This January, Scottsdale's City Council added three new Councilmembers and a new Mayor. Without missing a beat, we got to work. Six months later, there is plenty to celebrate on issues ranging from increased resident influence at City Hall, equity, and the City's green initiatives. See a few highlights below.
On the subject of a greener Scottsdale, I enjoyed discussing sustainability with Don Henninger and Kevin Maxwell on the "Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale" podcast. Listen here
Scottsdale Pride's Itself in Welcoming All
The City Council voted unanimously to adopt an anti-discrimination ordinance. Diversity enriches every facet of life in Scottsdale while prejudice against anyone hurts us all. The new ordinance prohibits discrimination based on actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, secual orientation, gender identity, or disability.
A Citizen-Driven General Plan
It has been over 20 years since voters approved a General Plan (GP) despite a requirement to update every 10-years. The lack of community input stymied the last draft so this year, we placed residents in the driver's seat.
After six months of (almost) weekly Council meetings, many community meetings, and input from hundreds of residents - the City Council unanimously approved a draft General Plan 2035.
This November, voters will have the opportunity to approve the General Plan and move Scottsdale forward. I enthusiastically endorse a YES vote.
More Achievements Worth Celebrating
Council revised the City's parking ordinance which now requires multifamily developers to build visitor parking spaces among other improvements. The City's noise ordinance is being updated to include a bass component in order to better protect neighborhoods. A Short Term Rental Task Force is expanding compliance and strengthening enforcement.
The City's first Sustainability Plan is in the works, a 1MW solar installation contract has been awarded, and Council approved two new parks: Soleri Park and DC Ranch Park. Council established a City of Scottsdale-SUSD committee to increase cooperation with the City's largest school district which will convene this fall.
Photo: Scottsdale's Greenbelt Eagle by Mark Koster
More on these topics:
When the Public Pays, The Public Must be Served
Green Success Snapshot
General Plan 2035: Scottsdale Today and Tomorrow
Parks & Parking