NEW FOOD DONORS ARE HELPING THE TAYLORSVILLE FOOD PANTRY FEED TENS OF THOUSANDS ANNUALLY
By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
He may not quite be a man “possessed” – but it’s a close call.
For two years now, volunteer Phil Knight has managed the Taylorsville Food Pantry. Sure, technically it’s his Intermountain Baptist Church (4770 S. 1950 West) that stepped forward at the end of 2022 to bail out Taylorsville City when it needed new people to operate the pantry. And yes, dozens of members of the church do volunteer there regularly.
But make no mistake: Knight is the one who eats, drinks and sleeps the pantry. He’s always working to cultivate relationships with potential new food donors. He is also constantly scouring used appliance sale websites, searching for the next great bargain on a piece of equipment they could use.
And if you’re Knight’s wife (Cheryl), son (Braedon) or daughter (Jordan)… forget about it. You will be spending a lot of Saturdays helping husband/dad hand out food.
“Nothing gives me more of a warm, fuzzy feeling than when someone thanks us for what we’re doing,” Knight said. “I like seeing people being blessed by our efforts. This is definitely not a one-person operation. Our volunteers are fantastic, so dependable. I think about the food pantry a lot because I never want to run out of food to give people in need.”
Knight is quick to add, although the “official” organization volunteering at the pantry is his church, they also have several regular volunteers who are not members of their congregation.
One of those is Kat Solomon-Clark, who’s been offering a hand at the Taylorsville Food Pantry since last summer.
“My birthday is in July and it’s been my tradition each year to provide some kind of volunteer service on that day,” Solomon-Clark explained. “Last summer, I came across the Taylorsville Food Pantry and met Phil and Cheryl Knight. They work so hard there – especially Phil. He thinks every day about ways to improve the pantry. My husband Sam and I now volun-
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Dozens of Taylorsville’s Intermountain Baptist Church congregants volunteer their time serving hundreds of families at the city’s food pantry each week. (Carl Fauver/City Journals)
“A”chieving excellence: CommonSpirit hospitals recognized for steadfast commitment to patient safety
At CommonSpirit Health, the safety of our patients is our most important priority. We are honored to share that three of our hospitals along the Wasatch Front received an “A” grade for our commitment to patient safety in Fall 2024.
This recognition comes from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety. Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to hospitals across the country based on over 30 performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them.
CommonSpirit hospitals receiving an “A” for Fall 2024 include:
• CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley
• CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Mountain Point
• CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – West Valley
We are proud of our physicians, nurses and all our caregivers for living our values of excellence, collaboration and compassion to ensure the safety of the patients in our care.
But our work isn’t done. Our vision of a healthier future for all calls us to continue to improve our delivery of compassionate, safe care to every patient, every time, in every care site across our CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region. Achieving that vision is our commitment to you.
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – West Valley
The
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital Mountain Point
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.
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
right ER. Right around the corner.
When you need emergency care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. You never know the level of care you’ll need when an emergency happens and choosing the right ER can make all the difference. And a hospital ER comes with the confidence of additional services right on-site. Find emergency care close to you at mountain.commonspirit.org.
Christine McSweeney President
Chris Stines President
Salt Lake County works to provide safe travel during winter weather conditions
By Collette Hayes | c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
Utah is known for its “cold smoke” powder snow. Certainly, from the standpoint of skiing and snowboarding, a convincing argument can be made that the “Greatest Snow on Earth” can be found in Utah. The famous snow, created from unique environmental conditions, may be unsurpassed on the planet for its quality. However, it can also turn a routine morning commute into quite a hazardous ordeal.
When the snow flies in Utah, the Salt Lake County Public Works Operations team rolls across the valley with large snow removal vehicles loaded with salt and equipped with 12-foot-wide, 2,000-pound blades to promote safe travel during winter weather conditions. The team works around the clock to ensure safe, accessible roads for residents throughout Salt Lake County.
According to the Director of Salt Lake County Public Works Operations, Steven Kuhlmeier, the Public Works team comprises about 81 department employees operating 60 large plows. The team is on standby 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Kuhlmeier says the goal is to address snow and ice events in contracted jurisdictions within 36 hours after the end of a storm.
When a snow event occurs, street maintenance in the community is addressed according to a priority plan. First, the main arterial roads and priority roadways that provide access for emergency vehicles are cleared. Next, attention is given to school routes and areas in higher elevations and arterial streets in steeper neighborhoods. Snow plows then move on to public transportation routes and residential streets. Cul-de-sacs and dead ends, which are the most challenging to clear, are managed last.
“When dispatching our drivers, we have two snow supervisors for each day and night shifts who split up the valley” Kuhlmeier said. “They are monitoring weather conditions and assessing any reports coming in from law en-
forcement as well as going out and making inspections. So, we are not necessarily waiting for snow to be on the ground. If we are seeing what could possibly be icy or unsafe conditions, we will go out and wet the asphalt with a brine salt water solution which helps to mitigate ice formation and makes it easier for the drivers to plow and to get the salt down later.”
The drivers face several challenges that affect the effectiveness of snow removal in neighborhoods. Parked cars create an unsafe situation for trucks trying to pass, often leading to roads being skipped. However, the driver will frequently try to circle back, check for clearance, and try to plow again, which can cause delays in other areas needing service.
Many times, people assume an area hasn’t been cleared, but often, this is due to residents
blowing snow back into already-cleared roads. This can create icy or unsafe conditions. Blowing snow back onto a resident’s property is best practice for helping keep roads safe. When residents are clearing out the drive approach, it is advised to push the snow with the flow of traffic so the plows don’t push it right back into the drive approach. Additionally, navigating around garbage cans and untrimmed trees can be difficult for a 12-foot-wide plow. Following local ordinances and keeping trees trimmed improve access for plow drivers.
Cul-de-sacs and dead ends are specific challenges for drivers providing service. When drivers have difficulties navigating plows in these areas, such as when snow cannot be removed for various reasons or the truck cannot be turned around, more seasoned drivers may
back the truck in and drop salt to help reduce the severity of ice and snow.
Have you ever wondered how soon your area will receive plowing service during a large snow event? To address these questions and concerns, Salt Lake County has provided an online Plow Tracker tool. This tool shows the locations of the snowplow trucks and highlights the areas that have recently been plowed.
“All of our trucks are equipped with a GPS that registers where the trucks are and when the plow blades are down,” Kuhlmeier said. “This is a publicly accessible tool that can show where drivers have plowed within the past 12 to 48 hours. The tool can be accessed by visiting your city’s public works or county website. It allows citizens to see where we have been providing service. Also, we have 24-hour dispatch to address and track concerns.”
Great snow brings great responsibility. Salt Lake County Public Works asks residents to remember to be patient during large snow events, avoid parking on the street, understand minor arterial roads are lower priority, avoid blowing snow into the street when clearing walkways and driveways, and when cleaning out a driveway approach, push snow with the flow of the traffic.
Few things are as reassuring to a snowedin neighborhood as the sight of flashing white lights piercing through the heavy snowfall and the deep rumbling sound of a snowplow blade scraping against the snow-covered asphalt. Snow removal is an essential service that helps ensure a safer, more accessible community.
If you have questions or concerns about snow removal in your area, use the Salt Lake County online Plow Tracker citizeninsights. geotab.com/#/pwops, call 24-hour dispatch 385-468-6101, or email Salt Lake County Public Works Operations, pwops-online@saltlakecounty.gov. l
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The Taylorsville Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout Taylorsville. For information about distribution please email hello@thecityjournals.com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website. The views and opinions expressed in display advertisements do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by Loyal Perch Media or the City Journals. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner. © 2019 Loyal Perch Media, Inc.
