2600 West Taylorsville Boulevard • 801-963-5400 January
MAYOR'S MESSAGE
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I have to say the year 2025 has a nice ring to it. As we turn the page on another calendar year, there is always a bit of excitement and anticipation for the months ahead.
In this new year, I’m especially looking forward to the opening of the rst phase of the brand-new Summit Park at 6200 S. 3200 West, and I absolutely cannot wait for you to see the first stage, as well, of our newly renovated Taylorsville Park and the new skatepark there. I’m told there are a few skateboarders who haven’t been able to wait for its o cial opening this spring either and have already banked the ledges and dropped into the bowl. I share their unbridled enthusiasm!
We also joyfully await the coming Midvalley Express Bus Rapid Transit line (MVX), and we’re soliciting artists to design the bus stations along the route. I’m eager to see what they come up with, too.
And, speaking of art, our Plaza +ART program has already scheduled three Evenings of Art this new year, with the rst one set for Feb. 13. Additionally, the program has brought 19 stunning sculptures to Centennial Plaza, and both the Art Walk and Evenings of Art are free to attend and do.
As I look forward to the next year and re ect on the one just past, I’m always in awe of all that is happening here. Over just 12 months in 2024, we welcomed dozens of new businesses with Ribbon Cuttings, including brand-new constructions at Legacy Plaza; we celebrated our schools and their wins like the amazing championship by the Taylorsville High Cross Country team; we added the name Constitution Boulevard to 2700 West and applauded the fantastic shows put on by the Taylorsville Arts Council such as the recent Snoopy! The Musical and the 2024 Art Show.
We opened for the rst time the Taylorsville Farmers Market at Centennial Plaza and danced as the bands played at our free Starry Nights music series; we completed the joint, yearlong renovation project at Carriage Square; we celebrated TVPD’s two major K-9 competition wins and cheered as they stopped crime at every turn; we tagged along with our incredible Youth Council as they led out in so many ways; we recycled tons of items at our ever-popular annual Cleanup Day, happening again this year on May 17, and we did so much more.
De nitely, it was a year that will be hard to top. But with our Team Taylorsville, I am con dent this new year will bring even more opportunity and success. I'm looking forward to 2025!
—Mayor
Kristie S. Overson
WHAT’S INSIDE – JANUARY 2025
Frequently Called Numbers, Page 2
Council Corner, Page 3
TVPD News, Page 4
Heritage Remembrances, Page 7
Environment, Page 8
Taylorsville Rings in the Holidays, New Year with Tree Lighting
For the third year in a row, the City of Taylorsville rang in the holidays and the new year 2025 with a Tree Lighting Ceremony in front of City Hall. Dozens of people turned out for the annual Tree Lighting event on Dec. 2 at Centennial Plaza, which was also decked out in holiday lights and decorations. In fact, city o cials estimated it was the largest turnout yet for the event that featured music and entertainment, as well as cookies and hot chocolate served by the Youth Council.
Of course, the highlight of the night was the countdown to the tree lighting, which Mayor Kristie Overson led before ipping the switch to set the tree aglow. The live tree was decorated in gold lights through the season and will soon be transplanted to a city park.
“I loved seeing all the families and the children running around with ashlights,” Mayor Overson said at December’s City Council meeting. “The Taylorsville High Madrigals were remarkable as they always are, and the plaza looked so beautiful.”
Along with Centennial Plaza, City Hall was decorated too, both inside and out. As is tradition, the Youth Council set up the large tree in the foyer and placed the ornaments. Outside, city crews strung thousands of red and white lights, in addition to the permanent LED lights that were installed two years ago.
“Centennial Plaza is simply a lovely place to be throughout the year, but especially so during the holidays,” Mayor Overson said.
Taylorsville Recreation Center ......................................... 385-468-1732
Swimming Pool (Memorial Day to Labor Day) 801-967-5006
Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center 801-281-0631
UDOT Region 2 801-975-4900
Utah Transit Authority (UTA) 801-743-3882
EVENTS
JANUARY 2025
Jan. 1 – All day
New Year’s Day. City o ces are closed for the holiday.
Jan. 8 & 22 – 6:30 p.m.
City Council Meeting @ City Hall. Watch a livestream of the meeting at www.taylorsvilleut.gov
Jan. 14 & 28 – 6:30 p.m.
