Tag: Scottsdale Arizona

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Scottsdale City Council Election 2026: A Conversation with the Candidates

With the November 3, 2026, election approaching, Scottsdale residents are making decisions about who will help guide the city’s future. On the latest episode of Scottsdale Vibes, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Scottsdale City Council candidates Raoul Zubia, incumbent Councilman Barry Graham, and Michelle Ugenti-Rita to discuss their priorities, their perspectives on local issues, and what they believe Scottsdale needs moving forward.

The conversations cover some of the biggest topics facing the community, including development, water security, short-term rentals, city spending, public safety, economic growth, and preserving Scottsdale’s distinctive character.

What Matters Most in the Scottsdale City Council Election?

Scottsdale is a community with a strong identity, a significant tourism economy, and neighborhoods that residents want to protect. As the city continues to attract businesses, visitors, and new residents, questions about growth, infrastructure, affordability, and quality of life remain central to the local conversation.

In their Scottsdale Vibes interviews, the candidates offer different perspectives on how the city should approach these challenges. Here are some of the key takeaways from their conversations with Alicia Haygood.

Raoul Zubia: Public Input, Neighborhoods and Responsible Growth

Raoul Zubia is a lifelong South Scottsdale resident and Coronado High School graduate who has served in community leadership roles, including with the Human Services Commission and the Protect and Preserve Scottsdale Task Force.

One of Zubia’s first priorities would be restoring the public comment period to the beginning of City Council meetings. He argues that moving public comment to the end of lengthy meetings makes it more difficult for residents to participate. He believes residents should have a meaningful opportunity to speak directly to their elected officials without waiting several hours.

Zubia also discusses fiscal responsibility, public safety, tourism, short-term rentals, and economic development. He says Scottsdale should carefully review its spending while ensuring that essential services remain adequately funded.

When it comes to development, Zubia points to the city’s General Plan, neighborhood character plans, and citizen input as important considerations. He believes residents should have a stronger voice in decisions that affect their neighborhoods.

His broader message is that Scottsdale should maintain the qualities that make it an attractive place to live and visit while encouraging thoughtful economic growth.

Learn more about his campaign at ZubiaForScottsdale.com.

Barry Graham: Fiscal Responsibility, Water Security and a Residents First Approach

Councilman Barry Graham is seeking reelection after serving his first term on Scottsdale City Council. A certified public accountant and lifelong Scottsdale resident, Graham has also served on the city’s Planning Commission, Transportation Commission, and Building Advisory Board of Appeals.

Graham identifies overdevelopment and water security as two of the most important issues facing Scottsdale. He argues that certain types of high-density development can increase demand for water, infrastructure, roads, and public safety services. He says the city should carefully consider those impacts when evaluating development proposals.

Fiscal responsibility is another major focus of his campaign. During the interview, Graham discusses city spending, cost overruns, road maintenance, public safety funding, and the importance of directing taxpayer dollars toward core municipal services.

He also addresses short-term rentals, which he says can create challenges for residential neighborhoods. Graham supports giving Scottsdale greater authority to regulate problem properties and says the city should balance its tourism economy with residents’ concerns.

Graham’s campaign centers on his Residents First message. He says his approach is to bring residents’ values to City Hall, protect neighborhood character, and prioritize services such as public safety, roads, and open space.

Learn more about his campaign at BarryGrahamResidentsFirst.com.

Michelle Ugenti-Rita: Protecting Scottsdale’s Character While Planning for Growth

Michelle Ugenti-Rita was born and raised in Scottsdale and has a background in public service, including serving in the Arizona House of Representatives and State Senate. Her legislative experience includes work involving appropriations, commerce, elections, and government.

In her interview with Alicia Haygood, Ugenti-Rita identifies the city’s budget and long-term fiscal health as major priorities. She advocates for reviewing spending from the ground up, examining individual expenditures, and determining whether taxpayer dollars are delivering appropriate value.

She also believes new development should pay for the infrastructure and services it requires, rather than shifting those costs onto existing taxpayers. In her view, responsible growth can strengthen Scottsdale’s economy without sacrificing the city’s established character.

