Vote YES on Prop 414
for a Safe and Vibrant city
Early Voting begins February 12. Election Day is March 11.
Tucson voters have the opportunity to keep Tucson a safe and vibrant city for years to come by passing Proposition 414. This proposal, referred by the City of Tucson Mayor and Council, seeks approval for a temporary, half-cent sales tax to fund essential public safety services and transformative community investment projects.
Why is 414 necessary?
Over the past decade, laws enacted by the Arizona Legislature have eliminated funding for local government. In 2025, Tucson will lose $27 million and over the next ten years it is projected that hundreds of millions for Tucson will be eliminated.
Passing Prop 414 will address this severe funding crisis by creating a locally controlled source of funding that by law must be used for Tucson’s police and fire departments and maintain essential city services.
Community Support
Regina Romero, Mayor
City of Tucson
Dear Tucsonans,
I am asking you to join me in voting YES on Proposition 414 to build a safe and vibrant Tucson that improves the quality of life for us all.
Every day, the City of Tucson delivers essential services to keep our community safe, healthy and vibrant. We have heard your voices loud and clear about your desire for a compassionate, thriving community that cares for all of our residents, especially the most vulnerable among us. Proposition 414 is a comprehensive, balanced approach to putting the right work in the right hands and providing the necessary resources to do so.
Proposition 414 will help us to create the safety and prosperity we all deserve by building more affordable housing and resources for our unsheltered residents, while investing in our children and youth. It will provide our first responders the equipment and technology they need, while building capital investments in fire stations, an opioid detox site, and our public safety training academy. It will provide support for small scale affordable housing development and gap funding for larger projects. It will support the implementation of our Somos Uno Cultural Heritage Strategy and help keep our city clean. Finally, Prop 414 adds the staffing positions we need to be the effective, efficient community and public safety team required today, while building for tomorrow.
I believe making these sustained investments over the next decade will make a significant difference while disrupting the cycle of generational poverty. Building wealth and resilience benefits every single Tucsonan.
We all deserve opportunity and economic vibrancy.
As your Mayor and a Mom, I urge you to join me in voting Yes on Prop 414.
Regina Romero, Mayor
City of Tucson
Tucson, AZ
Clayton Black, President
Tucson Fire Fighters Association
Dear Tucson Voters,
As President of the Tucson Fire Fighters Association, I proudly represent over 600 uniformed public safety professionals who serve and protect our city every day. Last year alone, Tucson firefighters responded to over 103,000 emergency calls, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to our community.
Proposition 414 is a visionary plan to invest in Tucson’s future. This half-cent sales tax increase will generate $800 million over 10 years, funding critical areas like affordable housing, emergency response, and community resilience.
For public safety, this means expanded staffing for the Tucson Fire Department, a new northwest infill station, additional ladder and hazmat teams, and improved response times across the city. These investments directly address our growing city’s needs, ensuring that emergency services are there when you need them most.
Prop 414 isn’t just about better public safety—it’s about creating a stronger, more vibrant Tucson for everyone. The measure will also fund early childhood education, workforce development, and programs to break the cycle of poverty, ensuring a brighter future for our community.
The Safe & Vibrant City: Tax Oversight Commission will ensure transparency, so every dollar is spent wisely and effectively. Tucsonans have a history of supporting strategic investments like Prop 101, 407, and 411. Let’s continue building on that legacy by voting YES on Prop 414 this March.
Together, we can create a safer, more resilient, and vibrant Tucson.
Clayton Black, President
Tucson Fire Fighters Association
Tucson, AZ
Dan Freiberg, President
Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona
Dear Tucson Voters:
As the President of the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona, representing over 8,000 public safety professionals statewide and more than 600 Tucson fire fighters and paramedics, I urge you to support Proposition 414 this March.
This measure represents a critical investment in the future safety, stability, and vibrancy of our state's second-largest city.
Tucson's firefighters, police officers, and emergency responders serve a rapidly growing population with increasing demands. Last year, the Tucson Fire Department alone responded to more than 103,000 emergency calls.
Proposition 414 provides the resources needed to meet these demands by funding new fire stations, enhanced staffing levels, and critical equipment upgrades. These improvements will reduce response times and improve outcomes in emergencies, especially in underserved areas like the northwest side of the city.
Prop 414 also prioritizes community resilience and poverty reduction by funding affordable housing, early childhood education, and workforce development programs. These initiatives address root causes of societal challenges, creating a brighter future for all Tucsonans.
Transparency and accountability are at the heart of Prop 414. The Safe & Vibrant City: Tax Oversight Commission will ensure every dollar is spent wisely and effectively. Tucson has a proud history of delivering on strategic investments like Props 101, 407, and 411, and this measure continues that legacy.
By voting YES on Prop 414, you are choosing to create a safer and more vibrant Tucson. Together, we can ensure our city thrives for generations to come.
Dan Freiberg, President
Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
Darrell Hussman, President
Tucson Police Officers Association
My name is Darrell Hussman and I am the president of the Tucson Police Officers Association. We represent law enforcement officers, detectives, sergeants, and community safety officers in our police department; our board is made up of working police officers.
Tucson is a beautiful place to live. Like most communities, we have struggled with the layered effects of the pandemic, the opioid crisis, ongoing struggles with homelessness, and increasing violent crime. It has been the one of the highlights of my law enforcement career to watch our community rally around these challenges with determination and compassion. We come together like nowhere else.
We now find ourselves facing a new crisis, with critical needs that far exceed our resources. The State has significantly reduced our shared revenue, impacting service delivery, facilities, and vital equipment. Our community needs affordable housing and treatment for mental health and substance use issues. It also needs responsibly funded public safety departments ready to engage in a comprehensive effort with the crisis, housing, and treatment systems we are lucky to have.
