoint on I-19 on this property in lieu of the temporary checkpoint that now exits. While we
greatly appreciate the work of the Customs and Border Patrol in our community, we feel that the
expansion to a much larger permanent facility should reside at the border in Nogales, Arizona, rather
than 26 miles north of the border. The current Checkpoint in Nogales needs upgrades and resources
should be utilized to support that facility. Our understanding is that border crossings and crime has been
substantially reduced with the current configuration thus bringing into question the need for a
permanent facility 26 miles north of the border.
2.
Our community has expressed substantial concern about the level of expansion that is being discussed
because of the potential reduction of our property values, concerns impacting our security and safety,
devastation to our tourism, the impact on any continued economic development and the increased
lighting which would jeopardize our International Dark Skies designation.
I appreciate your help and ask that you rescind the action taken to provide the Customs and Border
Protection Department the Right-of-Way approval and ask that they provide more information and
transparency as to what their intent is with their consideration of Parcel No. 111-14-005 or other
adjacent property. We also ask that our community be provided an opportunity for input and a “seat at
the table” in the discussions for a permanent checkpoint North of Nogales, Az.
Sincerely,
Dr. Mary I. Vanis, President
Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council
13 Western Saddle Court
Tubac, Arizona 85646
Email Address: maryvanis23@gmail.com
Phone: 602-531-6253
Cc: Santa Cruz County Manager Jesus Valdez
Richard Bohman. SCVCC Board Director at Large
Gary Brasher, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
SCVCC Board of Directors
Help Shape the Future of Santa Cruz County!
This is the year our County's plan will be updated.
The County is required by state law to maintain a comprehensive plan designed to guide future development and conservation. It must be updated every ten years and this is the year our County's plan will be updated.
The link below, prepared by the County, gives some basic information about the goals of the planning process and technical advisory committees which will be created in each of the eight categories listed there. The goals range from community character and heritage to water resources and water supply.
There is a link to an application which must be submitted in order for one to become a member of a technical advisory committee which will help devise the plan. It is important that you consider applying to be a member of one or more of these committees. The updated plan is going to guide County policies and programs for the next ten years. It is critical to have Tubac representation in this process.
Clem Shute
Planning and Zoning Commissioner
Learn more and sign up The County is required by state law to maintain a comprehensive plan designed to guide future development and conservation. It must be updated every ten years and this is the year our County's plan will be updated.
A new trader joe's is in the plans for the university area.
A new Trader Joe's is coming to Tucson, right next to the University of Arizona.
The new Trader Joe's will take over a vacant building that formerly housed a Dollar Tree at the intersection of Broadway Boulevard and Campbell Avenue.
It's been in the works for several years, according to the Arizona Daily Star. Construction plans were initially submitted in 2023, but the official confirmation only came on Feb. 12, when the California-based grocer announced it would be opening six new stores across the country.
The store will open sometime in 2026, according to Trader Joe's website. It will be the fourth location in Tucson.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY SHINING-NEW CLEAN UP DATE AT THE TUMACACORI MISSION.
SANTA CRUZ SHINING NEXT CLEAN UP-SIGN UP TO HELP CLEAN UP THE SANTA CRUZ RIVER.
March 17, 2024
Santa Cruz River, Tumaccacori Mission
Tubac Fire Board Meeting- WED FEB 25th.
NOW ENROLLING FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR.
NOW ENROLLING FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR.
Correspondence.
Report from Board Members.
Years of Service Recognition:
*. Firefighter/Paramedic T. Zamora (20 years)
*. Deputy Chief H. Guerrero (20 years)
Chief and Staff Report:
. Operations Update.
Training.
Administration Update.
. Wildland Update.
Monthly Financial Report for January 2026.
Presentation, Discussion, and Possible Action to Accept the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2025, Audit Report by Walker
& Armstrong.
. Consent Agenda:
a. Approval of minutes from January 28, 2026.
b. Approval of monthly financial report for January 2026.
*Station #1 & Tower update:
. Communication Tower Update.
. Fire Station #1 Update.