Planning Commission Meeting @ City Hall.
Jan. 20 – All day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day. City Hall is closed in observance.
Jan. 21 – All day
Opening Day of the Legislature @ State Capitol. The 45-day session concludes March 7.
UPCOMING: Feb. 6 – 6 p.m.
CERT meeting @ City Hall. This public meeting is being held to gauge interest in the emergency preparedness program and explore options for the city.
UPCOMING: Feb. 13
An Evening of Art. The city’s Plaza +ART program organizes and hosts these events, where residents can meet artists and hear about their work.
Find our calendar of events every month on the city’s website, where you can also submit your own events for possible publication. Go to www.taylorsvilleut.gov
The City of Taylorsville’s Plaza +ART program has been hosting Evenings of Art, bringing artists to the community to talk abou is a great chance for residents to learn more about art and mee contributing their time and talent. These evenings are free to Watch for time and location details. about their work. It meet the artists attend.
COUNCIL CORNER
By Council Member Anna Barbieri
Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Spirit of Cooperation & Support Defines Our City
This summer, I watched as a resident of Taylorsville mowed the lawn and pulled the weeds in one of his neighbor’s yard each week. It’s not a tiny yard, and I know the resident pushing the lawn mower suffers from a few physical ailments and di culties.
When I asked what prompted him to take on someone else’s yard work besides his own, he answered with a shrug and said, “It needs to be done. It makes the street look so much nicer and helps keep other’s from letting their yards go, as well.”
I could ll a book with the many acts of kindness I’ve seen and heard about in Taylorsville. I’m grateful to each of our residents who watch over their neighborhood and neighbors. We have a great city. A place where we can rely on each other in tough times and come together to celebrate in the good. We like to say that Taylorsville is the place where community connects, and that motto seems so apropos.
Here in Taylorsville, neighbors foster a spirit of cooperation and support, and is often the case, they refrain from blame when issues arise. We recognize that a community thrives when its residents work together to create a positive environment for everyone, and one
important way to contribute to a peaceful and thriving neighborhood is by keeping your property well maintained.
Clean, tidy yards not only enhance the appearance of individual homes but also improve the overall appeal of the neighborhood, which in turn helps maintain property values.
When residents take pride in their homes and gardens, it sets a positive example and encourages others to do the same. A neat, well-kept yard shows respect for the surrounding community and creates an atmosphere of pride that can prevent unnecessary con ict. When everyone is responsible for their property, it becomes easier to maintain a harmonious atmosphere where neighbors can support each other and work together.
Instead of pointing ngers or complaining, it's far more productive to have open conversations with neighbors. If there is an issue, discuss it constructively and o er to help solve the problem. By building mutual respect, neighbors can create a space where they feel comfortable living. They know that their e orts to maintain their homes and yards are appreciated by others. Thank you for all your efforts to be good neighbors to each other. These gestures may seem small in
the moment, but they do not go unnoticed. They are appreciated and often can make all the di erence in another’s life.
Rabbi, author and lecturer Harold S. Kushner put it so well, “The happiest people I know are people who don't even think about being happy. They just think about being good neighbors, good people. And then happiness sort of sneaks in the back window while they are busy doing good.”
Wreaths Across America Project Places 265 Wreaths at City Cemetery
In honoring veterans during the holidays, the City of Taylorsville and Taylorsville Youth Council took part in National Wreaths Across America Day this past month, for the third time in as many years. The nationwide initiative recognizes and remembers veterans across the country, coordinating wreathlaying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as more than 3,400 additional locations in all 50 states, at sea and abroad.
Those ceremonies are held each December on National Wreaths Across America Day, and the wreaths were delivered by semi-truck to the Taylorsville City Cemetery a few days beforehand. They were unloaded with the help of city and cemetery staff, Youth Council members and the Taylorsville Police Department.
“Truly, this event is the highlight of the holidays,” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “It is such a meaningful, touching way to honor and remember our veterans.”
In Taylorsville, there were two parts to the Wreaths Across America ceremony on Dec. 14. The rst part in the City Council Chambers started promptly at 10 a.m. to coincide with the ceremony at Arlington cemetery.