Bottom line, we need more police officers, community service officers, and professional staff investigators. We need patrol cars, computers, technical support, and the resources necessary to fix critically failing police and fire infrastructure.
Prop 414, on March’s ballot, will help us do exactly that. We must now come together again. Prop 414 is our opportunity to provide for the critical needs of our police, fire, and communications departments. It lets us determine where to direct these critical resources and do so under the protection of an independent oversight committee.
Please vote yes on Prop 414. Help us support police officers, firefighters, 911 operators, and the community programs they fight to support every day.
Darrell Hussman, President
Tucson Police Officers Association
Tucson, AZ
Belinda Morales
Tucson Police Command Association President
The Tucson Police Command Association (TPCA) supports Proposition 414, to further Safe & Vibrant City initiatives. The TPCA collaborates closely with our community to address crime and quality of life issues daily. The projected revenue generated from Proposition 414 will provide revenue to improve the overall health of our city in five critical areas: First Responders, Enhanced Emergency Response, Affordable Housing & Shelter, Neighborhood Community Resilience and Technological Investments. One important goal is to work toward disrupting the cycle of generational poverty by providing funding for Early Childhood Education, Adult & Youth Workforce Development and Violence Interruption Efforts. All meaningful initiatives needed to raise compassionate and productive members in our community.
Our community calls for additional staffing and social services support within our public and community safety departments. Proposition 414 will provide funding to hire 238 additional staff members, improving the delivery of services from your Police, Fire, Public Safety Communications, Housing & Community Development, and Information Technology Departments. Increased staffing and social services allow first responders to answer calls for service faster, more efficiently and with a comprehensive approach.
The City Manager will assign a Citizen’s Commission to oversee and ensure revenue percentages are strictly distributed with full transparency. If approved, I am happy to report that our community members can track the progress and financial details on the Tucson Delivers website.
The City of Tucson’s proven record of managing Propositions 101, 407, and 411 will continue with Proposition 414. Our community members deserve to live, work, and play in a safe and clean environment. The Safe & Vibrant City Proposition is the foundation our city needs to provide stability, security, and safety for our future.
Belinda Morales
Tucson Police Command Association President
Tucson, AZ
Bruce Burke
Tucson, AZ
Prop 414 Invests in Families
Proposition 414 deserves our support because it reflects our shared values in supporting our youth. By dedicating $1 million annually to early childhood programs and $1 million annually to youth workforce development, this measure ensures Tucson’s children and young adults have the tools to succeed in school, careers, and life.
As a former local school board member, I know firsthand how critical early childhood education and workforce development programs are to the health and well-being of our community. Insufficient access to early care and education creates significant challenges for families, local businesses, and our economy. When childcare breaks down, parents—especially those in industries like manufacturing, construction, and emergency services—cannot show up to work, disrupting productivity and economic stability.
High-quality early care and education provide immediate and long-term benefits. Young children are better prepared for school. Parents can work, and businesses thrive. Investing in early childhood programs is an “upstream” investment - studies confirm that it saves money in the long term by reducing the need for costly interventions later in life.
Youth workforce development is essential for bridging the gap between education and employment. It helps young people gain the skills and experience they need to secure good jobs and contribute to our local economy. Programs like these create pathways to success, reduce unemployment, and build a stronger, more resilient workforce.
Early childhood education and youth workforce development are public goods that require public investment. In Tucson and across the state, these programs are woefully underfunded. Proposition 414 represents a bold and cost-effective vision for Tucson’s future, one where our youth can thrive.
Please join me in voting YES on Proposition 414. Together, we can create a brighter, stronger future for Tucson families.
Respectfully,
Bruce Burke
Tucson, AZ
Chris Edwards, Owner
Tucson Appliance Company
This letter is in support of our Tucson Community. Prop 414 and the half-cent sales tax increase over the next 10 years to fund a safer and more vibrant Tucson would be a huge benefit to our community as long as the funds are distributed and spent by the city as planned and responsibly. Increasing the Housing First Staff and Housing Navigators in support of those that do not have the means to help them selves is a plus to those in need as well as the community around them. The need for 311 Call Takers to handle non-emergency calls leaving more availability to the community to reach out and get assistance from 911 is a great need that should have always been placed in the City’s budget. Tucson Appliance is a huge supporter of our First Responders, the Tucson Community and in support of any Prop or governance that keeps money in the City of Tucson. The support Prop 414 will give to our First Responders by enhancing both TFD and TPD with higher quality equipment that will only make the jobs of all first responders more effective and safer in their environment in addition to creating a better way for Tucsonans.
Warm Regards,
Chris Edwards, Owner
Tucson Appliance Company
Tucson, AZ
Laura Conover
Tucson, AZ
I am firmly in support of Proposition 414, the Safe & Vibrant City initiative and want to encourage you to vote in favor of this critical measure. Prop 414 aims to generate approximately $800 million to enhance our city's public safety and the core functions of city government.
This proposition will make sure that the City of Tucson has the right resources available for the right situations.
I’d like to share a few of what I believe to be the most important impacts here with you: A yes vote will ensure that we have unarmed, noncommissioned, Community Service Officers to address non-emergency first responder calls, freeing up our Police Officers to respond to dangerous and violent activity while ensuring that residents in crisis can get the help they need.
Statistically, TPD is my #1 law enforcement partner. Making sure they have adequate staffing and their time is utilized to tackle violent crime is one of my top priorities.
