What is Prop 490? Scottsdale City Council amends ballot language in controversial tax measure

The amendment to Prop 490, which pertains to the City's tax rates, has sparked significant debate.

PUBLISHED AUG 27, 2024

Scottsdale City Council voted to amend the ballot language for Prop 490.

Scottsdale, Arizona: In a closely contested special meeting, the Scottsdale City Council voted to amend the ballot language for a key tax-related proposition set for the November 2024 election. The amendment to Resolution #13092, which pertains to the City's tax rates, has sparked significant debate among residents and council members alike.

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What is Proposition 490?

Proposition 490 proposes a sales tax adjustment aimed at funding improvements for the city’s parks, recreational facilities, and the preservation of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Specifically, it seeks to replace an expiring 0.20% city sales tax with a lower 0.15% tax rate. If approved, the tax will be in place for three decades, after which it will sunset, allowing for future reevaluation of the city's needs.

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The meeting included a request for an executive session to discuss legal strategies related to the case Lane, et al. v. City of Scottsdale. However, no motion was made to enter the session, allowing the council to proceed directly to the main agenda item—whether to amend the ballot language.

City Attorney Sherry Scott provided a detailed presentation on the case and the proposed revisions to the ballot language. Public comments were heard from several Scottsdale residents, expressing both support and opposition to the proposed changes. Concerns ranged from the ability to file new ballot measure arguments to potential budget shortfalls and the timing of the special meeting.

This one-time request will not change your party status or anything regarding your voter registration. (Photo: Sora Shimazaki) — The council voted 4-3 in favor of the original amendment (Photo: Sora Shimazaki)

Councilwoman Betty Janik proposed the original motion to amend the resolution, aiming to clarify the ballot measure language as reflected in the meeting materials. Despite an alternate motion by Vice Mayor Barry Graham to revise specific language related to an expiring tax, the council ultimately rejected the alternate proposal.

The council voted 4-3 in favor of the original amendment, with Mayor David Ortega, Councilmembers Tom Durham, Janik, and Solange Whitehead voting in favor, and Graham, Councilmembers Tammy Caputi, and Kathleen Littlefield opposing.

The amended ballot language will now be submitted to Maricopa County for inclusion in the November 2024 ballot. The City will also make necessary adjustments to the publicity pamphlet and provide an opportunity for those who previously submitted arguments regarding Proposition 490 to make revisions.