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MISSION STATEMENT
TAYLORSVILLE TEAM
Few things are as reassuring to a snowed-in neighborhood as the sight of flashing white lights piercing through the heavy snowfall and the deep rumbling sound of a snowplow blade scraping against the snow-covered asphalt. (Photo courtesy Salt Lake County Public Works Operations)
teer there every Saturday we can.”
Solomon-Clark knows hunger all too well. Years ago, she found herself homeless on the streets of New York City, watching for people to throw away half-eaten sandwiches she could dig out of the garbage to finish.
“I know what it feels like to be so hungry you feel physical pain,” she said. “If you’ve never experienced it, you can’t understand it. When you are that hungry, it’s emotionally devastating. You feel hopeless. That little half a sandwich represents hope. It tells you you haven’t hit rock bottom. I felt it. And I’m grateful to be able to help others to restore their hope.”
The efforts of Knight and his tireless volunteers are easy to measure in the number of people being served through their efforts.
“At the end of 2023, we totaled up everyone we had served in our first year and it was just under 22,000 people,” he said. “Our total last year nearly doubled that. We provided food to 39,935 people – about 200 families per week. However, we were actually able to help feed nearly twice that many people, because we provided extra food to substance abuse facilities, the Ronald McDonald House, senior citizen service groups and other organizations. Adding all those in, we helped feed closer to 70,000 people in 2024.”
At the heart of this rapid growth in people served by the Taylorsville Food Pantry is Knight’s ability to create relationships with donors. Three key examples include:
• Daily’s Premium Meats donates about 100,000 pounds of meat each year, allowing Taylorsville Food Pantry to provide beef and ham products to food pantries and other organizations from Utah County to Ogden.
• Franz Family Bakeries donates 1,000 to 1,500 pounds of breads, pastries, cakes and douts, including a large selection of gluten-free products, weekly.
• Utah Diaper Bank donates 2,000 to 3,000 disposable diapers to the Taylorsville
Food Pantry each month.
“Those are probably the top three donors we’ve been able to add since taking over management of the food pantry,” Knight said. “We’ve also had other donations. Lowe’s donated shelving. And Harmon’s gave us an electric pallet jack, making it much easier to move food around.”
When they do have to spend money, Knight likes to search school district surplus property web listings, where he has found several bargains.
“Last summer, a school district in Idaho Falls was selling two 8x8x8-foot walk-in coolers,” he explained. “We drove up in a car then rented a truck to bring them back. We had to disassemble them to haul them down. They’re each 512-cubic-feet, which holds a lot. We’re using one as a refrigerator and the other as a freezer. That also allowed us to get rid of some older appliances; so these are actually saving electricity.”
More importantly, the new (to them) coolers allow the Taylorsville Food Pantry to keep more food on hand than it has ever been able to before. That helps Knight sleep at night. They’ve never run out of food, no matter how large any given Saturday crowd was.
“Phil Knight and his volunteers are doing such a spectacular job operating our Taylorsville Food Pantry,” Mayor Kristie Overson said. “The members of his church, and the many non-church members who help, are so hard working. They are just a remarkable group of people. Phil has such an incredible ability to find food donors.”
One big change that occurred when Intermountain Baptist Church took over volunteer management of the Taylorsville Food Pantry is that distribution days were cut from three times per week to just Saturdays – once a week. But Overson says she has not received one concern or complaint since that change.
“I am proud of the work we are doing,” Knight concluded. “And I have also developed a whole new respect for just how much demand for food is out there. One Saturday
around the holidays, it was snowing like crazy – and we still had a huge line of people needing food. If they are willing to stand in a snowstorm for assistance, I want to do all I can for them.”
Taylorsville Food Pantry (4775 S. 1600 West) distributions are from 10 a.m. to noon each Saturday. l
Rain or shine, many needy families from Taylorsville and surrounding communities line up at the food pantry each Saturday. (Carl Fauver/City Journals)
Taylorsville food pantry operators recently purchased two of these used, 512-cubic-foot walk-in freezers to hold donated meat products. (Carl Fauver/City Journals)
The volunteer Taylorsville Food Pantry management team includes Phil Knight (L), his wife Cheryl and Kelly Ostler. (Carl Fauver/City Journals)
Taylorsville entrepreneur and businesswoman Verona Mauga begins her first term in the Utah House
By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
Arecordnumber of women in the Utah Legislature this year includes one who defeated two men in elections last year to get there.
Taylorsville resident and House District 31 Representative Verona Mauga defeated a fellow Democrat – the seat’s incumbent, Brett Garner – at last year’s party convention. Then, last November, she upended her Republican opponent, Bill Swann, in the general election. Neither race was close: 73% to 27% at the convention; 58% to 42% in the general.
Now Mauga is representing nearly half of Taylorsville’s residents, along with just about as many constituents in West Valley City.
“I ran a very robust campaign, knocking on about 10,000 doors,” Mauga said. “I felt good going into the election. But you just don’t know. We live in a conservative state. I was nervous.”
About two hours after the polls closed, the first numbers in her race were released. Although they weren’t yet final, the lead margin told Mauga and her supporters they had won.
One of the most excited Mauga supporters on election night was someone else who was awaiting her own election results.
“Verona is absolutely ready for this; she’s already doing such amazing work in the community,” Sen. Karen Kwan said. “Verona knows
ago, early in her political career, when Mauga worked on her Utah House election campaigns. Mauga was still a Kwan campaign volunteer in the fall of 2022 when Kwan was elected to the newly-reconfigured House District 31 seat.
Shortly after that is when Sen. Karen Mayne resigned her position for health reasons. Mayne passed away last summer, following a lengthy battle with brain cancer.
A special election in January 2023 shifted Kwan from the Utah House to the Senate – and ever since then, she has supported Mauga’s effort to replace her in House District 31.
“I am really excited about what Verona brings to the legislature,” Kwan concluded. “She has such a strong, unique perspective as a business owner. Her keen interest in our criminal justice process will also be very important. She’s ready.”
Running a small business has taught me resilience, patience and the value of every customer. It’s also shown me how crucial community support is to success. No business, no person, no family can thrive without it.
“As the co-owner of My Choice Utah (mychoiceutah.com), a business that provides supportive host home services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, I’ve gained an even deeper understanding of the challenges many families face – finding quality care, balancing work and life and making sure their loved ones are safe and supported. This experience has strengthened my resolve to fight for policies that make life better for all families in our district.”
Since winning her election a dozen weeks ago, Mauga has been doing what Kwan describes as “drinking from a firehose.”
the issues in the district. She is hitting the ground running.”
Kwan first met Mauga about a decade
Several years ago, Mauga joined family members in opening a bakery and café. Then last year, Mauga opened a new business. In a letter to the Salt Lake Tribune, she described how she believes each of those businesses have helped prepare her for her new task as a state lawmaker.
“In 2018, my family and I opened Sagato Bakery & Café in Midvale (sagatofoods.com).
“When you’re a freshman in the Legislature, so much comes at you at once,” Kwan said. “One bit of advice I gave Verona is, use two phones. You need to keep your legislative work and your personal life a little bit separate. They frontload a lot of information for new lawmakers – but I know she’s getting it just fine.”
Mauga says she learned she’d be busy within 24 hours of winning her seat.
