Guest Editorial: Grasping for Clear Air

By Councilmember Betty Janik Recently, I received emails asking me to “reject” the Maricopa Association of Governors (MAG) recommendations on techniques to reduce ozone levels in Maricopa County.  First, what is MAG?  It is a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO).  By state statue MPO is the policy board created and designated to carry out the metropolitan transportation planning process including plans … Read More

Guest Editorial: Road Diets: To Be or Not to Be

By Councilwoman Betty Janik On March 21, City Council approved lane reductions (Road Diets) for 68th Street from Osborn north to Indian School. This continues to spark controversy.  Over 30 individuals spoke at the meeting representing both sides.  I have received hundreds of emails with about 85% in opposition to lane reductions. I also spoke to several icons of Scottsdale … Read More

Guest Editorial: New Beginnings 2023

By Councilwoman Betty Janik The new year brings with it a sense of renewal and a belief that we will continue to improve as individuals and as members of a community. The City of Scottsdale is no exception. Building on regulations passed in 2022, we will strive to implement these new rules in 2023. Near the end of last year, … Read More

Guest Editorial: My Endorsements for City Council

By Councilwoman Betty Janik I am pleased to endorse Barry Graham for a first term on Scottsdale City Council. Barry has given generously of his time, serving on several boards and commissions, often as chairman. His experience on the Transportation Commission, the Building Advisory Appeals Board, and most recently the Planning Commission, are an asset to City Council. He is … Read More

Guest Editorial: The Problem with Extremism

By Councilwoman Betty Janik Extremism was once considered an ideology, a belief system, outside of the common sense attitudes of society.  Unfortunately, it now seems to be the norm.  With the constant news stream of outrageous commentary, we are tempted to believe what we hear and frequently what we are shown.  Social media has been used effectively to promote extremist positions … Read More

Guest Editorial: the Month in Review

By Councilwoman Betty Janik It has been my pleasure to serve the Scottsdale residents as a member of City Council in 2021. The first year of my term has gone by quickly. I ran to be a voice for the citizens and I will continue to listen to you, meet with you, and work for the best Scottsdale. I welcome … Read More

Scottsdale Votes Yes on Proposition 463

As you are likely aware, yesterday was Election Day, and aside from some big-ticket bellwether races across the country, Scottsdale cast its vote for or against the Scottsdale General Plan 2035, or Proposition 463. While votes are left to count, it appears to be on its way to victory. After the first batch of votes counted, which typically includes nearly … Read More

Guest Editorial: Vote YES on General Plan 2035 for the Best Scottsdale

By Betty Janik Please cast your vote and return by mail. Ballot must be received by November 2 at 7 pm. 1. The General Plan 2035 is the result of a strenuous public review process. Members of Council considered hundreds of comments submitted by citizens and citizen groups. Changes were made to the GP 2035 based on these comments. It … Read More