JUNE 3, 2015
Scottsdale Council to consider plan for November bond election
Scottsdale voters could head to the polls in November to consider a variety of bond-funded civic improvements totaling nearly $100 million.
The City Council discussed the proposed bond election plan at an April work-study session. Next Tuesday, June 2, members are scheduled to formally vote on calling the election, determining the project list, and establishing the ballot language. The meeting takes place at 5 p.m. in the City Hall Kiva, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd.
Bonds are a method used by cities to finance major capital projects. They work similar to a home mortgage, through which a large purchase is financed over time.
Scottsdale’s last successful bond election took place in the year 2000. Voters turned down bond proposals in 2010 and 2013.
In announcing their intention to move forward with a bond proposal this November, Council members cited the need to replace aging equipment and facilities, improve roads and bolster public safety by among other things, constructing new fire stations and improving training sites.
“This is a focused, vetted and needed set of projects,” said Mayor Jim Lane. “These improvements are necessary to maintain our quality of life and to keep Scottsdale a world-class community.”
“That’s why our City Council is moving forward to refer these projects to voters. It is time.”
The list of proposed projects was put together from input gathered during 2013 hearings conducted by a Citizens Bond Task Force and from recent staff recommendations.
For more information on the proposed bond, visit: www.scottsdaleaz.gov/2015-bond.
Below is the list of proposed projects and ballot questions along with estimated costs:
Proposed 2015 Bond Program
Question 1: Parks and Community Facilities
Renovate the Vista del Camino Park/Indian Bend Wash area from McKellips Road to Thomas Road, $18,500,000
Upgrade chemical treatment systems in four city aquatic facilities, $3,500,000
Replace aging restrooms, maintenance and storage buildings at four city parks $3,400,000
Replace outdated irrigation systems, $1,900,000
Install energy-efficient sports field lighting at four facilities, $4,600,000
Category Total -- $ 31,900,000
Question 2: Transportation
Improve the intersection of Hayden and Chaparral roads, $2,510,000
Widen Happy Valley Road from Pima Road to Alma School Road, $4,830,000
Improve Highland Avenue intersections at Scottsdale Road and Goldwater Boulevard, $2,100,000
Improve Sidewalks in Downtown Scottsdale, $4,000,000
Add Bike Lanes on McDowell Road, $3,100,000
Category Total -- $16,540,000
Question 3: Citywide Technology
Replace energy control systems at five city buildings, $1,500,000
Improve WiFi in public buildings, $470,000
Purchase disaster recovery technology infrastructure, $4,900,000
Category Total -- $6,870,000
Question 4: Street Pavement Replacement
Replace 140 miles of deteriorated pavement on city streets, $12,500,000
Category Total -- $12,500,000
Question 5: Public Safety - Fire
Build Fire Station 613 (Desert Foothills), $5,100,000
Design and build Fire Station 616 (Desert Mountain), $3,700,000
Relocate Fire Station 603 (McCormick Ranch Area), $6,750,000
Renovate Fire Station 605 (75th Street & Shea Boulevard), $800,000
Category Total -- $16,350,000
Question 6: Flood Control
Improve flood protection near Indian Bend Road and Lincoln Drive, $2,700,000
Category Total -- $2,700,000
Question 7: Public Safety - Police
Expand and renovate the Civic Center Jail and police station, $10,100,000
Rebuild the public safety vehicle training track, $1,700,000
Category Total -- $11,800,000
Bond Program Grand Total -- $98,660,000
