NE Valley Times

The Scottsdale City Council is set to review a draft of the Community Sustainability Plan during its Work Study Session today. This plan is part of the city's ongoing efforts towards sustainability, as outlined in their 2021 and 2022 Organization Strategic Plans and the 2035 General Plan. The council will focus on sections concerning air quality and water, while energy, waste, and heat will be discussed in March.

Geographic technology plays a significant role in Scottsdale's operations. GIS Day on Wednesday will highlight how this technology aids emergency response, social services, planning, and administration. A free program at Civic Center Library will provide insights into these applications.

An example of GIS application was during the WM Phoenix Open golf tournament. A digital map application was created by Scottsdale's GIS team along with police and fire departments to update first responders' locations every 30 seconds. This system enabled efficient dispatching of crews during emergencies.

As the holiday season approaches, visitors are reminded to "leave no trace" in McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Items such as dog waste, litter, graffiti, or decorations should not be left behind as they can harm wildlife.

Several public meetings are scheduled for this week including sessions for the City Council, Human Relations Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission among others.

In other activities, Arizona State University's Assistant Research Professor Melissa Guardaro will discuss urban heat and climate equity on November 14 at Mustang Library. The Civil War Roundtable featuring John Matteson will take place on November 14 at Scottsdale Civic Center Library.

Liberty Wildlife presenters will educate about birds of prey native to Arizona with three sessions planned at different libraries. Additionally, Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is hosting an event honoring Native American Heritage Month on November 18.

The Scottsdazzle holiday celebration begins on November 25 with a Tree Lighting Ceremony at Scottsdale Waterfront featuring music from local celebrities.

Ongoing events include activities related to the remodeled Scottsdale Civic Center area and Old Town Farmers Market operating every Saturday through June.

Scottsdale residents participated in a cleanup effort as part of National Make A Difference Day resulting in over two tons of trash being collected from roadways by volunteers.

The Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce recognized businesses with Sterling Awards highlighting excellence across various categories including micro business Suzi Glover State Farm Insurance and large company Riot Hospitality Group.

Maricopa County has launched its "Burn Cleaner, Burn Better" campaign encouraging safer alternatives to wood burning during winter months to reduce air pollution risks.

Finally, job opportunities such as Police Aides are available offering various benefits including paid holidays and tuition reimbursement.