NE Valley Times

Scottsdale City Council has taken a notable step in water conservation by adopting Ordinance 4606, which prohibits natural grass in the front yards of new single-family homes constructed or permitted after August 15. This ordinance is part of Scottsdale's collaboration with Colorado Basin Municipal and Public Water Providers to enhance water efficiency practices.

The ordinance follows feedback from Scottsdale Water customers, showing 86% support for the initiative. The city has been working towards reducing municipal water use by at least 5%, and in the first half of this year, city operations reduced usage by 9%. Residents and businesses also contributed, saving about 657 million gallons of water.

As monsoon season approaches, residents are advised to prepare for potential thunderstorms and extreme weather conditions. Scottsdale encourages households to develop emergency plans to ensure safety during these events.

The city's Transportation Action Plan aims to address changes in community priorities and promote sustainable transportation. The plan focuses on creating "complete streets" that accommodate various modes of transport while enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety.

Stephanie Zamora, a Scottsdale Management Associate, received the Gabe Zimmerman Public Service Award as the 2023 Emerging Leader from the Center for the Future of Arizona. She collaborates on sustainable solutions within the city and holds degrees from the University of Arizona and Arizona State University.

Upcoming public meetings include sessions by the Scottsdale Environmental Advisory Commission and Development Review Board. These meetings offer opportunities for residents to engage with city projects and issues.

In cultural events, Mustang Library will host a magic show featuring Eric Giliam, while Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West offers classic Western movie screenings. Other ongoing activities include ArtWalks showcasing visual art and performances at the Scottsdale Center for Performing Arts.

Neighborhoods can benefit from enhancement grants aimed at revitalizing mature areas through projects like landscape maintenance. Additionally, veterans are honored through initiatives such as street banners displayed each November in Old Town Scottsdale.

Residents are encouraged to donate children's books to Paiute Neighborhood Center's free library or attend free swim sessions at Chaparral pool following its renovation. Efforts also continue towards making large-scale events more environmentally friendly through composting initiatives.

For those interested in employment opportunities, Scottsdale is hiring a Water Audit Technician to assist with water conservation efforts among utility billing customers.