Scottsdale Update - July 6, 2026

Scottsdale plans ahead with another investment in water security.

The Scottsdale City Council approved the purchase of 15,000 acre-feet of Long-Term Storage Credits, adding another layer of security to the city's long-term water portfolio. The $8.25 million acquisition increases Scottsdale's stored water reserves to nearly 293,000 acre-feet and further diversifies its water assets by securing credits in the Harquahala Valley, west of Phoenix. The credits, which never expire, support Scottsdale's drought preparedness strategy and align with the city's long-range Water Strategic Plan by providing additional flexibility and resilience as Arizona communities prepare for future water supply challenges.

Learn more.

Scottsdale draws a clear line between homes and event venues.

The Scottsdale City Council approved an ordinance that strengthens the city's nationally recognized short-term rental enforcement program by defining "event center" in city code, giving officials clearer authority to enforce existing prohibitions against using vacation rentals as commercial event venues. The new definition targets properties hosting weddings, corporate events, large parties and other commercial gatherings while preserving ordinary residential use. The ordinance closes a gap in state law, provides greater clarity for property owners and supports Scottsdale's ongoing efforts to protect neighborhood quality of life through coordinated short-term rental enforcement.

Learn more.

When seconds matter, Scottsdale lifeguards are ready.

Scottsdale is recognizing the nearly 200 lifeguards who serve as the first line of emergency response at the city’s four aquatic centers, where they provide lifesaving care, teach water safety and help keep thousands of residents and visitors safe each year. Lifeguards complete extensive training, including annual emergency response evaluations conducted in partnership with the Scottsdale Fire Department, to ensure they are prepared to respond when seconds matter. Scottsdale Aquatics also continues to promote water safety through swim lessons for all ages and will soon begin recruiting new lifeguards and Junior Lifeguards for future seasons. Residents can learn more about swim lessons, aquatic programs and employment opportunities at ScottsdaleAZ.gov by searching "Aquatics."

Scottsdale names Cassie Johnson interim general manager of WestWorld.

Johnson will oversee one of the nation's premier event and equestrian venues while continuing efforts to advance the WestWorld Strategic Plan, improve operations, modernize technology, strengthen internal controls and support long-term financial and facility planning. Johnson, a nearly 13-year Scottsdale employee who most recently served as the Scottsdale Police Department's deputy director of strategic initiatives, brings extensive leadership experience in strategic planning, budgeting, technology implementation, emergency management and organizational development.

Learn more.

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 July 6:

• Board of Adjustment Regular Meeting: 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 8

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

Find more public meetings.

Join us at McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center and Eldorado Aquatic Center for Sunset Swims.

If you're looking for a cool way to spend your summer evening, join us for some poolside fun as the sun sets over Scottsdale.

• 6-9 p.m. Friday, July 17, at McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center
• 6-9 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at Eldorado Aquatic Center

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.

Ongoing

• Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts: Attend exciting, live performances throughout the year.
• Discover Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West activities.
• Get Scottsdale Sister Cities events.

Get more events information.

Scottsdale Cares invites more residents to make a difference for just $2 a month.

Scottsdale utility customers can join the voluntary Scottsdale Cares program by adding a minimum $2 monthly donation to their utility bill. Since 1995, the program has generated more than $5 million to support local nonprofits that help Scottsdale families, seniors, youth and residents facing unexpected challenges. Every dollar donated goes directly to 11 nonprofit partners, with no funds used for administration. Residents interested in making a meaningful impact in their community are encouraged to enroll through their online utility account or by contacting Scottsdale Utility Billing at 480-312-7400.

Sign up for Scottsdale Public Library’s annual Summer Reading Challenge.

This challenge is open to all ages – your goal is to reach 1,000 points by July 20! Points can be earned by reading, attending library programs, completing activity challenges and entering secret codes. Earn fun prizes along the way, including a free book when you complete the challenge.

Register online.

Job of the Week: Police Crisis Intervention Specialist.

The police crisis intervention Specialist is a compassionate professional who provides critical behavioral health, victim advocacy, and crisis response services alongside the Scottsdale Police Department. Working in partnership with sworn officers, this role responds to mental health emergencies, domestic violence, sexual assault, child welfare concerns and other crisis situations. Through collaboration with schools, social service agencies, healthcare providers and community organizations, the specialist helps connect people with the resources they need during some of life's most challenging moments.

Learn more and apply.

Early training builds stronger firefighters.

Scottsdale Fire Department highlighted the dedication and discipline of Ladder 615 crews as they trained during the early morning hours before temperatures climbed. The reel showcases the specialized skills required for ladder truck operations while following a probationary firefighter beginning their career after graduating from the fire academy. Through continuous training and teamwork, Scottsdale firefighters prepare every day to respond safely and effectively when emergencies happen. Take a behind-the-scenes look at the training, teamwork and commitment that prepare Scottsdale firefighters for the job.

One year of investing in Scottsdale parks.

Scottsdale Parks & Recreation marked the first year of the voter-approved Parks & Preserve Sales Tax by highlighting the improvements made across the city's parks and preserve system. Funding has supported enhancements to parks, facilities, landscaping and maintenance while strengthening the team that cares for these community spaces. The department also shared that planning for major renovations at several of Scottsdale's oldest parks will begin in the coming year. Check out the Facebook post to see the impact by the numbers, and what’s coming next.

Hydration matters for you and your pets.

Scottsdale Police shared a summer safety reminder encouraging residents to stay hydrated and take precautions during Arizona’s extreme heat. The reel highlights simple ways to protect both people and pets, including carrying water, taking breaks in the shade and ensuring animals always have access to fresh, cool water. It also reminds pet owners to check pavement temperatures before heading outside to help prevent paw injuries.