City News

CITY NEWS BOARD OF SUPERVISORS APPROVES TENTATIVE FY 2020 BUDGET TAX RATE REMAINS FLAT; COUNTY INVESTS IN PEOPLE, PETS, AND PARKS

WITH A NEW DECADE ON THE HORIZON, THE NATION’S FASTEST-GROWING COUNTY IS MAKING SMART INVESTMENTS TO FURTHER POSITION ITSELF AS AN ATTRACTIVE, LONGTERM HOME FOR FAMILIES AND BUSINESSES. The Board of Supervisors approved a tentative $2.57 billion budget for fiscal year 2020.

“This fiscally responsible and sustainable budget keeps the tax rate steady for our residents while investing in the kinds of technology and infrastructure that works to serve citizens better,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Bill Gates, District 3. “These investments include strengthening public safety, improving the voter experience, preserving and enhancing our open space, and utilizing technology and process improvement to save money and make our county government more efficient while providing better service. I am grateful to my colleagues on the Board and to all departments for budgeting in a way that plans for, and protects, the future.”

With the 2020 elections fast approaching, the budget reserves funding for updated elections equipment that is expected to increase the speed with which votes can be counted. Improved technology is one piece of a larger discussion about the future of elections in Maricopa County. “Making our elections the best they can be is a priority of every person on this Board,” said Vice Chairman Clint Hickman, District 4. “Modern, reliable equipment is essential for a county of our size so we can efficiently handle the potential record number of voters participating in our democracy in the 2020 elections and beyond.”

Recent numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau show Maricopa County added 81,244 people between July 2017 and July 2018, the most of any county in the nation. The FY 2020 budget allocates $296.9 million for capital improvement projects which will modernize the infrastructure needed to support that growing population. Those projects include multi-milliondollar investments in county parks; a new East Valley animal shelter; and a new substation for the Sheriff’s Office in Avondale. The budget also provides continued funding for the new jail intake facility, Southeast Regional Justice Center, Central Court building, and 225 Madison renovation project, which will turn an old jail into modern, usable office space.

“I am proud to be part of the team that continues to pass budgets that protect our taxpayers while serving the needs of our ever-growing county population,” said Supervisor Jack Sellers, District 1. “This budget will assure the protection and well-being of our citizens. I’m pleased the tax rate won’t change nor is the county required that has resulted in a 95% save rate. to take on debt to fund operations.” At • $100,000 to update unincorporated a time when many other counties are area plans for the next generation. taxing as much as they are allowed by • Three new positions for the state law, Maricopa County’s tax levy County’s Innovation Studio, focused is $140.5 million below the maximum. on process improvement that in 2018 saved an estimated $1.5 million “We live in the most dynamic county dollars. in the United States where people tend • Full-time, permanent homeless to have a lower cost of living and pay coordinator to support regional less for government services than they solutions to homelessness through do in other large metropolitan areas, Human Services Department.

“Recent numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau show Maricopa County added 81,244 people between July 2017 and July 2018, the most of any county in the nation. The FY 2020 budget allocates $296.9 million for capital improvement projects which will modernize the infrastructure needed to support that while also having access to diverse job and recreational opportunities,” said Supervisor Steve Chucri, District growing population. “Investments in county staff directly benefit the people of Maricopa County by ensuring the best and ” 2. “This budget supports the Maricopa brightest work here, and not County of the future by building somewhere else,” said Supervisor on a great foundation of innovative Steve Gallardo, District 5. “Having planning and fiscal intelligence to a permanent homeless coordinator at move us forward.” a time when the region’s homeless OTHER BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS alarming rate is one example of how INCLUDE: the county is prioritizing spending to • $1.5 million to continue the current make a real difference on issues that model of animal shelter operations matter.” population continues to grow at an • $1.5 million for process and The public will be able to comment on technology improvements that support the tentative budget between now and the strategic goal of becoming an all- the final vote which is scheduled for digital county by 2022. June 24.

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EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT BENEFITS ADAPT SHOP, CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

THE ADAPT SHOP RECENTLY RECEIVED A GENEROUS DONATION FROM A LOCAL BOY SCOUT. One of several Easterseals disabilities services provided by Southwest Human Development, theADAPT Shop focuses on improving the development of young children. The team’s specialists design and create mobility devices, custom seating, and more for young children with disabilities.

Local Boy Scout Riley Hoffer decided to dedicate his Eagle Scout project to crafting a fleet of wheelchairs for the ADAPT Shop. The Shop features a collection of mobility devices that families may borrow to see what fits their children’s needs. But these mobility devices are expensive, making it difficult for the ADAPT Shop to meet the needs of Phoenix-area families.