The second portion of the ceremony took place outdoors at the Taylorsville City Cemetery, where wreaths were laid on all 265 veterans' graves there. In addition to assistance from the Taylorsville Youth Council, the Taylorsville High School JROTC and the local nonpro t Honor365, community members helped lay the wreaths.
The remembrance wreaths are hand-crafted of all-American balsam and hand-tied with a red velvet bow in Columbia Falls, Maine, and then sent to participating locations. Watch for a picture page of the event on these pages in next month’s edition.
LEFT TO RIGHT:
Bob Knudsen, (District 5), Curt Cochran, Chair (District 2), Anna Barbieri, (District 3), Meredith Harker, Vice Chair (District 4) and Ernest Burgess (District 1)
Police Partnership Brings an End to ‘Traveling Theft Ring’
Check this space each month for news about the Taylorsville Police Department (TVPD) and their valuable service to our community.
TVPD, in partnership with the Orem Police Department, the Utah Attorney General’s Office and multiple other agencies, arrested several individuals involved in a fraudulent scam. The scam involved multiple suspects using counterfeit currency to purchase merchandise.
The suspects would then return the merchandise for a cash refund. The scam spread across 13 states in what is being coined as a “traveling theft ring." The total loss is currently pushing $32,000, and that number is likely to grow as the investigation continues.
In a recent news report, KUTV listed multiple stores that were impacted over three days in October, including:
Oct. 26 — Spanish Fork Target, Provo Towne Center Target, Provo State Street Target, Orem Kohl's, Orem Target, American Fork Target, American Fork Kohl's (twice)
Oct. 27 — South Jordan Target, Fort Union Target, West Jordan Target, West Valley City Target, American Fork Kohl's
In our social media posts, TVPD regularly uses the hashtag #TVPDStopsCrime, and we take great pride when we can help bring an end to crime like this!
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Det. Barrett, a detective within TVPD’s Violent Crimes Unit, brings 34 years of law enforcement and corrections experience to the community and is our latest TVPD Employee of the Month.
Det. Barrett’s educational experience includes a bachelor’s degree in history in addition to being a graduate of Utah’s Peace O cer Standards and Training Academy. In addition to his 34 years in law enforcement, Det. Barrett served ve years in the U.S. Army. During his law enforcement career, he served with Adult Probation and Parole, the Salt Lake County Sheri ’s O ce, Uni ed Police, Veterans A airs and West Valley Police departments. Det. Barrett joined Taylorsville Police Department in 2021. He has served in various specialty units including corrections, patrol, property crimes, K-9, gang investigations and violent crimes.
In October, Det. Barrett was assigned as the lead detective in a homicide investigation that occurred within Taylorsville. The investigation began on Oct. 13 at 4 a.m. when o cers were called to investigate a shooting. For the next 20 straight hours, Det. Barrett led our patrol o cers and assisted detectives toward the arrest of seven suspects, all who resided outside of Taylorsville. Numerous search warrants were drafted and multiple interviews conducted in compiling the necessary information for charges.
Det. Tan stated, “In my years of working with Det. Barrett, I have seen him perform his job in an exemplary manner at all times with his performance often appearing automatic and e ortless, a clear indication of his vast experience and training.”
In his downtime, Det. Barrett enjoys shing and quiet moments to recharge. Thank you, Det. Barrett, for your service!
Santa Claus Puts Everyone in Taylorsville on the Nice List
Santa rode into Taylorsville on a re truck with lights and sirens blaring. He was in town this past month for the annual Saturday with Santa event, which marked its 18th anniversary with plenty of fun for all.
Those attending enjoyed children's crafts and games, choir performances, tasty treats and hot chocolate, and a beautiful array of Christmas décor that could be purchased with a donation to the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center, where the Saturday festivities took place.
“We had such a great time and want to especially thank the Taylorsville Historic Preservation Committee, Parks and Recreation Committee and Youth Council for putting on another fantastic event,” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “It is such a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays.”
Taylorsville Arts Council Closes Out Season with ‘Snoopy! The Musical’
The Arts Council’s production of “Snoopy! The Musical” was a resounding success, with a full house on opening night and sold-out crowds for its two subsequent performances.
The show played Nov. 21 to 23 at the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center. Heather Childs smashed it as Snoopy, and rounding out the cast were Jason Dexter as Charlie Brown, Alex Grow as Linus, RyLee Smedshammer as Sally, Virginia Duran as Lucy, Krystal Funk as Peppermint Patty and Gideon Lemon as Woodstock.