A yes vote will also help to get our unhoused neighbors out of the cycle of homelessness through Housing First: informed services, policies, and staff. We’ve already seen how successful Housing First: informed policies can be, and now our City needs to build out increased capacity to get more people back on their feet and tackle our housing crisis.
This proposition will also help to address many of the root causes of crime through investments in Early Childhood Education and Workforce Development.
By supporting Prop 414, we can make significant strides in addressing affordable housing, enhancing public safety, and fostering community. This initiative represents a comprehensive, big-picture approach. I urge you to vote YES on Proposition 414 to invest in the future of our community.
Sincerely,
Laura Conover
Tucson, AZ
Pima County Attorney
Betty Villegas
State Representative
My Fellow Tucsonenses,
Tucson is at a crossroads. As our community grows, so do the challenges we face-rising housing costs, greater demand for public safety, and the need to preserve our rich cultural heritage.
Proposition 414 gives us the tools to address these challenges directly. By providing a reliable funding source to our city over the next 10 years, we can make bold and necessary investments to create a stronger, safer, and more resilient Tucson.
As the former Pima County Housing Director, I’ve spent over 40 years working to ensure families have access to affordable housing. A stable home helps children to succeed in school, helps parents focus on work, and strengthens entire neighborhoods. Proposition 414 will give more Tucsonans that foundation for success by dedicating $14 million annually—a total of $140 million over the next decade—to affordable housing.
These investments will build affordable housing, help homeowners with critical repairs, improve rental housing conditions, and provide low-barrier shelters for neighbors experiencing homelessness. Additionally, down payment assistance made possible by Prop 414 will help families achieve homeownership and build generational wealth.
Lastly, Proposition 414 also preserves Tucson’s cultural identity by investing $1 million annually or $10 million over 10 years—through the Somos Uno investment. This funding will revitalize neighborhoods, support the arts, and celebrate our rich history, ensuring Tucson remains a beacon of creativity and pride for generations to come.
With limited state support, Tucson voters are being asked to invest in ourselves. I am proud to do so. Proposition 414 reflects Tucson’s resilience and determination to take care of its own. Let’s honor our past and build a brighter future.
I urge you to vote yes on Proposition 414.
Sincerely,
Betty Villegas
State Representative
Tucson, AZ
Fletcher McCusker, Chairman
Rio Nuevo
This proposition has several features that are important for downtown: increased safety, monitoring, equipment, additional police coverage, cameras etc. All this benefits our downtown core and provides additional resources that are sorely needed. I support this as an individual with numerous downtown interests.
Fletcher McCusker, Chairman
Rio Nuevo
Tucson, AZ
Lane Santa Cruz, PhD
Ward 1 Tucson City Council Member
Why I Support Prop 414
As a City Council Member, I am committed to building a Tucson that serves all residents, especially those who need support the most. Prop 414 is a bold step toward ensuring our city has the resources to address critical issues like housing affordability, community safety, and access to vital services, while also laying the groundwork for a more comprehensive system of care over the next decade.
One of the most impactful aspects of Prop 414 is its investment in housing affordability. It provides critical funding for mortgage assistance, workforce housing, and care coordinators who help residents navigate complex systems. These services are essential to ensuring stability and creating opportunities for Tucson’s families.
The proposition also strengthens our Community Safety, Health, and Wellness program, expanding services like community service officers, housing navigators, and 311 support to connect residents with the right resources more efficiently. Additionally, Prop 414 invests in early childhood education, recognizing that supporting young children and their families is foundational to building a thriving community.
Prop 414 goes beyond reacting to crises—it sets us on a path toward preventative care and systemic solutions. By funding capital investments such as 911/311 call-taker support and building a detox facility, the proposition addresses immediate needs while creating long-term infrastructure for public health and safety.
This initiative reflects Tucson’s commitment to equity, accessibility, and sustainability. It provides a vision for a healthier and more resilient city—one that prioritizes the well-being of every resident. I urge you to join me in voting yes on Prop 414. Together, we can build a Tucson that takes care of everyone.
Lane Santa Cruz, PhD
Ward 1 Tucson City Council Member
Tucson, AZ
Paul Cunningham
Tucson City Council
The right approach is summed up with the title: Safe & Vibrant City. It’s not just a slogan, but a summary of our balanced approach to the challenges our city faces.
We hear from citizens on all sides. Why aren’t we spending more for affordable housing? Why aren’t we spending more for police and fire to keep us safe? The trouble has been that people who advocate for these approaches think that they are on opposite sides. The fact is we need well funded programs for both.
The affordable housing and shelter portion of the proposition spends $14 million on items ranging from care coordinator staffing to down payment assistance to increasing the city-owned housing stock. There is also $13.4 million set aside for neighborhood & community resilience, these programs include workforce development and even more resources for urban forestry and neighborhood clean-up efforts.
The public safety portion includes technology improvement for TPD and hiring new personnel at both TFD and TPD. Passing this proposition would bring in an additional $18.2 million for these programs, plus over $20 million for new capital investments.
Putting all these together in one package is not a matter of splitting the difference or trying to keep different interests happy, but a recognition that only a holistic approach will make our city better.
I urge a yes vote on proposition 414.
Paul Cunningham
Tucson City Council
Tucson, AZ
Kevin Dahl
Tucson, AZ
Vote YES on prop 414. This half-cent sales tax increase will support important investment in city programs at a time when significant State funding has been cut to municipalities like Tucson. This revenue will continue to help keep Tucson a safe and vibrant community. It creates dedicated funding for Public Safety (police and fire) and supports a variety of needed programs that strengthen our community by funding early childhood education, youth employment, and workforce development programs. It funds additional affordable housing and shelter capacity for those experiencing homelessness.