New Taylorsville Utah House Representative Verona Mauga began her first session on the hill last month. (Photo courtesy Verona Mauga)
“After campaigning so long and hard, my goal after the election was to turn my phone completely off for 24 hours – just one day,” Mauga said. “I didn’t quite make it. At 6 p.m. the next evening I turned it back on and I already had a bunch of paperwork to fill out for the legislature. Since then, it’s been an interim session, caucus meetings, talking with organizations and community stakeholders. They’ve offered information on how to draft and file bills. It’s been busy.”
Less than a week before this year’s session opened on Jan. 21, Mauga and several other Utah freshman representatives flew to Texas to attend a public safety conference. She was asked to join that trip because of her placement on the legislature’s Judiciary Standing Committee.
“Each freshman representative was asked to submit the names of committees they wanted to serve,” Mauga explained. “I requested the Judiciary and Economic Development Committees and got placed on both of them. I am also serving on the Economic Development Appropriations Committee. So I received all the assignments I was hoping for.”
As for her first bills, Mauga is prefiling a half dozen.
“I didn’t go in planning to file six bills; but people have already come to me with issues I want to support,” she explained. “All of these bills were brought to me by community organizations and constituents. None of them are something I preplanned, to come in with some
kind of agenda. I am here to represent my constituents.”
Two of the six bills Mauga is sponsoring relate to public safety for people riding bicycles in bike lanes and fraud protections for military Veterans.
In the run up to this year’s legislative session, Mauga also had the opportunity to talk with Taylorsville Mayor Kristie Overson.
“I am very impressed with her,” the mayor said of Mauga. “She’s been a Taylorsville resident for many years. Her family is very strong and rooted in the community. I think she will be a great addition. I didn’t inundate her with things the city would like her to do. I just said we look forward to having good communication and assisting her with anything she might need from Taylorsville City.”
As she enters this first session, Mauga is confident she can work well on behalf of her conservative and more liberal constituents alike.
“I spoke with so many families during the campaign – Republicans, Democrats, everyone,” she concluded. “A Democrat can’t earn an elected office in Utah without support from both parties. I learned everyone has about the same core values. We want our families to be safe. We want our kids to get good educations with supportive teachers. We want affordable housing. We want to protect the Great Salt Lake and our water supply. We want to slow inflation as best we can. These aren’t partisan issues –and I plan to do the best I can to help with all of them.” l
Perhaps freshman Utah House Representative Verona Mauga’s (L) biggest supporter, besides relatives, is veteran state lawmaker Karen Kwan. (Photo courtesy Verona Mauga)
Taylorsville Fire Marshal Tom Smolka has been on the job for SLCFD and UFA for a half-century
By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
GRIEF HAS NO TIMELINE
WhenTom Smolka graduated from Salt Lake’s West High School (1966), the Beatles were still playing live concerts.
When Smolka began working for the Salt Lake County Fire Department (1974), our country was in political turmoil. Six weeks earlier Richard Nixon had become the first President of the United States to resign.
The Beatles and “Tricky Dick” are long gone. For that matter, so too is the Salt Lake County Fire Department. But Smolka, now 75, has never stopped clocking in. The county’s firefighting agency was rebranded as Unified Fire Authority. But Smolka never skipped a beat.
“As a boy, I worked with my father at a Salt Lake meat plant,” Smolka said. “I quickly learned I wanted to do something with more variety, and something more outdoors. For a long time I thought I might go into law enforcement. But then a cousin who was a firefighter began talking with me about his career. I was hired by the Salt Lake County Fire Department on Sept. 16, 1974, and the rest is history.”
So much history, in fact, UFA has officially branded Smolka’s accomplishment “historic.” They claim no one else has ever worked 50 years for SLCFD/UFA.
By the way, between that West High graduation and his first day of SLCFD training, Smolka did earn an associate’s degree at Dixie College (also gone, now Utah Tech University) in St. George. That was followed by a University of Utah diploma. But despite securing his degree in accounting and finance, Smolka may not have learned everything he needed to know about money.
“I have built up so much of a retirement that, for the past couple of years, it has actually cost me money to remain on the job,” Smolka explains. “My retirement income will be a little higher than what I now earn. But I enjoy my job. I like helping people. So I’m still here.”
Just a few years into his firefighting career, in 1980, Smolka received paramedic training. He worked in that role from 1980 to 2002. Midway through that portion of his career, in 1990, Smolka was assigned to work out of what was then the brand-new fire station near 5400 S. 2700 West. UFA Station 118 is now often referred to as “the one next door to Taylorsville City Hall.” But, back then, it was in place – with Smolka working there – several years before Taylorsville was incorporated and more than a decade before city hall was built.
By the time the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games rolled around, Smolka says he was tired of all the “blood and guts and late nights” of being a para-
medic. When a position opened up in the SLCFD Fire Protection Division, Smolka applied and made the move.
Two years later, in 2004, Salt Lake County Fire Department officially became Unified Fire Authority.
Smolka’s official title now is area fire marshal. He’s a regular fixture at Taylorsville City Hall, where he works closely with the city’s zoning and building authorities. On large construction projects such as the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center or the Taylorsville Temple, Smolka is involved from the time plans are first put on paper through the eventual ribbon cutting.
With Smolka nearly every step of his half-century career has been wife Sherilyn, who he wed in early July nearly 48 years ago (7-7-77). The couple share five children, 14 grandkids and 12 great grandkids.
Late last year, Unified Fire Authority honored Smolka at an awards ceremony for his 50 years of service.
“It was such a wonderful banquet – terrific honor,” Smolka said. “It was the first time all five of my children were together in a long time. That night meant so much to me and my family.”
Among those offering tributes to Smolka that night was his supervisor, Fire Marshal Brad Larson. Just a few weeks later, Larson himself retired after 39 years on the job.
“Tom is phenomenal, taking such pride and ownership in what he does for Taylorsville and other communities,” Larson said. “He has such great knowledge about what he’s doing. And Tom’s customer service is unmatched. He understands time is money for business owners. If they need an inspection or an application approval, he always helps with what they need as quickly as possible.”
Taylorsville Mayor Kristie Overson is equally impressed with how valuable Smolka is to her city.
“I just saw Tom again in our (city hall) break room (the first week after New Years) and there he was, on the job again,” she said. “I thought ‘this guy is just incredible.’ He’s so fast and efficient in what he does for Taylorsville. I think he’s a great reflection of the priorities our entire permit and license departments have. We want to serve our community quickly. Tom Smolka fits in with that goal perfectly.”
Smolka says this year may finally be his retirement year; but he’s not yet certain. Until he finally does make that move, Smolka will continue to lose a little money out of each UFA paycheck. His old U of U finance professors would probably roll their eyes. But, like the Beatles, Nixon, Dixie College and SLCFD, they too are now gone. l
Fifty-year fire department employee Tom Smolka (L) was recently honored for his service by Unified Fire Authority Fire Marshal Brad Larson (R) and the rest of the agency. Shortly thereafter, Larson announced his own retirement after a nearly-as-long career of 39 years. (Photo courtesy Unified Fire Authority)
MAYOR'S MESSAGE
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
“Most Generous City.” This remarkable recognition bestowed on our city is a true testament of what I have known for many years: Taylorsville is a place of giving. Our residents are kind, and we care about others.
It makes me so proud that our city was honored with this distinction, as the “most generous city” in Utah and the 17th “most generous city” in the United States. While I am thrilled that our city was recognized by an outside party in this way, the label noting our generosity is not surprising to me. Our community has always been one of neighbors helping neighbors. In fact, our city’s very motto points to Taylorsville as the “place where community connects.”
Truly, our community is lled with people who want to pitch in and help whenever they see someone in need, and we function so well as a city in large part due to the e orts of our volunteer committees and their members. All provide a critical service to our city, and I feel blessed every day to live here in Taylorsville, where such support abounds.
