HIKE FOR FERGUSON TRAIL NOW STARTS AT THE NEW PARK, NOT IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
Ferguson Trail is one of the most well-known trails within the Cottonwood Heights boundaries (with over 440 review on Google and 2,320 on All Trails). Located along 7721 Timberline Drive, the trail extends for approximately 3.5 miles into the canyon. Unfortunately for the residents living near the trailhead, the continuously-increasing notoriety also brings continuously-increasing traffic. With only 15 parking stalls located directly at the trailhead, the dead end neighborhood streets struggle to accommodate the car circulation.
“The issue residents report is high traffic with cars turning around in driveways,” said Community and Economic Development Director Mike Johnson.
“I counted cars three different times when three homes were vacant out of the 11 north of me,” said resident Marilee Christensen. “On May 18, from 8 a.m. until noon, there were 75 cars. On May 19, from 11:10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., there were 16 cars looking for open parking stalls. On May 27, from 11:55 a.m. until 12:55 p.m., there were 30 cars that came up our street.”
In years prior, Cottonwood Heights has attempted to minimize car traffic within the dead end neighborhood streets surrounding the trailhead, in a few different ways. The city’s Bonneville Shoreline Trail (BST) Master Plan was adopted in 2020. The plan recommends accommodating parking for regional amenities. Once a regional parking lot opened, the plan recommends removing the parking stalls directly located at the trailhead along Timberline Drive.
“The residents have understood since 2020 that the stalls were going to be removed,” said Mayor Mike Weichers.
In 2022, a permit-parking program was altered (from its origins in 2020) where only cars with permitted-use could park along the street. Currently, the permit parking program is still in effect so on-street parking is restricted to resident-only parking with 0.3 miles of the trailhead in all directions. Cars
that were not permitted through the city could be ticketed and towed.
In 2023, Ferguson Park was opened along 7722 S. Prospector Drive to allow for overflow parking to Ferguson Trail. (Four years after ground was broken.) Ferguson Park was designated as a regional park with its additional amenities, parking and an off-leash dog area. That regional designation has brought the regional traffic to the city’s residential neighborhoods.
“The parking lot was intended (for people visiting the park itself but also) as a trailhead parking lot for both Ferguson Trail and any future Bonneville Shoreline Trail,” Johnson said.
Visitors to the Ferguson Trail are encouraged to park within Ferguson Park, walk through the park area, up through the designated pathways through the neighborhoods, and to the trailhead. Even with the overflow parking, many trail users will still try to fight for the open parking stalls at the trailhead.
“All trail users should use the below and larger parking lot,” Johnson said.
When Councilmember Suzanne Hyland saw the recommend pathway that trail users are encouraged to walk from Ferguson Park up to the Ferguson Trailhead, she said, “there’s a big incentive for people to go up there and look for parking before turning around to go look for parking in the park.”
“Residents do want the stalls removed to help with the traffic in the neighborhood,” Johnson said. “We have received over a dozen letters of support for removal of those stalls.”
City staff and volunteers have been brainstorming additional ways to address the intensified traffic. Drawing back to the 2020 BST Master Plan, the city has been moving forward to eliminate all but the ADA parking stalls at the trailhead.
“You could put jersey barriers there to block it and that’s a very low-cost option we could do right now,” Johnson said.
Continued page 21
Vehicles parking at the Ferguson Trailhead that do not have a city-issued permit are subject to being ticketed and towed. Parking can instead be accessed through the park along Wasatch Boulevard. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
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By Jerry S. Christensen | j.christensen@mycityjournals.com
Multipleprojects are planned in Cottonwood Heights to commemorate the now traditional “9-11 National Day of Remembrance and Service.” Because 9-11 falls on a Wednesday this year, the service projects are planned for the morning of Saturday, Sept. 14.
“This year’s projects continue the tradition of beautifying Cottonwood Heights but also address nutrition needs for students and their families in the city,” said Scott Bracken, co-chair of the CH Day of Service committee.
The most visible set of service projects will take place on Bengal Boulevard. All city residents are welcome to join the work parties 9 a.m.-noon on Sept. 14 at Bengal Boulevard and 2700 East. This is the intersection that features the Shell gas station, Root’d Cafe, Sumac Cafe and Cottonwood Cyclery. The projects at this site revolve around a series of art installations that will be popping
up around Cottonwood Heights over the next two months. Laura Garcia, chair of the CH Arts Council, has commissioned local artists to display their artwork on “wraps” that will be installed on various green mechanical boxes that dot Bengal Boulevard. “We have local artists creating local scenes to highlight and celebrate our city of Cottonwood Heights,” Garcia said.
Some of these art sites/mechanical boxes fall in areas that are in need of cleaning up and some creative xeriscaping to properly complement the new art. Randy Whitehead, Day of Service committee member, sees the opportunity to give the community another area of beauty “this new art surrounded by creative xeriscaping will be an example and a catalyst for all of us in the community to showcase our beautiful city.”
In addition, anyone who wants to participate in the day of service can donate nonperishable food items to the Brighton High
pantry. This Canyons School District initiative at Brighton High School helps local students and their families who may otherwise go hungry. The pantry is located within the high school. Students in need are able to take bags of food home whenever they feel the need. To help refill the pantry for the new school year, the Day of Service committee will have food collection points at the work site on Sept. 14 (Bengal Boulevard and 2700 East). Some neighborhoods will receive bags to fill on their doorsteps prior to that date. And cash donations to the pantry can be made to the Venmo account in the attached QR code (a tax-deductible 501(c)(3) donation).
“Filling the Brighton pantry has become an annual tradition among the generous and caring citizens of Cottonwood Heights. We care for our own,” said Day of Service committee member Jacob Whittle.
Finally, a new Day of Service project has emerged as people have caught the vision of the tradition—quilting. Material and batting has been donated and a quilting bee will be hosted on the morning of Saturday, Sept. 14. The quilts will be donated to refugees in our community.
“We wanted to use our skills to contribute to this wonderful Day of Service. We
may not be able to help with xeriscaping, but we can quilt!” exclaimed Cottonwood Heights resident Marilyn Cowan. Details of all of these projects can be found at the attached QR code. l
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Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong
Art wraps soon to be installed. (Photo Laura Garcia)
Bengal Boulevard and 2700 East area of service. (Jerry Christensen/City Journals)
The Brighton High pantry. (Jerry Christensen/City Journals)
Evolving details of all the Day of Service projects at this QR code link. (Jerry Christensen/City Journals)
Cottonwood Heights and Incheon, South Korea hope to become sister cities
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
The city of Cottonwood Heights is looking forward to the sister (city) they will be gaining. The Council in Incheon, Yeonsu-gu, South Korea will take the final vote on their relationship during their council meeting in October.
