City Hall – 7505 South Holden Street • Midvale, UT 84047
Mayor’s Message
801-567-7235
Rocky Mountain Power 877-508-5088
This month, I decided to try something a little di erent and let you, the residents of Midvale, ask me anything! From my day job to exciting future projects, I’m happy to share my thoughts on a variety of topics. I’ve always believed that open communication is key, and I’m thrilled to answer some of your questions directly. So, here’s a look at what’s on your mind and what’s coming up for our community!
A fan of The Sandlot asked: What is your day job?
I have served as a Medicaid policy analyst for the Utah Department of Health and Human Services since 2016. Since becoming Mayor, I have reduced my hours at DHHS to dedicate more time to the important work we’re accomplishing in Midvale. Outside of my public service, I also referee the adult county league and Junior Jazz basketball. On Monday and Tuesday nights, you can often nd me o ciating men’s league games at Copperview.
Johnny asked: What are the plans to improve parking on Main Street?
By Mayor Dustin Gettel
Ask Me Anything: Your Questions, My Answers
with no sidewalk for about 800 feet. While I don’t have an exact timeline for when we’ll improve the connection and access points, it’s now a priority, especially after you brought it to our attention. Sometimes, all it takes is reaching out to your local elected o cials to spark real change in your community.
With any large-scale revitalization project like Midvale Main, some growing pains are inevitable. Right now, parking and tra c are key concerns, and we’re actively working on solutions. We’ve already seen previously unused parking spaces ll up with new visitors, and to better accommodate the increasing demand, two new public parking garages are coming to North and South Main. These additions will make it even easier for people from across the county to enjoy all that Main Street has to o er!
Brandon asked: Are there plans for a sidewalk between the Jordan River Trail and Bingham Junction Blvd.?
I’m surprised I haven’t bumped into you on this part of the trail – I’m out here at least once a day! This section does end abruptly,
Salt Lake County Animal Services
Spring is on its way, signaling the perfect opportunity for you and your furry companion to explore the neighborhood, parks, and trails. Before you head out, don’t forget to grab a leash and those essential poop bags!
LEASH LAWS
Jennifer asked: Do you have to work with a city manager to get things done? If so, are they elected?
Yes, Midvale has a City Manager who oversees the day-to-day operations of the city. As Mayor, I work closely with the City Manager and meet with him frequently. Together with the City Council, we collaborate on passing ordinances and making broader policy decisions that bene t our community. Although the City Manager is not elected, they are appointed by the mayor and must be con rmed by a majority vote of the City Council.
Many violators of this ordinance will claim that their pet is friendly, or less aggressive when on a leash. However, Salt Lake County Animal Services would like to emphasize that not everyone appreciates encountering a “friendly” o -leash dog, including those with leashed dogs. A leash isn’t just an optional accessory; it’s a legal requirement. If you and your dog are found o -leash in areas other than designated o -leash dog parks, you will receive a ticket and be subject to a ne.
PACK OUT THE POOP
It’s a legal requirement to clean up after your dog. Failure to do so may result in nes. This is considered a public nuisance violation. Whether you’re in the neighborhood or on a busy hiking trail, be a considerate neighbor or hiker by carrying poop bags to clean up after your dog when they poop.
Jeremy asked: What are your plans for Midvale’s Main Street? When I was rst elected to the City Council in 2017, revitalizing Main Street was one of my top priorities, and it quickly became a shared vision for all of us. We’ve made incredible progress since then, and today, Midvale is truly the talk of the state! As this redevelopment moves forward, I envision Midvale Main becoming a countywide hub for arts and cultural events, movies, live theater performances, and a diverse range of dining experiences. At the same time, it’s crucial that we preserve our small-town charm, continuing beloved traditions like our Halloween, Christmas, and car show events. By o ering exciting new opportunities for work and play on Midvale Main, we’re only expanding the limitless potential right here in our own backyard!
Time to Leash Up!
THE LAWS
Curious about the ordinances in your city? Check out AdoptUtahPets.com and visit our “Laws” section to look up the ordinances in your area.
Need to contact an Animal Control O cer? Call dispatch at 801840-4000.
In The Middle of Everything
Midvale’s Iconic eatre Gets a New Life and a New Name: e Pearl on Main
The Pearl on Main has been known by many other names:
• The Iris • The Burk Theater
• Gazebo • Main Street Cinema
• The Comedy Circuit • Midvale Main Street Theatre
But no matter the name, the theatre will always be the gem of Main Street Midvale.
The Iris opened in 1918 as a movie theater with 250 seats, showing movies like Little Miss Marker and Knight without Armor. In the 1940s, new owners renamed it “The Burk” and continued to show movies. It went through two more names as a movie theater: “Gazebo Theater” and “Main Street Cinema.”
In 1990, Bill Spinning converted the movie theater into a live comedy club called the “Comedy Circuit.” He renovated the bathrooms and green room with eclectic tiling that can still be seen today.
Tammy and Stephan Ross took over in 2010 and turned it into a performing arts center called “Midvale Main Street Theatre,” holding shows consistently until 2023.
Two and a half years ago, Peyton Wunderli and John Simianer took ownership of the building, relocating their o ce
down the road to the top oor of the theater. They could feel the growth of Main Street and wanted to be a part of the action. “We liked the direction it was going,” Wunderli said. “You could feel it happening. There’s potential here; it’s fun to be a part of something.”