This recognition as “most generous city” came from the fundraising website GoFundMe, which researched metrics of fundraisers from around the world in making its conclusion. The designation was then reported by KSL News, which quoted resident Carlos Mendoza saying he, too, was not surprised by the honor.
“People here will do anything to help you, even if you don't ask for it," he said. “And with money? People will always give what they can, even if they don't have much. It's pretty amazing really, when you think about it.”
Cheryl Knight, who helps manage the Taylorsville Food Pantry, also shared with the news station the pantry’s theme of ‘Neighbor helping Neighbor.’ “It’s about the community coming together,” she said. “We couldn't do this work without the community giving however they can.”
Susan Ison, executive director of Helping Hands Inc., a Taylorsvillebased agency that assists in alleviating the needs of children, further described our residents’ generosity as noteworthy, saying, “The people in this city have been fabulous.”
I couldn’t agree more. In Taylorsville, we are known to come together to help wherever we can, making any hardships easier to bear. To me, this is the true de nition of community.
So, I thank each of you from the bottom of my heart. I am so honored to serve as Mayor of such a generous, loving, kind community. There is no place I would rather be.
—Mayor Kristie S. Overson
WHAT’S INSIDE – FEBRUARY 2025
Frequently Called Numbers, Page 2
Council Corner, Page 3
TVPD News, Page 4
Heritage Remembrances, Page 7
Environment, Page 8
Year in Review: Significant Strides Achieved in Key Building Block Areas
City planning again centered around the ve building block areas of Economic Development; Transportation; Public Safety; Arts, Parks and Recreation; and Community Building this past year, but new parks, new art programs and new transportation projects were at the heart of the city’s many achievements in 2024.
“Whew, it was quite a year!” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “I didn’t think we could top the previous year but 2024 was lled with even more accomplishments for our city.”
Following are some of those projects occurring in each of the building block areas. Also, watch the 2024 Year in Review video either on social media sites or the city’s YouTube channel to see pictures of the various activities and accomplishments. The video is also playing in the lobby at City Hall.
Arts, Parks & Recreation. The city’s Starry Nights @the Plaza series featured the Food Truck League food trucks and other activities and entertainment every Friday night, from May to September. In all, an amazing 21 Starry Nights were held at Centennial Plaza, and planning has already begun for more Starry Nights on Friday nights this year.
Parks were also a significant focus, with the opening of the first phase of Summit Park happening this spring. The rst phase of the newly renovated Taylorsville Park, including a new skatepark, will o cially open in the spring, as well, and both parks sport new pickleball courts, installed the previous year.
In this area of Arts, Parks & Recreation, the city’s Plaza +ART program kicked o its fourth season, bringing 19 beautiful sculptures to Centennial Plaza, and several free Evening of Art events hosted artists, who spoke about their work. The Taylorsville Arts Council brought many fantastic shows again to the community, including “Snoopy! The Musical” and “Disaster,” and the 2024 Art Show drew more than 100 entries.
Community Building. The city brought the Taylorsville Farmers Market to Centennial Plaza for the rst time this past summer; thousands turned out for Taylorsville Dayzz 2024, and the annual
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Salt Lake County Recycling/Land ll 801-974-6920
Taylorsville Bennion Improvement District................. 801-968-9081
Taylorsville Food Pantry ..................................................... 801-815-0003
Taylorsville Senior Center 385-468-3370
Taylorsville Code Enforcement
801-955-2013
Taylorsville Justice Court 801-963-0268
Taylorsville Library ............................................................... 801-943-4636
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
FEBRUARY 2025
Feb. 5 & 19 – 6:30 p.m.
City Council Meeting @ City Hall. Watch a livestream of the meeting at taylorsvilleut.gov
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.
Feb. 11 & 25 – 6:30 p.m.
Planning Commission Meeting @ City Hall.
Feb. 13 – 7 p.m.
An Evening of Art @ the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center. The free event, sponsored by the city’s Plaza +ART program, features glass artist Tom Holdman and oil painter Tyler Swain, who will speak about their work.
Feb. 17 – All Day
President’s Day. City O ces are closed in recognition, reopening Feb. 18.
Feb. 20 & 21 – 7:30 p.m.
Musical Revue @ the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center. This show features local talent performing a variety of songs by composer Alan Menken.
UPCOMING: March 27 – 7 p.m.
Free Localscapes Class @ City Hall. Sponsored by the Green Committee. Register at www.taylorsvilleut.gov/services/localscapes
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
Also, a standing event every Thursday, from 2 to 4 p.m., at City Hall is the “Mayor is In.” During this time, Mayor Kristie Overson has open o ce hours to meet with residents about any issue on their minds. Drop by and meet with the Mayor. All are welcome.
P E R F O R M E R C A L L
Taylorsville City is on the hunt for some fabulous entertainment for our 2025 Starry Nights @ the Plaza events! These free public events groove right alongside our weekly Friday night food truck rallies. We're looking to hire 19+ awesome acts to light up our summer stage!
COUNCIL CORNER
By Council Member Bob Knudsen
Make a Difference, Join the Many Volunteers Helping Our City
most active budget committee — speaking volumes to how we seek input from our citizens.
During my time on the City Council, I have been amazed at all the work being done by individuals to help give us so much.
Within the City of Taylorsville, we have many who want to help improve our community and quality of life. To that end, we have several volunteer citizen committees that serve our community, many times behind the scenes.
Our Arts Council helps us in gathering people who want to share their artistic talents, showcasing ner parts in the community. This can come through performances, such as our local productions that are put on by actors, coordinating performances by our local Taylorsville-SLCC Orchestra, or helping to put on a venue for individuals to showcase their original works of art. There are so many people who want to learn, grow and stretch themselves, and the work of our Arts Council helps to allow this.
We have a Budget Committee, a group of community members who want to help ensure that Taylorsville is being wise in the stewardship of the funds that we are granted. This group works to examine the budget, and to recommend to the City Council regarding various items under consideration for our operational budget. External auditors have commented about the level of activity and the number of members we have serving this committee, and that we have the largest/
Every year, we see many who look forward to “spring cleaning,” and there are questions that come about the city’s efforts to help with this. Our Green Committee not only helps us to consider how we can be more waterwise in our water use and other e ciencies, but they help coordinate annual e orts where citizens can bring unwanted or needed items to dispose of properly, cleanly and in the wisest manner.
Within the city, we also have some true gems who show where we came from and our rich history. The Historic Preservation Committee is devoted to helping us ensure that we do not forget those who came before us, who laid the path for us to have what we take for granted today. E orts from this group have allowed us to successfully work to obtain historic designations for some of our oldest buildings, which is no small feat. For us to be prepared for the future, we must also be aware of our past.
We have many great options to get outside and enjoy the world. This is the large focus of our Parks and Recreation Committee. My children particularly love readying their bikes for a ride down the Jordan River Parkway, and this is thanks in large part to the e orts of the Parks and Rec Committee’s focus on our parks and facilities and their work to gather us together to enjoy them.
In Taylorsville, we take our public safety seriously. To this end, we have our Public Safety Committee, which
Legislators Hard at Work on the Hill
The 2025 General Session of the 66th Utah Legislature is underway on Capitol Hill, and Taylorsville’s legislators have the needs of the city and its residents top of mind.
City leaders, including Mayor Kristie Overson and Police Chief Brady Cottam, held a breakfast at City Hall with Taylorsville-area legislators in advance of the legislative session to talk about priorities.