Please join me in voting YES for the future of Tucson. The place we all call home.
Kevin Dahl
Tucson, AZ
Nikki McMillen Lee
City Councilwoman, Ward 4
As one of your Tucson City Council Members, I humbly ask you to vote YES on Proposition 414. This is our chance to make Tucson a safer, stronger city for everyone.
Prop 414 tackles the issues we all care about: rising crime, delayed emergency responses, and a city that doesn’t feel as safe as it used to. Here’s how Prop 414 can improve your quality of life and create a safer community:
Faster Emergency Responses: Prop 414 adds 60 commissioned police officers, 125 TPD professional staff, 88 firefighters, and 20 more 9-1-1/3-1-1 personnel to respond faster when you need help.
Advanced Technology for Public Safety: Prop 414 invests in upgraded 9-1-1 systems, real-time crime detection tools, and enhanced air support to address challenges like street racing and other public safety issues. Tucson spans nearly 240 square miles, making these capabilities essential for effectively managing public safety. These investments enable law enforcement to cover more ground, respond quickly, and handle emergencies in hard-to-reach areas, ensuring a safer community for everyone.
Preventing Increased Costs for Property Owners: A $2 million investment in a second fire ladder company is essential to Tucson maintaining top-tier fire protection standards. Our current high safety rating (ISO Class 1) is at risk if we don’t create this additional ladder company. Our current Class 1 rating keeps property insurance costs lower for residents and businesses, saving everyone money while ensuring faster and more effective emergency response.
Trust is key. If Prop 414 passes, I will appoint a dedicated public safety advocate from Ward 4 to the oversight committee to ensure every dollar designated for public safety is spent responsibly and as promised.
Tucsonans, let’s create a safer community and improve our quality of life. Please vote YES on Prop 414.
Nikki McMillen Lee
City Councilwoman, Ward 4
Tucson, AZ
Richard G. Fimbres
Tucson, AZ
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter of support for the proposed Proposition 414, which will amend the Charter of the City of Tucson, Arizona, to authorize a sales tax of up to 0.5% for a period often (10) years to fund community investments to promote quality of life for the residents and businesses of the City of Tucson, with each dollar of revenue generated from this tax apportioned among public safety and other types of community investments such as Affordable Housing & Shelter, Neighborhood & Community Resilience, Enhanced Emergency Response, Technology Investments, and Capital Investments for First Responders.
We have experienced some tough times during the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to work hard to make positive moves that benefit our community's residents. I firmly believe it is important to support Proposition 414, which will allow us to continue the path of recovery as we build a stronger and more vibrant community.
We need safer streets! Prop 414 will allow us to increase public safety staffing, enhance emergency response, and provide better technology to help our first responders meet the needs of our residents. Our community needs more Affordable Housing. Voting on Prop 414 will allow us to invest in projects to create more housing, especially for our families and the unsheltered who need it the most.
I hope that you join me in supporting Proposition 414 by voting YES! I appreciate your consideration.
Sincerely,
Richard G. Fimbres
Tucson, AZ
Karin Uhlich
Ward 6 City Council Member
I hope you'll VOTE YES on Proposition 414. It's up to us to invest in the technology, equipment and proven programs that will make Tucson an even safer and more vibrant city:
• Enhanced staffing, vehicles and equipment to support our police and fire departments
• Prevention programs and work/educational/training opportunities for youth
• Continued outreach and more low barrier and transitional shelters for homeless individuals and families
• Key priorities identified by former City Manager Ortega, current Manager Thormure, city departments and community partners
Opponents will likely urge 'no' votes based on points I want to address here:
Tucson's Money Management Earn High Marks
Tucson's core financial outlook has been upgraded recently from stable to positive by external rating agencies. Moody's noted (November 2024): "The positive outlook on the city reflects the expectation that the city's economy will grow supported by new developments and that its financial position will remain sound, supported by management's demonstrated ability to make timely budgetary adjustments as necessary to maintain financial flexibility."
City Charter Makes Sales Tax Our Option Food and rent are exempt from local sales taxes, which helps to reduce the impact on households. Much of our sale tax collections come from tourists and visitors as well as shoppers from outside the city limits. We Can Invest in a Better City
The health and wellness of Tucson relies on more than the core services we fund in our annual, balanced budgets. Reducing homelessness and opioid misuse; preventing gun violence and crime; giving youth options that build skills and improve their futures.
The state has cut funding to cities and federal investments will likely shrink, too. It's up to us to invest in our own community.
Karin Uhlich
Ward 6 City Council Member
Tucson, AZ
Demion Clinco, CEO
Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation/President, Catalina In-Home Services
As a proud member of the Tucson community, I strongly support Proposition 414 to build a Safe & Vibrant City. This critical ballot measure represents an opportunity to address some of our most pressing challenges while laying the foundation for a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant future.
Proposition 414 proposes a modest increase in the city’s sales tax to 3.1%, generating an estimated $800 million over the next decade. This money will enable investments in essential community needs that the legislature has repeatedly failed to adequately fund and that the current sales tax alone has been unable to cover.
Key areas of investment include addressing Tucson’s homelessness crisis through affordable housing, support for Housing First programs, and housing navigators. It also ensures that our First Responders, including firefighters and 911 communication staff, have the resources they need to keep our community safe.
Proposition 414 investments into cultural and economic growth through initiatives like Somos Uno, which strengthens Tucson’s rich cultural heritage while fostering future arts, history, and cultural endeavors will radiate through our community and make Tucson’s quality of life better for all residents. 414 will also invest in workforce development programs that connect employers with skilled workers and provide training for in-demand industries—creating pathways to meaningful employment and economic growth. All of this is good for Tucson and will generate a significant positive economic impact.
