Ethan Knowlden

Knowlden makes water sustainability a centerpiece, calling to reaffirm the Scottsdale Water Strategic Plan 2025–2030 and move aggressively on its capital investments — automated metering, groundwater recovery, advanced purified recycled water for direct potable reuse, and regional efforts like Bartlett Dam.

"We need to reaffirm our commitment to the Scottsdale Water Strategic Plan 2025–2030 and move aggressively on the capital investments outlined in that plan."

No official stance on record.

No official stance on record.

While calling Scottsdale a premium market, Knowlden wants the city to be part of the housing solution — supporting responsible redevelopment and infill (not high-rises) and appropriate density for seniors, veterans, families, and workers within the General Plan.

"While Scottsdale will remain a premium market, the city should support responsible housing development for seniors, veterans, families and workers within the framework of the General Plan."

No official stance on record.

No official stance on record.

Knowlden prioritizes maintaining strong police and fire staffing while improving recruitment and retention, reducing response times (especially for nuisance issues), and strengthening code enforcement.

"In addition to maintaining strong staffing, we should improve recruitment and retention tools, reduce response times—especially for nuisance issues—and strengthen code enforcement."

No official stance on record.

Knowlden sees a vital city role in laying the foundation for economic success — developing infrastructure, investing in public safety and amenities, then partnering creatively with private groups to support economic development, tourism, and cultural institutions.

"A vital task for the city is to create a foundation for economic success... then working creatively in partnership with private groups to support economic development, tourism, and cultural events and institutions."

No official stance on record.

Knowlden says personal vehicles will remain primary but congestion solutions must go beyond road expansion — collaborating regionally, evaluating bus rapid transit, and considering restoring trolley routes, alongside road maintenance and safety for all users.

"Personal vehicles will remain primary, but congestion solutions must extend beyond road expansion. The city should collaborate with regional partners, evaluate bus rapid transit, and consider restoring trolley routes."

Knowlden takes a balanced fiscal-steward approach: a balanced operating budget, strong reserves, modest debt used mainly for new infrastructure, and revenue principles emphasizing stability, fairness, and diversification — with growing attention to long-term maintenance obligations.

"It is not enough to be able to run city operations; Scottsdale must also have money to maintain its infrastructure and must set aside additional funds in reserve."