“We are so lucky,” said Mayor Overson. “Our elected representatives are remarkably responsive, and their dedication to meeting the needs of our Taylorsville community and residents is unmatched.”
This year’s session kicked o Jan. 21 and concludes March 7. Below are the legislators representing Taylorsville and their contact information:
Rep. Verona Mauga, Legislative District 3. Phone: 801-573-8279. Email: vmauga@le.utah.gov
Rep. Rosalba Dominguez, Legislative District 35. Phone: 801-419-3283. Email: rdominguez@le.utah.gov
Rep. Jim Dunnigan, Legislative District 36. Phone: 801-538-1029. Email: jdunnigan@le.utah.gov
Rep. Ashlee Matthews, Legislative District 37. Phone: 385-264-2024. Email: amatthews@le.utah.gov
Sen. Karen Kwan, Senate District 12. Phone: 385-249-0683. Email: kkwan@le.utah.gov
Sen. Wayne Harper, Senate District 16. Phone: 801-566-5466. Email: wharper@le.utah.gov
works to nd ways that we can be prepared. Preparations range from being involved with our neighbors and neighborhoods in watching out for another to seeing how we can be ready for emergency situations. There is so much more to speak on but all is made possible by people gathering together and being willing to volunteer. There are chances for good all around, and opportunities right in our way. We function so well in Taylorsville in large part to the e orts of our volunteer committees and their members. If you, too, would like to volunteer please sign up on our website, www. taylorsvilleut.gov (click “Our City” and then “Committees & Volunteers”).
ANNUAL CLEANUP DAY
Saturday, May 17th
@TAYLORSVILLE HIGH NORTHWEST PARKING LOT ...Save the Date...
Watch for some exciting changes coming to the program, to be announced soon!
LEFT TO RIGHT: Bob Knudsen, Vice Chair (District 5), Curt Cochran, (District 2), Anna Barbieri, (District 3), Meredith Harker, Chair (District 4) and Ernest Burgess (District 1)
TVPD Recognizes Drawing Contest Winners Among 150 Entries
Check this space each month for news about the Taylorsville Police Department (TVPD) and their valuable service to our community.
Throughout the holiday season, TVPD showcased a selection of 25 holiday drawings on our social media channels. These drawings were chosen from more than 150 entries submitted by fthgrade students attending one of our eight elementary schools in Taylorsville.
A big thank you to all the students who participated. As Mayor Kristie Overson said, selecting the drawings to feature as our o cial TVPD holiday card was “no easy task.”
The winners — Jaide from Bennion Elementary, Mabel from Fox Hills Elementary and Kenya from Taylorsville Elementary — were celebrated with a special lunch outing at Café Rio in Taylorsville. Joining them were Mayor Overson, Deputy Chief Lloyd, Sgt. Palmer and Dets. Andrew and Christensen.
During the lunch, we had the chance to learn more about these talented students:
Jaide started drawing when she was just 6 and completed her drawing in one day. She has three older brothers. Her favorite food is sushi, and her
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Please join us in congratulating Records Manager Donny Gasu as our latest Employee of the Month. Donny is a highly valued member of our civilian staff and has more than 13 years of public safety experience. For the past 15 years, he has served with both the Unified and Taylorsville Police departments, as well as the City of Taylorsville, in various roles, including Evidence Technician, Emergency Planning Manager and Records Manager.
Donny was previously selected as Employee of the Month in November 2021. Not much has changed since then when it comes to his unmatched work ethic. Chief Cottam said Donny “continues to maintain a positive attitude and successfully tackles any challenge or task assigned to him.” His positive attitude “remains contagious."
Donny plays a pivotal role in transitioning TVPD to the newly contracted L3Harris Technologies advanced radio system, part of a broader initiative by the Utah Communication Authority (UCA) to enhance public safety communications statewide.
favorite animals include turtles, cats and dogs. Jaide hopes to pursue a career as a veterinarian. Mabel discovered her love for drawing at age 8 and spent two days completing her holiday creation. She has one older sister and a younger brother. Her favorite food is chicken alfredo, and amingos are her favorite animals. Mabel’s current dream is to become a wedding and party planner. Kenya began drawing at age 10 and dedicated half a week to creating her holiday drawing. She has an older brother and a younger sister. Her favorite foods are elotes and tacos, and her favorite animals are eagles and dogs. Kenya aspires to become a police o cer.
We asked the students what they would want all Taylorsville residents to know. Their collective message was: "Never give up and always keep trying." What an amazing generation we have coming up; these three remarkable kids are great examples. Thank you, Jaide, Kenya and Mabel, for your creativity, determination and inspiring message.
The ongoing transition has been complex while requiring meticulous coordination, a responsibility that Donny is spearheading for TVPD. Donny continues to manage this signi cant undertaking while excelling in his regular assignments.
YEAR IN REVIEW CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Cleanup Day collected literally tons of items again for safe disposal and recycling. The city's many star employees were recognized at Taylorsville's 28th annual Awards Gala, where Mayor Overson also delivered the 2024 State of the City address.
The Historic Preservation Committee hosted its Fall Festival and Saturday with Santa, while other community events included the Wreaths Across America ceremony and the city’s third annual holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. The community also celebrated the championship Taylorsville High Cross Country Team with a special recognition at City Hall and a bus parade. Also o cially recognized was the Taylorsville High Softball team as undefeated region champs.
Economic Development. New businesses opened across the city and were celebrated with Ribbon Cutting events by city o cials and ChamberWest representatives. The newly renovated Carriage Square shopping center opened, bringing an inviting shopping environment with an entirely new parking lot, new landscaping throughout and the widening of sidewalks and patio areas. Brand-new constructions at Legacy Plaza also brought in several high-end national stores, including Ulta, Petco and Five Below. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints opened its new Taylorsville Utah Temple, which is expected to bring further economic development to the immediate area and o ers “a beautiful landmark to beltway motorists,” as described by church o cials.
Public Safety. Taylorsville’s Police Department and the Uni ed Fire Authority reghters and paramedics worked throughout the year to keep our community safe, covering several high-pro le incidents.
They also participated in and led many community events. Among them, the Public Safety Committee hosted the city’s 2024 Night Out Against Crime, and re ghters hosted an ever-popular Pancake Breakfast that drew hundreds of people. In addition, TVPD celebrated not one, but two major K-9 competition wins.
Transportation. Topping the list in this area, the Midvalley Express (MVX) Bus Rapid Transit line secured a $62.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation toward its completion. The seven-mile, 15-station all-electric line will run through
DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY?
Thursday, Feb. 6th
Taylorsville and connect jobs, retail, healthcare and education destinations, including Salt Lake Community College. And, in complement of the project, the city is working with a dozen local artists to the design the glass panels of the MVX stations.
City o cials joined residents in “walking the road” to celebrate the opening of the I-215 Southbound Frontage Road. The 4700 South Reconstruction Project between 5400 West and 5600 West also was completed, and the city added the name “Constitution Blvd.” to 2700 West in recognition of the U.S. Constitution and Constitution Day. Additionally, work continues on 4700 South and Bangerter Highway intersection, where a freeway-style interchange will cut commute times and improve safety.
“It’s amazing to me that as a city, working together, we accomplished so much this past year,” Mayor Overson said. “Taylorsville is de nitely the place to be — the place where community connects.”
T-SHIRT AND MEDAL DESIGN CONTEST!
