December Update from Councilwoman Nikki Lee
As we close out the year, I am reminded once again how much this community shows up for one another. During the recent federal government shutdown, neighbors, nonprofits, local governments, and local businesses rallied to support families and keep our food banks stocked. Every year, the Tucson Fire Fighters Association assembles hundreds of holiday food boxes, and for the past several years we have been coordinating to ensure a portion of those boxes go directly to the ReSources Vail Food Bank to benefit our community. It is one of those quiet but powerful traditions that reminds me how deeply our firefighters continue to serve this community, not only in emergencies but also in meaningful ways that ensure families have a good meal during the holidays.
Last month the Pima County Board of Supervisors and the City of Tucson held our first joint meeting since 2021. It was productive, candid, and focused on the issues residents bring up every single day. We talked about fentanyl, public safety, homelessness, and how to better align programs and services across city and county lines. This was the first of what we hope will be quarterly meetings moving forward, with a shared goal of reducing duplication, closing gaps, and making the best use of taxpayer dollars to deliver real outcomes for the people we serve. I am hopeful we will continue building momentum into 2026.
In November I also provided an update on the public drug use ordinance I introduced in September. This work is moving forward, and in January we expect more clarity on the direction we will take, what level of resources would be required, and what the operational workflow could look like if a city-level ordinance is adopted. If you would like to read more about the proposal and the work to date, you can find the background here: https://bit.ly/publicdruguse
As we move into the holiday season, I want to end with a simple ask. We have had far too many pedestrian deaths and serious traffic collisions this year. Please take care of yourselves and each other. Use a non-drinking designated driver, call a friend, or use a rideshare service (like Lyft or Uber) if needed. We want everyone to make it safely into the new year.
Wishing you a peaceful and joyful holiday season, and as always, you can reach my office with any questions or concerns.
-Nikki
City of Tucson Ward 4 Councilwoman
Nikki Lee
520-791-3199
Ward4@tucsonaz.gov
www.tucsonaz.gov/ward4
Facebook: /CouncilwomanLee
Instagram: @nikkilee_az
Twitter: @CouncilwomanLee
or: www.facebook.com/cotward4
