Ortega: An idea for implementing voter districts in Scottsdale

As a leader, I am not afraid to question the status quo by bringing the districts issue to the table. Scottsdale government must be accessible, accountable, balanced and responsive.”

David Ortega, Scottsdale resident

“Why would ‘they’ cram tall buildings and four-story apartments, ruining the character of Scottsdale?”

“Increased density keeps encroaching into the desert --- so who is in charge?”

That is what residents and visitors tell me as I gather nomination petition signatures. There is no doubt, city government is disconnected.

It is not just a question of “who” is elected, but also how. Fundamentally, I believe, the current “at large” framework is not working. Why? Because not one of the councilmembers or any of my mayoral opponents lives south of Shea, where 40% of the residents live.

Would it be more shocking or acceptable, if the tables were turned? If not one elected official or candidate lived north of Shea? It is time to discuss districts for an equal voice.

Consider “Simple Six” district model. This configuration would divide the city into six districts, according to population. Elections would be staggered, so that voters within three districts would each elect a councilperson. Three councilpersons would be elected at a time and the mayor election would coincide with one of the cycles.

“Simple Six” appears to fulfill “equal” representation, but there is one major flaw.

Citizen interest would be focused only to their district, every four years. The “Simple Six” model does not engage all voters citywide, in every election cycle.

Consider an alternative which could provide district representation and strengthen interest in every election cycle. Start by looking at the unique areas of Scottsdale.

There is the original heart of Scottsdale, where Old Town grew and attracted Motorola. There is the midland, which gravitated around Scottsdale Airport. Facing east, the flank attracted the Mayo Clinic. And the highlands embrace accesses to the McDowell Sonoran Desert Preserve.

These four areas (districts) have diverse population density and radiate unique identities.

Consider “Four Districts + Two.” Four districts would each elect a councilperson every four years, with staggered election cycles. To complete the council of six, all districts would also elect one “at large” council person every two years.

Four Districts + Two allows each voter to elect “their” councilperson and vote on two “at large” councilpersons --- one “at large” every two years. Four Districts + Two “at large” councilpersons (total six) and mayor constitute the seven-member City Council.

To be clear, consideration of districts is not on the November 2020 election ballot. Thorough discussion, methodical outreach and possible City Charter amendment might result in a vote at the 2022 election.

Until then, “at large” council candidates must run city-wide, which is expensive and ultimately results in slates of candidates and some candidates turning to special interests.

As a leader, I am not afraid to question the status quo by bringing the districts issue to the table. Scottsdale government must be accessible, accountable, balanced and responsive.

I do not claim to have the answers. As a full-time mayor I can lead the discussion by listening and guiding the discussion.

Editor’s Note: David Ortega is a candidate for mayor of Scottsdale.