Scottsdale council approves revised Axon MOU, cuts housing to 1,200 units and sets litigation deadline

Scottsdale — The City Council on Nov. 17 approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Axon Enterprise over objections from residents and environmental advocates, voting to reduce the project’s residential component and to link litigation steps to the company’s signature on the agreement.

The council adopted Resolution 13567 authorizing Contract No. 2025‑195‑COS with Axon, amended to cut the total residential units to 1,200 — 600 apartments and 600 condominiums — and to phase the buildout so the first phase will include 500 apartments and 100 condominiums, followed by a second phase of 100 apartments and 500 condominiums. The council also approved an ordinance to create a self‑certification/third‑party inspection program limited to qualified international headquarters campuses.

Why it matters: The MOU was presented as a negotiated alternative to the blunt outcomes the council said would follow from state law and pending litigation. Supporters argued the agreement preserves jobs and brings infrastructure and amenities; opponents warned it strips public oversight, reduces water commitments and shortchanges affordable housing.

What the MOU and related votes do - Unit mix…