New Scottsdale Mayor Sworn In, Issues Emergency Declaration

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Scottsdale's first new mayor in 12 years got right to work.

Mayor David Ortega was sworn into office on Tuesday, along with three new Scottsdale City Council members: Tammy Caputi, Tom Durham and Betty Janik.

Ortega's first action as mayor was to issue a declaration of emergency in the city in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Former Mayor Jim Lane had previously declared a state of emergency on March 24, 2020 when the virus began to take hold in Arizona, which expired when his term ended.

The declaration allows city officials to assist with coronavirus mitigation efforts, close or restrict public buildings, postpone or revoke event licenses for those not following safety precautions and more. It also keeps City Hall closed to public attendance for the foreseeable future.

The proclamation does not address the use of masks, which Lane rescinded in September, drawing anger from community members. But Ortega signed a subsequent order Wednesday, requiring the use of face coverings in Scottsdale once again.

Ortega is a registered architect who previously served on the city council from 2000 to 2004. The swearing-in took place outside but was not open to the public due to the pandemic.

The new mayor had previously told the Arizona Republic that the city's coronavirus recovery would be a priority of his when he took office.

Ortega said the city's health will “facilitate all other aspects of neighborhood life, business activity, medical services, back to school learning and to drive our hospitality-centered economy.”

Arizona currently has the highest rate of coronavirus infection in the U.S.

Ortega also has his eye on issues related to land preservation, increasing representation at the city level and a nondiscrimination ordinance.