The History of Scottsdale, Arizona’s Mayors

The History of Scottsdale, Arizona’s Mayors

When most people think of Scottsdale, they picture luxury resorts, world-class golf, or backyard pools glistening in the Arizona sun. But behind the city’s vibrant reputation is a long history of leadership that helped shape Scottsdale into “The West’s Most Western Town.” Since incorporation in 1951, Scottsdale has been guided by a series of mayors—each leaving their mark on the city’s growth and character.

In this post, we’ll explore the history of Scottsdale’s mayors, from the early pioneers of cityhood to today’s leaders.

Scottsdale’s First Mayor: Malcolm White (1951–1958)

Scottsdale officially became a city on June 25, 1951. Malcolm White, a businessman and community advocate, became the city’s first mayor. White was instrumental in laying the foundation for Scottsdale’s civic identity and setting the course for a growing desert community.

Early Leaders and Growing Pains (1958–1980)

Following White, Scottsdale was led by several early mayors who steered the city through rapid post-war growth:

• Mort Kimsey (1958–1962) helped guide Scottsdale’s early expansion.
• William P. Schrader (1962–1964) and John Woudenberg (1964) provided short but steady leadership.
• C.W. “Bill” Clayton (1964–1966) and Bud Tims (1966–1974) oversaw Scottsdale’s continued population boom.
• William Jenkins (1974–1980) managed the city during a time when Scottsdale was beginning to establish itself as a destination beyond Phoenix.

These formative decades were all about turning Scottsdale from a small town into a recognized Arizona city.

A Mayor Who Became a Legend: Herb Drinkwater (1980–1996)

Perhaps Scottsdale’s most beloved mayor, Herb Drinkwater, served for an impressive 16 years. His approachable style and tireless community engagement made him a household name. Scottsdale honored his legacy with Herb Drinkwater Boulevard and a statue in his memory. Under Drinkwater’s leadership, Scottsdale cemented its reputation for growth, quality of life, and strong civic pride.

Modern Civic Leadership (1996–2021)

The years following Drinkwater’s long service brought more change to Scottsdale:

• Sam Campana (1996–2000) emphasized community programs and the arts.
• Mary Manross (2000–2009) became Scottsdale’s first elected female mayor, remembered for her focus on inclusivity and workplace protections.
• W.J. “Jim” Lane (2009–2021) guided Scottsdale through both the Great Recession and a period of modern economic development, serving three full terms before stepping down due to term limits.

Recent and Current Leadership (2021–Present)

• David Ortega (2021–2025), an architect by profession, brought a focus on design, growth management, and balancing Scottsdale’s modern demands with its historic character.
• In January 2025, Lisa Borowsky began her term as the newest mayor, following the 2024 election. Borowsky is focused on Scottsdale’s future growth, water sustainability, and preserving the quality of life that residents cherish.

Why Scottsdale’s Mayors Matter to Us

For residents and businesses alike, the leadership of Scottsdale’s mayors has shaped everything from zoning and development to water use policies—an especially critical issue in the desert. At Founder's Pool Service, we see firsthand how city growth and strong neighborhoods create the demand for well-maintained pools that are safe, sustainable, and enjoyable year-round.

Just as Scottsdale’s mayors have guided the city through decades of change, our team is committed to guiding homeowners through the challenges of pool care with expert service and reliable solutions.

Final Thoughts

From Malcolm White’s vision in 1951 to Lisa Borowsky’s leadership today, Scottsdale’s mayors tell the story of a city that has grown from a small desert town into one of Arizona’s premier communities. At Founder's Pool Service, we’re proud to be part of Scottsdale’s history in our own way—helping families, homeowners, and communities enjoy the desert lifestyle through crystal-clear pools.