The Incheon and Songdo areas of South Korea are booming for international business as the goal of this specific Northeast Asia region is to be a hub for business, leisure and tourism. (Songdo is a free trade international economic zone.) Utah businesses have taken notice and have been trying to figure out how to work within his specific region.
“We want to get tied in there and do more business,” a local company investing $500 million into start-ups across the world told Cottonwood Heights Councilmember Matt Holton.
Cottonwood Heights hopes to provide the answer. As the city is home to many tech-emphasized businesses, the economic relationship seems extremely beneficial and somewhat inevitable.
“All of these businesses are about worldwide investments,” Holton said.
Some of these companies headquartered within Cottonwood Heights include BMW Bank, SoFi Financial Services, Square Financial Services, Kickstart, Peterson Partners and Peak Ventures.
“That’s exactly where we want to go,” Peak Ventures told Mayor Mike Weichers.
Not only does Cottonwood Heights have economic ties to South Korea; the city has family ties as well. Both Councilmember Holton and Korean American Federation Utah Board Member Kay Choi call the city home.
“Korean is in my blood,” Holton said. “I can only speak swear words and food dishes. The swear words are what my mother called me. The food dishes are what I order.”
Choi, who is also board member of the Korean American Chamber of Commerce of Utah, has lived within District 1 of Cottonwood Heights for 30 years. She has hosted South Korean students through the exchange program at Brighton High School as well. Councilmember Holton has been working with her to be better advocates within the Korean community.
“As I’ve continued to engage with the Korean community, I’ve found out…they don’t feel super connected. They don’t feel their voice really matters,” Holton said.
The idea to gain a sister city was originally brainstormed during the Cottonwood Heights City Council’s annual retreat, back in January.
“In our yearly retreat, we talked about enhancing diplomatic opportunities and our identity,” said Weichers.
With all of the economic, educational and blood ties to South Korea, the dream sister city was Incheon. Holton quickly began working to explore, research, communicate, and persuade
for this relationship to developed and codified.
“For most people in Korea, you have to say we are just north of Las Vegas because they’ve never even heard of Utah—but they do love to gamble,” Holton said.
Holton reached out to state leaders and many agreed they’d like to have Utah’s identity strengthened internationally, especially in regard to economic development. (Salt Lake City hosting the 2034 Olympics is definitely at the top of mind.)
“I understand we’re small—but we’re mighty. I think we punch above our weight. Let us be that advocate and bridge to Utah,” Holton said. “The only way we can do something this big is to bring partners along and show we are a united front.”
Holton compiled a full packet of Letters of Support (for a sister city relationship between Cottonwood Heights and Incheon) from: Rep. John Curtis, Sen. Mitt Romney, Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson, Utah Governor’s Office, Silicon Slopes, Life Elevated, the University of Utah, BioUtah, World Trade Center Utah and Utah Inland Port Authority.
“These types of relationships are invaluable. It brings so much to both parties,” said Councilmember Shawn Newell.
Without the partnerships from the University of Utah’s sister campus is Songdo, these conversations and potential relationship would not have developed. Director of External Relations and Alumni Affairs James Park has been working at the University of Utah Songdo campus for the last 10 years.
Park has been selling Cottonwood Heights to the mayor of Songdo “like it’s the greatest place on earth…which it is,” Holton said.
Holton did reassure his fellow councilmembers that there has not been any future commitments tied to this relationship. There is no commitment of any future monies. If the sister city relationship does not bring value to Cottonwood Heights, they won’t continue the relationship.
Incheon has a population of 400,000 residents living within 19.6 square miles. Delta is slated to have a nonstop flight into Incheon International Airport by next year.
Since the city was essentially started from scratch, Cottonwood Heights is excited to learn more about city planning from their sister as well. Holton shared how they have a huge emphasis on sustainability and their entire trash collection is processed underground.
“There is unanimous support from their council. They are ready,” Holton said. Incheon’s council meets in October where an official vote will take place. l
Incheon, South Korea, is a self-contained living and business district featuring air and sea transportation, logistics complex, international business center, financial services, residences, schools, hospitals, shopping and entertainment centers. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
Councilmember Holton believed the presentation of this important relationship needed to look the part so he paid for a designer to design the logo out of his own pocket. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
Stanford, George Mason and State University of New York all have campuses in Incheon. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
Songdo was designated by the Koren government in 2003 to open up foreign direct investment. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
Canyons School District to purchase, retrofit eBay campus for innovation center
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
When Lynnae Jensen heard the news, she thought it was “fabulous.”
On Aug. 20, Canyons Board of Education voted 5-1 to purchase eBay’s regional headquarters, a 36-acre educational campus in Draper to serve as a new technical education high school. The school board and Canyons administrators target fall 2026 for the opening of the new school.
Jensen is a mother of children who attended Canyons schools and has worked at eBay.
“As a school for high schoolers wanting to do trade work and get training, it would be great for that. It’s a big campus, there is public transportation right there and the facilities would lend itself very nicely to a school,” she said. “CTEC (Canyons Technical Education Center) right now has a few small buildings, so this will open it up with more space, better facilities with a nicer campus. By putting in more resources and getting the right programs and partnerships, there’s going to be more demand and more students.”
Jensen added, “With the numerous computers and programs we ran, eBay invested millions of dollars in the servers to handle all the data that was going through so it should work nicely for hundreds of students. It’s a good fit.”
Canyons District plans to pay $50 million for the two eBay buildings, with 16 acres of developable land which could serve as a site for an additional future school to accommodate the projected student growth in the area.
The purchase will be made with money from capital funds, proceeds from the sale of CSD properties and from lease revenue bonds, said Leon Wilcox, Canyons School District business administrator.
No property was immediately named to liquidate, but Canyons owns properties such as the current aging CTEC in Sandy; the former Crescent View Middle in Sandy which currently is being used for Life Skills Academy for adult students with disabilities; a property in west Draper that has been discussed as a future elementary school site; former school
locations now being used as city parks in Midvale and Cottonwood Heights.
Canyons spokesman Jeff Haney said, “Right now, we’re in negotiations on several pieces of property that we own which we can liquidate. These properties at one time were either purchased for future schools, or we had schools on them and they’re not there anymore. The Board of Education has no current plans to shut down a school and then sell that property for this particular contract.”
Wilcox added, “A couple of those we could move fast; a couple others will take a few years. We could look at moving $2-4 million range to help cover this from our capital fund balance. The majority of this will be through lease revenue bonds. We can look at issuing around $38 million, give or take, in lease revenue bonds to do this.”
