Scottsdale 2021 Election Voter Guide: Proposition 463

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Scottsdale voters get to make one choice in the Nov. 2 election: Whether to ratify the city's "General Plan 2035."

The voter registration deadline was Oct. 4 and ballots were mailed Oct. 6. All qualified voters within Scottsdale should have been sent ballots, even if they are not signed up to vote via mail. The last day to request a new ballot in the mail is Oct. 22.

The last recommended day to mail back your ballot is Oct. 26. The ballot must be received by Election Day Nov. 2. Having an Election Day postmark does not mean your ballot will be counted.

You can also return your ballot to a voting location or ballot drop box no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day.

Proposition 463: The only item up for a vote in Scottsdale this fall is whether to ratify the city's 2035 general plan. A "yes" vote instructs the council to adopt the 2035 plan while a "no" vote would keep in place the city's 2001 general plan. According to the city its new plan would "serve as the community’s new vision and guide for future physical, economic, and social development."

Arizona law requires that cities adopt a general plan, but Scottsdale includes extra elements of concern for the community in its plan that are not required by state law.

Examples of state-mandated elements are plans for land use, plans for open space and environmental planning. Some community-created elements are arts and culture, community health and tourism planning.

Mayor Dave Ortega cited the mission statement within the plan when backing proposition 463.

"Scottsdale will continue to be an exceptional Sonoran Desert experience and premier international destination, where our Western heritage is valued," the city says in the plan. "Our diverse neighborhoods foster outstanding livability, social connectivity, healthy lifestyles and a sustainable environment. Scottsdale will thrive by attracting and retaining business centers of excellence that encourage innovation and prosperity.”

View Scottsdale's informational pamphlet on the proposition here.