Short-term rentals are another focus. Ugenti-Rita says she opposed the 2016 state legislation that limited local authority over short-term rentals and believes Scottsdale should have greater control over how these properties operate within residential neighborhoods.

Throughout the interview, she emphasizes protecting Scottsdale’s identity, preserving its Western heritage and open space, and maintaining the qualities that attract residents, businesses, and visitors.

Her campaign slogan, Elect Michelle: Protect, Preserve, Prosper, reflects her belief that protecting Scottsdale’s character and heritage can help support its future prosperity.

Learn more about her campaign at ElectMichelle.com.

Key Issues Scottsdale Voters Are Considering

Although the candidates have different approaches, their interviews highlight several issues that are important to the Scottsdale City Council election.

Development and neighborhood character: How should Scottsdale balance new investment and housing with the character of its neighborhoods, infrastructure capacity, and residents’ concerns?

Water security: What steps should the city take to protect its water resources while planning for future growth?

Short-term rentals: How can Scottsdale support tourism while addressing noise, public safety, and other concerns associated with short-term rental properties?

Fiscal responsibility: How should the city prioritize taxpayer dollars, maintain essential services, and evaluate the costs associated with new development and city projects?

Public safety and quality of life: What investments and policies will help Scottsdale remain a safe, attractive, and welcoming community?

Public input and trust: How can city leaders make residents feel heard and encourage productive conversations, even when council members disagree?

These questions affect neighborhoods across Scottsdale, from South Scottsdale to Central and North Scottsdale. The candidates’ interviews offer listeners an opportunity to hear how each approaches these issues and what they would prioritize if elected.

Listen to the Scottsdale Vibes City Council Candidate Interviews

Local elections have a direct impact on the communities where we live, work, and raise our families. Hearing directly from candidates can help voters better understand their priorities, experience, and plans for Scottsdale.

Listen to the latest episode of Scottsdale Vibes with Alicia Haygood featuring Raoul Zubia, Councilman Barry Graham, and Michelle Ugenti-Rita. Explore the candidates’ campaign websites, consider their positions, and make a plan to vote.

Election Day is November 3, 2026.

Scottsdale’s future is shaped by the people who participate in its civic life. Stay informed, get involved, and keep vibing, Scottsdale!

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Scottsdale Vibes: Akshay Nanavati on Fear, Mental Toughness and Finding Your Edge

Scottsdale is a city filled with people who are constantly looking for their next challenge. For Akshay Nanavati, that idea has become a way of life.

On the newest episode of Scottsdale Vibes, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Akshay, a Scottsdale resident, US Marine veteran, ultramarathoner, polar explorer, mental performance coach and author of Fearvana. His story takes him from addiction and PTSD to some of the most extreme endurance challenges imaginable, including a 60 day solo expedition in Antarctica.

From Rock Bottom to a Life of Extreme Challenges

Akshay’s journey was not always about endurance sports or pushing physical limits. He struggled with drug addiction as a teenager and later experienced PTSD, depression and alcoholism after serving seven months in Iraq.

After eventually reaching a point where he knew something had to change, Akshay began exploring neuroscience, psychology, spirituality and what he calls the inner work of confronting his own demons. That process eventually led him toward endurance sports as a way to explore and master the mind.

His philosophy developed around confronting fear rather than allowing it to control him. He began deliberately challenging fears of heights, tight spaces and open water through rock climbing, mountain climbing, skydiving and cave diving. Each challenge became an opportunity to push a little farther beyond what he believed was possible.

The Mind Is the Real Challenge

One of the most interesting parts of Akshay’s philosophy is that the physical challenge is often just the setting. The real exploration happens in the mind.

He believes one of the most important skills in mental mastery is recognizing that our thoughts are not necessarily objective truths. The stories we tell ourselves, such as “I can’t do this” or “I’m not good enough,” are constructs that can shape the way we see ourselves and our possibilities.

That idea is at the heart of his work with Fearvana. Rather than automatically believing every thought that enters our minds, Akshay encourages people to create some distance from those thoughts and recognize that we are the thinkers of our thoughts, not the thoughts themselves.

60 Days Alone in Antarctica

Akshay’s most recent major expedition took him to Antarctica, where he attempted something that had never been completed before: a 1,750 mile coast to coast crossing of the continent completely alone.

