NE Valley Times

Arizona lawmakers have advanced Senate Bill 1543, paving the way for Axon's proposed headquarters in Scottsdale. The bill, which promises to boost economic activity with high-paying jobs, housing, and long-term growth, received bipartisan support.

Courtney Coolidge, Executive Vice President of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry, highlighted the broader significance of the project, stating, “As we have said on multiple occasions, this is more about a single project in Scottsdale—this is about the future of the entire state, ensuring we send a message that Arizona is open for business and that out-of-state special interests won’t derail significant job-creation projects here.”

A Cygnal poll indicates robust support for the project with 75% of likely voters backing Axon in their communities, and 65% specifically in Scottsdale. The development is slated to feature various amenities such as restaurants, a hotel, and entertainment venues, with an estimated economic impact of $38 billion over a decade.

The legislation, if enacted, would prevent Arizona cities with populations between 200,000 and 500,000 from blocking developments that meet standards including the creation of 1,000 full-time jobs and a comprehensive campus plan.

Opposition exists from a California-based union attempting to challenge the city’s project approval, but recent polling shows 63% of Scottsdale residents and 52% statewide are against the referendum effort.

Following the House approval, the bill now proceeds to the Senate for consideration.