NE Valley Times

Mayor David D. Ortega of Scottsdale has decided to cancel the State of Scottsdale address, initially scheduled for January 18, due to rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Instead, a State of Scottsdale video will be released in February. Mayor Ortega stated, "Scottsdale has many reasons to celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of our community," but emphasized that while the celebration cannot happen in person, he looks forward to sharing stories and discussing future challenges through the video.

In response to concerns about nuisance parties associated with vacation rentals, Scottsdale will gain more authority starting Friday to address these issues. The City Council voted unanimously in December to update ordinances, aiming to close loopholes and enhance enforcement capabilities regarding short-term rental complaints. A state law from 2016 had previously limited the city's ability to regulate such properties.

COVID-19 remains a significant concern in Maricopa County. The city is hosting vaccination clinics at various locations, including Scottsdale Stadium on January 11 and 12, offering all three vaccine types without requiring registration. Additionally, free vaccine events will occur at Horizon Community Center and Eldorado Park Community Center over the coming months.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends booster shots for adolescents aged 12-17 five months after their initial Pfizer-BioNTech series. This recommendation comes as hospitals face strain with an increase in positive COVID-19 tests reported in Maricopa County.

A Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration will feature motivational speaker Patricia Russell-McCloud on January 12 at Embassy Suites Scottsdale Resort. Another event hosted by the Scottsdale Human Relations Commission will discuss Dr. King's work on January 17 at Horizon Community Center.

The city is also organizing several programs and services aimed at engaging residents. These include a "Shred It" event for document disposal on January 8 and expanded library hours starting Monday across all branches. Senior centers Granite Reef and Via Linda will extend their hours as well.

Upcoming infrastructure projects include the renovation of Scottsdale Civic Center approved by voters in a 2019 Bond Election, with major work scheduled for early 2022. Meanwhile, construction along Loop 101 Pima Freeway nears completion this month.

For further details on traffic restrictions or other city initiatives, residents are encouraged to seek additional information provided by city channels.