The expedition required raising $1.1 million, extensive preparation and extraordinary physical and mental endurance. Akshay ultimately traveled approximately 500 miles over 60 days before developing diverticulitis, a potentially life threatening infection that forced him to stop.

The physical conditions were brutal. He was pulling a 420 pound sled through soft snow, sometimes spending nine or ten hours fighting through terrain where the sleds would repeatedly become stuck. But Akshay says the solitude was actually something he loved. For him, the psychological challenge of being alone with his thoughts was one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.

And that brings up an important question: What happens when we are forced to sit quietly with ourselves?

Learning to Be Still

Akshay believes that one of the greatest challenges many people face is simply being alone with their own thoughts.

He has completed multiple darkness retreats, including seven days and later ten days sitting alone in a completely dark room. Rather than using constant activity as an escape, he sees stillness as another form of endurance and an opportunity to confront parts of ourselves that we may normally avoid.

He encourages people to begin practicing stillness in small ways. His suggestion is surprisingly simple: sit quietly in a room alone and allow yourself to be with your thoughts.

For Akshay, confronting those thoughts does not mean eliminating pain. It means learning how to use what we have experienced rather than allowing those experiences to control us.

The Work Is the Win

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from Akshay’s story is that success does not always mean achieving the original goal.

He did not complete his Antarctic crossing. But he does not consider the expedition a failure.

Instead, he talks about loving the process. He says the result is temporary, while the person you become through the process can change you forever. That philosophy has even inspired the title of his next book, The Work is the Win.

It is an idea that applies far beyond Antarctica. Whether your challenge is starting a business, changing careers, improving your health, facing a fear or simply becoming a better version of yourself, the work along the way is where the growth happens.

Why Scottsdale?

For someone who has lived and traveled all over the world, why choose Scottsdale as home?

Akshay says it comes down to the people.

He describes Scottsdale as a community filled with spiritual, entrepreneurial and driven people. He also loves the combination of an active city and easy access to nature and hiking. But ultimately, it is the people and the community that have kept him here.

When Alicia asks Akshay about his favorite Scottsdale vibe, his answer is the same: the people. He describes the community as a unique blend of spiritual depth and different kinds of people who come together in one place.

From Antarctica to Scottsdale, Akshay Nanavati’s story is a reminder that fear does not always have to be something we avoid. Sometimes, it can point us toward the next place we need to grow.

Listen to the newest episode of Scottsdale Vibes with Akshay Nanavati and hear more about his journey, Fearvana, mental toughness, his Antarctic expedition and how he approaches the challenges that life puts in front of us.

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Scottsdale Fall Events: A Look Behind the Scenes with Parks and Recreation’s

Scottsdale Is Getting Ready for Fall

As temperatures begin to cool and Scottsdale’s busy season approaches, the City of Scottsdale is getting ready to welcome residents and visitors with a full calendar of events.

But while Scottsdale is known for its restaurants, resorts, nightlife and major events, there is another side of the city that deserves attention: the free events created specifically for the community.

On the latest episode of Scottsdale Vibes, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Taylor DeAlba, a Recreation Leader with the City of Scottsdale’s Special Events team, to talk about the people and planning behind some of Scottsdale’s most popular community events.

And according to Taylor, the goal is simple: create events where people can have fun, make memories and feel connected to Scottsdale.

Behind the Scenes of Scottsdale Events

Taylor joined the City of Scottsdale about a year before the interview and discovered her passion for special events after working on the city’s Rewind event.

What started as an opportunity to help with one event quickly turned into a new career path.

Taylor describes being thrown into the process of building events, working with contracts and figuring out all of the unexpected details that come with putting together a large public event. She says it has become one of the most fun jobs she has ever had.

Today, she works behind the scenes on everything from vendor contracts and marketing to social media, creative concepts and immersive event design.

Rewind 75 Celebrates Scottsdale’s History

One of the first big events on the fall calendar is Rewind 75, created as part of Scottsdale’s 75th anniversary celebration.

The Rewind series traditionally celebrates different decades, but this year the city is taking residents on a journey through the past 75 years, from the 1950s through today.

The event will feature themed activities and crafts, live music, a DJ dance party, mini golf, face painting, photo booths, local food vendors and a cocktail garden for adults.

