draper’s house speaker
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AQUARIUM ANNIVERSARY
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City Manager David Dobbins (left) and Mayor Troy Walker spoke at the Chamber of Commerce State of the City luncheon Feb 4. Both Dobbins and Walker told of continued economic growth for the city.
Mayor Touts Draper’s ‘Unique Position’ In State Of The City Speech
M
ayor Troy Walker took the podium with gusto at a Feb. 4 Chamber of Commerce luncheon for his State of the City speech, fresh off a mention of Draper in “The New Yorker” magazine’s article titled “How Utah Became The Next Silicon Valley.” Walker was the only mayor quoted in the article that also noted Draper’s low unemployment rate, rapid growth and a transition from a residential community to one that also courts businesses for the tax revenue they provide. Walker spoke of the importance of people in our lives. “If you think about yourselves, your businesses, your friends and your family, think about how valuable those associations are,” he said. “You’re what provides the economic engine that makes this community work. It’s a great place to do business, own a business, shop and be involved in commerce.” The mayor also commended the city’s staff and police department
By Mimi Darley
and said the city council has the best interest of the community at heart. “We don’t always agree, but we work together well. We’re doing some of those things that only the government can do,” he said. The mayor mentioned Salt Lake County’s Zoo, Arts and Parks tax that may fund a county recreation facility in Draper. The city is said to be listed as a high priority for a facility of that type, though there’s been no commitment from the county yet. Walker also expressed excitement over private developer Godfrey Properties & Design who came forward with an offer to purchase the old Park School just prior to the Dec. 31, 2014 deadline the city council had given for that building to either be purchased or demolished. “They’re going to preserve and make viable that building. (It’s) also an opportunity to see old and new come together,” he said.
State Of The City continued on page 4
reading celebrated
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cchs athletes sign
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quotable community:
“I took her on her first motorcycle ride at the age of 70 and her first camel ride in Egypt at 74.”
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