While general obligation bonds frequently are used for the construction of public schools, lease revenue bonds can be used and usually are issued at a higher interest rate, he said.
“They cost the District more; the yield the buyer of the bonds gets is up to the market at the time,” Wilcox said.
He said lease revenue bonds were issued before with the building of Glacier Hills and Peruvian Park elementaries three years ago as well as this past spring, with improvements at Eastmont Middle and Jordan, Hillcrest and Corner Canyon high schools.
“Lease revenue bonds save us the time we would have to wait until a (general obligation) bond would pass to get in a contract with eBay,” Wilcox said, adding it is a common practice for single buildings or renovations such as this.
The lease revenue bond could increase taxes an estimated $20-30 on the cost of a $703,000 average home in Canyons District, he said.
Wilcox said the process of issuing the bonds will begin in September and public hearing will be held in October. The bonds will be issued in November with the expectation to close on the purchase in December.
eBay still operates in part of the campus and has the option to lease the property from the school district for up to one year, so CTEC will operate in its existing site at 825 E. 9095 South for this and next school years.
The decision to purchase comes with one school board member, Holly Neibaur, voting against it. She wasn’t opposed to the purchase, just the procedure in which the district is obtaining it.
“My vote is not a statement for lack of support for our awesome CTEC programs,” she said before the vote. “A general obligation bond would have provided for much more public engagement.”
The main 215,000-square-foot building at 583 eBay Way comes fully furnished, has a 400-seat auditorium and commercial kitchen, a workout area and the campus includes outdoor courts for basketball and pickleball and half of a soccer field.
The campus sits north of the former state prison site, an area now under development as The Point, 600 acres of state-owned land that will be developed to create thousands of high-quality jobs with cutting-edge innovation and be environmentally friendly.
The area falls into Canyons School District’s boundaries to educate youth living in that area.
Canyons Career and Technical Education
Director Janet Goble said the new innovation center isn’t just going to be a move from CTEC, but programs are being reviewed and input from industry is being sought.
“We’re wanting to learn what the workforce needs are so we can educate students for those jobs and align our curriculum to fit the training needed for the workplace now and the future,” she said, adding they, along with other administrators and board members visited six other technical centers nationwide to better understand their business partnerships and programming curriculum.
CTEC Principal Doug Hallenbeck said the 17 existing programs serve about 850 students and will be reviewed as well as those career and technical programs offered in Can-
yons five comprehensive high schools. Some may make the move to the new center while others may be adapted in the comprehensive high schools. They may expand existing offerings to reduce the wait list of students in programs such as cosmetology and barbering, welding, construction management, heavy-duty diesel mechanics, medical assistant and pharmacy technician.
District officials say career and technical educational programming could include robotics, engineering, business and medicine and others.
Haney said Canyons wants to target high skill, high demand, high wage jobs that the companies in Silicon Slopes need.
“For example, if a company in Silicon Slopes says, ‘We really need beginning coders, please send us beginning coders,’ then we’ll create a program that allows students to gain the certification in coding so they can immediately find work in Silicon Slopes doing coding,” he said. “This building will allow us to grow our popular programs because our existing space at CTEC is limited and we couldn’t expand those programs for more students to be accommodated.”
Once it’s decided what the curriculum will offer and how it will be offered, retrofitting the interior for specific program use may begin. Currently, some of the main building has walls while other sections are cubicles.
“I can see with the full kitchen, we may look at offering culinary arts here or their workout facility, I see it being used for a physical therapy program as it’s kind of already set up that way so that could work out great,” Hallenbeck said. “We’re needing to learn what our business and industry partners need. I’m excited about the auditorium. It’s one of the things I’m looking forward to the most because we’ve never really been able to pull groups of kids and industry partners together to do presentations. It will be awesome.”
Hallenbeck anticipates the new innovation center would replace the 42-year-old CTEC, which recently received a C- grade in its existing facility and was determined
The eBay campus which includes a 400-seat auditorium, commercial kitchen, workout facilities as well as outdoor basketball and pickleball courts and a half-size soccer field, will be purchased by Canyons School District to create an innovation center near the new residential and business development, The Point. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
it would cost more to renovate than rebuild. The current CTEC campus covers 65,000 square feet in its five separate buildings on just seven acres.
It’s cost-cutting to purchase the 12-yearold eBay campus instead of building a new school, District officials say.
“The timing of the availability of the property coincides seamlessly with the region’s economic trends and the District’s longrange and strategic plans,” Canyons Board of Education President Amber Shill said. “Furthermore, our innovative plan to retrofit eBay’s former offices into a school instead of paying for new construction will save millions in taxpayer money.”
The negotiated deal translates to $230 per square foot for the eBay building. By comparison, the cost of new construction and design in Utah is about $500 per square foot, Wilcox said.
“Roughly, it’s about half the cost,” he said, adding the cost doesn’t include refurbishments and upgrades. “We think they’d be fairly min-
imal at this point as the building is fairly new and is built to house educational programs— that’s why we were so attracted to it.”
With the eBay campus being across the street from Draper’s FrontRunner station and close to the I-15 freeway, the site may become a new permanent home for Life Skills Academy, Canyons’ vocational program for adults with disabilities. There is discussion about providing an employee health and wellness clinic and employee childcare center at the location.
Canyons Superintendent Rick Robins says the proposed innovation center’s educational vision will link students with teachers and professional mentors to solve real-world problems using the tools of the industry. An advisory panel of industry experts also will provide guidance on the center’s partnerships with businesses.
“The vision is to elevate all the programs that are preparing students for the workforce pipeline,” he said. “We see this center as the ultimate experience for students and to lift our mission of ensuring our students are truly
ready for the demands of college and careers when they walk across the graduation stage.”
eBay issued a statement saying the company plans to stay in the Salt Lake Valley.
“eBay is happy to learn that the Canyons School District has approved the contract for the purchase of our Draper, Utah campus. As a global commerce leader, who continues to innovate for our community of buyers and sellers, we’re excited that the Draper site could become a hub of learning, designed to cultivate the tech leaders of the future. As to eBay’s intentions, we are committed to Salt Lake City and will continue to evaluate all available local options to ensure the best outcome for our people and eBay.”
With the $45-million lease revenue last spring, Canyons is in the process of updating one middle school and three high schools.
The $13-14 million updates to Eastmont Middle include installation of a new roof, which is almost complete, Wilcox said. Updating the elevator will be next and a new gym floor and additional classrooms are on the
schedule.