Discussion and Possible Action to Approve Authorization for the Fire Chief to Execute an Agreement with the Arizona
Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Concerning Open Burning Permits.
. Presentation and Discussion Regarding the Tubac Fire District Organizational Chart and Job Descriptions — Informational
NOW ENROLLING FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR.
NOW ENROLLING FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR.
NOW ENROLLING FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR.
Now Enrolling for 2026–2027!
At Montessori de Santa Cruz, your child is never just a number.
They are known by name, nurtured with care, and guided with intention.
We are a FREE public charter school located in Amado, AZ, serving families who are looking for:
Smaller class sizes
Hands-on Montessori learning
Outdoor environments
A 1:10 student-to-staff ratio
Personalized education that meets each child where they are
In a world that feels rushed and crowded, we offer something different — a place where children are seen, supported, and inspired to grow with confidence and joy.
Limited spots are available for the 2026–2027 school year.
Scan the QR code in the image to complete our interest form and secure your child’s spot today!
Come see the difference smaller classes and intentional education can make.
Andy’s Total Fitness is here !
Call or text (520) 987-0363
Andy’s Total Fitness is proud to continue serving the Tubac community while beginning an exciting new chapter. Conveniently located in beautiful Tubac, the gym offers quality equipment in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Andy's great team of Certified personal trainers provide individualized one-on-one coaching with an emphasis on strength, balance, mobility, and overall wellness. Our focus remains on helping you stay active, confident, and feeling your best! Because moving well today supports a healthier tomorrow.
We invite you to stop by and experience how Andy’s Total Fitness carries forward a commitment to community, care, and healthier living.
Very respectfully,
Andy De La Rosa
The new owner of Tubac Total Fittness Gym
Located in Tubac Village across from Tubac Arts & Gifts
PUBLIC NOTICE
AZPDES Permit Renewal | Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant
AZPDES Permit Renewal | Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant
Posted On: Feb. 2nd, 2026 - 02:04 pm
On Feb. 2, 2026, the comment period begins for the proposal to issue an Arizona Pollution Discharge Elimination System (AZPDES) permit renewal to the City of Nogales and the U.S. International Boundary and Water Commission (USIBWC) for the continued operation of the Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant located in Santa Cruz County, Arizona. The comment period ends March 5, 2026.
AZPDES Permit No. AZ0025607
Permittee:
City of Nogales and USIBWC
Facility:
Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant
865 Rio Rico Industrial Park
Rio Rico, AZ 85648
Santa Cruz County
The City of Nogales and USIBWC jointly applied for a renewal AZPDES permit for the proposed discharge of up to 14.74 million gallons per day (mgd) of treated domestic wastewater from the Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant to the Santa Cruz River in Santa Cruz County, Arizona. The facility is a publicly-owned treatment works that receives domestic wastewater from residential, commercial and industrial sources from Nogales, Sonora Mexico, and domestic and commercial wastewater in Nogales and Rio Rico, Arizona. Sludge is stabilized in an aerobic digester and then thickened or dewatered. Biosolids are landfilled at Los Reales Landfill in Tucson.
Review Documents:
- Original Published Public Notice | View Notice >
- Draft Permit | View Permit >
- Draft Fact Sheet | View Fact Sheet >
- In person at ADEQ Record Center | Learn How >
make your voice heard here
Send by– March 5, 2026
Comments may be submitted as follows:
- By Email | Send Email >
- By Mail (Must be postmarked or received by March 5, 2026):
ADEQ
Water Quality Division, Surface Water Protection Permits
Attn: Juliana Lewis
1110 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
PUBLIC NOTICE South 32
From the Hermosa Community Protection and Benefit Agreements Signatories (The
From the Hermosa Community Protection and Benefit Agreements Signatories (The City of Nogales, the Town of Patagonia, Santa Cruz County and South32):
During December, the Hermosa CPBA Signatories continued advancing the Community Protection & Benefit Agreement (CPBA), strengthening the agreement framework and confirming near-term community commitments.
