Mesa is entering a new chapter in leadership with two key appointments aimed at reinforcing the city’s commitment to public safety, fiscal responsibility, and forward-thinking governance. Scott J. Butler has officially stepped into the role of Mesa City Manager, while longtime Mesa Police veteran Dan Butler has been named the city’s new Chief of Police, effective July 1.
New City Manager Brings Vision for Growth and Efficiency
Following his official swearing-in on June 2, Scott Butler addressed the City Council with a clear mission: to lead Mesa through current budgetary challenges while maintaining exceptional public service. Butler, a former White House staffer with 21 years of experience in Mesa’s government, emphasized practical innovation, economic development, and financial transparency.
“Mesa is at an important moment,” he said. “We must apply the same fiscal discipline as families do at home, all while finding creative ways to continue delivering the top-tier services our community deserves.”
Key areas of focus for the new City Manager include attracting high-wage employers in cutting-edge sectors such as artificial intelligence, biotech, and advanced manufacturing. Butler cited Mesa’s strong infrastructure, strategic water portfolio, and institutions like ASU Polytechnic as competitive advantages that position the city as a leader in future-focused economic development.
Butler’s leadership style is rooted in service and accountability. “Our job is to serve Mesa residents in the moments that matter – from reliable utilities to fast emergency response times. Every action we take must reflect that commitment,” he stated.
He succeeds longtime City Manager Chris Brady, who retired after 19 years of service. Butler holds a B.A. in Political Science and History from the University of Georgia and a Master of Public Administration from Arizona State University.
Dan Butler Named Mesa’s New Police Chief
As Scott Butler takes the reins as City Manager, he announced another significant appointment: Dan Butler will be the next Mesa Police Chief. A 25-year veteran of the department, Dan Butler has built a respected career through leadership roles across multiple divisions, including his recent position as Executive Assistant Chief.
“Dan embodies the core values of the Mesa Police Department,” said Scott Butler. “His operational expertise, leadership across critical areas, and commitment to innovation make him exceptionally qualified to guide the department forward.”
As Executive Assistant Chief, Dan Butler has led key support units including Human Resources, Training, Communications, and Financial Services. He’s also overseen more than $100 million in capital improvement projects, ensuring timely and efficient enhancements to police infrastructure.
In response to the appointment, Chief Dan Butler said, “It’s an honor to be chosen to lead the men and women of the Mesa Police Department. I’m focused on strengthening community partnerships, supporting our personnel, and building on our reputation as one of the safest large cities in America.”
His credentials include a Master of Administration from Northern Arizona University and completion of several elite law enforcement leadership programs, including the FBI’s National Executive Institute and Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command.
A New Era of Leadership for Mesa
Both appointments reflect Mesa’s commitment to promoting talent from within while pursuing innovation and growth. Mayor Mark Freeman praised the continuity and vision both leaders bring: “Scott and Dan understand our city from the inside out. Their deep experience and shared dedication to Mesa’s future make this a strong leadership team for the years ahead.”
Despite sharing the same last name, City Manager Scott Butler and Police Chief Dan Butler are not related. Their parallel appointments, however, signify a unified direction for Mesa—one grounded in trust, proven leadership, and a commitment to excellence.