Calling all artists! We are excited to announce an opportunity to showcase your creativity by designing the 2025 Taylorsville Dayzz 5k and Kids Run t-shirt and medal! This is your chance to make a lasting impression on participants and be part of an exciting community event! We encourage you to embrace your creativity and incorporate a theme into your design. Please note, our t-shirts will only feature two colors, so consider that in your design process We also ask that you include the words “Taylorsville Dayzz 5k” and the date of the run (June 28, 2025) in your design. We look forward to your artwork capturing the spirit and energy of the event Submissions are due by February 28th. The winning design will be selected on March 7th. Please submit your designs to Jandrus@taylorsvilleut.gov
The following formats are appreciated: .ai .eps .pdf .svg .png .jpg Selected designer will receive
a t-shirt, a medal and a shout out on social media!
Taylorsville Home Sought to Receive Free Professionally Designed Landscape LANDSCAPE
TRANSFORMATION
Casting Call
Taylorsville City is partnering with Salt Lake County and Utah Water Ways to create a residential landscape within the city, as a way of demonstrating waterwise methods and to show what a Utah yard should really look like.
The project is seeking interested homeowners who would want to o er their property as a canvas on which to show how to create an attractive front yard that is in harmony with Utah’s climate and Taylorsville City's landscape ordinance.
The City of Taylorsville, Salt Lake County and Utah Water Ways are seeking a Taylorsville residence for a free landscaping makeover. The project is meant to show waterwise methods and landscaping that complies with Utah’s climate and the city's landscape ordinance. If interested, please click the QR code to apply.
To that end, the Taylorsville Landscape Transformation e ort is searching for a “typical" existing landscape that can be transformed from a “blandscape" into a beautiful example yard others can emulate. Once selected, the residence will receive a professionally designed landscape, installed by a licensed, experienced landscape contractor, at no cost to the participant.
The entire landscape transformation process will be professionally photographed and lmed before, during and annually for up to ve years after completion. The process and the outcomes also will be featured in the statewide Slow the Flow water conservation campaign.
In addition, participants would agree to allow occasional, scheduled tours or learning events in their landscape for up to the next ve years. Millcreek, Herriman and Sandy also are participating in the project. One residence in the city will be selected for the makeover in Taylorsville.
If interested, please apply on the city’s website, www.taylorsvilleut.gov, under “Our City” and “Taylorsville Landscape Transformation.”
MUSICAL REVUE
Don’t Miss These Library Events Taylorsville Bennion Heritage REMEMBRANCES
'The Great War’ A ected the Life Path of this Taylorsville Resident
This month’s article highlights the life history of Abraham “Abe” Barker.
Abraham Barker was born on March 25, 1898. In his biography, he writes about the things he had been grateful for in his life throughout the late 1800s and 1900s in Taylorsville. An excerpt of his life history, told in his own words, states:
“As I, Abraham Barker, start to write a biography and history of my life, it comes very forcibly to me at this time that some, or most of this, should have been done years ago and that from time to time, I should have kept a diary to refer to. It will tax my memory now to recall nearly 80 years of life — all of which I have been grateful for.
“I have been blessed beyond my ability to express. I was born in Taylorsville on 2200 West and about 4300 South, in a humble two-room home on the 25th day of March, 1898. I was the eighth child of a family of 11 children.
I graduated from Granite High School, and because of the war, I decided to join the Army in the fall of 1918. I had made up my mind to take my military training and when the war was over, I would keep going to school.
“I thought at that time I would study medicine. Perhaps watching my father su er so helped me decide. The war was soon over, ‘First World War.’ I was released from the Army in December of 1918, but because our nancial condition on the farm, I was unable to go back to school.” He eventually formed a full, long life with his wife, Else. Excerpts from biographies like this give us a glimpse into what life was like in Taylorsville in the 1800s and 1900s. You can learn more about Abraham Barker, as well as the histories of other families in Taylorsville, at the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center, 1488 W. 4800 South. Drop on by!
The Taylorsville Library has planned several programs during the month of January. You’ll want to mark your calendar for these events:
ALL ABILITY ACTIVITY AT TAYLORSVILLE — Monday, Feb. 3, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join in an interactive event, designed with adults and teens with intellectual disabilities in mind. Drop by anytime during the event’s time. Meet together, play Valentine's Bingo and do seasonal crafts. Join the library quarterly for Ability Programs at the Taylorsville branch. Groups welcome!
A FORBIDDEN ADVENTURE: TEEN BOARD GAME — Saturday, Feb. 8, 1 p.m. Play Forbidden Adventure Games with the Board Game Guild.
HOMESCHOOL ‘WHO WAS’ BOOK CLUB — Monday, Feb. 10, 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. February is “Who Was Harriet Tubman?”
VIRTUAL LECTURE | The Life and Legend of Frontier Marshal Bass Reeves — Monday, Feb. 24, 7 p.m. Register at: thecountylibrary.org/LectureSeries. Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves, a former enslaved man, became a legendary lawman of the Wild West. Art T. Burton will discuss the facts and myths of this remarkable 19th-century peace o cer.
DISCOVERY FRIDAY | DNA — Friday, Feb. 28, 4 p.m. Learn all about that super-cool molecule — DNA. Enjoy some fun activities and learn more about what makes you, you!
LIBRARY CLOSURE — Monday, Feb. 17, all day. Closed for Presidents’ Day.
UPCOMING: SENIOR HEALTH CLASS | Memory Matters — Tuesday, March 18, 2 to 3 p.m. Identify the di erence between typical age-related cognitive changes and more serious decline, while learning practical tips for improving memory and focus at any age.
Taylorsville Community Greenhouse
If you are interested in starting vegetables or flowers for your garden, the Taylorsville Community Greenhouse will open on February 28th.
For more information, please contact Toni Lenning at 801-414-4192
ANNUAL COLLECTION DAY
FEBRUARY UPDATES
WFWRD Accomplishes Diversion Rate Goal
With your help, WFWRD achieved its districtwide 2024 Diversion Rate Goal of 18%!
The district's diversion rate is the percentage of residential municipal waste diverted from the land ll through reuse, reduction, recycling and composting programs. Below are the tonnages for Taylorsville:
Determining Ownership
Often Tops Repair List
A question routinely asked when a water service line is leaking or if there is a blockage in a sewer lateral is: “Who is responsible for it?"
A water service line is a pipe that conveys water from a large water main to the home. The homeowner and the Taylorsville-Bennion Improvement District have responsibilities for portions of the water service line. The district owns and maintains the water service line from the water main, which is normally located in the road or park strip, into the meter box that services the home. The homeowner is responsible for maintaining and repairing the water service line after it leaves the meter box.
The Trans-Jordan Landfill is predicted to reach capacity in eight years, while the Salt Lake Valley Land ll is set to reach capacity in about 40 years. After these land lls ll up, trash will need to be transported out of the valley, increasing vehicles on the road, emissions and transportation costs. Diverting from the land ll supports the longevity of the land lls and reduces our carbon footprint. WFWRD o ers multiple diversion opportunities including recycling, glass recycling and subscription weekly curbside green waste collection. Check WFWRD’s website and follow them on social media to nd out how you can help divert waste from the land ll: www.wasatchfrontwaste.org.
Strengthening Sustainability, One Leg at a Time
The "Three-Legged Stool" model represents the three key areas essential for community sustainability. Like a stool, if one leg is missing, stability is lost.
The Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District is committed to community sustainability. Each year, they monitor, track and improve in each area of the model to ensure a sustainable future.
In the coming months, WFDRD will share updates on its initiatives and progress in each leg of the stool. Stay tuned!
How WFWRD Measures Contamination
Each month, WFDRD collaborates with its recycling partner to process your single-stream recycling.
