The town of Marana is forging ahead with several projects designed to enhance infrastructure, streamline local governance and support residential growth.

Short-term rental revision

Marana is revising regulations relating to accessory dwelling units as short-term rentals, requiring them to be owner-occupied. This amendment aligns with a new state law that gives municipalities more control over rentals as a way to prevent potential disturbances in neighborhoods.

Marana officials say that aligning with state law ensures a regulatory framework that benefits both property owners and residents.

The revision is part of a broader strategy to address the rapid growth of short-term rentals in Marana, with town leaders believing the changes will enhance neighborhood harmony while allowing homeowners to benefit from rental opportunities within clear guidelines.

Network Redesign Project

As part of its efforts to modernize operations, Marana is undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of its network infrastructure. The Network Redesign Project was approved as a new Capital Improvement Project for the 2024-2025 fiscal year and aims to address outdated systems while also preparing for the town’s continued growth.

The project, which could include hybrid management systems, will enhance the reliability and security of critical services such as police dispatch and water payment systems. Town leaders say that by investing in technological resilience, Marana is ensuring seamless connectivity and operational efficiency, which are vital as the town grows.

Residential development

The town council recently approved the detailed map for the first parcel of Mandarina, a residential subdivision north of Tangerine Road and east of Interstate 10. The project includes 122 residential lots across 23 acres, with access to essential utilities such as water, sewer, and electricity.

Town officials say the approval of the final plat marks a crucial step in Marana’s housing expansion strategy and provides potential homeowners with well-connected living spaces in a community designed to meet modern needs.

By setting aside public right-of-way space for roads, the development also facilitates better connectivity between neighborhoods and major thoroughfares. 

Financial support

These projects are possible because the town’s revenue streams, particularly from state funding, transportation, and water reclamation, have remained strong and consistent, said Marana Finance Director Yiannis Kalaitzidis.

Marana has benefited from consistent state funding and a robust commercial sector that has bolstered transportation revenues, Kalaitzidis said.

The water reclamation fund, in particular, has performed above expectations, with revenues exceeding projections. 

The town has also taken steps to address its pension liabilities, making a $2 million payment to reduce future obligations.  

“We have spent a lot more money, and we did plan for this … reflecting the $2 million that we made as one payment to pay down the unfunded liability for the pension plan for our officers,” Kalaitzidis said.

Strategic planning for future growth

Town leaders say that Marana’s ability to fund and execute these projects is a testament to its strategic planning and fiscal responsibility, as they’ve prioritized investments that address current needs while laying the groundwork for future growth.

“We’re very much where we expected to be at this time of year,” Kalaitzidis said.

This stability allows the town to continue pursuing projects that enhance the quality of life for its residents and prepare the town for long-term success, he said.

Lauryn Abozeid is a journalism major at the University of Arizona and Tucson Spotlight intern. Contact her at labozeid@arizona.edu.

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