It is a celebration of Scottsdale’s history while giving residents a chance to enjoy the city together.

Pop Punk Picnic Brings Nostalgia to Scottsdale Civic Center

If you grew up listening to pop punk, there is another event coming that may be right up your alley.

The City of Scottsdale’s Pop Punk Picnic follows the success of its Emo Picnic event and brings a similar nostalgic energy to Scottsdale Civic Center.

The event will feature live music from Mike Goodrich, who previously performed at Emo Picnic, along with pop punk themed activities, button making and temporary tattoos. Food trucks and a cocktail garden will also be part of the experience.

The event is scheduled for October 2 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Scottsdale Civic Center.

The 55th Annual Fall Festival Is Bigger This Year

One of the biggest events on the fall calendar is the 55th Annual Fall Festival.

After a larger than expected turnout last year, Parks and Recreation is expanding the event throughout the entire Civic Center.

The festival will use parking areas and additional portions of the Civic Center, and the event has also been extended by an hour. This year, it will run from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Families can expect trick or treat booths, crafts, a pumpkin patch, a spooky DJ dance party, a bubble zone, face painting, food vendors and a cocktail garden.

There will also be city vehicles on display and a spooky movie area featuring Halloween memorabilia.

Because of the anticipated crowds, the city is also adding shuttles from the Paiute Neighborhood Center and El Dorado Park to help make the event more accessible and reduce traffic concerns.

Supporting Local Businesses

Scottsdale’s community events also create opportunities for local businesses and food vendors.

Taylor explains that food vendors can apply to participate in city events. The Parks and Recreation Special Events team reviews applications based on factors including the event’s audience, pricing, menu and unique appeal.

Local businesses and organizations can also participate in the Fall Festival.

For a city event that can attract thousands of people, these festivals provide an opportunity for local organizations to connect with Scottsdale families and become part of the community experience.

Creating Events for Every Generation

One of the most interesting parts of Alicia’s conversation with Taylor is how intentionally the city thinks about different generations when planning events.

Taylor is part of Gen Z, and she brings that perspective to the planning process.

Her team of four considers what different age groups might enjoy, from live music and photo opportunities to crafts, activities for children and places for adults to relax and socialize.

The goal is not simply to put on an event.

The goal is to create an experience.

Taylor says she wants people to attend a Parks and Recreation event without necessarily feeling like they are attending a traditional Parks and Recreation event. She wants the events to feel immersive, inclusive and fun.

Scottsdale Civic Center Is the Perfect Setting

Scottsdale Civic Center has become an important part of the city’s event strategy.

The renovated space provides opportunities for live music, festivals and large community gatherings.

Taylor points out that the Civic Center’s 360 stage and built in sound system create a unique environment for concerts and other events. The space can also be transformed depending on the theme of the event.

From Easter celebrations to Día de los Muertos, Rewind and the Fall Festival, the space gives Scottsdale’s events team plenty of room to get creative.

Volunteers Are Needed

The City of Scottsdale also relies on community volunteers to help make some of these events possible.

Taylor says volunteers will be especially important for the Fall Festival because of the expected turnout.

High school students, Girl Scouts, churches and other community organizations can volunteer, and service hours are available.

Anyone interested in volunteering can contact the Parks and Recreation Special Events team at:

parksandrecspecialevents@scottsdaleaz.gov

The city is also looking for feedback from residents.

Taylor says QR codes and feedback forms are available at events because the team wants to hear what residents enjoyed and what could be improved.

The Future of Scottsdale Events

While Taylor could not reveal everything the city has planned for the spring, she did share that the next calendar is already being developed.

For her, the most important part of the job is creating connection.

She wants Scottsdale residents to walk into an event and feel like it was made for them. Whether that means connecting with a particular theme, discovering new music or simply enjoying time with family and friends, the goal is to make everyone feel welcome.

That may be one of the best descriptions of the Scottsdale vibe itself.

Listen to the Full Episode

Want to know what is happening around Scottsdale this fall?

Listen to Alicia Haygood’s conversation with Taylor DeAlba on the latest episode of Scottsdale Vibes.

