An aerial site plan shows where the new buildings are planned at the site Axon owns in north Scottsdale. Along with the company.
A groundswell of opposition is rising against Axon's audacious attempt to rezone land in Scottsdale and build a staggering 1,975 apartments, along with a 425-room hotel. Located at Hayden Road and Loop 101, this proposal has sparked discontent amongst residents, particularly those in nearby Stonebrook II. Axon is resorting to strong-arm tactics, threatening to take their business elsewhere if their rezoning request is denied. However, it is imperative to understand that this proposal is detrimental to our neighborhoods, the city, and our schools. We must not allow ourselves to be held hostage by the threats of a large corporation.
Axon's Change in Plans Raises Eyebrows
Three years ago, during discussions about its new headquarters, Axon assured the city that they would develop the remaining acreage as a corporate campus under the existing light industrial/office zoning. However, their tune has changed drastically. Axon now seeks a rezoning of the land to construct high-density apartments, a hotel, and other commercial spaces. This request is entirely at odds with the current zoning regulations and is in close proximity to a single-family community. If this apartment city is allowed in our neighborhood, it could set a precedent for your neighborhood as well.
Axon purchased the 74-acre parcel in a state trust land auction in 2020 for $49 million, intending to build their new headquarters. This land is designated for light industrial/office use and specifically prohibited for residential purposes. Consequently, the land was priced accordingly by the State Land Trust's appraisal. Had the land been zoned for residential use, it could have potentially sold for up to $150 million based on comparable residential development sales in the area. It is crucial to note that proceeds from State Trust Land sales contribute to Arizona K-12 schools.
The Core Character of Scottsdale Must be Preserved
At a hearing in January, the Scottsdale Planning Commission reprimanded Axon for submitting an incomplete filing, requesting the company to provide information on critical issues such as water usage. According to the city's own water administrator, water consumption under the proposed rezoning could exceed ten times the current light industrial use. This comes at a time when Arizona is grappling with a worsening water crisis. Yes, you read that correctly.
Let it be clear that our opposition is not directed towards Taser-manufacturer Axon or their approved new headquarters. We appreciate Arizona-based businesses and residents who have chosen to make this place their home. However, we should not be expected to compromise the character of Scottsdale, its neighborhoods, or revenues for public schools just to retain Axon or any other business.
As the single-family home community that would be most affected by this rezoning, we anticipate a decline in property values, loss of peace and quiet, and intrusion into our personal spaces as apartment dwellers would peer into our living rooms and bedrooms. Furthermore, the already congested streets of north Scottsdale would be further inundated with thousands more cars daily.
Many residents believe that Scottsdale has already witnessed excessive development. While a significant portion of this development occurred under a previous City Council, it appears that the current council is less enthusiastic about approving outsized projects. (The request is expected to go before the council in March.)
We are committed to fighting for the preservation of our homes, for which we have worked tirelessly. The Scottsdale Airport Commission has already unanimously voted against the proposed development. The rezoning request will be discussed again at the upcoming Planning Commission's agenda on Valentine's Day. We implore you to stand alongside us and oppose a sweetheart deal for Axon.
Susan McGarry is the president of the 174-home Scottsdale Stonebrook II HOA. Share your thoughts at [email protected].