Hoffer, a freshman at Horizon High School, heard about the ADAPT Shop and the work they do from his mom. Hoffer saw an opportunity to help Phoenix families by building wheelchairs for children with mobility difficulties. “I wanted to do something that was going to have a big and lasting impact,” Hoffer says.

Hoffer went online and found blueprints for a wheelchair commonly used by young children. He then raised funds by hosting a “Polar Bear Plunge” party at his house, inviting friends and family members to donate money to jump into his ice-filled pool during December. Using the Polar Bear Plunge funds, Hoffer purchased the materials needed to create five wheelchairs to donate to the ADAPT Shop. Several stores, including Home Depot and Bed Bath & Beyond, donated materials to help out with the project. Hoffer also enlisted the help of his family members and fellow Boy Scouts to help him assemble the wheelchairs. Thanks to the donated materials, Hoffer came in under budget. He generously decided to donate the remainder of the money (almost $1,400!) to the ADAPT Shop.

To learn more about the ADAPT Shop and ways you can help, please visit swhd.org/ADAPT.

SCOTTSDALE ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO DIRECT DOLLARS TO SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES

A RECENT STREET COUNT IN METROPOLITAN PHOENIX SHOWS A CONTINUED RISE IN HOMELESSNESS – A 22 PERCENT INCREASE OVER LAST YEAR. Along with that, the public has seen various activities that may be related to homelessness rise, including sleeping in public places, littering and panhandling.

City staff are working to direct those in need to appropriate resources while accommodating citizens’ concerns about excessive panhandling and related issues.

The most visible sign of that work will hit city streets this week, when temporary signs will be placed at “high volume” panhandling intersections in Scottsdale. The signs encourage the public to donate to social service agencies rather than giving to individuals asking for money.

While handing money to someone may feel good in the moment, donating dollars instead to social service agencies that help those in need is a more effective way to address the root causes of homelessness and panhandling.

The city also discourages panhandling (which is not illegal) because of the safety hazards associated with it. Panhandlers may distract drivers or obstruct views, and put themselves at risk alongside busy roadways.

In addition to the temporary signs, which will be moved as needed to areas where panhandling is prevalent, city staff are distributing community resource cards to people experiencing homelessness and helping those individuals with access to social workers and job training specialists.

The city has developed a resource page for residents and others seeking more information about this challenging topic. Visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search “panhandling” to find links to social service agencies and programs along with legal information relating to homelessness and panhandling.

The city remains a committed partner, working with state and federal governments, nonprofit organizations, faith communities, and compassionate, committed citizens to improve the lives of those in these difficult situations.

YOU CAN NOW REGISTER YOUR SECURITY SYSTEM IN THE CAMEREYES REGISTRY THE CITY OF SCOTTSDALE PO- Police Department will not have direct in the area and volunteered to be con- interior cameras that would potentially LICE DEPARTMENT AND NEIGH- access to your cameras, nor are you tacted by our employees to obtain this capture images of a person or vehicle BORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM obligated to provide video, if asked. vital information and move forward outside your home could all be valuHAVE PARTNERED TO CREATE A CamerEyes is available to all Scotts- with their investigation in a timely able to investigators. Once registered, NEW RESOURCE FOR CITIZENS dale residents and businesses at no cost. manner. only an approved (by the Assistant TO ASSIST IN CRIME PREVEN- Chief) group of Police Department TION AND CRIME SOLVING Following a crime, police employees The process to register your cameras employees will have access to the EFFORTS. Citizens and businesses often go door-to-door to seek any is simple and only takes a few minutes database, as well as a limited group of may voluntarily register their personal cameras in the area. This process is to complete. You will be asked for IT staff for database management and security camera systems in the Camer- time consuming and can delay the some basic contact information and maintenance. Eyes registry. apprehension of the criminal at large. video retention time. CamerEyes would allow law enforce- To register, go online to www.scottRegistration is completely voluntary ment to sign into the confidential What cameras can you register? Door- sdaleaz.gov/police/security-cameraand can be withdrawn at any time. The database to ascertain who has cameras bell cameras, exterior cameras, and registration

SCOTTSDALE 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION RETURNS FOR 6TH YEAR

