Scottsdale Update - Oct. 18, 2021

Learn about and comment on the Old Town Character Area Plan. The city is hosting a series of in-person open houses regarding updates to the Old Town Character Area Plan and the downtown sections of the Scottsdale Zoning Ordinance. Each session will include a series of presentations and discussion groups to collect public input. Attend one of the following sessions Monday, Oct. 25: 8:30-10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. or 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Community Design Studio, 7506 E. Indian School Road. Register.

Wear purple Thursday in recognition of October's Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Since 1981, this commemoration has sought to recognize that people of all ages and backgrounds are affected by domestic violence and to connect those individuals with advocates and resources. If you or someone you know is a victim or survivor of domestic violence, resources are available through the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. Impulsion, the iconic equestrian sculpture at WestWorld, is lit purple this month in recognition.

Nov. 2 Special Election deadlines. The city will hold a Special Election by mail Tuesday, Nov. 2, regarding Proposition 463. This proposition asks voters to consider whether or not to ratify the "Scottsdale General Plan 2035." Important deadlines: Oct. 22: Last day to request a replacement ballot by mail; Tuesday, Oct. 26: Recommended date to mail completed ballot; Tuesday, Nov. 2 (7 p.m.): Deadline for ballots to be received (NOT postmarked) by Maricopa County.

Prescription Drug Take-Back runs Saturday. Stop by one of two Scottsdale locations from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23, to properly dispose of unwanted, unneeded or expired prescription drugs. Bring items to the Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Road, or the Foothills District Police Station in the Market Street Plaza at DC Ranch, 20363 N. Pima Road.

The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day addresses a crucial public safety and health issue. According to a recent survey, 9.7 million people misused prescription pain relievers, 4.9 million people misused prescription stimulants and 5.9 million people misused prescription tranquilizers or sedatives, according to a 2019 survey. It also shows that a majority of misused prescription drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.

Scottsdale aids individuals experiencing homelessness. The city, in collaboration with New Faces Day Relief Centers and two interfaith communities in Scottsdale, has assisted 118 individuals experiencing homelessness; 34 of which have successfully exited to multiple housing options. In addition, a partnership with Phoenix Rescue Mission that provides outreach and navigation to Scottsdale's most vulnerable, has successfully placed 76 individuals into programs, shelters and mental health programs. To date, 110 clients experiencing homelessness have moved to safe, stable living environments. Learn more.

Scottsdale organizations are on display at Civic Center Library. This display highlights 15 Scottsdale organizations that have a significant impact on Scottsdale in various ways. It includes a visual image of the organization and a description on how the organization supports our community. The library is at 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd.

Learn about traffic restrictions in and around Scottsdale. Get the list.