What we worked on:
Contribution Agreement
Early Actions (immediate benefits)
Roadmap for ProtectionsEarly Actions
The Signatories confirmed the Early Actions for 2026, which look to fund immediate protections and benefits. Early Action benefits planned relate to high priority emergency services, education & childcare, and nature-based restorative economy developments that are readily implementable (with some implementation potentially extending into 2027). The Early Actions benefits are accompanied by short term protection initiatives (including monitoring, reporting and public review activities) outlined in a protection roadmap that was developed by an independent expert (see below). South32 will fully fund the Early Action benefits and protections through a collaborative contribution agreement.
The Signatories also continued planning for longer term benefit programs that are intended to extend through the period when the mine is operating profitably (to be executed when in peak operations). These benefits would be supported through a to-be-defined fiscal agent or foundation, designed to provide long-term continuity and accountability.
Planning for long-term protections and benefits administration
To inform development of the future protections and benefits structure, the Signatories reviewed several community benefit administration models used elsewhere, including an approach that rotates benefit funding among local jurisdictions on a scheduled basis (for example, every three years). These discussions are part of building a framework that is transparent, equitable, and responsive to community priorities.
Protections Roadmap refinement and release planning
An independent Protections Roadmap is being developed by Spheros, a Signatory-assigned environmental expert, and will be released for public review on the CPBA website https://cpba- hermosa.org/ in late January. The Roadmap summary is below. As part of finalizing the document, the Signatories identified a need to further clarify how certain roles and responsibilities will function in practice.
First Quarter (Q1) priorities and planning
Through a Q1 priorities exercise, Signatories identified shared themes that will guide next steps:
What community members and Signatories want to see: strong trust and transparency, timely delivery of Early Action benefits, and measurable improvements to community well-being
Key risks to plan for: ensuring long-term consistency and continuity of support over timePrimary Q1 priorities include:
Completing the Contribution Agreement
Delivering Early Actions
Beginning implementation of actions outlined in the Protections Roadmap
Expanding understanding of and engagement around the CPBADecember Website Submissions:
Four Survey Submissions
Five Comments/MessagesThese inputs are considered and discussed by the Signatories as part of community engagement efforts to understand community concerns and interests.
This press release is available to download as a PDF here.
Did you enjoy this story?
For 16 years, the Patagonia Regional Times, a nonprofit newsroom, has been the only source of free local news in eastern Santa Cruz County. Your support helps us continue telling the stories of our neighbors—covering news, local government, arts, events, school sports, being a voice for local non-profits, and so much more.
make your voice heard here
Send by– March 5, 2026
Comments may be submitted as follows:
- By Email | Send Email >
- By Mail (Must be postmarked or received by March 5, 2026):
ADEQ
Water Quality Division, Surface Water Protection Permits
Attn: Juliana Lewis
1110 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
PRESS RELEASE
Arizona Moves Primary Election to July; Key 2026 Dates Announced for Santa Cruz County
On February 6, 2026, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs signed a bipartisan bill passed by the Arizona Legislature that permanently moves Arizona’s primary election to the second-to-last Tuesday in July. Previously, the primary was held on the first Tuesday in August.
Key Details for Santa Cruz County
- 2026 Primary Election Date: July 21, 2026
- Purpose of the Change: The new date provides election officials additional time to prepare for the general election and ensures the timely delivery of ballots to military and overseas voters.
Voter Deadlines
- Voter Registration Deadline: June 22, 2026
- Mailing of Ballots to Active Early Voter List & Start of In-Person Early Voting: June 24, 2026
- Primary Election Day: July 21, 2026
Candidate Filing Deadlines
- Partisan Primary Candidate Filing: February 23, 2026 – March 23, 2026
- Precinct Committeemen Write-In Deadline: April 6, 2026
- Write-In Candidate Filing Deadline: May 22, 2026
Voters and prospective candidates are encouraged to review these updated dates and plan accordingly.