SCOTTSDALE 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION LOADS OF INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINPRESENTED BY PLEXUS WORLDWIDE, MENT RETURNS FOR THE SIXTH YEAR TO General admission tickets include free activities: THE 300,000 SQUARE-FOOT FULLY AIR- • Fireworks CONDITIONED TONY NELSSEN EQUESTRIAN • Fortnite 4th Experience CENTER AT WESTWORLD, THURS., JULY • Watch Pro Gamers Live on Giant Screen 4, 4PM-9:30PM, FOR A FULL NIGHT OF • Battle Royale Laser Tag FOURTH-OF-JULY FUN SUITABLE FOR ALL • Live DJ Dance Party – Show off your Fortnite AGES. moves! • Build a Fort and Chop it Down This sixth year celebration takes on the theme • Fortnite Nerf Target Practice ‘Fortnite 4th’ featuring gamers live in action on a • Fortnite Temporary Tattoos 16x9 LED Wall, Fortnite-themed games for kids • Contests and Prizes to enjoy, and a full menu of Fortnite-themed food • Good Karma K9Z Stunt Show, featuring rescued and beverages including Fortnite Fries, Rice Krispy canine friends in action… Med Kits and more available for purchase. • Tight Rope • High Jump This red, white and blue event brings together • Frisbee rides, interactive games and food for the whole • Wall Climb family, all within a cool environment, ending the • Superhero Appearances by Captain Marvel and night with a bang -- a fireworks show at approxi- Captain America • Kong Slide mately 9pm. • Pony Rides by Carter’s Farm • Fun House Obstacle Course and Slide • Petting Zoo by Carter’s Farm • Little Pirate Ship Inflatable for toddlers Backyard Barbecue. Guests attending the event • Bull Riding Show by Mercer Rodeo • Pirate Playland for toddlers have the option to upgrade their experience with a • Mutton Busting by Mercer Rodeo • 10-foot Slide for toddlers Backyard Barbecue ticket. Paying $35 in advance, • Game Trucks admission includes unlimited food by Chef Michael • Food and Beverage Options TICKETS DeMaria of M Culinary, including hamburgers and To purchase tickets, visit Scottsdale4th.com cheeseburgers, barbecue pulled pork, Vienna Beef Kids wristbands are also available for purchase for hot dogs, potato salad, green salad, watermelon, unlimited fun featuring exciting rides and features: FIREWORKS ONLY oN POLO FIELD all-American desserts and ice cream, and beverages • 20-foot Ferris Wheel Guests also have the option to park on the polo field at in an exclusive area encompassing the South Hall. • Warped Wall Ninja Warrior Inflatable WestWorld with friends and family for $20 a carload This ticket delivers a photo booth to capture patriotic • Adrenaline Rush Extreme Obstacle Course, Slide to see the fireworks show set against the McDowell moments, lawn games including cornhole, as well as • Uproar Carnival Ride Mountains. Polo field lot opens at 7pm. Fireworks unlimited access to all the fun, games, and festivities • Tubs of Fun Carnival Ride show starts at 9pm Visit Scottsdale4th.com for the latfor the whole family throughout the event. • Ballistic Swing Carnival Ride est udates.

ZILLOW CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY OF ZILLOW OFFERS, OPENS SOUTHWEST HUB IN SCOTTSDALE MOST OF YOU ARE ALREADY “Since we launched a year ago, we employee trainers. The jobs range from talent and operate in a favorable FAMILIAR WITH THE ZILLOW have received more than 80,000 entry level to director, and a college business environment.” GROUP, WHICH HOUSES ONE requests for offers, and have helped education is not required for all roles. OF THE LARGEST PORTFOLIOS thousands of home sellers move into During the office ribbon cutting OF REAL ESTATE BRANDS ON their new home on their own timeline, “Arizona wants to be the place where celebration, Zillow Group presented MOBILE AND WEB. What you may without the hassle and uncertainty these technologies come to evolve a check for $25,000 to U.S.VETS, not know is this real estate behemoth of a traditional home sale. We are and flourish,” said Arizona Governor the nation’s largest non-profit also buys and sells homes through its transforming the way people buy and Doug Ducey. “I thank Zillow Group for veteran services provider that offers subsidiary, Zillow Offers. sell homes and bringing the magic their investment in our state and look transitional and permanent housing, and simplicity of e-commerce to real forward to growing our 21st-century counseling, employment assistance As part of its one-year anniversary in estate.” economy together.” and case management to veterans and the buy/sell market, Zillow announced their families. The donation is made the opening of its newest office in Zillow Group expects to add 160 Scottsdale Mayor W.J. “Jim” Lane possible through Zillow Group’s Home Scottsdale, which will act as the employees to the 25,000 square foot echoed a similar sentiment, “Scottsdale Project, the company’s signature social Southwest hub for Zillow Offers. office by the end of this year. Job is proud to welcome Zillow Offers to impact initiative that aims to address titles and categories include recruiters, Old Town, a thriving business hub that challenges around housing insecurity by “It’s been an incredible journey, and corporate counsel, human resources, has experienced tremendous growth pledging up to $5 million in cash and we’re just getting started,” said Zillow project coordinators, analysts, loan for innovative technology companies in-kind contributions over five years to Brand President Jeremy Wacksman. originations, business operations, and due to their ability to attract and retain support vulnerable families.