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Opinion

Ortega: Scottsdale’s general plan update moves forward

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I am proud of Scottsdale’s General Plan 2035.

On June 8 my council colleagues and I will be asked to formally adopt this document that begins:

“Scottsdale will continue to be an exceptional Sonoran Desert experience and premier international destination, where our Western heritage is valued. Our diverse neighborhoods foster outstanding livability, social connectivity, healthy lifestyles and a sustainable environment. Scottsdale will thrive by attracting and retaining business centers of excellence that encourage innovation and prosperity.”

And that is just the start.

After scores of public meetings, hundreds of hours of discussion, eight Council work study sessions, and countless public comments, together, we have crafted our vision of Scottsdale.

“Scottsdale has a reputation as an inclusive community, with natural desert beauty, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, high quality design standards, a vibrant downtown, world-class events and resorts, and diverse arts and culture venues.”

With the passage of the anti-discrimination ordinance, we have elevated our reputation as a community that values and respects one another.

“Scottsdale offers a variety of multi-generational lifestyle choices that are responsibly planned, connected and supported by appropriate infrastructure and services. Neighborhood life promotes well-being and public safety via reliable municipal services.”

And in the face of adversity, Scottsdale withstood pandemic challenges with grit, consistent with our unified vision.

“Scottsdale will continue to thrive by supporting existing small businesses and fostering a pro-business environment, so that all businesses can grow and choose to locate in Scottsdale to leverage technology; and accelerate innovation and creativity, buoyed by a knowledge-based workforce.”

Scottsdale core values embrace the past as we step forward into the future.

“Scottsdale will respect and be sensitive to the history and legacy found in the heart of Old Town, in designated Historic Preservation neighborhoods, at archaeological sites, in the equestrian community and within cultural and architectural resources, which define our Sense of Place.”

These highlights are segments of the community-wide effort that created Scottsdale’s new General Plan, which guides the physical development of Scottsdale and acts as a blueprint to enhance our community aspirations. Every voter in Scottsdale will ultimately have the most important role when the plan goes to the ballot in November.

It is impossible to thank everyone individually for their tireless efforts and recognize each staff member who assembled our collective voices, but I will say it here — thank you to every person who contributed to this most important effort.

This is our plan, for our city. Together, we are Scottsdale, Arizona — the one and only one in the world.

Editor’s Note: David D. Ortega is the mayor of Scottsdale.