Proposition 414 is a forward-thinking plan that addresses urgent needs while making strategic investments in Tucson’s future. I urge all voters to review the detailed list of investments on the Proposition 414 website and join me in supporting this measure. Together, we can create a safe and vibrant Tucson.
Demion Clinco, CEO
Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation/President, Catalina In-Home Services
Tucson, AZ
Prop 414 is supported by a broad coalition that includes Tucson’s firefighters and police officers, affordable housing advocates, leaders of community-based nonprofits and local business owners who know that voting YES will make neighborhoods safer, address the affordable housing crisis, and invest in services to improve our quality of life.
Elected Officials
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Regina Romero, Mayor of Tucson
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Lane Santa Cruz, Tucson Council Member
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Paul Cunningham, Tucson Council Member
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Kevin Dahl, Tucson Council Member
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Nikki Lee, Tucson Council Member
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Richard Fimbres, Tucson Council Member
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Karin Uhlich, Tucson Council Member
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Adelita Grijalva, Pima County Supervisor
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Laura Conover, Pima County Attorney
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Dustin Williams, Pima County School Superintendent
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Priya Sundareshan, Democratic Senate Leader
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Nancy Gutierrez, State Representative
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Chris Mathis, State Representative
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Stephanie Stahl Hamilton, State Representative
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Betty Villegas, State Representative
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Roxanna Valenzuela, Mayor of South Tucson
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Jennifer Eckstrom, TUSD Board President
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Dr. Ravi Shah, TUSD Board Member
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Natalie Luna Rose, TUSD Board Member
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Beki Quintero, Sunnyside School Board President
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Matt Kopec, Amphitheater School Board Member
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Hon. Ron Barber, Former Congressman
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Hon. Margarita Bernal, former Tucson City Court Magistrate
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Hon. Sylvia Lee, Former Pima County Supervisor and PCC Board Member
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Hon. Dan Eckstrom, Former Pima County Supervisor
Community/Business Leaders
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Bruce Burke, Education Advocate
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Josh Campbell, Retired Tucson Fire Department Captain
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Demion Clinco, Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation & President, Catalina In-Home Services
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Desiree Cook, Founder and CEO, I Am You 360
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Pat DeConcini, Managing Partner, 4-D Properties
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Chris Edwards, Owner Tucson Appliance Company
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Amy Hartmann-Gordon, Director Presidio / Fort Lowell Museums
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Sharayah Jimene, Principal Designer CUADRO
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John A. Leavitt, Retired Tucson Police Department Captain
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Michael Levin, Co-Founder Michael and Claudia Levin Family Foundation
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Fletcher McCusker, Chairman Rio Nuevo
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Michael Ortega, Former Tucson City Manager
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Richard Oseran, Owner Hotel Congress
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Rocque Perez, Education Advocate
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Edgar Soto, Education Advocate
Organizations
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Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Arizona
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Jobs With Justice
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Old Pueblo Community Services
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Pima County Democratic Party
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Professional Firefighters of Arizona
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Tucson Fire Fighters Association
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Tucson Police Command Association
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Tucson Police Officers Association
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United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 99
Roxanna Valenzuela, Mayor
City of South Tucson
Our community faces tough challenges: homelessness, the lack of affordable housing, and the devastating opioid crisis. These aren't just statistics; they're our neighbors, our families, and our friends. As Mayor of South Tucson, I support Tucson's Proposition 414 because it offers a path forward.
Prop 414 is an investment in us. It's an investment in safer streets, in homes for families, in opportunities for our children through early childhood education and job training, and in a cleaner, more vibrant community. It's about building a future where everyone has a chance to thrive, regardless of their zip code or income. It’s an innovative blend of community and public safety investments that creates real and lasting improvement in quality of life for residents.
Arizona's tax system unfairly burdens low-income families. Prop 414 helps level the playing field, giving hope and opportunity to those who need it most.
Vote YES on Proposition 414 for a brighter future for all.
Sincerely,
Roxanna Valenzuela, Mayor
South Tucson
Katy Scoblink
Old Pueblo Community Services
The city of Tucson is currently experiencing a homeless crisis. This crisis impacts all members of the community and requires comprehensive and effective action from local government. The City of Tucson has invested in proven solutions to this problem, ranging from low-barrier shelters that provide compassionate care for those most vulnerable, to rental subsidies and improvements to affordable housing. However, current funding is not sufficient to sustain and grow these efforts. Proposition 414 will provide much needed funding to address housing and emergency service needs in Tucson. Additionally, Proposition 414 will provide much needed funding to enhance the quality of life in neighborhoods throughout Tucson, securing our current inventory of affordable multifamily housing through property maintenance and improvements. And finally, this proposition will provide critical funding needed for first responders. Emergency response systems have been challenged to keep up with the needs of a growing community while also responding to the needs of unsheltered persons throughout Tucson. Proposition 414 is an important step in the right direction.
Paid for by
Thomas M. Litwicki, CEO
Katy Scoblink
Old Pueblo Community Services
Tucson, AZ
Jobe Dickinson, Executive Director
Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Arizona
I am Jobe Dickinson, the Executive Director of the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Arizona. We represent over 2,100 Law Enforcement officers in Southern Arizona, including the City of Tucson and surrounding communities.
In 2017, the City of Tucson residents overwhelmingly voted in a ½ cent sales tax to get 1st responders the equipment they desperately needed in order to effectively do their jobs. However, that tax had a 5-year sunset and has since expired years ago.
