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Scottsdale’s city attorney confirmed that an Axon employee contacted a planning commissioner’s boss regarding the official’s opposition to a controversial project, which raised public concern about the city’s public hearing process. Axon, in response, denied any impropriety and suggested the planning commissioner had a conflict of interest. The controversy surrounds Axon’s proposal to build nearly 2,000 apartment units near its planned headquarters in north Scottsdale, which has received opposition from the city’s planning commission and nearby residents.
Scottsdale City Attorney Chides Axon Over Inappropriate Approach
Axon, the manufacturer of Taser stun guns, allegedly contacted the employer of a Scottsdale city planning commissioner, stirring controversy. The commissioner had opposed Axon’s contentious proposal to establish nearly 2000 apartment units near its planned headquarters in north Scottsdale. City Attorney Sherry Scott has written a stern letter in response to these claims.
Alleged Interference Sparks Intense Reactions
According to Scott, such conduct could potentially compromise the city’s public hearing process, and may dissuade officials from volunteering. Axon refuted the allegations, denying any inappropriate behavior and suggesting that the planning commissioner might have a conflict of interest.
Commissioner Raises Concern
Planning Commissioner Christian Serena was among the most vocal opposers of Axon’s proposal. He wrote in an email to Scott that an individual claiming to represent Axon’s leadership contacted his employer, Merrill Lynch, to discuss his public comments about the project. Scott verified this in her letter, reprimanding Axon for the inappropriate action.
Axon CEO Denies Accusations
In a response letter, Axon CEO Rick Smith strongly denied any wrongdoing and accused the city of “prioritizing political theater.” Smith suggested Serena may have a potential conflict of interest in deciding on Axon’s project and detailed his understanding of the interaction with Serena’s employer. According to the CEO, an Axon employee contacted Merrill Lynch to inquire about potential conflict of interest policies.
Zoning Official Denies Conflict
Serena, rejecting any claims of a conflict of interest, stated he only deals with non-commercial accounts at Merrill Lynch. He expressed satisfaction at having his statement validated by the city attorney and commended her efforts to uphold the city’s process integrity.
Stalled Apartment Proposal and Axon’s Future Plans
The proposed apartment project is currently on hold indefinitely. Axon’s CEO mentioned possible relocation of the company due to an “antidevelopment” sentiment in Scottsdale. He warned that the ongoing public spectacle is discouraging for both Axon’s interest in staying in Scottsdale and other potential employers.
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