“It was such a super-cute, feel-good show that warmed all the hearts in the audience,” said Mayor Kristie Overson in congratulating the cast and crew. “I absolutely loved it.”
The Arts Council’s next show coming up is a Musical Revue set for Feb. 21 and 22. Look for details coming soon on the city’s website, www.taylorsvilleut.gov, or social media channels.
Taylorsville Bennion Heritage REMEMBRANCES
Couple’s Lives Centered on Music, Jokes, Food and Family
This month’s article highlights the life history of David and Helen Jones.
David Parkes Jones was born on May 10, 1904, and he died Sept. 25, 1977. His wife, Helen Mar Bennion Jones, was born April 27, 1909, and she passed on Oct. 31, 1979. Their life history is one of many you can nd at the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center. The following is an excerpt of that history, as told by their daughters:
“David Jones loved helping people and families, especially those who may be down on their luck or in need of just a little extra help. One way he helped and that he enjoyed, in particular, was taking the widows in the neighborhood for a ride in his car to go out for ice cream, sometimes calling them just before he wanted to go. He would tell them to be ready in a half hour, that they were going here or there. He usually wouldn’t take no for an answer.
“He loved to play April Fool’s and practical jokes on people, and he really told some good ones. He reveled in seeing people have fun. He also enjoyed farming and the animals on the farm. Every year, on May 10, he would throw a big party and all the Jones family would come. He always xed the dinner, with a little help from his daughters, and it usually took the whole day. He liked to make chili, hot dogs and sauerkraut.
“Our dad was a guy with a big heart, one might say; he died unexpectedly of a heart attack at home when he was 73 years old.
“Helen, his loving wife and our dear mother, was born in Taylorsville to Parley and Belle R. Bennion. She was the fth of nine children. Helen started her music lens at a very early age. The family had an old Story and Clark upright piano, and she would often pick away at notes by ear until she had many tunes figured out. When she was in the first grade at Plymouth Elementary, she delighted the school by playing ‘It’s a Long Way to Tipperary.’
“Helen graduated from the LDS Business College and attended the University of Utah for three years, studying vocal music. She could compose and arrange any piece of music in beautiful harmony for any voice. Helen’s older sisters, Mini and Maureen, and brother, Glen, also loved to sing, and it was through Helen’s musical talents that the famous ‘Bennion Sisters’ trio was born. They spent a year or so singing on KSL Radio.”
You can learn more about the Joneses and their family, as well as the histories of other families in Taylorsville, at the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center, 1488 W. 4800 South. Drop on by!
Don’t Miss These Library Events
The Taylorsville Library has planned several programs during the month of January. You’ll want to mark your calendar for these events:
MUSIC AND MOVEMENT — Tuesdays in January, 10:30 a.m., starting Tuesday, Jan. 7. Can you "head, shoulders, knees and toes" with the best? Music, movement and fun for little ones and their grownups.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME — Wednesdays in January, 10:30 a.m., starting Wednesday, Jan. 8. Interactive early learning story-time for preschoolers and their caring adult(s) with talking, singing, reading, writing and play.
TODDLER PLAYTIME — Fridays in January, 10:30 a.m., starting Friday, Jan. 10. Open playtime and social interaction for toddlers and their caring adult(s). Toys, tunnels and more!
SENIOR BOOK CLUB AT THE TAYLORSVILLE SENIOR CENTER — Monday, Jan. 13, 11 a.m. Join in a lively discussion of a variety of ction and non ction books. Newcomers welcome! The book club will be led by a librarian from the Taylorsville Library. Help select books for 2025, and discuss books we loved in 2024, at the Taylorsville Senior Center, 4743 Plymouth View Dr.
HOME SCHOOL “WHO WAS” BOOK CLUB — Monday, Jan. 13, 1 p.m. Learn about people and places with books from the ‘Who Was’ series. The group will talk about the book, learn cool facts and do other fun activities. January: “Who Was Chuck Jones?”
VIRTUAL LECTURE | THE MONKEY KING'S EPIC JOURNEY — Tuesday, Jan. 14, 7 p.m. Register at: thecountylibrary.org/LectureSeries. The Monkey King is the beloved protagonist of the 16th-century Chinese novel “Journey to the West.” Dr. Ji Hao will explore this iconic character’s development and role in the quest for enlightenment.
