Save the Heart of Reid Park transitions

In December 2021 SHRP began the complex process of terminating our political action committee (PAC), dissolving our 501(c)(4), disconnecting our Donorbox platform, and closing our bank account. When we formed a PAC a year earlier, it was with the intention of drafting legislation in advocacy of our goals and related causes. Once SHRP achieved its primary mission―saving Barnum Hill and the South Pond from the Zoo's planned expansion―the PAC itself no longer seemed necessary. Moreover, the onerous reporting requirements associated with a PAC and 501(c)(4) made the decision to dissolve much easier. We officially completed the process January 19, 2022, with disbursement of SHRP's remaining funds to a qualifying nonprofit.

The nonprofit inheriting almost $2000 from SHRP is Tucson Clean and Beautiful (TCB). Recently SHRP discussed with TCB a project involving the care of our beloved Barnum Hill trees. An anonymous donor generously contributed $10,000 to this project and requested the work be completed before summer begins. SHRP and TCB raised an additional $1378 for the project via a gofundme platform titled Barnum Hill Trees Need Your Help. On April 4 and 5, 2022, R.O. Landscape and Tree Service pruned 15 Aleppo pine trees and removed three others due to safety concerns. See Photos: Trees at Reid Park get makeover in Arizona Daily Star.

Collaborating with TCB to care for Barnum Hill's trees is only one of a variety of initiatives SHRP will pursue in coming months. In spring 2022 SHRP will meet to discuss its new missions and goals and explore initiatives for achieving those. Expect SHRP's new directions to reflect our firm commitment to preserving free-access green space and, beyond that, to bring us closer to achieving our long-range vision for improving Reid Park. Check here soon for updates.

In the meantime, SHRP continues to follow vigilantly the planning and implementing of the zoo's expansion and to push for continuous community involvement in the process. One member of our team now serves on the Parks+Connections (Prop 407) Bond Oversight Commission and another on the Parks and Recreation Planning Commission. Stay engaged with us. Attend Parks and Recreation Commission meetings, held 3:30 to 5 p.m., the 4th Wednesday of each month. Call to the audience is at the beginning of the meeting. Participate and share your valuable insights and suggestions.

We are deeply grateful for your incredible support over the past year and look forward to your continued active engagement in 2022. Together we have achieved—and will continue to achieve—the extraordinary!

SHRP status update posted January 25, 2022.