The Resurrection Lutheran Men’s Breakfast recently hosted Steve Huffman, the Community Affairs Administrator for Pima County’s Regional Transit Authority (RTA). Huffman provided an engaging overview of the RTA’s upcoming 20-year plan, set to replace the county’s current transportation plan (2006–2026). Huffman, a lifelong Arizonan and Tucson resident for over 40 years, has extensive experience in public service and community affairs. He served as a State Representative in the Arizona House from 1998 to 2006, a period when the original 20-year county transportation plan was authorized. His career includes key roles in government affairs for the Town of Marana, the Tucson Association of REALTORS and Cox Communications.
The breakfast meeting, attended by more than 40 men, began with committee chair Jim Seppala’s opening remarks. Ken Shepard offered a meal blessing, and Mark Boyce led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance before introducing Huffman. A hearty breakfast, prepared by Kevin Risner of Flaming Heart BBQ Catering, set the stage for the presentation.
Huffman shared the history of the Pima County RTA, outlined the budget for the plan and detailed the types of projects it supports. He highlighted the unique way the transportation plan is developed and funded. Each RTA Board member, representing different communities, has one vote in the creation and prioritization of projects. Ultimately, Pima County voters have the final say on approving the plan and its funding. The upcoming 20-year plan is now open for public review and comment, with a vote expected this November. Two ballot measures will determine its fate: approval of the proposed plan itself and the continuation of the half-cent sales tax that funds two-thirds of its expenses. The remaining funding primarily comes from state and federal gas taxes. Huffman emphasized the importance of the new plan for addressing transportation needs, including reducing traffic congestion, improving safety and emergency response times and enhancing the aesthetic appeal that draws visitors to the Tucson and Pima County area. Residents are encouraged to review the proposed plan online and provide feedback.
Next month’s breakfast, scheduled for Saturday, February 1, will feature William Buckingham, Director of the 390th Bomber Group Memorial Museum. Buckingham will discuss the role of the 390th Bombardment Group in the air war against Nazi Germany during World War II. The museum, located on the grounds of the Pima Air & Space Museum, includes a fully restored B-17 bomber.
The Resurrection Lutheran Men’s Breakfast meets on the first Saturday of each month from October through May. Gatherings are held at the Outreach Center on the church’s main campus in Oro Valley, starting at 7:30 a.m. (doors open at 7 a.m.). Attendees can register on the church’s website at orovalley.org, or by calling (520) 575-9901. A $15 donation is appreciated. Additionally, Resurrection Lutheran Church at SaddleBrooke hosts a non-denominational Sunday worship service at 9 a.m. in the SaddleBrooke HOA-2 Mountain View Ballroom. All are welcome to attend.
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