Sahuarita, Arizona

4 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 3, ISSUE 6 TOWN OF SAHUAR I TA , AR I ZONA the United States Air Force. “For a long time, we were a bedroom community for Tucson, but we’re evolving into a commercial and technology hub. We’re constantly growing with the support of our residents.” Town Manager, Shane Dille is a newcomer who says that, as an outsider, Sahuarita’s southwest theme was a big draw. “I found all the vibrancy, color, and diversity attractive. It’s such a wonderfully warm and welcoming town. There’s just an energy about a growing community that’s always fun to be a part of.” After being stationed around the globe, Mayor Murphy knows how a young community can offer unique opportunities. He believes that in well-established towns, citizens can make a difference, but in Sahuarita everyone has the chance to “set the foundation for future generations.” Over the last two decades, the community’s population has practically exploded, rising from approximately 3,200 residents in 2000 to an astonishing 35,000 in 2022. “Our quality of life is reflected in our population growth,” states Economic Development Director Victor Gonzalez. “Our affordability combined with our geographic location have fueled this growth shaping our community. It certainly helps that we’re located along Interstate 19 (I-19) and only 20 minutes away from Tucson International Airport (TUS).” Such convenient proximity to major transportation and distribution routes have attracted large companies to Sahuarita. The local economy is supported by diverse industries as Raytheon Technologies Corporation – the multinational aerospace and defense conglomerate, the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (DM AFB), and the University of Arizona. Agriculture is also strong, with some of the nation’s largest pecan groves within the area. “Caterpillar (CAT) has its Tinaja Hills Mayor, Tom Murphy Town Manager, Shane Dille