At Jordan High, plans are to build a fieldhouse, a black box theatre and a softball concession stand. Wilcox said bids should go out in October. Meanwhile crews are working on restroom upgrades and extending parking to the former Johanna’s restaurant site on State Street. Work at the school should come in between $21 to $23 million, he said.
Hillcrest High will get an expansion of the track lanes, which means tearing out the bleachers on the visitor (east) side of the field. The football field also will receive new turf. The construction date has yet to be determined, but it should take about five months at an estimated $5 million, Wilcox said.
By the end of September, Corner Canyon High should have a secure vestibule entrance and new baseball field turf. The softball field turf is expected to be complete by mid-October and the new soccer field and a field house are expected to break ground in November. Wilcox said cost for the projects is $13 million. l
At the Aug. 20 meeting, Canyons school board members voted 5-1 in favor of purchasing eBay’s regional headquarters for a new innovation center to open in fall 2026. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Canyons School District plans to purchase the two-building eBay campus for $50 million and turn it into an innovation center for high school students. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Dogs, humans celebrate all things canine at Bark in the Park
Photos by Cassie Gof
An off-leash area was available for dogs to run and meet new friends untethered.
The Cottonwood Heights Police Department asked their K-9 officers to run through an obstacle course to show the residents how good they are at their job.
Bark in the Park was held on Saturday, Aug. 24, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Bark in the Park was accessible for all two-legged and four-legged residents, including those four-legged residents who only had mobility of their two front legs
were given to the
Free hot dogs were offered to Bark in the Park attendees beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Meet your winners of the “Dogs Who Look Like Their Owners” contest.
This mini Aussie has been taught how to be a potential trip hazard but moves out of the way just in time.
This ç pair shows off the tricks they have been working hard on.
Meet your winners of the “Best Trick” contest for 2024!
Awards
dogs that knew the best tricks. Well, the awards were given to their humans, but you get it.
Selfies: five. Dog photos: 2,382.
“Shake!”
“I did it! Right?!”
Bark in the Park was held at Mountview Park (1652 E. Fort Union Blvd.).
The Cottonwood Heights Police Department has three new K-9 officers all under 3 years old
“Nah, I’m good right here,” thinks dog.
This pup is ready to start his K-9 officer training.
Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Stroke from Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley Stroke Team
By Dr. Rebecca Reiser
We know how important it is for patients and their families to find a hospital and a care team that you can trust - especially when emergencies, like stroke, happen. That’s why our team at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley is so incredibly proud to be a certified primary stroke center with thrombectomy capability. Recently, our stroke care team was recognized by the American Heart Association and received their Get with the Guidelines Gold Plus Award with Stroke Honor Roll and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll.
This award means our facility met or exceeded the national recommendations for stroke care for our patients and it highlights our hard-working, talented stroke care team for providing excellent patient stroke care!
To start, we work closely with our EMS partners to help them recognize patient stroke symptoms while they are out in the field. They are trained to let us know when they are on their way to our hospital so we can be ready for stroke patients before they even arrive. Our team is then able to evaluate each patient quickly and thoroughly to determine the best course of treatment. We have medications to help break up blood clots in the brain and a team of highly
trained vascular neurosurgeons who can remove a blood clot from the brain, also known as a thrombectomy. An important note - Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley is the only hospital on the west side of the valley that has the capability of performing these state-of-the-art thrombectomies!
So, what are the signs and symptoms of stroke that you should be aware of? The easiest way to remember what to look out for is through the acronym, BEFAST:
● Balance changes
● Eye or vision changes
● Facial droop
● Arm weakness
● Speech difficulty
● Time
reduces disability among stroke survivors by 4%! That’s because about 2 million brain cells die every minute during a stroke until blood flow is restored. It is important that if you see someone showing the signs or symptoms of stroke outlined above, call for help immediately.
When you or your loved ones come to Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley for stroke care, you can expect state-of-theart stroke treatment and compassionate, healing care fueled by humankindness. From the teams in the ER to the stroke care teams to the physical, occupational and speech therapists that help care for patients throughout their rehab journey, and to the neurologists that assist in care decisions from the start, you are in good hands at Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley!
At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.
It is important to recognize the above signs and symptoms because time matters!
Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States, but it is the leading cause of long-term disability. Studies show that every 15 minutes saved when a patient is experiencing stroke symptoms,
Learn more about the services, care providers and mission-driven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
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Our physicians provide the most advanced care and treatment options in orthopedics, including hip and knee replacement, total joint replacement, and sports medicine. We are committed to creating personalized treatment plans and providing extraordinary care to every patient.
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Dr. Rebecca Reiser Neurologist and Stroke Director CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital
New Youth City Council mayor talks about equality
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
TheCottonwood Heights Youth City Council (YCC) has a new mayor. Mary Ann Jensen was elected (for a one-year term) this spring to lead the 30 youth members of the council into 2025.
“We are the future of Cottonwood Heights so we can prepare for when we are taking those roles,” said Jensen. “We take time to learn about what the city does.”
YCC members meet with various city leaders, responders, and service providers throughout the year to learn more about local government. The youth councilmembers work on annual service projects as well, such as cleaning up city parks. They also assist with Butlerville Days and other city-sponsored events.
Councilmember (and YCC Liaison) Ellen Birrell introduced the new Youth City Council mayor during the city council meeting on Aug 6. Previously learning Jensen had qualified for a national debate/auditory tournament in Iowa where she came in first place out of all the Oratory speakers in Utah and finished in the top 30% of Original Oratory speakers in the nation., Birrell asked Jensen to perform her award-winning speech.
“I can really appreciate the fantastic skills she has developed,” Birrell said. “One of the great things about her performance is
the movement that she has created to communicate.”
Jensen participates on the Brighton High School Speech and Debate team. For the original auditory event, participants were asked to prepare a 7-10 minute speech on a topic of their choosing. Jensen’s speech is called “The F-word.”
“In the English language there is one word above all that is striking, highly misused, and has a very negative connotation attached to it…the F-word…Feminism,” Jensen began her speech.
Jensen invited her audience along with her on a historical journey to trace the etymology and roots of the phrase. Starting in the Museum of Ancient Cultures defining the term and law of equality, moving to a courtroom in the 1960s where Emma DeGraffenreid first documented the term intersectional feminism, to the Mattel headquarters where the Susan B. Anthony, Ida B. Wells, Sally Ride, and Rosa Parks dolls were released in 2018.
While overviewing DeGraffenreid’s court case for her audience, Jensen introduces the audience to Kimberlé Crenshaw’s explanation of the term “intersectional feminism.”