Tucson is a great place to live and raise a family. However, the city has struggled since the pandemic with issues such as homelessness, the opioid crisis, and juvenile gun crime. Funding is down for first responders while costs have gone up. We find ourselves again with critical needs that far exceed our resources, impacting service delivery.
Tucson is also unique in that many people work in the city but reside outside of the city limits. They come into town and use our services but do not pay property taxes in the city. A sales tax will make sure those citizens are paying their fair share for the services they use.
Our community needs affordable housing and treatment for mental health and substance use issues. It also needs a fully funded police and fire department, ready to work with the treatment systems we already have.
Prop 414 is an opportunity to support both our police and fire departments’ critical needs. When approved, the Prop will also establish an independent oversight committee to ensure transparency and community input.
Please vote yes on Prop 414. Support police officers, firefighters, and the community support programs they work with every day.
Jobe Dickinson
Executive Director
Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
Josh Campbell
Retired Tucson Firefighter
As a retired Tucson firefighter, I am writing to express my strong support for Proposition 414, a vital measure that will fund much-needed improvements to public safety and fire department infrastructure, staffing, and response capabilities.
Our community has seen the positive impact of similar measures, such as Proposition 101, approved by voters in 2017. The funding from Proposition 101 (which has expired) was allocated responsibly, with careful oversight from the citizen-led committee to ensure taxpayer dollars were used as promised. This accountability provided critical upgrades to public safety services, proving that our community can work together to enhance safety and make lasting improvements.
Proposition 414 builds on that success, addressing increasing demands on our fire and public safety services. As our population grows, response times and available personnel are increasingly strained. By investing in new infrastructure and hiring additional staff, Proposition 414 will ensure that our first responders have the resources they need to meet the needs of our community efficiently and effectively.
Supporting this measure is an investment in our collective safety and well-being. With strong oversight and clear accountability, taxpayers can be confident that funds will be managed responsibly to provide the maximum benefit to the community.
I urge my fellow residents to vote “yes” on Proposition 414. Together, we can ensure our public safety and fire departments have the resources necessary to protect our families, homes, and businesses for years to come.
Sincerely,
Josh Campbell
Retired Tucson Firefighter
Tucson, AZ
Desiree Cook
Founder and CEO
Tucson is in crisis we hear about the increase of violence on the news, newspapers, social media and concerned citizen. As well the increase mental health illness, drug addiction, and unhoused crisis. TPD should have all the equipment needed to meet the need of the community. Their vehicles says "to serve and protect" but with minimum funding and support how are officers able to navigate for their safety and the community.
Safe vehicles, services, programs, trainings should be on the top of the list to mirror the needs of a community.
Desiree Cook
Founder and CEO
I Am You 360
Tucson, AZ
Capt. John A. Leavitt (Ret.)
Tucson, AZ
My name is John Leavitt, a native Tucsonan. I retired from the Tucson Police Department after serving for over forty years. I worked in every area of the Department. Over several years I was responsible for managing the Department’s budget. I write in support of Proposition 414 because our community needs a properly funded police department. Supporting law enforcement means providing the resources needed to get the job the community expects done. The Department has not received the resources it needs to completely carry out the work the community demands and deserves. For many years maintenance in police facilities and replacement of police equipment fell behind of what was needed. Proposition 101, passed more than five years ago, helped fill some of the gaps that had developed, replacing many vehicles and other essential equipment that had become dangerous to operate. The expiration of that funding has arrived, requiring the community to step up again to provide much needed support again.
Long ago I learned that we are paying for tools we need that we don’t have in a variety of ways. If funding is not available to provide for training, equipment, and appropriate deployments, we are paying by getting substandard response times and poor service. I always believed what we did over the past four decades was very good work. The dirty secret had always been what we didn’t do, and could have, if we had been appropriately funded.
When you vote please remember that the women and men who serve this community need your support. Rise above politics if necessary to provide that support. They need this funding to do their jobs. We are so lucky that they have chosen to serve our community. We need to respond by voting yes on Proposition 414.
Capt. John A. Leavitt (Ret.)
Tucson, AZ
Amy Hartmann-Gordon
Director, Presidio/Fort Lowell Museums
Within Proposition 414 there is funding for Neighborhood and Community Resilience (16.75% of funds). This includes 12 subcategories including $1million for engagement programs that support cultural heritage assets.
As the Director of the Presidio Museum, located in the Historic Presidio District in downtown Tucson, I am very familiar with the community benefit that is provided by historic spaces and cultural traditions. I also recently served on the Steering Committee of the Somos Uno project whose goal was to identify and support the broad array of cultural heritage assets in the City of Tucson, understanding that these assets form our civic identity and our community strength.
Proposition 414 is an important step forward for our City in its decades-long process of understanding, embracing, celebrating and now, supporting our cultural heritage. While it is only a first step, this funding acknowledges that cultural heritage in the form of architecture, art, theater, music, murals, neighborhood tours, museums, native gardens, place-making and even agriculture is an integral part of our community’s cohesive identity. This mosaic of cultural programming informs and defines Tucsonans, bringing us together.
Like anywhere, our local history is complex, but it also informs our rich and blended community culture. At the Presidio Museum we remind visitors that it makes us more understanding, culturally aware, respectful of others, and tolerant, no matter one’s background.
While there is an incalculable benefit that cannot be captured in economic terms, (as described above), there is also clear calculable benefit. The Somos Uno report found that cultural tourism generates $431 million in out-of-town spending and $20 million in tax revenue. It is only appropriate that we vote to invest something back through Prop 414 funding.
This is an important tool to keep our community thriving. Vote YES on Proposition 414.