Hear the behind the scenes story of how Scottsdale’s free community events come together, learn more about the upcoming fall lineup and find out how you can participate, volunteer or get involved.

Listen to Scottsdale Vibes wherever you get your podcasts.

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WestWorld of Scottsdale Is Growing: Cassie Johnson on the Future of One of Scottsdale’s Most Important Venues

WestWorld of Scottsdale Is More Than You Think

For many Scottsdale residents, WestWorld of Scottsdale is a familiar part of the community. It is where we go for Barrett Jackson, equestrian events, the Arabian Horse Show, rodeos and other major events.

But WestWorld is much more than a venue for a handful of signature Scottsdale events.

On the latest episode of Scottsdale Vibes, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Cassie Johnson, Interim General Manager of WestWorld, to talk about the venue’s future, the major projects underway and why WestWorld plays such an important role in Scottsdale.

Johnson has a unique connection to the City of Scottsdale. She began her career with the city as an intern in the Scottsdale Police Department and went on to hold several leadership roles involving strategic planning, budgeting, public safety and city operations. She eventually became involved with WestWorld through a special assignment focused on helping implement the venue’s strategic plan.

That experience gave her an entirely new perspective on a place she had known for years.

From Rodeos to World Class Events

Johnson explains that WestWorld can mean something completely different depending on who you ask.

For some people, it is the place where they went to a rodeo as a child. For others, it is where they attend Barrett Jackson or one of the many equestrian competitions held throughout the year.

For Johnson, WestWorld has evolved from a place she knew professionally through public safety into an opportunity to bring together strategic planning, city operations and community events.

One of the things that surprised her most was seeing just how quickly the property can transform.

WestWorld can go from a major automotive event to an international equestrian competition in a matter of weeks. In fact, Johnson explains that the same area used for the Barrett Jackson auction can be transformed into a dirt arena for horses just a few weeks later.

That flexibility is one of WestWorld’s greatest strengths.

Major Improvements Are Coming to WestWorld

Johnson took on the role of Interim General Manager at a time when several significant capital projects are already underway.

One of the biggest areas of focus is drainage.

Because WestWorld sits on Bureau of Reclamation land that was originally intended to help hold floodwaters, heavy rain can create significant challenges for a property that hosts horses, vehicles and thousands of visitors.

The first phase of a major drainage project is already underway, with additional projects planned over the next several years. The goal is to reduce flooding and standing water throughout the property and create a better experience for event producers, exhibitors, animals and visitors.

Other improvements include better wayfinding and signage, expanded shade and improvements to parking and access.

These projects are part of WestWorld’s council approved master plan, which was adopted in December 2025.

WestWorld Has Something for Everyone

One of the biggest takeaways from Alicia’s conversation with Johnson is just how diverse the WestWorld calendar has become.

While equestrian events and automotive shows remain a major part of the venue, WestWorld is also hosting events that many Scottsdale residents might not immediately associate with the property.

Recent events have included gaming competitions, home shows, collectible events, reptile shows, art events and other specialty gatherings.

Johnson says the goal is to continue thinking creatively about what WestWorld can offer.

The property includes large climate controlled spaces that can provide opportunities for sports, entertainment and other events that may not otherwise be practical in Scottsdale during the summer months.

A New Event Space at Monterra

Another exciting development is the addition of Monterra to the WestWorld event portfolio.

The property was originally built in 1990 and has served several purposes over the years. The City of Scottsdale acquired the facility in 2024, and it is now being refreshed as a new event space.

Monterra will offer a different type of venue from the Equidome and North Hall, with a ballroom and banquet style setting that can accommodate weddings, celebrations and other events. Food and beverage services will be available through M Culinary.

Why WestWorld Matters to Scottsdale

WestWorld is not simply a place where people attend events.

It is also a significant economic driver for Scottsdale and the region.

Johnson says WestWorld generates more than $160 million in regional economic impact. Visitors coming to the venue do more than attend an event. They stay in Scottsdale hotels, eat at local restaurants, shop in the community and use local transportation and airports.

That makes the continued investment in WestWorld important not only for the venue itself, but for Scottsdale’s broader tourism and economic development strategy.

Johnson says collaboration will be an important part of that future, including partnerships with Experience Scottsdale, economic development, tourism, parks and recreation and other community organizations.