For more information, visit the Santa Cruz County Elections Department website:
https://www.santacruzcountyaz.gov/1053/2026-Elections-2026-Elecciones
January 29, 2026
CPBA UPDATE
Website:https://cpba-hermosa.org/
Update on the Hermosa Community Protections & Benefit Agreement (CPBA) Process
The December update on the Hermosa Community Protections & Benefit Agreement and the Environmental Protections Roadmap are now available for review on the CPBA website.
December Update on the Hermosa Community Protections & Benefit Agreement (CPBA) Process
https://cpba-hermosa.org/press-releases/december-website-update/
Environmental Protections Roadmap
https://cpba-hermosa.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/CPBA-Protections-Roadmap-Report-Final.pdf
Santa Cruz County Warns Residents of Email Payment Scam
Santa Cruz County, AZ -Santa Cruz County officials are alerting residents to a scam involving fraudulent emails that appear to come from County departments and request payment. Santa Cruz County has documented one fraudulent event and will work with the Arizona Attorney General's office on any investigation.
If you receive an email requesting payment from any Santa Cruz County department, you may verify its legitimacy by calling the County and confirming directly with the department before making any payment. Santa Cruz County will never request payment through email links or wire transfers. If you have confirmed with the County that it is fraudulent, please report it to the Arizona Attorney General's Office.
Identifying and Reporting Fraudulent Emails
Scam emails may look official and use department names, logos, or urgent language to pressure you to act quickly. Always check the sender’s email address, as fraudulent messages often come from addresses that do not match official Santa Cruz County domains.
If you receive a suspicious email:
- Do not click on any links.
- Do not provide personal or financial information.
- Do not send payments by wire transfer.
- Contact Santa Cruz County and confirm the request with the relevant department before responding.
Residents can verify payment requests by calling 520-375-7800.
Santa Cruz County is committed to protecting resident information and encourages everyone to remain vigilant against scams.
More information on fraud and scams can be found on the Arizona Attorney General's website: https://www.azag.gov/consumeruds.
NANCY NELSON, President of the Tubac Rotary Club
an INTRODUCTION TO THE NEW 2025-6 PRESIDENT
Where did you live prior to Tubac and how did you come to live here?
I was born and raised in North Dakota, then my husband Jim got a job in Illinois right out of college and we have lived there since. My degree was in social work and Gerontology and my career was spent working on programs to keep older persons in their home as long and safely as possible. As Jim and I began to look to retirement we visited my brother John in Tubac and found it be a very nice community to spend our winters. We were pleased that my other brother and my sister also are wintering in Tubac as well as our closes family friends. We have two sons who live in NH and CA and nine grandchildren who love to visit in Tubac and many of them are golfers.
What's the Rotary Club about, it's history and how it works to benefit others ?
Being part of a Rotary Club is more that just giving back to your community. By volunteering each member utilizing their skills, experience, and enthusiasm to the volunteer effort, as well as make many friends along the way. Just in the Tubac Rotary Club we have a wide variety of professions, hobbies and volunteer experience. When those skill come together, they help make our fundraising projects a success for the Tubac community.
What can one expect if they became a member of the Tubac Rotary Club?
The first thing that members feel after joining the club is a sense of service to the community of Tubac and surrounding area. We spend time planning for events and fundraiser, providing an opportunity know each other. The most rewarding part of membership is when we are distributing the funds to organizations. That presentation of funds is as meaningful to members as it is to the recipients. Our largest donation goes to scholarships, then we provide volunteer and monetary support to the Cleft Palat Clinic and the Amado Youth Center. Our largest fundraise, Taste of Tubac, is a signature event in Tubac and the Golf Resort. Our other major fundraiser is the Swing for Kids golf outing to be held on January 19. As an added bonus to a member, is that the group likes to have fun!
How do you become a member?
Our meetings are held in the Apache room at Stables on Fridays. We have an optional breakfast at 7:30 and the meeting meets at 8. If interested, visit our meetings to meet the club members, learn about our service projects and hear our weekly speakers. Then after a completed application we have a welcome celebration.
