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xon Enterprise, the maker of Taser electroshock weapons, is considering relocating its headquarters out of north Scottsdale after a likely public referendum to block its $1.3 billion expansion plan. The company's 70-acre campus, featuring nearly 1,900 apartments and a 250,000-square-foot headquarters building, was approved by the City Council in November.

    However, neighbors opposed to the project's size filed a petition with over 26,700 signatures, which could force a vote on the issue as early as 2026. Axon CEO Rick Smith, a Scottsdale native, has threatened to move the company out of state if the referendum passes, citing Texas and Florida as potential destinations.

    Smith argued that the project's success relies on its integrated nature, including residential units for employees, which would allow Axon to compete with tech giants like Apple and Microsoft. Residents have expressed concerns about added density and traffic, prompting Smith to say he cannot build half the campus without his board's approval.

    Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky expressed disappointment at Axon's threat to leave but is "comfortable" with the referendum timeline, provided required signatures are verified. She suggested that holding a vote before the new City Council took office may have fueled opposition.