Scottsdale City Council Faces Controversy Over DEI Funding and Remote Work Policies

On January 14, a new conservative majority took their seats on the Scottsdale City Council, leading to a chaotic meeting highlighted by public outcry against the repeal of the city's Sustainability Plan. At the upcoming February 11 meeting, the council plans to discuss two contentious issues: the elimination of funding for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs and a ban on remote work, reflecting policies reminiscent of the Trump administration.

Public Opposition Critics claim that the revocation of the Sustainability Plan was added to the agenda improperly, suggesting a potential violation of the Open Meetings Law. Attorney Steven Jackson has filed a complaint with the state Attorney General, alleging that a quorum of council members communicated inappropriately before the meeting.

DEI Funding Under Fire The council is considering a proposal to focus employment practices on merit-based evaluations, which would effectively end the use of city funds for DEI initiatives. Councilwoman Solange Whitehead vocally opposes this move, arguing that it undermines Scottsdale's long-standing commitment to diversity.

Return to Office Mandate Another controversial agenda item is the push to require all city employees to work in person full-time, a move that Whitehead argues could lead to decreased employee satisfaction and productivity. Barry Graham, a council member in favor of this mandate, believes that in-person collaboration is essential for productivity.

As tensions rise, the council's decisions could significantly impact the city's approach to diversity and remote work policies moving forward.