East Arizona News

Investing in Our Scottsdale: City breaks ground on Ashler Hills Park. The 17-acre park, located at Ashler Hills Drive and 74th Way, will include open turf play areas, a shaded playground, restrooms, lighted sport courts, walking paths and trails, exercise equipment, lighted parking and public art. The park is scheduled to be complete in early 2025, after being approved by voters in the 2019 bond election.

In other news, the Scottsdale Police Department has earned its 10th consecutive international reaccreditation, reaffirming its commitment to the highest law enforcement standards. The department underwent an annual review of 464 best practices standards set by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). This accreditation ensures that the department's policies and procedures comply with internationally-accepted standards for law enforcement excellence. It is worth noting that out of nearly 18,000 law enforcement agencies in the United States, fewer than 800 are accredited.

The city of Scottsdale is also encouraging residents to adopt sustainable practices to reduce food waste. By composting food waste, donating excess food to local food banks, and being mindful of portion sizes and meal planning to reduce leftovers, residents can conserve resources, mitigate pollution and greenhouse gases, save money, and alleviate hunger. The city is hosting an online conversation about reducing food waste on Speak Up Scottsdale, and residents can also learn more about composting and reducing food waste at the Old Town Farmer's Market on January 6.

Public meetings are an opportunity for residents to learn about city issues, projects, and activities. This week, there will be meetings of the Human Relations Commission, Planning Commission, Airport Advisory Commission, Scottsdale Environmental Advisory Commission, and the Council Subcommittee on Economic Development. Residents are encouraged to attend or listen in on these meetings to stay informed about the city's workings.

In terms of events and activities, the monthlong holiday celebration Scottsdazzle is ongoing in Old Town Scottsdale. Residents can attend various events, including a Live Nativity Celebration, a Sparkle & Spin Bicycle Scavenger Hunt, and a holiday program by the Scottsdale Concert Band. Other ongoing activities include the Holiday Lights display at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, the Scottsdale ArtWalk, and the Old Town Farmers Market.

The Scottsdale Public Library has introduced MAX, a collection sharing service that allows patrons to check out books from participating library systems in the greater Phoenix area. This new service provides more options for library patrons to access books they are interested in. Additionally, the library is hosting a program at the Via Linda Senior Center to help seniors navigate through today's technological world.

In other news, the city's monthlong Scottsdazzle holiday extravaganza is underway, and the Pinnacle Peak Park trail restoration project is set to begin in January. The Scottsdale Police Department has also shared tips to keep packages safe during the holiday season. Furthermore, the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West has expanded its hours and offers captivating exhibitions and immersive Western experiences.

Finally, the city is currently hiring for the position of Chief Information Security Officer. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring the city's security program to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, availability, safety, privacy, and recovery of information assets. The position offers various benefits, including paid holidays, medical, dental, and vision benefits, and participation in the Arizona State Retirement System.

For more information on city services and to report issues or submit requests, residents can contact the City Call Center or use the Scottsdale EZ platform. They can also stay updated on road improvement projects through the Traffic Restrictions Map and find information on brush and bulk schedules and the Scottsdale weather.

This has been your Scottsdale Update for December 11, 2023. Stay informed and engaged in your community.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/news/scottsdale-update-dec-11-2023