NE Valley Times

The Arizona Department of Housing has granted Scottsdale $940,000 from the state's new Homeless Shelter and Services Fund. This funding will enable the city to continue its program providing emergency shelter at a local hotel for homeless seniors and families. The initiative also includes support from social services caseworkers and nutrition assistance. According to city officials, "For more than a year, Scottsdale has operated a bridge housing program that provides temporary shelter combined with services and support." This effort is part of Scottsdale's Human Services Department's broader strategy, which has reportedly led to a 44% decrease in homelessness over the past year.

In another development, approximately 84% of short-term rental properties in Scottsdale have completed the city's licensing process as of July 3. A total of 3,852 applications were submitted, with 3,409 approved. The remaining applications are either pending or incomplete. In June alone, the city received 64 new applications and issued 125 licenses while opening 43 code enforcement cases related to short-term rental violations.

Maricopa County Air Quality Department has launched its "Help Keep Ozone Away, Commit to One Day" campaign this summer. The campaign aims to raise awareness about ground-level ozone pollution. Suggestions include driving less by teleworking or using public transportation and fueling vehicles during cooler evening hours.

Scottsdale residents can attend several upcoming public meetings to learn about city issues and projects. These include City Council meetings on July 10 and July 11, as well as a Planning Commission meeting on July 12.

Residents looking for activities can enjoy free ice cream socials at senior centers or attend events like Big Red Bull Riding at WestWorld on July 15 or "The Magic and Illusions of Eric Giliam" show at Mustang Library on July 19.

Scottsdale continues offering various programs such as free car seat inspections by appointment due to reports that only "15% of child car seats are properly installed." Additionally, over 250 cases of water have been donated to Scottsdale’s Hydration Stations by Long Realty Jasper Associates and Scottsdale Synchro Arizona for those seeking heat relief during an ongoing excessive heat warning.

Efforts are underway at Mountain View Park where landscape enhancements are being made through new irrigation lines and tree planting projects aimed at providing shade in the future.

Finally, individuals experiencing mental health crises can now reach out via call or text to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing '988', which connects them directly with certified crisis centers nationwide.