“Let’s imagine the road…is ‘gender road’ and the intersection road is ‘racial
road’…Emma gets in a car accident in this intersection. A police car zooms onto the scene; as the officer is writing his report, he asks her which road she was on when she got in the accident. She would say both…. Intersection-al feminism,” Jensen emphasized.
At the end of her speech, Jensen challenged every member of the audience to use the F-word correctly to help pave the way to equality.
“Your speech is inspiring,” said Coun-
cilmember Shawn Newell. “I get to go back and tell commissioners that there are good things about intersections within our social environment.”
The youth councilmembers work on annual service projects throughout the year, like cleaning up city parks.
“There are so many service opportunities right here in our own backyard. There is so much to learn and so many ways to serve right here, where we live,” said Jensen. l
GUTTER EXPERTS
Youth City Council Mayor Jensen attending the Cottonwood Heights City Council meeting on Aug. 6, the day she gave her speech. (Photo courtesy of Mary Ann Jensen)
Brighton football led by multisport athletes in 2024 campaign
By Jerry S. Christensen | j.christensen@mycityjournals.com
Brighton football was king of the Region 6 hill for three straight years until a disastrous fourth quarter in the last region game of 2023 against region rival West High.
Third-year coach Casey Sutera has a roadmap to regain the high ground and extend it into the foreseeable future.
That plan in a word is “preparation” or more precisely “persistent preparation.” Sutera constantly extols the value of hard work and offseason training. “The biggest thing I learned from our first two wins is that the preparation work that we have done in the offseason is definitely showing up in our play. The players have done such a great job with our offseason program as well as participation in other sports. That has contributed so much to our physicality, resilience and mental toughness that we have shown so far in the early season,” he said.
A captain and 2024 state champion hurdler, Beau LeFleur is an example of the multiyear, multisport preparation that Sutera has emphasized since coming to guide Brighton’s football program. Noted LaFleur, “I believe track has made me an all-around much better athlete. It takes hard working individuals to genuinely take it serious as it’s a very challenging sport physically and mentally. Your conditioning gets leaps and bounds better, while also taking your core and leg strength to another level.” Lafleur made the transition from offense to defense this year to capitalize on his super power of “pick and return.” He said he prefers “hitting rather than being hit.”
Fellow captain and state heavyweight wrestler, OL Marshall Huber adds “the offensive mindset this year is that we will win by being the more physical team every week. Our hope for the season is to win the state championship.” Huber is a tri-sport athlete also going to state in shot put and discus. “Wrestling has given me faster feet in football and helped me understand leverage. While track has made me much stronger and explosive which helps me in football,” he said.
Brighton’s first three games are nonregion contests against Provo and two rising 6A teams—Syracuse and Riverton. Per Sutera, “Riverton will be a tough opponent. Coach Freeland does a really good job and I expected that they would be much improved from last year. I have emphasized to our players to respect all of our opponents but it is about us improving each week especially early in the season.”
Region play will be a test of said preparation. The preseason Deseret News coaches poll pegged Brighton to finish third behind West and Olympus. “We have a tough region and multiple teams have a case to be ranked No. 1. I don’t put a ton into the preseason ranking because at the end of the day we have to go earn the top spot,” Sutera said.
To earn the region title and a proper seeding in the state tournament Brighton will battle through Alta at home, Olympus on the road and an East Leopards team looking for revenge after losing to Brighton on a valiant goal-line stand the last time the two teams met at Brighton.
“Although we bounced back last year, the Alta game was for sure a tough part of the season. It is good to have them at home this year. I think Olympus is always a tough game. They are well coached and have some really good players returning. Again the focus has to be on how we prepare and execute in the game,” Sutera said.
Mason Haertel, captain of the track team and now captain of the football team, has the goal to “make it to the turf.” He says “this team works incredibly hard every day, and I believe we are the type of team to go undefeated in region and play in the November games on the turf at Rice Eccles Stadium in the final games of the state tournament.”
Gus Blake, a varsity wrestler as a freshman and a 2024 football team captain, is known by his coaches as “a great leader on the field and a stalwart in the offseason during the months of strength and conditioning in the weight room.” Blake anchors the defense with a take-no-prisoners mindset. “Our defense is looking really solid and is only gonna get better with each game,” he said. “We have
paid the price and worked really hard in the offseason.”
The season will likely come down to that last game on Oct. 16 against West. The Panthers just got reclassified to 5A after making it to the 6A quarterfinals in 2022. Last year on the West field region championship was determined on a rainy night where Brighton
was forced to deploy its ground game. The game and the fourth-straight region title was in hand until 1:06 left in that late-October game. Brighton misfired on its own two-yard line allowing West an easy score and forfeiting the four-peat region title. Coach Sutera’s team will be prepared to right that loss this year at home on Freestone Field. l
Brighton football captains take the field versus Syracuse. (Photo David Mayfield @fortodayphotography)
A jubilant victory for Brighton over 6A Syracuse. (Photo David Mayfield @fortodayphotography)
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Labor Day was rooted in the late 19th century, when labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the many contributions that workers have made to America's strength, prosperity and well-being.
In fact, it is from the 19th century where some of our Labor Day traditions originate:
• Parades. According to the National Geographic, the first parade was held prior to Congress legalizing the holiday, back when New York City union leaders took unpaid time off to march through the city streets.
• Picnics and fireworks. While marching the streets of New York City, the union leaders would have picnics, watch fireworks and dance.
• Not wearing white after Labor Day. The Farmer’s Almanac tells us that during this time the elite often got away to coastal cottages to signify the end of summer, whereas the average laborer had to get back to work around Labor Day. Those returning to work would switch back into their darker clothing in order to avoid staining their lighter colored garments, therefore making wear-
A reflection on Labor Day’s history and meaning
By Holly Curby
ing white after Labor Day only for those in the elite social status.
Although controversy surrounds as to who founded Labor Day, one thing is for sure—the Labor Day holiday was intended for the laboring class. As former CEO of Apple Steve Jobs said, “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking, don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it.”
Labor Day can help us examine two areas in our personal life:
1. Our work. Just as Labor Day signified the hardworking class, the laborer, having a strong work ethic is important. This would include giving our best. Doing the right thing, especially when no one is looking. Doing things the right way the first time, even if corners could have been cut to get it done quicker.
2. Our service. Often, Labor Day can be confused with that of being a patriotic holiday, such as the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, Veterans Day or even Flag Day. In a way, it is. Our service-
men and women work hard at protecting, defending and honoring our country. The Department of Veteran Affairs shares that “Labor Day is a good time to acknowledge the extraordinary work done by our active duty service people to maintain a safe America.” This should include our veterans too. Whether thanking them for their service, volunteering at your local VA hospital or even facility such as the Fisher House in Salt Lake City, or serving in an area to give back within our own communities that our military women and men are protecting, defending and honoring every day.