DISCOVERY FRIDAY | PROPRIOCEPTION — Friday, Jan. 24, 4 p.m. Learn about proprioception. Each month, the library will feature a unique combination of STEAM activities, crafts, games, movement and more!
VIRTUAL LECTURE | Leadership Lessons from the Shackleton Expedition — Monday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m. Register at: thecountylibrary.org/LectureSeries. Delve into Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Trans-Antarctic Expedition, learn about his bold adventures, relentless adaptability and remarkable courage.
MEDITATION: CENTERING FOR ADULTS AND TEENS — Thursday, Jan. 30, 6 p.m. Centering enables you to hear your own information and what is essentially important and true for you. An opportunity to learn a tool to practice in your life. Practicing mindfulness in your daily life allows for more ease and presence. Presented by September McKinnon.
LIBRARY CLOSURES — Wednesday, Jan. 1 – New Year's Day; Monday, Jan. 20 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day
TAYLORSVILLE SENIOR CENTER
January Activities
The Taylorsville Senior Center has planned a variety of classes every month. Classes are free for those over age 60. Among the activities scheduled this month:
DRUMS ALIVE!
Free class for seniors over age 65. Wednesdays at 2 p.m.
GOOD GRIEF
Social Group. Second and fourth Thursday of every month at 1 p.m.
ANNUAL COLLECTION DAY
JANUARY UPDATES
New Year, New Goals
The new year is the perfect time for new beginnings and new goals. As we step into 2025, why not consider setting some sustainability goals for you and your family? By setting small, achievable goals to reduce waste and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle, you’ll build strong, positive habits throughout the year.
If you received upgraded or new items that replaced older ones, consider donating functional and reusable items to Goodwill or passing them along to someone who could use them. Reusing items for another purpose is always better than recycling. If reuse isn't possible, be sure to recycle what you can. By taking small steps to reduce our environmental footprint, we can create lasting change and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Winter Weather and Waste Collection
We face many challenges on Utah's winter roads including snowy and icy conditions, and WFWRD drivers encounter these same obstacles, along with other di culties that may not be immediately obvious to those unfamiliar with their equipment's operation.
When snow accumulates near the curb, it's important to place your containers in front of the snowbanks to ensure they can be serviced. Truck arms are unable to reach containers if they are placed on top of or behind snowbanks.
To ensure that your containers are emptied for the week, please place them in a clear, accessible location for drivers. Your cooperation helps WFWRD maintain smooth and efficient services during winter weather.
Christmas Tree Collections
Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District offers Christmas tree removal for your post-holiday convenience. During the month of January, they will begin picking up trees from residents who complete a request form at www. wasatchfrontwaste.org, or call the WFWRD o ce at 1-385-468-6325.
Only real trees are accepted; no artificial trees. Trees must be free of decorations, ornaments, lights and snow. Please place trees curbside, not in bins. Trees will be collected the day after your regularly scheduled pickup day. Due to high demand, it may take more than one week to complete all requests.
Ready for Spring? Take a Free Class at Conservation Garden Park
Discover the myriad bene ts of water conservation with free classes o ered by the Conservation Garden Park! The garden offers inspiring, educating and empowering information to help communities cultivate and relish waterwise landscapes. Conveniently located on 10 acres in West Jordan, the Garden Park welcomes residents from across the Wasatch Front.
Originally featuring six waterwise landscaping examples in a simulated residential setting, the Garden Park has blossomed into a hub of knowledge. Explore interactive exhibits designed to educate the public on waterwise design, planting and irrigation. It has evolved into an impressive water conservation teaching and demonstration garden, showcasing sustainable practices for a greener future. Visit their website, conservationgardenpark.org, to learn more.
As a proud member agency of Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District, Taylorsville-Bennion Improvement District urges customers to tap into this invaluable resource. Embrace the opportunity to enhance your understanding of water conservation by signing up for classes online via their website. Let's collectively contribute to a more water-e cient community.
If you have any questions, please contact Taylorsville-Bennion Improvement District by calling 801-968-9081 or visiting www.tbid.org. Follow TBID on Facebook and X.
