Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky has urged the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to reconsider its Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) regarding future management of the Colorado River, expressing concerns about the plan’s impact on cities that depend on the Central Arizona Project (CAP) for water.
In a letter submitted to the Bureau, Borowsky outlined what she described as significant economic, environmental, and public-health risks in the current draft proposal. The DEIS addresses how water shortages will be shared among seven basin states amid ongoing drought conditions and declining river flows.
“Colorado River water makes up as much as 75% of Scottsdale’s annual supply,” Borowsky wrote in her letter. “The plan does not account for the real-world consequences of major cuts to cities that rely on CAP, and that is unacceptable for our residents, businesses, hospitals and national‑security industries.”
Borowsky argued that the draft statement does not sufficiently protect communities like Scottsdale from potential reductions in water deliveries. She called for an approach based on fairness, scientific analysis, and shared responsibility among all basin states.
“We need solutions that stabilize the Colorado River system without placing disproportionate burdens on Central Arizona communities,” Borowsky stated. “Every stakeholder — including the Upper Basin states — must participate in meaningful, enforceable conservation measures.”
The mayor also emphasized Scottsdale’s intention to remain engaged throughout the federal review process. “We appreciate the opportunity to provide input, and we intend to remain deeply involved,” she said. “Reclamation must deliver a plan that protects the entire Colorado River system — and the millions of people, businesses and national assets that depend on it.”
Borowsky has previously supported community service initiatives targeting children, older adults, and underprivileged youth through various board roles, according to her official website. The mayor’s office has also highlighted resident engagement through regular updates and reports on its website. Borowsky has served as Scottsdale’s mayor since her election, after earlier serving on the city council from 2008 to 2012 where she advocated for fiscal conservatism and budget improvements as noted by official sources. She is also a lifelong resident of Scottsdale according to her biography.