Through "Sample Sorts," WFWRD assesses contamination rates by sorting a portion of the load into two categories:
• Accepted Recyclables: cardboard, paper, metal cans, plastic bottles, jugs and tubs
• Non-Accepted Items and Garbage: items that cannot be recycled
WFWRD weighs each material and calculates the contamination rate. Recyclables are processed into new products, while contaminants are sent to the land ll.
A sewer lateral is a pipe that takes wastewater away from the home. The homeowner owns, maintains, repairs and replaces the sewer lateral and connection to the sewer main as needed. The district maintains the sewer main that receives the wastewater from the homeowners’ sewer lateral.
For further nancial protection, it is recommended that homeowners contact their homeowners’ insurance company or consider third-party insurance for coverage on water and sewer laterals.
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.
Fundraising giant gofundme lauds Taylorsville residents as the most generous in Utah, and among top donors nationally
By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
Every half-second, or 120 times per min-
ute, someone, somewhere around the globe, makes a financial contribution to an individual, family or charitable organization through the well-known gofundme website.
Let that number sink in a minute; or multiply it out: that’s 7,200 donations per hour… 172,800 per day… or 63,072,000 annually.
That’s a lot of people, helping a lot of other people, financially. And the fundraising giant reported late last year, Taylorsville residents donated more money through gofundme in 2024 than any other Utah city.
Each year, gofundme totals up all of its donations and releases top 10 lists of the most generous residents by state and by city. Obviously, these are per capita numbers; otherwise, it’s pretty likely California would lead the way every year. After all, one out of every nine United States residents is a Californian.
Taylorsville was not among gofundme’s top 10 cities; and Utah did not make its top 10 states list. However, just a bit further down, Taylorsville residents ranked 17th on the cities list.
To be eligible for listing, city populations must be at least 50,000. That rules out much smaller and wealthier cities such as Alpine, Highland or Park City.
Taylorsville Mayor Kristie Overson isn’t surprised by her city’s ranking on the gofundme list.
“I really can’t speak to financial contributions, because the city never asks people to donate money,” she began. “But I am very well aware of how people step up in our
community to donate their time. Taylorsville residents always rally around important causes. So, having our residents rank high on the gofundme list doesn’t surprise me at all. What a great way to be recognized.”
Interestingly, nine of the top 10 highest-donating cities listed by gofundme are located in just two states: Florida (6) and Georgia (3). The tenth city on their list is also down in the deep south: Greenville, South Carolina.
Also noteworthy, the top six gofundme donating states are the six New England states. In order, for 2024, they are: Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Maine and Connecticut. New Jersey (7) and New York (10) are also in that same part of the country. The other two states in the top 10 – both here in the west – are Colorado (8) and Washington (9).
Another Taylorsville resident well-familiar with the generosity of people in our city is Phil Knight, volunteer manager of the Taylorsville Food Pantry. For two years now, many members of his Intermountain Baptist Church congregation, as well as non-members, have volunteered their time to provide thousands of area families with food.
“Not only do we have our volunteers operating the food pantry but I have also been overwhelmed by all the people with home gardens who drop food off to us,” Knight said. “Corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, walnuts…you name it. Taylorsville residents grow it – and then donate it for us to give away. There have also been (food pantry distribution) days when we were a little shorthanded and we’ve had people jump out
of line to help us hand out food. Generosity is everywhere in our community; so, Taylorsville residents making that list doesn’t surprise me at all.”
And you can add State Sen. Karen Kwan to the unsurprised list.
“I’ve been a Taylorsville resident more than 30 years and I can tell you, the generosity of my neighbors is unmatched,” Kwan said. “Our residents have such a big heart. They never question who you are, what your background or ethnicity is, how much money you earn or how influential you are. If you are in need, Taylorsville residents jump in.”
Again, there’s no real way for anyone to know how frequently people make financial contributions through fundraising websites from the privacy of their home computer. But no one seems surprised Taylorsville made the gofundme list, because of all the time they see people donating.
A few years ago, Taylorsville resident Elsa Elizondo took it upon herself to organize volunteers to regularly clean up litter along the belt route corridor. There are also the dozens of people – including members of the Taylorsville High School football team – who donate time each summer for the city’s annual cleanup drive in the school’s parking lot.
Oh, and have you ever enjoyed a little time at Taylorsville Dayzz? Again, that event – unquestionably, the biggest Taylorsville activity each year – is also only possible thanks to dozens of volunteers.
Sure, it’s not the same as actual money donations. But the accepted financial value
of donated time, according to many national organizations that track such things, is about $30 to $35 per hour. Putting that kind of a number to all that donated time also offers a perspective of Taylorsville residents’ generosity.
Finally, gofundme reports, in 2024 the average donation passing through their website was $77. Some $42 million was donated to individuals and $23 million to nonprofit organizations. l
Kearns Improvement District accepting entries for its Water Conservation Art Contest
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
The Kearns Improvement District 2025 Water Conservation Art Contest is underway and residents are encouraged to submit entries through Thursday, March 20. Using the theme “Water Conservation,” participants can create art that promotes water-saving practices, the beauty of water or the importance of conservation.
The medium for the artwork can include painting, photography, drawing, sculpture, mixed media, collage or digital art. Prizes will be awarded in the adult, high school, junior high school and elementary categories. Participants must reside within the boundaries of the KID service area.
Contributors should submit a high-resolution photograph or scan of their artwork in digital format plus a 50-word (or less) description of how the artwork depicts water
conservation. Prize money will be awarded to the top four finishers in each age group.
This is the third year for the art contest. When announcing last year’s winners, KID General Manager Greg Anderson said, “Part of our continuing conservation effort is working with schools and helping the kids to realize how big an impact they could have on water conservation within their own home.”
Winners will be announced on Monday, April 21. Winning entries will be displayed on KID’s website and social media sites and used in the 2025 KID water conservation marketing effort.
All submissions must be sent to KIDContest@kidwater4ut.gov before the contest deadline. More information, rules and guidelines can be found at kidwater4ut.gov. l
A couple of years ago, several Taylorsville residents began regularly volunteering time to clean up debris along the belt route. (Photo courtesy Elsa Elizondo)
Kearns High student Jocelyn Vazquez won first place in the high school category for last year’s KID art contest with the photograph, “Going for a Swim.” Entries are now open for this year’s competition. (Photo courtesy of KID)
Allen looking to do his part for Taylorsville boys basketball
By Josh McFadden | j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com
The 2024–25 campaign has been an up-and-down one for the Taylorsville boys basketball team. The Warriors have had some struggles amid some nice victories. Now that the team is into region play, playoff positioning is heating up.
Leading the way for the Warriors is senior guard/forward Kobe Allen.
Allen is pacing the team in scoring this season, averaging nearly 20 points a contest. He’s also second in rebounding with a 5.7 average and first in assists, dishing out 5.3 a game. Through the team’s first 15 games, Allen had scored in double figures each time. His season high up to this point was 30 against Hunter on Jan. 14. He also had 28 points Dec. 12 against Ben Lomond.
An all-around performer, it’s not unusual to see Allen flirt with the rare triple-double. Against Hunter, he had seven rebounds and nine assists in addition to his 30 points. Against Kearns on Jan. 18, he had 20 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists. At home against Granger on Jan. 3, Allen filled the stat sheet with 25 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. He had 22 points, nine rebounds and seven assists against Skyline on Dec. 22.
His numbers shouldn’t be surprising. As a junior, Allen was second on the team with 16.1 points a game and first in assists with 4.5 a contest. Two seasons ago, as a sophomore, Allen averaged 12.3 points and 6.3 rebounds a game. He got some time as a freshman, scoring 2.7 points a game.
