Oro Valley to solicit scholarship donations on water bills

The Town Council is expected to approve the measure Wednesday.

“I think it’s a creative way for residents to support our youth who are in need,” said Council Member Mary Snider, who is the council liaison to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

Tax-deductible donations to the “Round Up” scholarship fund would be used to pay for 50 percent or 75 percent of the cost to attend parks and recreation programs for youth who live in the town and qualify for free or reduced lunch at school.

Other options for donating include adding a dollar or another set amount to a water bill. People who aren’t Oro Valley Water Utility customers may also make donations.

“I’m optimistic our community members will be very supportive and generous in their donations,” said town manager Greg Caton.

The town’s recreation programs for kids and teens include exercise classes, archery classes and day camps during school breaks. If the Council approves the plan, families could apply for financial aid beginning in January.

Any surplus in the “Round Up” fund could subsidize a future aquatics class for people with special needs, Caton said.