Scott J. Butler officially assumes the role of Mesa's City Manager. Mayor Mark Freeman administered the Loyalty Oath to Mr. Butler during the June 2 City Council meeting, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Arizona's third-largest city. In his first address to the Council, Butler outlined his vision for addressing Mesa's challenges through innovation and efficiencies while building upon the City's strong foundation of fiscal responsibility and public service excellence.
"Mesa is at an inflection point," Mr. Butler told the Council. "I share your mission of addressing our structural budget challenges with the same fiscal discipline that families use at home. We must live within our means while innovating and delivering the exceptional services our residents expect and deserve."
The former White House staffer, who has served Mesa in various capacities for 21 years, outlined key priorities including fiscal transparency, strategic economic development and maintaining Mesa's reputation as one of America's safest large cities. He emphasized the importance of attracting high-wage employers in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and biotechnology while leveraging Mesa's competitive advantages.
"We must outwork and out-hustle our competition to attract high-wage jobs and skilled career opportunities," Mr. Butler said. "We'll be selective, focusing on employers who create future-oriented careers to attract and keep our best and brightest in Mesa."
Butler highlighted Mesa's strategic advantages, including its diverse water portfolio, robust infrastructure capabilities and the presence of ASU Polytechnic campus in East Mesa. He noted that Mesas certainty in these areas gives the City a competitive edge over outlying communities when businesses evaluate potential locations.
The new City Manager also emphasized his commitment to balancing business-friendly processes with demanding development standards, working to ensure Mesa maintains its historically high standards of customer service.
"One principle will guide everything we do: we work for our residents," Butler stated. "Whether it's ensuring clean water flows from their taps, trash is collected on time, or emergency responders arrive quickly when needed, our work makes a real difference in their daily lives."
Mayor Mark Freeman acknowledged Butler's comprehensive vision and readiness to lead: "Scott's understanding of Mesa's operations, paired with his strategic vision for innovation and growth, makes him well-prepared for this role. Throughout his career, especially as Assistant City Manager, he has demonstrated the leadership, work ethic and problem-solving skills that earned the Council's unanimous support. His strong relationships with employees will ensure a smooth transition and continued momentum for Mesa. Most importantly, promoting from within strengthens our foundation, and I have complete confidence in Scott's ability to guide our City forward and deliver meaningful results for our residents."
Butler acknowledged the partnership between the City Council and City Manager that has served Mesa well, stating, "The City Council sets the vision, and together with our incredible staff, we turn that vision into reality. I couldn't be more excited to work with all of you as we build Mesa's bright future together."
The new City Manager takes the helm of an organization with approximately 4,000 employees and an annual operating and capital budget of $2.79 billion, serving over 500,000 residents. Butler succeeds Chris Brady, who retired on May 31, 2025, after 19 years of service.
Butler holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History from the University of Georgia, a Master of Public Administration from Arizona State University and is a member of the International City Managers Association and the Arizona City/County Managers Association.