A Decade of Growth and a Bright Future Ahead
By Mayor Trent Staggs
Riverton City held a fantastic State of the City and awards ceremony last month. I thought it suitable to summarize my speech here and further extend my heartfelt appreciation to the many individuals who have contributed to the progress of our city.
A Decade of Transformation
Over the past decade, Riverton has experienced significant change and progress. We’ve moved from a period of reinvigoration to a stage of buildout and maturity. Our city has seen incredible growth in business development, smart housing initiatives, and infrastructure improvements, all while maintaining the lowest utility fees in our part of the valley. Our economic development strategies have been effective, with sales tax revenue tripling from $4 million to $12.5 million, enabling us to cut property taxes while ensuring a stable and prosperous future that saves taxpayer money.
Beautification and Infrastructure
Riverton’s commitment to beautification and infrastructure
development has also been a priority. We’ve renovated City Hall, adopted a new flag and brand, installed “Welcome to Riverton” signage, and built a Veterans Memorial to honor our local heroes. Our parks and community spaces have also seen substantial improvements, including the restoration of the Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center and new civic center plaza, the construction of new playgrounds, and the installation of secondary water meters, which will save residents millions of dollars in the long run.
Significant transportation upgrades have been completed or being finalized this year, including major enhancements to Bangerter Highway interchanges and pedestrianfriendly improvements such as new sidewalks and trails. Our advocacy efforts have also secured the UTA bus routes to Riverton starting in the next few months, providing muchneeded public transit options for residents.
Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Growth
Riverton has remained steadfast in its commitment to fiscal discipline. Our utility fees remain the lowest in the southwest part of the valley, and we’ve successfully reduced bonded debt to the lowest level in 25 years. The transition to our own law enforcement service has resulted in over $21 million in property tax savings, while our
independent fire service district has saved an additional $2 million.
Our pro-business policies have fueled economic development, with over three million square feet of commercial space added since 2013. New businesses continue to open, and both the western side of the city along with the commercial corridor near city hall is poised for further expansion, bringing additional retail, dining, and entertainment opportunities to Riverton.
Looking Ahead
As we approach full buildout, maintaining efficient city services while fostering development that sustains our high quality of life will be crucial. We will continue to invest in public safety by strengthening our police force and enhancing emergency services. Infrastructure improvements and responsible financial management and innovations will ensure Riverton remains a desirable and prosperous community for generations to come.
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve as your mayor. Riverton’s future is bright, and I am confident that through continued collaboration, fiscal prudence, and a shared vision for our city, we will sustain the vibrant, hometown atmosphere that makes Riverton such a special place to live.
We’ve renovated City Hall, adopted a new flag and brand, installed “Welcome to Riverton” signage, and built a Veterans Memorial to honor our local heroes.
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Trent Staggs - Mayor
Andy Pierucci - District 1
Troy McDougal - District 2
Tawnee McCay - District 3
Tish Buroker - District 4
Spencer Haymond - District 5
COUNCIL MESSAGE
What is a PAFR and Should I Care?
By Council Member Tish Buroker
CITY MEETINGS
CITY COUNCIL
March, 4 & 18, 7 p.m.
PLANNING COMMISSION
March, 13 & 27, 6:30 p.m.
CONTACT US rivertonutah.gov 801-254-0704
Report a problem at rivertonutah.gov/report UPCOMING
Each year, Riverton City finances are audited by an independent auditing firm. In 2024, the audit was performed by the firm of HBME. During the audit, compliance requirements are tested in the following areas: fund balance, justice court, fraud risk, governmental fees, public treasurer’s bond, restricted taxes, related restricted revenue (such as police and fire services), and compliance with the open and public meetings act.
City employees and elected officials take these audits very seriously. They provide us with feedback regarding weaknesses and potential improvements. Ensuring that tax dollars are spent wisely and in the best interest of taxpayers is a primary responsibility of your elected officials.
Having served on the audit committee for several years, I am always eager to view the latest audit. It is with pleasure that I can report that the conclusion of the audit team indicates that Riverton continues to perform at a very high level. In the audit for 2024, no deficiencies were identified. Detailed information can be found in the ACFR (Annual
Comprehensive Financial Report). This report is 133 pages long and is available to any resident that requests a copy.
