Scottsdale Police Chief Joe LeDuc has been named the recipient of the 2025 Herb Drinkwater Award, an honor recognizing his decades of leadership and service to the city. The announcement was made during Scottsdale’s annual Employee & Volunteer Awards ceremony.
Mayor Lisa Borowsky commented on Chief LeDuc’s recognition, stating, “Chief LeDuc exemplifies the values that make Scottsdale a safe, vibrant and compassionate community.” She added, “His dedication to public service and his ability to lead with integrity and empathy have earned him the respect of colleagues and residents alike. We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition.”
The Herb Drinkwater Award is one of Scottsdale’s highest honors, given to individuals whose contributions reflect former Mayor Herb Drinkwater’s legacy of service and engagement. Chief LeDuc was chosen by a committee of previous award recipients after being nominated by peers.
In addition to leading the Scottsdale Police Department, Chief LeDuc serves on regional and statewide boards that support youth programs, crisis response efforts, and individuals with intellectual disabilities. His work is noted for strengthening partnerships across the Valley and reinforcing Scottsdale’s reputation in public safety.
The awards event also recognized other city employees and volunteers for their contributions:
Jonathan Montoya received the Bill Donaldson Award for guiding the city’s food bank through a major facility transition while maintaining services and expanding partnerships.
Mich Thomas was honored with the William P. Schrader Volunteer Impact Award for coaching multiple sports in adaptive recreation programs and mentoring new volunteers.
Horacio Ventura earned the Unsung Hero Award for assisting a young driver with a flat tire, demonstrating compassion in line with Scottsdale’s core values.
The Cactus Aquatics Team won the People’s Choice Award for their effective response during a life-threatening emergency at a city pool.
Brian DeMeo was recognized for dedicated service in modernizing and maintaining the Civic Center Library.
The SPARK Project Team from the City Attorney’s Office & Information Technology launched an automated case management platform that improved efficiency and transparency in public-sector operations.
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Project Team delivered new amenities through collaboration among departments.
Kelsey Lamper advanced accessibility initiatives as part of Scottsdale’s ADA program refresh.
The Water Engineering Team was acknowledged for ethical stewardship of water infrastructure.
Vista del Camino staff were honored for embracing new responsibilities to better support residents facing hardship.
