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Office of Communications

Jan 20, 2026

Scottsdale Update - Jan. 20, 2026

Headline News

Scottsdale Western Week activities kick off this weekend!

Western Week rides back into Scottsdale with a weeklong celebration honoring the city’s Western roots, Native American cultures and rich history. The annual event takes place throughout Old Town Scottsdale from Saturday, Jan. 24, through Sunday, Feb. 1, offering a mix of family-friendly activities, cultural experiences and signature community events, including:

  • Gold Palette ArtWalk
  • Pony Express
  • Parade del Sol Parade
  • Trail's End Festival
  • Arizona Indian Festival

Learn more about these events.

Scottsdale Serenade: Celebrating 75 years of Scottsdale Music and Musicians

This concert will commemorate the city of Scottsdale’s 75th anniversary year with a special program narrated by the Scottsdale Historian, Joan Fudala, and interspersed with music written over the years about and in Scottsdale. Featuring a unique blend of Scottsdale musical treasures: from classical, choral, instrumental, and chamber music to presentations by Native American, Mariachi, and Western Cowboy musicians, this will be an afternoon of musical and historical discoveries which will help deepen our appreciation of Scottsdale’s culture.

  • 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, at Sanctuary of the Pinnacle Presbyterian Church

Learn about proposed updates to Scottsdale’s fire-defensible space rules at an open house.

The city is hosting an open house where residents can learn about and comment on proposed changes to the Environmentally Sensitive Lands (ESL) Ordinance and the Fire Code. These updates focus on how fire-defensible space is managed within ESL areas.

The goal of the changes is to modernize the rules, so they better reflect current environmental conditions and address issues identified in the existing ordinance.

  • 5-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, inside the Community Development Rooms, 1 and 2 at One Civic Center, 7447 E. Indian School Road

View the case info sheet for more details.

Familiar face takes the helm at Scottsdale Water

The city of Scottsdale has appointed David Walby as interim senior director of Water Resources, selecting a seasoned leader with deep institutional knowledge to guide the city’s water utility. Walby previously served as interim assistant senior director and brings 18 years of experience in water utility operations, including oversight of water and advanced wastewater treatment plants. City Manager Greg Caton said Walby’s experience and stability will help keep Scottsdale’s water system strong and reliable amid ongoing water challenges. Walby said he is honored to continue Scottsdale’s legacy of innovation and long-term water stewardship while ensuring a safe and resilient water supply for the community.

 

PUBLIC MEETINGS

Get a head start learning about city issues, projects and activities by attending or listening in on the many public meetings we host

Week of Jan. 19:

Week of Jan. 26 - Check back next week for the full list:

Learn about the responsibilities of city Boards and Commissions and how you can serve.

Find more public meetings.

 

THINGS TO DO

Croquet comes to Via Linda!

Learn to play and enjoy the lawn game of golf croquet by participating in clinics. Instruction in technique and tactics will be provided by a nationally ranked competitive croquet player.

Golf croquet is the simplest and fastest-paced version of croquet and the most widely played version of the sport both recreationally and competitively. Players aim to score points by being the first to pass their balls through a series of hoops in a set order while their opponents strive to defend the hoop and score themselves. It’s known for its quick play and tactical nature, making it a popular choice for both beginners and competitive players. 

Join us for a fun activity while enjoying being outdoors in great weather. Comfortable shoes and attire suggested. Equipment is provided.

  • 1-2:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, at the Via Linda Senior Center, 10400 E. Via Linda

Car enthusiasts can experience the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction through Jan. 26

WestWorld of Scottsdale once again hosts one of the world’s premier collector car auctions, featuring an extraordinary lineup of rare, vintage and exotic vehicles. Visitors don’t need to bid to join the excitement — attendees can take a Thrill Ride or Hot Lap with a professional driver in select Dodge, Toyota and Ford models, or drive a new Cadillac themselves. The event also includes an expansive exhibitor marketplace, live entertainment and a wide range of food and drink options.

Tickets and details are available at BarrettJackson.com.

Explore galleries during Scottsdale ArtWalk

Scottsdale is home to more than 100 galleries, dedicated to exhibiting the finest visual art from around the world and locally. Stroll at your own pace. 7-9 p.m. Thursdays. Specialty-themed Gold Palette ArtWalks are held 6:30-9 p.m. about once a month. The next Gold Palette ArtWalk is Jan. 29, during Western Week.

Ongoing: 

Get more events information. 

 

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES  

What’s in my backyard?

Get answers to that question at a relaxed community open house with food, kid-friendly activities, a fire station tour and the chance to talk one-on-one with city staff. Learn about projects, services, and events happening in your neighborhood while connecting with friends and neighbors close to home. The event takes place 5:30–7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, at Fire Station 603, 8191 E. Indian Bend Road. This is the second in a series, each tailored to a specific area. Register online.

 

FYI

Job of the Week: Police Detention Manager

The police detention manager is a key leadership role responsible for the safe, lawful, and effective operation of the Scottsdale Police Department’s holding facilities. Overseeing two 24-hour holding facilities and a 48-hour dorm facility, this position manages staff, sets operational standards, and ensures full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. This role strengthens public trust, enhances officer and community safety, and ensures Scottsdale’s detention facilities operate with integrity, transparency, and efficiency.

Learn more and apply.

 

NEW ONLINE 

More than just books at the library

Scottsdale Public Library is reminding the community that a library card unlocks much more than books. From digital resources to programs and services, the library offers something for everyone. Discover all the ways the library goes beyond books!

Honoring Arizona’s fallen firefighters

Last week, members of the Scottsdale Fire Department Honor Guard took part in the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona Memorial Service to honor the state’s fallen firefighters. Fourteen names were added to the memorial, bringing the total to 181, and underscoring why January is recognized as Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month. The ceremony also honored the legacy of Scottsdale Fire Captain Kory Yule, whose name was added to the memorial last year. Learn more about the memorial and the commitment to awareness and prevention.

Class 63 begins the journey

Last week, 10 Scottsdale Police Department recruits began their first day at the academy, marking the start of an intensive 24-week training process. Throughout the academy, Class 63 will be challenged to meet the highest standards as they work toward earning their badges and serving the Scottsdale community. Watch the reel to see Class 63 in action.

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Office of Communications

Jan 20, 2026

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