Amy Hartmann-Gordon
Director, Presidio/Fort Lowell Museums
Tucson, AZ
Sharayah Jimenez
Principal Designer_CUADRO
As an architect with over a decade of experience in affordable housing development, historic preservation, and community planning, I have seen firsthand the critical need for sustainable, equitable housing solutions in Tucson. Through my work as Principal Designer and founder of CUADRO, I focus on small-scale architectural projects that fit contextually within the urban and desert environment; housing affordability is a key piece of this work. Proposition 414 provides the reliable, long-term funding needed to tackle these challenges effectively.
With a dedicated funding source for the next 10 years, Prop 414 ensures sustained investment in the workforce and affordable housing. By providing gap funding for affordable housing projects and impact fee waivers, non-profit and private sector efforts for increased affording housing supply will be supported. Additionally, the funding will provide essential resources like mortgage assistance and housing programs that help families stay in their homes. This stability allows Tucson to plan and execute housing initiatives with the confidence that these efforts will continue over the long term. Reliable funding also ensures critical staffing—such as housing navigators and care coordinators—remain in place to connect residents to the services they need, fostering a more equitable and resilient housing system.
As an active member of Tucson’s Rio Nuevo Board and former participant of Tucson and Pima County’s Housing Commissions, I know the transformative power of consistent, strategic investment. Prop 414 is a commitment to creating housing solutions that reflect our community’s values and priorities. I urge you to vote yes on Prop 414 and join me in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable Tucson.
Sincerely,
Sharayah Jimenez
Principal Designer_CUADRO
Tucson, AZ
Michael Levin
Co-Founder, Michael And Claudia Levin Family Foundation
Tucson is a beautiful place to live, work, and recreate. As the 33rd largest city in the country we face significant challenges in addressing the fentanyl crisis, the unsheltered population, mental health and substance use disorders, affordable housing, and violent crime.
As contributing members of a local family business, community advocates, and volunteers, my wife and I get a first hand look at the remarkable way our city government and community partners rally around these challenges with determination, empathy, and a commitment to evidence based strategies.
We also see first hand how terribly underfunded these efforts have been. Our community has critical needs that far exceed city resources. Addressing comprehensive problems requires a comprehensive investment for sustainable solutions. We need affordable housing, treatment for mental health and substance use disorders, and creative ways to address disorder and blight. Tucson is a beautiful place to live, work, and recreate. As the 33rd largest city in the country we face significant challenges in addressing the fentanyl crisis, the unsheltered population, mental health and substance use disorders, affordable housing, and violent crime.
We also need a responsibly funded public safety team (police, fire, public safety communications departments). That team provides the foundation for a safe community. Without it, innovative approaches that attack root causes are destined to fail.
The proposed Safe & Vibrant City ballot measure invests in five vital areas:
• Affordable Housing & Shelter (17.50%)
• Neighborhood & Community Resilience (16.75%)
• Enhanced Emergency Response (22.75%)
• Technology Investments (12.25%)
• Capital Investment for First Responders (30.75%)
This is a carefully constructed comprehensive strategy, and one that creates the public safety foundation to keep Tucson moving forward. Please vote yes on 414.
Michael Levin
Co-Founder, Michael And Claudia Levin Family Foundation
Tucson, AZ
Corky Poster
Tucson, AZ
I understand that the City of Tucson is asking voters to consider a half-cent sales tax increase for the next 10 years to fund a safer and more vibrant Tucson. If approved by voters, the City's sales tax rate would increase to 3.1% and generate a projected $800 million over those 10 years.
I am writing this letter in support of this Proposition 414.
The proposed Safe & Vibrant City ballot measure invests in five vital areas:
• Affordable Housing & Shelter (17.50%)
• Neighborhood & Community Resilience (16.75%)
• Enhanced Emergency Response (22.75%).
• Technology Investments (12.25%)
• Capital Investment for First Responders (30.75%)
I believe. this is a carefully constructed comprehensive funding plan to keep Tucson moving forward.
In creating a safe and vibrant Tucson for all, we are working to disrupt the cycle of generational poverty in one generation. There is funding that will help to address the root causes of poverty including funding for Early Childhood Education, Workforce Development & Youth Workforce Development and Violence Interruption.
When Prop 414 is approved by voters, the Safe & Vibrant City: Tax Oversight Commission shall oversee activities conducted under this ballot measure and assure that the total tax revenues are strictly distributed to the five categories based on the established percentages. The Tax Oversight Commission will be appointed by the City Manager and will consist of experts in the areas of housing, public safety, providing services to unsheltered individuals, the arts, etc.
I especially support:
• Housing First Staff and Housing Navigators
• Affordable Housing & Shelter
• Neighborhood & Community Resilience
The City of Tucson has a history of investing strategically and delivering what we said we were going to do with Prop 101, 407 and 411.
Corky Poster
Tucson, AZ
Cassandra Weaver
Public Safety Sales Account Executive
I come from a large family of first responders, and growing up, I saw firsthand the struggles and sacrifices these brave men and women face every day to keep our communities safe. As a former 911 dispatcher, I deeply understand the challenges of the job. These professionals manage life-or-death situations with limited resources, under immense pressure. Prop 414 would provide an opportunity to enhance Tucson’s public safety by investing in the technologies and staffing that will make our first responders’ jobs more manageable, efficient, and effective.
I now work for Corti, a technology company that directly supports Tucson’s Public Safety Communications. As someone who has lived through the tough realities of this profession, I’ve seen how technology can make a significant difference. Since Tucson implemented Corti, they’ve been able to perform 100% quality assurance on cardiac arrest calls, something that was previously impossible. Corti has also enabled random QA and improved compliance, which speeds up decision-making and reduces errors in critical moments.