As American speaker and author Earl Nightingale said, we are at our very best and we are happiest when we are fully engaged in work we enjoy on the journey toward the goal we've established for ourselves. It gives meaning to our time off and comfort to our sleep. It makes everything else in life so wonderful, so worthwhile. l
PERSONAL PILATES TRAINING BEGINNERS WANTED
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Labor Day was rooted in the late 19th century. (Photo courtesy Holly Curby)
Utah STEM Fest celebrates 10 years of student engagement
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
With its interactive exhibits and fun learning environment, the Utah STEM Fest invites students in grades five-12 to explore how science, technology, engineering and math help shape their world.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the event aims to foster curiosity in STEM careers by providing the next generation of problem solvers the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities and collaborative challenges with more than 10,000 students from around the state.
“We’re building a curiosity in STEM that helps to build a comfort level and helps kids gravitate towards being problem solvers,” said Tami Goetz, STEM Action Center Utah executive director. “Also, to be something like failure positive. It’s important for our kids to understand that failure is a learning process, too. So often in STEM, you get the chance to do things and some things work. Some things don’t.”
Hosted by the STEM Action Center Utah, the event will be held Sept. 17-18 at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy (9575 S. State Street). Teachers across Utah bring their classes to attend the Utah STEM Fest and the STEM Action Center Utah provides transportation for students from places like San Juan, Sevier, North Summit, Nebo, Emery and Duchesne school districts.
Since the event started in 2013, Utah STEM Fest has grown to include a variety of businesses and organizations that showcase STEM-related activities. The Utah State Highway Patrol brings a vehicle filled with state-of-theart mobile technology. Utah Valley University’s science department provides dynamic experiential learning. KSL
Students from all over the state will attend the Utah STEM Fest Sept. 17-18 at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy (9575 S. State Street). (Photo courtesy of Utah STEM Fest)
News sets up a green screen for students to practice being on camera. There’s even a mobile planetarium where students can watch a star show.
“One of our biggest supporters is US Synthetic,” said Shelby Averett, communications manager at STEM Action Center Utah. “They make synthetic diamonds. They have a miniaturized display showing how they do that process in real life.”
A push to get more girls and young women interested in STEM courses and careers is paying off. All-girl robotics teams are more popular than ever and there’s a greater demand for opportunities like SheTech clubs in high schools.
College-level engineering programs are also seeing an increase in female students.
“I do think we’re taking the fear out of STEM for a lot of our girls which is good because whether you’re a girl or you’re a boy, the demand for talent in STEM-related careers requires for us to at least provide the opportunity to have the choice to go into a STEM career,” Goetz said. “There’s such a demand for STEM talent and that’s not going away.”
On Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 4-8 p.m., Family Night at STEM Fest invites students and their families to explore exhibits and enjoy demonstrations from STEM professionals. Admission is free.
The Utah STEM Action Center, a division of the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement, is tasked with advancing STEM education. By providing a two-day event filled with fun experiments and an inspirational focus, Goetz hopes students will leave STEM Fest with a better understanding and appreciation for STEM careers and advancements.
“We’re not in the business of saying STEM is for everyone,” she said. “But we certainly are in the business of saying if it’s something you haven’t thought about, let us help provide some opportunity to explore it. So that if you walk away from it, you’re walking away from it because you know you’ve had a chance to try it, regardless of your gender.”
For volunteering or event information, visit utahstemfest.com.l
Lighted crosswalk now in operation by Bella Vista Elementary
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
The newly constructed HAWK (HighIntensity Activated) crosswalk, at the junction of Nye Drive and Fort Union Boulevard leading into Bella Vista Elementary School (2131 Fort Union Blvd.), was unveiled during its ribbon cutting on Aug. 16 at 10 a.m. The crosswalk extends for approximately 60 feet.
Cottonwood Heights City Manager Jared Gerber, Cottonwood Heights City Mayor Mike Weichers, Canyons School District Board President Amber Shill, and resident Madeline Melini all spoke about the safety for pedestrians and students at the ribbon cutting event.
“This project aims to improve safety at the intersection, particularly for students from Bella Vista Elementary School and other pedestrians who frequently use this crossing,” city leaders Gerber and Weichers echoed.
(Please see the attached Cottonwood Heights Newsletter for further details on how to navigate and activate the HAWK crosswalk, under the “Important Safety Update!” section on page 4.)
“My biggest concern is making sure motorists recognize this is a change to past driving behavior and to really pay attention if they see the flashing or solid red lights,” said Mayor Weichers. “I hope all pedestrians will pay attention when crossing and make sure cars see them before making their way across.”
The previous conditions of the road discouraged students from walking to school and residents from walking to the library and other nearby amenities.
Cottonwood Heights Public Works team members have been working on this project throughout the summer months. While they were working on installing the crosswalk, they ran into some previously-unknown utilities under the asphalt that could only by accessed by boring through the road. This work caused a bit of a delay but the team was determined to have the crosswalk completed and functional by the time school started for Bella Vista.
“I appreciate the patience. Sometimes, things happen that can’t be avoided,” Shipp said.
Even with the new construction and updates to the underground utilities, Cottonwood Heights Public Works Director Matthew Shipp mentioned that they will still need to tear out and redo the storm water drain at some point in the near future.
“I know putting up a pole seemed simple…and I wish it was that simple,” Shipp said.
This HAWK crosswalk project was partially funded by a federal grant with matching dollars from the city and the Utah Department of Transportation. The
Public Works team initially put a 50-day contract length on this project, even though they could have done the work within a 30-day contract, because the bid for a 30day contract would have raised the price by $10,000. Public Works was able to remain ahead of the federal timeline despite the delay mentioned above. Altogether, the HAWK crosswalk cost $475,000 even with federal funds.
“The road to safer streets has only just begun. Danger from left-hand turns, run-
ners of red lights, speeders, impaired and distracted drivers is not going away,” said Councilmember Ellen Birrell. Birrell expressed her personal views on the matter some more.
