Scottsdale Activists Accuse Axon of Legal Violations and Concealed Information

By Matthew Holloway |

Bob Littlefield, a former Scottsdale City Councilman and chairman of the Taxpayers Against Awful Apartment Zoning Exemptions (TAAAZE), has made serious allegations against Axon, the bodycam and non-lethal weapon manufacturer. According to Littlefield, Axon has spent substantial sums on “petition blockers” to suppress public dissent regarding its controversial project to construct 1,900 apartment units near its planned headquarters.

TAAAZE claims that Axon’s tactics are designed to obscure crucial project details from the public. The organization criticized the company for not filing a fourth-quarter campaign finance report, which is required under state law. “These ‘blockers’ stalked lawful petition circulators to prevent residents from signing petitions for a public vote on Axon’s project,” TAAAZE stated. Despite these efforts, approximately 27,000 Scottsdale residents signed the petition, demonstrating widespread opposition.

Concerns about the apartment development extend beyond individual property rights. TAAAZE argues that the project would exacerbate traffic congestion, detract from the community’s aesthetic, strain water resources, and compromise public safety. Additionally, they assert that the project could undermine funding for Arizona schools.

Littlefield voiced his frustrations publicly, stating, “Axon’s failure to comply with campaign finance laws shows blatant disrespect for both legislation and the residents of Scottsdale.” He expressed indignation against Axon’s intimidation tactics, asserting, “As a Vietnam veteran, I won’t be intimidated.” Littlefield highlighted that while he initially supported Axon’s plans, the company’s recent threats regarding relocation in response to local opposition have shifted his stance.

On January 9, Axon announced it would halt plans for its new headquarters in Scottsdale, citing “local political opposition” as a significant factor influencing this decision. Founder and CEO Rick Smith emphasized that, while the company has deep roots in Scottsdale, the political climate poses a threat to its mission of enhancing public safety.

Smith remarked, “If that means relocating to a community that fully supports those goals, we’re prepared to make that move. Political games risk not only this project but also Arizona’s ability to attract and retain major employers in the future.”

Axon also implied a connection between TAAAZE’s referendum and the California-based labor union, Unite Here, which has previously challenged significant Arizona developments. Reports indicate that both Unite Here and TAAAZE leaders, however, have denied any formal alliance in this case. Nonetheless, Littlefield acknowledged the possibility that individuals affiliated with Unite Here might be assisting TAAAZE in circulating petitions.

“While there’s no official setup with them, I can imagine someone might do that,” Littlefield relayed to reporters.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.