Scottsdale Captures Award for Using Innovative Technology to Positively Impact Residents and Businesses
The Center for Digital Government’s 2023 Digital Cities 23rd annual survey ranked Scottsdale the top digital city nationwide in the 125,000 – 249,999 population category. The city is among a distinguished group that has worked hard to improve its digital, citizen, and government experience through technology and leadership. Cities are recognized for using technology for strengthening cybersecurity, enhancing transparency, digital privacy right and equality, and finding innovative ways to support solutions for social challenges facing cities today.
It’s Time for Short-Term/Vacation Rental License Renewals
Short-term/vacation rental owners must obtain and maintain an annual city license for each Scottsdale property. The annual license fee is $250 per property; funds received cover costs associated with licensing vacation and short-term rentals. This license is in addition to the county and state requirements. To renew, owners sign on to their online accounts and select the “renew license link,” update, or confirm account information and pay the non-refundable renewal fee for processing. If the property address is no longer offered for less than a 30-day rental, email [email protected] to request license closure. Licenses not submitted for renewal by the expiration date will be closed and a new application required. For more information, visit scottsdaleaz.gov/codes/vacation-short-term-rentals.
Recycle Your Christmas Tree at These Drop-Off Locations
Yellow collections bins will be available at the following city parks for Christmas Tree recycling:
• Cactus Park, 7202 E. Cactus Rd.
• Eldorado Park, 2301 N. Miller Rd.
• Scottsdale Ranch Park, 10400 E. Via Linda
• Thompson Peak Park, 20199 N. 78th Pl.
Only natural, untreated Christmas trees and wreaths without wires can be composted. Artificial trees, stands, and ornaments aren’t accepted. Single-family home residents can place Christmas trees in their green waste pile, separate from bulk trash, during brush/bulk service week. For more information, visit scottsdaleaz.gov/solid-waste.
Arizona State Parks and Trails Hosts Winter Photo Contest
Arizona State Parks and Trails is inviting photographers to participate in the Opt Outside Photo Contest. Running through January 15, the contest aims to celebrate the state’s natural beauty and encourage outdoor adventures during the winter months.
Open to both amateur and professional photographers aged 18 or older, the contest requires all submissions to be captured within Arizona’s more than 30 state parks. Entrants can compete in five categories: Living Creatures, Friendly Faces, Outdoor Activities, Landscapes, and Arizona History. These categories are designed to spotlight the state’s diverse flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.
Prizes await winners in each category, with a grand prize for the overall contest winner. This grand prize includes a two-night stay in a Pin Drop micro-camper, a cave tour for two at Kartchner Caverns State Park, an Arizona State Parks annual pass, a $15 REI gift card, and an AppreciateAZ gift box. First-place winners in each category will receive an Arizona State Parks annual pass, while second and third places will get day-use passes. Additionally, all winners will be awarded a limited-edition sticker and AppreciateAZ water bottle.
A panel of judges will evaluate entries based on creativity, composition, and storytelling within a state park setting. Participants can submit up to five entries across multiple categories. Winners will be announced in February. For submission guidelines and detailed contest rules, interested individuals can visit azstateparks.com/photo-contest.
Harkins Theatres Introduces “Secret Cinema”
Harkins Theatres is set to launch an exciting new venture that will leave moviegoers buzzing with anticipation. Enter Harkins Secret Cinema – a thrilling monthly event that promises an exclusive sneak peek at a mystery film, shrouded in secrecy until the moment the lights dim. Movie enthusiasts can look forward to a suspenseful surprise every month as Harkins Secret Cinema unveils an unreleased gem on the big screen. The catch? The title of the film will remain a closely guarded secret until patrons take their seats, with only the film’s rating serving as a tantalizing clue. This cinematic experience comes at a reduced price of just $5, which is more than half off the usual adult ticket price of $12.50 for an average evening showing at Harkins. For more information, visit harkins.com.