They have since expanded the venue’s programming to include a diverse range of events, such as children’s dance recitals, hip-hop and jazz concerts, burlesque performances, heavy metal shows, Ska-loween, and album release parties. Additionally, the space is available for private rentals, hosting everything from wedding ceremonies to retirement and birthday celebrations.”
Inside and out, The Pearl on Main stands as the keystone of the street. Its new facade—a marquee and vertical sign with neon tube lighting (LEDs inside for color control and sustainability) and Edison bulbs—enhances its classic charm, while sparkling concrete in front and around the building adds a glamorous touch.
A theater is a vital part of restoring a main street. Nate Rockwood, Assistant City Manager, came to Midvale for the sole purpose of revitalizing Midvale’s Main. He was previously employed in Park City in Redevelopment. In that position, he spent a lot of time studying main streets across the country. He saw Midvale’s Main Street and thought, “Man, someday, somebody is going to come help them gure out how to make that work. It was such a rough, uncut gem that needed the right polish.” He has honored his commitment, and the restoration, though gradual, is steadily gaining momentum.
“As we’re developing our main street, we want di erent types of businesses that attract di erent types of people at different times of day,” Rockwood explained. “The Pearl is huge, activating it with movie nights and bands playing there. It has a historic look, and we want not only to have activities on the street but a stimulating experience. The Pearl is the perfect example of that – We can amplify it and make it more visually prominent on the street.”
Simianer and Wunderli are all in when it comes to community outreach and expansion. Simianer emphasized that “We didn’t want to limit or keep any cultures out. That has been a big focus: creating a safe space for marginalized groups. LGBTQ+, a lot of our burlesque shows, pride shows; there are a lot of communities that won’t allow death metal or hardcore shows. Those don’t really have a place to perform. We’ve actively embraced those communities.”
Wunderli added, “They’ve embraced us too.”
In their rst year of operating the theatre, programming was slow and sporadic. Today, energy is growing, and word of mouth is spreading. There’s almost always something happening every weekend. The goal is to be active at least ve days a week, o ering every kind of show imaginable.
The rehabilitation and facelift of the Pearl on Main are crucial to the revitalization of Main Street, but the progress is not yet self-sustaining and requires ongoing support and attention. With new lighting, refurbished buildings, and the continued growth of local businesses, each small step brings us closer to creating a vibrant, welcoming, and dynamic hub for our community.
Call for Artists: Midvale Main Art House Studio Opportunity
The Midvale City Redevelopment Agency (RDA) is excited to invite passionate and innovative artists to apply for a unique studio opportunity at the Midvale Main Art House! This opportunity allows artists of all disciplines to develop their creative practice in a supportive, community-focused environment while contributing to Midvale’s vibrant cultural scene.
About the Midvale Main Art House
The Midvale Main Art House provides dedicated space for artists to create, collaborate, and engage with the community. The selected artists will have access to a studio space where they can work on their craft and collaborate with other local artists and residents. Whether you are a painter, sculptor, photographer, writer, or multimedia artist, this space o ers an ideal setting for creative growth and artistic exploration.
What Artists Receive:
• A designated creative workspace at the Midvale Main Art House.
• Opportunities to exhibit artwork, host workshops, or engage with the community through projects.
• Collaboration with fellow artists and access to local resources.
Who Should Apply?
We welcome applications from artists of all backgrounds, experience levels, and disciplines who are excited to engage with the Midvale community and make meaningful contributions through their art. This opportunity is perfect for those seeking a dynamic space to grow their practice while connecting with other creatives.
How to Apply:
Interested artists can submit their applications online through the Engage Midvale website at engagemidvale.com/arthouse. Applications are open until lled. Two studio spots are available, so don’t miss your chance to be part of Midvale’s growing arts community!
For more information, visit: engagemidvale.com/art-house or contact RDA@midvaleut.gov.
MARCH 2025 CITY NEWSLETTER
MIDVALE. UTAH. GOV
Midvale-Area Students Advance to Regional Science Fair
What happens to plants in microgravity? What’s the formula for the perfect boiled egg? How is industrial activity a ecting the CO2 levels in Salt Lake County? These are some of the hypotheses tested by the brilliant young scientists who competed in the 2025 Canyons District Science Fair. Out of hundreds of experiments, 17 students from Midvalley Elementary, Midvale Middle and Hillcrest High schools were awarded top honors and a chance to hypothesize their way to the next level — the regional University of Utah Science & Engineering Fair (USEF). USEF is the highest honor for elementary students in the state. Middle school and high school students who do well at regionals may have a chance to compete at national and international competitions.
Midvalley Elementary
• Roger Di rient: “How Safe is Your Drinking Water?”
• Andrea Maciel, Helena Caceres, Monroe Ropelato: “Rainwater Runo and Groundwater”
• Marley Jo ee: “The E ect of Hydrogen Facemasks on Skin Hydration”
Midvale Middle School
• Anushka Rajeev: “Detecting AI Using Computer Programming”
Hillcrest High School
• Ansh Devlekar: “Deliver It Right 2.0”
• Narayani Shankar: “Using Virtual Reality and Neural Networks to Solve Neck Mobility Issues”