“Forty miles per hour on Fort Union Boulevard is too fast. Wherever there is high access (intersecting streets and driveways), motorists, not to mention pedestrians, are safer when speeds are no higher than 30 miles per hour according
to the Federal Highway Administration... We have a chance to take a Safety First approach and implement immediate and inexpensive demonstration facilities to reduce serious injuries and fatalities. Better to have more numerous fender-benders than even one serious vehicular crash.” l
Cottonwood Heights City Council hopes this new HAWK crosswalk will improve safety at the intersection, particularly for the students of Bella Vista Elementary School. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
Resident Madeline Melini speaks on the safety of Bella Vista students crossing Fort Union Boulevard and the journey to finally get the HAWK crosswalk installed. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
Mayor Mike Weichers and resident Madeline Melini cut the ribbon for the HAWK crosswalk accompanied by Councilmembers Ellen Birrell, Suzanne Hyland and Shawn Newell, Canyons School District Board President Amber Shill, and Rep. Gay Lynn Bennion.
Installing the new HAWK crosswalk along Fort Union Boulevard cost close to a half million dollars and was paid for by city, federal and UDOT funds. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
Buy to Refi!
Protect yourself against West Nile virus with precautions
LBy Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
ast month, the West Nile virus was found in western Salt Lake City along the border of the Draper and Riverton cities. Members of the Salt Lake Mosquito Abatement and the South Salt Lake Valley Mosquito Abatement District expect additional mosquito pools to test positive before the year is out.
“There will be a growing number of mosquitoes carrying the disease, so it is especially important that Utahns protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said Salt Lake County Health Department epidemiologist Andrea Price.
If a mosquito carrying the virus does visit your neighborhood and transmits the virus onto you, it is possible to experience no symptoms. However, if you’re the one in five people that does show symptoms, you’ll experience headaches, body aches, neck stiffness, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, tremors, convulsions and rashes. You may also experience fatigue and weakness, that can last a few weeks or even months.
To deter mosquitos, the Salt Lake Mosquito Abatement members have shared a few suggestions for Utah residents. They recommend using an EPA-registered mosquito repellent with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, IR
If you are out and about when the sun isn’t shining, make sure to wear long sleeves and pants so the mosquitos can’t find exposed
As mosquitos can travel over several miles, they tend to look for shady places to rest during the day. Residents are encouraged to continue cutting weeds and tall grasses short and making sure all windows are shut
If you have potential areas in your yard that might collect water, do make sure to drain that standing water daily. Mosquitos lay their eggs in stagnant water (which could accumulate in potted plants, pet dishes, buckets, old
Everyone in the region is encouraged to take precautions against mosquito bites to
Health officials urge residents to take precautions to avoid contracting West Nile virus. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
Transforming justice: Salt Lake County to vote on $507 million Safety Bond this November
By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com
In a significant move toward addressing the multifaceted challenges of homelessness, mental health and criminal justice in Salt Lake County, the County Council, in August, voted 8-1 to place a $507 million Public Safety Bond on the ballot this November. This decision, which comes as a part of Mayor Jenny Wilson’s comprehensive Human Services, Homelessness, and Criminal Justice Reform Action Plan, marks a pivotal moment in the county’s ongoing efforts to modernize its public safety infrastructure and provide more effective support for vulnerable populations.
A Vision for Justice and Accountability
At the heart of the Public Safety Bond is the proposed construction of a Justice and Accountability Center. This facility aims to transform how Salt Lake County deals with low-level offenders. According to Wilson, the center will “serve people who have frequent low-level interactions with the criminal justice system and lack housing options,” providing access to outpatient treatment, job training, and permanent housing opportunities.
The Justice and Accountability Center is designed to be more than just an alternative to jail. It represents a shift in the county’s approach to criminal justice, one that recognizes the underlying issues— such as mental health and substance use disorders—that often drive individuals into repeated encounters with the law. “The goal of the center,” Wilson said, “is to hold people accountable while reducing repeat offenses by increasing access to services and support.”
By focusing on accountability and support, the center aims to break the cycle of recidivism that has plagued the county for years. The center will offer a structured environment where individuals can receive the help they need to get their lives back on track, making criminal behavior less likely to recur.
Consolidating and Modernizing County Jails
Another significant component of the Public Safety Bond is the consolidation of Salt Lake County’s two jails. Under this plan, the Oxbow Jail will be closed, and the Adult Detention Center/Metro facility will be expanded. This consolidation is not just about increasing capacity—although that is certainly a factor, as the county’s jail capacity has not been increased since 2001. It is also about modernizing the facilities to meet better the needs of inmates, particularly those with
mental health issues.
In addition to the expansion, the bond will fund the construction of a transitional unit designed to help inmates prepare for reentry into the community. This reentry unit will provide a dedicated space where individuals nearing the end of their sentences can work with caseworkers to identify their needs and the resources required to reenter society successfully.
A Collaborative Approach
Developing the Human Services, Homelessness, and Criminal Justice Reform Action Plan—and, by extension, the Public Safety Bond—has been a collaborative effort involving county officials, state leaders and nonprofit providers. The plan’s goal is ambitious: to make homelessness in Salt Lake County brief, rare, and non-recurring. The county’s systems—criminal justice, behavioral health treatment, workforce development and housing—must work together seamlessly to achieve this.
According to the Salt Lake County Mayor statement website, “For the first time ever, Salt Lake County has a comprehensive five-year action plan to tackle homelessness, behavioral health challenges and criminal justice reform. This plan, developed in collaboration with experts and community stakeholders, creates an integrated approach to these critical issues.”
Cost and Impact on Taxpayers
If approved by voters, the proposed bond would cost the average Salt Lake County household $58.94 per year or just under $5 per month. The cost would be $107.16 annually or under $9 monthly for businesses. Despite the substantial total amount of the bond, the cost to individual taxpayers is relatively modest—a point that county officials hope will encourage voter support.
The bond will cover the construction of the Justice and Accountability Center and the jail consolidation, the demolition of the Oxbow facility, and various maintenance and improvement projects for the county’s existing jail infrastructure. The total cost of these projects is estimated at $627 million, with the bond accounting for $507 million of that total. The remaining $120 million will be covered through the sale of the Oxbow property and county set-asides.
Voters can find more information regarding Salt Lake County’s Human Services, Homelessness, and Criminal Justice Action Plan online at: www.saltlakecounty.gov/mayor/plan. l
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson speaks at the opening of the Youth Services transitional living building. (Photo courtesy of Jenny Wilson)
However, with Ferguson Park being a regional amenity and the Ferguson Trail itself being owned by Salt Lake County, the County has shared some concerns with the city’s original intent to remove the parking stalls. They would like to see a formal written request before any removal takes place.
In addition, removing the asphalt would prove quite costly on the city’s budget. Instead, modifying or repurposing the asphalt
has been a favorable alternative brainstormed in many different conversations. The Cottonwood Heights Parks, Trails and Open Space (PTOS) Committee imagines the asphalt of the existing stalls be used as a drop-off for visitors (children, seniors, and passengers) and equipment (rock climbing and hiking).
