By Carla
On November 3rd the Scottsdale City Council discussed honoring a recently departed national figure. This despite the lack of an established process to follow. The Council minority proposal to first draft and adopt a City policy with clear rules on when and how memorials can be approved was rejected. Direction was given for the City Manager to prepare a report and agendize future Council discussion and possible action. On exactly what, is still up to interpretation.
However the timing was fortuitous because the next day we learned that a true visionary, who helped build the Scottsdale we love, had passed.
Bill Walton, the person who initiated and championed turning the natural wash that split Scottsdale in half into an oasis of parks, instead of a giant concrete ditch that the Army Corps of Engineers recommended. A man who fought so hard that folks actually called it “Walton’s Wash” back then. Bill became a City planner, then Councilman, providing ideas and leadership that helped give us not only the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt but the Civic Center Mall and the TPC.
If we are going to consider a memorial to honor someone in Scottsdale, shouldn’t we consider Bill Walton? Whose tireless work – for decades – gave us a foundation that continues to ensure the quality of life that all our residents enjoy.
Certain City Departments, like Parks, already have a process in place for honoring worthy recipients. Shouldn’t the City Council lead by example and also follow an established process? One that takes into account their responsibility to the future, not just the here and now? The Arizona State Board of Geographic and Historic Names has a process that requires a five year waiting period after someone has passed before they will consider a naming. They do this so that decisions are not made in the heat of passion but are thoughtful and will withstand the test of time.
Let’s hope Council is presented with a long term, functional process before any new memorials are established. A process based not on emotions of the moment but respectful regard for what the proposed honoree truly gave to our community. And the lasting impact that their work has on Scottsdale.
Carla (Carla)
Preserve Pioneer