However, because this report is so inclusive, it is not necessarily an easy-to-read document. Thus, the PAFR (Popular Annual Financial Report). This report is only 10 pages long and contains an easy-to-understand summary of the city’s financial activities. Riverton City has received national recognition for the PAFR and has been awarded for outstanding achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting for each of the last 13 years. This report is also publicly available, and I encourage residents to read it. You can pick up a hard copy at the front desk in the recreation department or access the digital
copy at rivertonutah.gov/finance/ reports.php.
There are several easy-to-read bar graphs—such as one on page 7—that shows that the total debt-per-capita (resident) has reduced from $996.00 in 2020 to $708.00 in 2024. It also shows the top employers in Riverton with the top three being Jordan School District, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Riverton Hospital.
As I review the PAFR and ACFR, I am so proud to live in Riverton. We are financially sound, fiscally conservative, and community oriented. Please reach out to your elected officials with any questions or concerns.
SPRING CLEAN UP DAYS
Riverton City is sponsoring two Spring Clean Up Days with community dumpsters at two locations. Residents are invited to spruce up their yards and homes those days and dispose of waste at the community dumpsters for free.
Saturday, April 5 and 12 | 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Riverton City Park, 1452 W 12600 S Western Springs Park, 4570 W Goshute Drive
PUBLIC SAFETY MESSAGE
Why Fire Engines Respond with Ambulances to EMS Calls
By Chief Wade Walkins
In many emergency medical situations, both fire engines and ambulances respond together. This dual response is essential for ensuring faster patient care, sufficient manpower, and efficient resource allocation. Here’s why fire engines and ladder trucks respond with ambulances.
Faster Response Times
To minimize community impact and ensure the fastest possible response, Riverton City has strategically placed fire stations throughout the city, equipping firefighters with advanced training as paramedics or EMTs. Every fire engine and ambulance is electronically tracked, allowing dispatchers to send the closest available unit to an emergency.
ventions, such as CPR or emergency medications, like epinephrine for allergic reactions. In severe cases, such as cardiac arrest or trauma, every second counts—immediate treatment can significantly increase survival rates and reduce long-term health impacts.
By continuously refining response strategies and leveraging technology, Riverton City remains committed to protecting lives while reducing the overall impact of emergencies on the community.
“This dual response is essential for ensuring faster patient care, sufficient manpower, and efficient resource allocation.”
This precision in response is critical for administering lifesaving inter-
Resource Efficiency and Scene Safety
By ensuring seamless teamwork between all responders to include law enforcement, Riverton City and Unified Fire Authority enhance emergency response efficiency, improving patient outcomes while reducing the overall impact of medical emergencies on the community.
Additionally, Firefighters assist with patient extrication in car accidents, lift assists for immobile patients, and scene stabilization in hazardous environments. They also support law enforcement and hazardous materials teams, ensuring a safer response.
In conclusion, the combined response of fire engines and ambulances ensures faster, more effective patient care and transport to definitive care that ultimately saves lives. This system maximizes resources and improves outcomes for those in medical distress when seconds count.
UPCOMING EVENTS RIVERTON
Be part of a Riverton tradition and come participate in one of the valley’s best races. Medals and prizes will be awarded for participants and winners.
Riverton Half Marathon, 10K & 5K is on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Races begin at 9 a.m. at Riverton City Park. Register at: rivertonutah.gov/half
Town Days Parade Entry Applications
Thousands of happy citizens gather for the Riverton Town Days Parade—don’t miss this incredible opportunity to showcase your business or organization! Sign up today. Apply online at rivertonutah.gov/parade.
• Application Deadline: Friday, June 13 Parade: Thursday, July 3, 6:30 p.m.
Start Smart Sports For Kids 3-5 Years
This program is designed to help children and parents develop the skills necessary to have a positive start with organized sports. Parents will work one-on-one with their children during four 1-hour classes. Cost is $30
• Classes Start April 29, Start times at 5pm and 6pm Register at rivertonutah.gov/startsmart
Hope Walk for Suicide Awareness
Join us at Riverton’s annual Hope Walk for suicide awareness. Together, we walk to show those who are struggling that they are not alone and that our community stands with them.
• Saturday, March 8, 9 a.m., Riverton High School