These improvements save lives and help first responders do their jobs more effectively and with less stress. Technology empowers responders to work smarter, not harder. It provides real-time support, reduces burnout, and allows them to focus on the critical aspects of their jobs.
Proposition 414 will raise an estimated $800 million over 10 years, with 65% allocated to public safety. This funding will expand the use of life-saving technologies, hire more staff to ensure faster response times, and improve Tucson’s emergency services. With over 230 new staff positions, this measure will ease the pressure on our first responders and help them handle calls more effectively.
Please join me in voting yes on Proposition 414. Let’s ensure Tucson’s first responders have the support they need to protect your community.
Cassandra Weaver
Public Safety Sales Account Executive
Corti America, Inc.
Tucson, AZ
Tracy & Lance Willett
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a beautiful place to live, work, and recreate. As the 33rd largest city in the country we face significant challenges in addressing the fentanyl crisis, the unsheltered population, mental health and substance use disorders, affordable housing, and violent crime.
As a contributing members of a local family business, community advocates, and volunteers, my wife and I get a first-hand look at the remarkable way our city government and community partners rally around these challenges with determination, empathy, and a commitment to evidenced based strategies.
We also see how terribly underfunded these efforts have been. Our community has critical needs that far exceed city resources. Addressing comprehensive problems requires a comprehensive investment for sustainable solutions. We need affordable housing, treatment for mental health and substance use disorders, and creative ways to address disorder and blight.
We also need a responsibly funded public safety team (police, fire, public safety communications departments). That team provides the foundation for a safe community. Without it, innovative approaches that attack root causes are destined to fail.
The proposed Safe & Vibrant City ballot measure invests in five vital areas:
• Affordable Housing & Shelter (17.50%)
• Neighborhood & Community Resilience (16.75%)
• Enhanced Emergency Response (22.75%)
• Technology Investments (12.25%)
• Capital Investment for First Responders (30.75%)
This is a carefully constructed comprehensive strategy, and one that creates the public safety foundation to keep Tucson moving forward. Please vote yes on 414.
Tracy & Lance Willett
Tucson, AZ
Michael J. Ortega
Tucson, AZ
Dear Tucsonans:
After nine years as Tucson’s City Manager, I saw firsthand the needs our community has and what it takes to improve quality of life for all. Prop 414 is the right combination of investments to build a better Tucson. The imposition of a flat tax by the State means that Tucson will see a loss of $400 million in state-shared revenue over the next ten years. This revenue would have funded critical investments needed for public safety and other community programs needed to ensure a better quality of life for our residents.
Prop 414 provides for funding urgent public safety needs and innovative solutions to address homelessness and opioid addiction. Our first responders need the tools and staffing required to provide rapid response in the critical minutes during an emergency. However, nearly half of the calls to 911 do not require an emergency response. That is why Tucson created community safety programs like Housing First, Community Safety Health and Wellness, and Specialty Courts to provide a service response that puts our finite resources towards placing the right work in the right hands, an effective and efficient use of public funding. By investing in a mix of public safety and community safety programs through Prop 414, the City can improve quality-of-life now and reduce the demand for emergency services in the future.
Over the last 12 years, voters have approved four ballot measures to improve roads, parks, public safety, and other infrastructure needs. The City of Tucson has delivered on every one of these ballot measures using a proven combination of citizen oversight commissions and strong project delivery. The city is once again stepping up with the right solutions to meet the challenges of a modern city, give them your support.
Vote YES on Proposition 414.
Michael J. Ortega
Tucson, AZ
Addressing Homelessness and Affordable Housing
Like many cities, Tucson is grappling with a rise in homelessness and an affordable housing crisis that impacts families and individuals across the community. Prop 414 aims to address these urgent issues by:
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Expanding the Tucson Housing First program by increasing shelter capacity and access to healthcare, drug and alcohol treatment, and mental health services to people experiencing homelessness
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Providing low-income families financial assistance to help them stay housed
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Building affordable housing for low-income seniors and other vulnerable populations
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Increasing funding for the Tucson Housing Trust Fund to repair, improve and build affordable housing
Making a Safer City for all Tucsonans
Tucson deserves a safer future, and we can achieve it by investing in public safety resources to protect our community. With hundreds of millions in state revenue cuts projected over the next decade, we must prioritize smart solutions to ensure the safety and well-being of every resident. Prop 414 will make our city safer by:
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Attracting and retaining new firefighters, paramedics, and police officers
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Replace outdated ambulances, fire trucks and lifesaving equipment to respond quickly and effectively to medical emergencies
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Improving Tucson’s 911 emergency communications system with up-to-date technology, computers and radios; and hiring more operators to reduce response times
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Hiring and training more community service officers who respond to non-violent emergencies freeing up our police officers to protect the public and prevent crime
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Improving Tucson’s public safety academy to ensure firefighters, police officers, paramedics and other local first responders are well-trained
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Creating a More Vibrant City for our Future
We must prioritize creating a safer, brighter future for Tucson’s next generation by ensuring our kids have access to the guidance, support, and resources they need to thrive. Prop 414 will help help the next generation by:
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Expanding access to early childhood education programs
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Expanding after-school programs, summer internships, and youth job training
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Investing in job training and workforce development programs to connect skilled workers with in-demand jobs and promote economic opportunity
How do we know funds will be spent how voters want?
Prop 414 requires strict citizen-led independent oversight and accountability requirements to make sure all funds raised are used effectively and as promised. This includes public disclosure of all spending, review of projects by an independent oversight committee, annual performance audits and all funds raised must be spent in the City of Tucson to improve community safety.