Arizona court criticized for AI death penalty announcement
The Arizona Supreme Court is facing criticism for using an AI-generated reporter to announce a man’s death sentence, a move critics say dehumanizes a life-and-death decision.
Region
News about Pima County, Tucson, South Tucson, Oro Valley and Marana.
Activists criticize Tucson as STAR Village prepares to open
Tucson is set to open its first sanctioned homeless sleeping site, STAR Village, while local activists and mutual aid groups criticize the city for policies they say undermine ongoing grassroots support for unhoused residents.
Oro Valley council unanimously approves $33M regional broadband project
The Oro Valley Town Council unanimously approved joining Pima County’s $33 million regional broadband project, which will bring new fiber infrastructure to the town and expand high-speed internet access across the county.
Ward 5 to award $300K in south side community grants
Ward 5 Councilmember Rocque Perez announced $300,000 in grants to support small businesses, community programs, and neighborhood initiatives on Tucson’s south side.
Cochise County Sheriff to receive next-gen drone next month
The new drone family will feature advanced technology for law enforcement operations, the first of its kind in the state.
Secrecy around Project Blue prompts calls for NDA limits
Pima County Supervisor Jennifer Allen is calling for limits on NDAs after secrecy around the Amazon-backed Project Blue data center left officials and the public without key information on the project’s impact.
RTA board advances $2.7B transportation plan for 2026 vote
The Regional Transportation Authority board has moved a $2.7 billion draft plan to Pima County supervisors, which, if approved by voters in March 2026, will fund roads, transit, safety, and environmental projects including wildlife crossings.
Pima County to pay $816K for Spanish Trail Motel
Pima County will pay $816,000 to buy the long-blighted Spanish Trail Motel from Brian Bowers, with the sale expected to end South Tucson’s lawsuit and require him to clear asbestos and demolish the buildings before transfer.
Pima County to buy troubled South Tucson motel
Pima County is considering buying the Spanish Trail Motel, a move that could resolve South Tucson’s lawsuit against landlord Brian Bowers over fires, crime, and lingering asbestos at the property.