“I think we need to think about servicing all of the users of this trailhead,” said Councilmember Ellen Birrell. “The public has a right to access this…I think we have done so much for the residents of this area to alleviate the parking now.”
If the parking stalls are not removed, the PTOS Committee would like to explore adding some light amenities at the trailhead, like bicycle parking. In addition, both city staff and the PTOS Committee members would like to see additional wayfinding signs throughout the neighborhoods.
“There are no trash cans unless it’s all the way on the other end of the trail. People put dog poop in our trash cans,” said resident Cessily Johnson. “I pick up lots and lots of trash, like cases of beer. I would really like the garbage cans back if the parking stays.”
The PTOS Committee made their recommendation to the council to leave the ADA parking stalls and work with Salt Lake County to plan for modifying the other existing parking stalls.
After this conversation on Aug. 6, the council was in majority agreement that the existing parking stalls need to be removed but they would like more detail for what repurposing the asphalt could look like. They’ve asked city staff to look into an inexpensive option for a turn-around and/or drop-off at the trailhead instead. l
“Vehicles typically check upper stalls first which leads to constant traffic, turnarounds in driveways and general congestion,” said Community and Economic Development Director Mike Johnson.
personalized in-home care solutions that truly set us apart, like our Senior Gems® program. We focus on what your loved one can do instead of what they cannot do. Take a step in a positive direction by contacting us today.
(Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
Ferguson Park’s (7722 S. Prospector Drive) ribbon cutting occurred during the summer of 2023. One year later, the parking lot is being underutilized.
(Cassie Goff/City Journals)
The current status of parking near Ferguson Trailhead includes various types of illegal parking within the dead end single-family neighborhood.
(Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
Ferguson Trail users are encouraged to park at Ferguson Park, directly north of Wasatch Boulevard and walk up through Timberline Drive to access the amphitheater and trailhead. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
In August, the Salt Lake County Council voted to put a $507-million bond on the ballot for voters to decide on this November. Our jails are at capacity and urgently require expansion. The proposed public safety bond will enable us to consolidate two jails into one, add more beds, expand mental health treatment services, create a facility to support inmates transitioning back into the community, and build a Justice and Accountability Center.
Low-level offenders who continually cycle in and out of jail continue to place a considerable burden on taxpayers and our criminal justice system. Many of these individuals experience instability and struggle with underlying mental health issues and substance use disorders. Unfortunately, our current jail and criminal justice system are neither designed nor equipped to address these needs.
The goal of the Justice and Accountability Center (JAC)
Salt Lake County Public Safety Bond
is to remove repeat offenders from the streets and place them in a lower-security correctional facility where they will have access to outpatient mental health services and substance use treatment, job training, housing opportunities, and other vital services to help them get their lives back on track. The JAC aims to ensure these people receive targeted interventions at a cost that is much less than a high-security jail.
We believe the public safety bond reduces the number of offenders on the streets, keeps our neighborhoods safer, protects our businesses, and ultimately is the most fiscally conservative way to invest in public safety and improve quality of life. If voters approve this bond it would cost the average homeowner an additional $58.94 per year.
Luckily, Salt Lake County is one of only 29 counties in the United States with a AAA bond rating. Because of that the interest rate on these funds would
Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Councilwoman| District 3
be around 3.25% with an opportunity for us to refinance if rates go down.
No one wants to pay more in taxes and this was not an easy decision for county leaders to make. As we’ve looked at the best way to ensure your safety, protect your property, and best help those who are struggling, we felt this was necessary and we want you to weigh in. Not only is the most fiscally conservative way to handle this massive public safety issue, but it will give the best chance for those in the criminal justice system to get real help.
To learn more about this you can go to slco.org and you will be able to read about the bond.
&
Budgeting
should be considered an art
form. It’s part theater (acting like you can afford groceries), part digital interpretation (online shopping for best prices), part graffiti (throwing mustard at the wall when you receive a surprise doctor’s bill) and all illusion (where did the money go?).
My paycheck stretches like it’s on a taffy-pulling machine, folding over and over itself, almost to the point of transparency. When did the basic costs of living become a luxury?
While grocery shopping, my husband can’t stop comparing prices from 60 years ago. “When I was a young boy,” he said. “I could buy a loaf of bread for a nickel.”
“Were you Oliver Twist?” I asked. He ignored me and walked down the dairy aisle, ranting about the cost of eggs.
At the check stand, several items rang up for more than what was labeled on the shelf. I asked the unenthused cashier, “Did you raise prices while I was in line?”
He shrugged and continued packaging my groceries, smashing bananas, eggs and bread with my magnum of wine. Just kidding. You can’t buy wine at grocery stores in Utah.
Driving to work becomes a nail-biting thriller as I gauge how much gas is left and if it will last until the end of the month. I was filling up my car the other day and the
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
gas pump showed the person before me had purchased $5 worth of gas. I hope that 1.6 gallons is enough to get him to the bank he needs to rob.
Even my chai tea latte from Starbucks has incrementally increased from $4 to nearly $6. That’s bonkers. I don’t mind paying a bit more so employees make a livable wage, but last year, Starbucks’ net revenue was $30 billion.
Then I learned the new Starbucks CEO was given a $75 million stock award, a $1.6 million salary and a $10 million signing bonus. The only signing bonus I ever received was when I got a free pen for starting a savings account when I was 8.
Corporate profits have hit all-time highs. And those rising prices are never going to drop because then how can the Starbucks CEO afford $1,500 sneakers for his Pomeranian without squeezing the life out of consumers?
My husband said, “Then don’t go to
Starbucks.”
“Shut up,” I replied.
Housing costs are outrageous. Going to dinner and a movie requires a home equity line of credit. Tax increases nickel-and-dime us to death. Did you know Utah is one of only a few states that tax social security benefits? Thanks, Utah Legislators!
It’s not like I want to purchase Prada paper clips or Balenciaga bookmarks. I don’t need a Rolls-Royce or a personal library, complete with a rolling ladder and a fireplace. (Okay. I actually need that). I just want to afford a night out, maybe a weekend getaway or an annual massage without sell-
ing blood plasma.
My grandparents grew up during the Depression. Decades later, they still saved drawers full of tin foil and rubber bands in case we ever needed a defense against mind control or had to make emergency bouncy balls. Maybe I can learn from their frugal behaviors.
So, we tighten our belts, pinch pennies, clip coupons and say, “We’re right on budget this month.” The moment those words leave our lips, the garbage disposal explodes, the fence blows over or the basement floods. Budgeting might not be an art form, but it’s definitely a comedy.