Being a Good Neighbor

With so many events taking place throughout the year, WestWorld also has to consider its impact on surrounding neighborhoods.

Johnson acknowledges that traffic and event related congestion can be frustrating, particularly when large events bring thousands of people to the area at the same time.

That is one reason improvements to wayfinding, parking and access are so important.

WestWorld is also working on communication strategies designed to keep nearby residents informed about what is happening at the property.

The goal, Johnson says, is to improve both the producer and visitor experience while also being a good neighbor to the surrounding community.

What Is Next for WestWorld of Scottsdale?

Johnson sees tremendous opportunity ahead.

The venue already has a strong history, a loyal group of event producers and an incredible amount of space. The challenge is figuring out how to use that space in new and creative ways while continuing to support the equestrian events and Western traditions that helped establish WestWorld in the first place.

Her message to potential event producers is simple: bring the ideas and start the conversation.

WestWorld wants to explore new opportunities that can benefit Scottsdale and its residents while continuing to build on what has already made the venue successful.

And for Scottsdale residents who may think they already know WestWorld, Johnson has another message.

There is always something happening there.

The WestWorld website features a calendar of upcoming events, and some events are free and open to the public. Johnson encourages residents to explore the calendar and discover some of the events they may never have considered attending.

Listen to the Full Conversation

Hear Alicia Haygood and Cassie Johnson talk about the future of WestWorld of Scottsdale, the major improvements coming to the property, the economic impact of the venue and the surprising variety of events happening right here in Scottsdale.

Listen to the latest episode of Scottsdale Vibes wherever you get your podcasts.

Because WestWorld has something for everyone.

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Scottsdale City Council Candidates Michelle Ugenti-Rita and Crystal Carroll Share Their Vision for Scottsdale’s Future

Scottsdale Voters: Meet City Council Candidates Michelle Ugenti-Rita and Crystal Carroll

With Scottsdale’s City Council primary election approaching on July 21, voters have important decisions to make about the future of the city. On this episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood continues the candidate interview series by sitting down with Michelle Ugenti-Rita and Crystal Carroll.

Each candidate was asked the same five questions and given the same opportunity to share their views on the issues shaping Scottsdale today, including growth, housing, water resources, tourism, local control, and public trust in City Hall.

Balancing Tourism and Quality of Life

Tourism is a major economic driver for Scottsdale, generating significant revenue through resorts, restaurants, entertainment districts, and special events. At the same time, many residents have expressed concerns about traffic congestion, noise, overcrowding, and short-term rentals.

Michelle Ugenti-Rita emphasized the importance of thoughtful development and limiting high-density housing projects that she believes contribute to congestion and strain city resources. She argued that Scottsdale’s appeal is rooted in its suburban character, open spaces, and focus on quality of life.

Crystal Carroll agreed that tourism is essential to Scottsdale’s economy but stressed the importance of careful planning and maintaining Scottsdale’s reputation for high-quality development. She believes growth decisions should be evaluated individually to ensure they benefit residents while supporting the city’s economic vitality.

Housing, Density, and Development

One of the most debated issues facing Scottsdale is how to accommodate growth while preserving neighborhood character.

Ugenti-Rita expressed concerns about approving large-scale apartment projects and believes Scottsdale should prioritize maintaining its identity as a suburban community with a strong emphasis on single-family neighborhoods.

Carroll said housing and development decisions should be made on a case-by-case basis, with careful consideration given to traffic impacts, infrastructure, and surrounding neighborhoods. She emphasized the need for responsible planning as Scottsdale continues to evolve.

Local Control vs. State Government

Both candidates discussed Scottsdale’s ongoing conflicts with the Arizona Legislature regarding issues such as zoning, housing density, short-term rentals, and development authority.

Ugenti-Rita, who previously served in both the Arizona House and Senate, argued that zoning decisions should remain primarily under local control and highlighted her experience navigating legislative processes.

Carroll also expressed concerns about state intervention in local matters and called for stronger communication between local and state leaders. She emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability regarding decisions that impact Scottsdale residents.

Water Security and Scottsdale’s Future

Water remains one of the most important topics facing Scottsdale and the entire Southwest.