Loving Springs Farms Landscape Service (520)-860-0373
WHAT INSPIRES US? The wonders and beauty of the Sonoran Desert Region which hosts a unique and biodiverse landscape as well as the culturally rich architectural & agricultural history of the Southwest which finds form in our fine craftsmanship. We are family owned and managed business since 1983 that specializing in Landscaping Architecture, Hardscape, Irrigation & General Contracting including drainage and Grading.
Owner: Nathan Peabody. A family owned business with excellent reviews ! Serving Tubac & surrounding areas.
TUBAC DENTAL - ALEX FOOR, DMD
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5 Mon-Thurs
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5 Mon-Thurs
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5 Mon-Thurs
General Dentistry, Dental Cleanings, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry
~All in Tubac Village~
In addition we offer these specialities:
Cosmetic ~ Functional Botox
Sleep Apnea & Snoring Solutions
Healthier teeth~ healthier life !
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5 Mon-Thurs
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5 Mon-Thurs
Check out our Google Reviews & Social Media pages to see what people have to say !
Out of network PPO Provider on most Insurance plans.
Financing available with: CARE CREDIT
Alex Foor, DMD
(520) 398-8408 HOURS: 8-5 Mon-Thurs
Alex Foor, DMD
Dr. Alex Foor earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Arizona
& his dental degree at
Boston University, Cum Laude.
He has completed a 10-week training course at a cosmetic practice in Hawaii.
Rocky at BENEDICT LOCK SERVICE
Rocky and Jennifer Benedict first moved to Green Valley, AZ from Vermont in 2004. Jennifer's health required a drier climate, so they set up their locksmith business in Green Valley. Rocky's Dad soon followed, who is also an experienced locksmith. Collectively, they have over 80 years of experience in lock services.
TELEPHONE (520) 481-5801
SERVING TUBAC with PROFESSIONAL SERVICE
LOCKS REKEYED HOME LOCKOUTS REASONABLE RATES
Coogan & Martin, P.C. Attorneys
Coogan & Martin, P.C., specializes in a range of legal services including business planning and formation, wills & trusts, international and domestic agricultural transactions and litigation, and commercial real estate transactions.
Located in Tubac Village
TELEPHONE ( 520 )-287-2110
24 Tubac Rd, Tubac, AZ 85646
The Beautiful Mural at the Tubac Community Center Unveiled
What was and who was - here before us.
Miguel Grijalva Artist & Project Manager and his family. His wife was the model for the woman in the river. This beautiful Mural was painted by Rio Rico High school students after school. It represents the culture of the Hohokam people and the beauty of the valley and river. Beautiful night with beautiful people at TCC last night.
TUBAC POST OFFICE, Fernando 520-398-3379
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
MON-FRI 9 to 4 CLOSED for LUNCH. 12 to 1 SATURDAY 9 to 1 & CLOSED SUNDAY
FYI _ ALWAYS ADD YOUR PO BOX NUMBER TO YOUR STREET ADDRESS OR ITEMS WILL BE RETURNED TO SENDER.
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
TUMACACORI POST OFFICE, Nadia (800) 275-8777
MON-FRI 8 to 4 CLOSED for LUNCH. 1 to 2 CLOSED SATURDAY & SUNDAY
FYI _ ALWAYS ADD YOUR PO BOX NUMBER TO YOUR STREET ADDRESS OR ITEMS WILL BE RETURNED TO SENDER.
TUBAC'S Ad Free RADIO STATION 98.1 FM KTBX
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
TUBAC'S Ad Free RADIO STATION 98.1 FM KTBX
GREAT CLASSIC ROCK, ALL DAY, NO COMMERCIALS. THANK YOU COCHISE BROADCASTING.
TUBAC TRANSFER & RECYCLE STATION
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
TUBAC'S Ad Free RADIO STATION 98.1 FM KTBX
Located west of the border check point on West Frontage Rd.- at the end-
SAT SUN & MON 8 -4 closed 12-1 for lunch
Please only recycle clean items.
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
Tubac Recycles! (520) 429-6131 for more details on pickups.
We're a community of people who share a passion for the environment. We thank you Alexandra Humbree for doing home and business pick-ups !