Business Owners in Tucson’s Midtown Plaza Demand Action Amid Rising Vandalism and Loitering Concerns
Business Owners in Tucson’s Midtown Plaza Demand Action Amid Rising Vandalism and Loitering
TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) — Frustration is mounting among business owners in Tucson’s Midtown Plaza, located at the intersection of Speedway and Alvernon, as they grapple with persistent loitering and vandalism that threaten their livelihoods. According to the property manager, some tenants have already vacated their spaces due to these ongoing issues.
Julie Sprotte, co-owner of The Blind Guys, shared her distressing experience, revealing that her business has suffered significant financial losses due to repeated vandalism. “Our windows were broken three different times. It was about a thousand dollars each,” Sprotte lamented. She emphasized that the financial strain, coupled with safety concerns, is weighing heavily on local entrepreneurs.
Jill Sugarman, another business owner in the plaza, echoed Sprotte’s sentiments, recounting unsettling encounters captured on her Ring camera. “She came by asking for water to use the bathroom. Not all there,” Sugarman said, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the disturbances. In response, Sugarman has ramped up security measures at her office, located behind The Blind Guys, but insists that a stronger police presence is essential for restoring peace. “We would feel a lot more safe if there were more cops,” she added.
Sprotte called for immediate action from law enforcement, stating, “The city of Tucson needs to enforce their laws.” Her concerns reflect a growing sentiment among business owners who fear that without intervention, their ability to operate could be severely compromised. “If it gets to the point where it is inhibiting our ability to run a business here, we’re going to have to move somewhere else,” she warned.
In response to the escalating situation, Tucson Ward 6 City Council Member Karin Uhlich acknowledged the challenges faced by the Tucson Police Department (TPD) and expressed her commitment to fully staffing the department. “There’s so much pressure on TPD for all of this to stop. We need to recognize that they can’t do it alone,” Uhlich stated.
Uhlich also mentioned exploring initiatives aimed at helping businesses enhance security and address loitering issues. “We are looking at something that was piloted by Council Member Nikki Lee to help businesses secure resources for better security. With regard to loitering, we’re considering establishing safe places for people to sleep,” she explained.
Despite the property manager’s efforts to hire security for the plaza, business owners report that incidents continue to occur, leaving them feeling vulnerable and unsupported. As the situation unfolds, the community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that will restore safety and stability to this vital business hub.