Ugenti-Rita highlighted Scottsdale’s long history of water planning and conservation efforts while advocating for continued investment in reliable water sources and long-term solutions.

Carroll approached the issue from a business and planning perspective, stressing the importance of continued investment in Scottsdale’s water infrastructure and future water supply. She emphasized that while Scottsdale currently has a strong water system, planning today is necessary to ensure future generations have access to reliable water resources.

Rebuilding Trust in City Hall

When asked about transparency and public trust, both candidates emphasized the importance of open communication with residents.

Ugenti-Rita pointed to her years of public service and commitment to accessibility, saying that elected officials should remain available to residents and consistently follow through on their promises.

Carroll identified transparency as one of her top priorities, calling for greater accountability, clearer communication, and more opportunities for residents to understand how and why decisions are being made.

Why Local Elections Matter

Local elections often have the most direct impact on residents’ daily lives. Decisions involving development, transportation, public safety, water resources, and city spending all begin at the local level.

As Scottsdale voters prepare to cast their ballots, hearing directly from the candidates provides valuable insight into how each hopes to shape the city’s future.

Listen to the Full Episode

To hear the complete conversations with Michelle Ugenti-Rita and Crystal Carroll, listen to this episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

Remember:

📬 Ballots begin mailing June 24

🗳️ Scottsdale Primary Election Day is July 21

Stay informed, get involved, and make your voice heard.

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Scottsdale Growth Boom 2026: What It Means for Homeowners and Buyers

Scottsdale is once again in the national spotlight.

Recently named the best city in America to find a job, the city is experiencing rapid expansion across multiple sectors. From semiconductor growth in the Airpark to new luxury developments in North Scottsdale, the momentum is undeniable. But with that growth comes important questions about affordability, infrastructure, and how it impacts everyday life.

In this episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, we sat down with two local experts to break it all down. Jeremy Mueller of State Farm Insurance shares insights on how growth is impacting homeowners, while Sean Shackleton of The Shackleton Group explains what is happening in the real estate market right now.

What Homeowners Need to Know About Insurance

As Scottsdale continues to grow, property values and construction costs are rising alongside it. According to Jeremy Mueller, one of the biggest risks homeowners face today is being underinsured.

Rebuilding a home today can cost significantly more than many policies account for. Even smaller projects like bathroom remodels often come in at double the expected cost. That same reality applies to full home rebuilds, which means many homeowners may not have enough coverage.

Condos present another layer of complexity. Many owners assume their HOA covers everything, but in most cases, the interior of the unit is still their responsibility. In high end properties, those interior finishes can be extremely expensive to replace.

The takeaway is simple. Now is a good time to review your policy and make sure your coverage reflects current costs.

Scottsdale Real Estate Is Evolving

With limited land available, Scottsdale’s growth is taking a different shape than in the past.

According to Sean Shackleton, new construction is becoming increasingly rare for single family homes, especially in central locations. Most new builds are now concentrated in areas farther north, while closer in neighborhoods are seeing more tear downs and rebuilds.

This shift is driving prices higher, especially in desirable areas where land itself holds significant value. In neighborhoods like Cactus Corridor, older homes are being replaced with new builds that can more than double the original property value.

At the same time, condos and townhomes are becoming more common, offering options for buyers who want newer construction closer to the city core.

What Buyers and Sellers Should Expect

The Scottsdale market remains active, especially during peak season from January through early spring. Well updated homes in prime locations are still selling quickly, often within days.

However, homes that feel dated or need work are sitting longer, creating opportunities for buyers willing to invest in renovations.

For buyers, the most important advice is to focus on location first. The right home can be updated over time, but location cannot be changed.

For sellers, understanding how your home compares to others in your area is key. Small updates like fresh paint can dramatically improve how a home shows and ultimately how it sells.

Growth Brings Opportunity and Challenges

Scottsdale’s growth is creating new opportunities, from job expansion to increased property values. At the same time, it brings challenges like traffic, affordability, and changing community dynamics.

The key for residents is to stay informed and proactive. Whether reviewing your insurance policy or evaluating your next real estate move, understanding the current landscape can help you make smarter decisions.

Scottsdale is evolving, and those who adapt to the changes will be best positioned to benefit from what comes next.