With his father as his inspiration, Allen has basketball in his blood.
“I have been playing for as long as I can remember,” Allen said. “My dad played basketball, and I would always go to his games and watch him. He inspired me to play. My dad played basketball at Taylorsville, so I was excited to play here also and follow in his footsteps.”
Like many great athletes, Allen loves the competitive aspect of playing high school sports. For him, basketball gives him a chance to do something he loves. He also enjoys spending time with his teammates, who have become good friends.
“I enjoy the grind of it all,” he said. “I love playing team sports, hanging out with my friends, working hard and watching my team succeed.”
This past fall, Allen was the leading receiver on the football team. He had 45 catches for 476 yards and four touchdowns for the Warriors. That athletic ability has helped him on the basketball court where he is a floor general, directing the team’s offense. Allen has the ball in his hands a lot, so he has to deal with a lot of pressure. He has demonstrated poise, and been a reliable leader.
“As the point guard, I have to be a leader, facilitate plays and score,” Allen said. “I always try to be a good teammate on
and off the court.”
Even though Taylorsville hasn’t always piled up a lot of wins in the standings, Allen said the team enjoys good unity and a strong bond. Allen appreciates what head coach Bernie Graziano, a longtime coach in Utah, has taught him.
“Coach Graz has always believed in me,” Allen said. “He has been a great coach and mentor. Our team is very tight knit and close. We are always cheering each other on and want every player to have success.”
In his final season at Taylorsville, Allen has some big goals he wants to accomplish. Coming into the season, he wanted to end his career with more than 1,000 total points, and he’s on track to achieve that mark. He wants to be the all-time leading scorer in the program’s history and wants to set the record for career assists.
Other than those goals, most of what Allen will remember is who played with him. He reflects fondly on the experiences
he has had with teammates, the highs of wins and lows of losses with one another.
“My freshman year, my older brother was a senior,” Allen said. “It was awesome being able to start and play with him. I have played with some awesome guys and have made some great memories. Each season, we go to team camp in the summer. Summer camp has always been a great way to bond as a team.”
Allen doesn’t want his basketball career to end once he graduates from Taylorsville. He intends to continue his education in college and play at the next level.
As for the Warriors, they were 4-11 through the first 15 games and 2-2 in Region 4.
Along with Allen, Logan Bertagnolli has been an offensive go-to player. The senior center is averaging 13.3 points and 8.2 rebounds a game. Juan Castellano and Chatlin Mills have also been solid contributors, as has Tyler Johnson. l
Kobe Allen (in white) works in traffic in a game earlier this season against Northridge. Allen leads the Taylorsville boys basketball team in scoring this season. (Photo courtesy of Tiffany Allen.)
Taylorsville’s Kobe Allen (No. 20 in white) goes up for a shot in action earlier this season. Allen is poised to finish his career as the Warriors’ all-time leading scorer. (Photo courtesy of Tiffany Allen.)
UFSA board approves 23% tax increase in 2025
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
Unified Fire Service Area board members voted in a public meeting in December to approve a proposed tax increase for 2025. The 23% tax increase would yield $11,473,218 in revenue, according to officials.
The increase will be implemented in two parts, with the first part of the increase – referred to as the second phase of the 2024 increase – costing an estimated $5,088,123, according to the Unified Fire Service Area.
The second part of the proposed increase would address additional staffing in Kearns and Eagle Mountain, and is estimated to cost $6,385,095, according to UFSA.
“Most of the increase we’re talking about here is going to the firefighters,” Board member and Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini said at the meeting. “If we don’t pay competitive wages, they’ll go somewhere else and we’ll be even more short-staffed than we already are.”
With the 2025 tax increase being approved, the annual tax would increase from $405.35 to $498.58 for residential properties, and from $737.00 to $906.50 for commercial properties. Before 2024, the last UFSA tax increases were in 2008 and 2018.
The 2025 tax increase would make a monthly difference of $7.77 (for an annual
difference of $93.23) and a monthly difference of $14.13 for commercial properties (or an annual difference of $169.51), according to the UFSA.
Many board members acknowledged that their own families would feel the effects
of the increase, but they said property taxes are the only revenue for the UFSA.
“This is not an organization that is abusing the system,” Board member Kathleen Bailey of Copperton told residents after the public comment period. “This is not being
done frivolously.”
The proposed tax increase would be used to address the cost of service, upgrade fire stations, add staff members and maintain a minimum fund balance, UFSA said.
The UFSA serves 12 jurisdictions: Alta, Brighton, Eagle Mountain, Emigration Canyon, Kearns, Magna, Millcreek, Taylorsville, White City and unincorporated Salt Lake County.
“UFSA’s primary source of income is property taxes which are collected from property owners located within UFSA boundaries,” UFSA explained.
UFSA is a “taxing entity that uses collected taxes to go directly toward fire service costs,” according to the Unified Fire Service Area. UFSA said it uses property taxes to pay its member fee to Unified Fire Authority, and that fee “is what pays for the actual service that UFSA residents benefit from.”
The taxes are also used to purchase and maintain property within UFSA boundaries (for example, building and maintaining fire stations). UFSA said taxes are also used to pay for administrative costs.
Full financial statements and annual budgets are available on the UFSA website. The tentative budget for 2025 is also available online. l
Fire Station 124 is one of three stations in Riverton City. (City Journals)
Step back in time and experience the music that changed the world.
FEB 7 7:30 PM
MID-VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
SCAN FOR TICKETS
Cremation Services
UPCOMING EVENTS:
2/12/25 Wednesday - 12 PM Chuck-A-Rama Buffet: 744 E 400 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102 2/20/25 Thursday - 12 PM Chubby’s Cafe: 1276 W 12600 S, Riverton, UT 84065
2/25/25 Tuesday - 12 PM Le Jardin: 1910 Dimple Dell Rd, Sandy, UT 84092
With visions of Jack White, Prince and Sophie Lloyd strumming in my head, I started taking guitar lessons last year to prove that old dogs can still be tricky. After months of lessons, I confidently state Jack White can rest easy. I won’t be coming for his job.
Guitar lessons have challenged my patience but expanded my capacity for playing incorrect chords on a slightly outof-tune instrument. I pluck through terrible-sounding riffs and know practice time is over when I drop the guitar pick in the sound hole for the hundredth time.
Each week, I meet with the ever-patient Emily at Guitar Center so I can go over my lesson. I spend most of the time trying to convince her I really did practice while ignoring the eye twitch she develops whenever I play an F chord.
She’ll give me advice like, “Press the strings harder” or “Change the position of your thumb” or “Maybe take up baking.” I go home and practice chords and strums and fingerpicking until even the dog leaves the room. But after practicing “Blowin’ in the Wind” for six weeks, my husband finally recognized the chorus.
I’ve gained an appreciation for guitar players, and I get enraged by people who say they taught themselves to play the guitar because that can’t possibly be a thing. Like every child in Utah, I took piano lessons, and that background has helped with counting and timing but that’s the extent of its helpfulness when it comes to the guitar.
The hubby and I visited Nashville in October, where even toddlers can play the intro to “Stairway to Heaven,” and it highlighted how much I still have to learn. Every dive bar had an exceptional guitarist strumming chords while holding a beer bottle. I ate chicken wings and sipped margaritas, mesmerized by their talent.
Time to face the music
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
Not only were they exceptional, but they could play any song by heart. My brain has no storage capacity. My hard drive is full. I can’t memorize songs, and I can barely remember chord progressions. I’m still looking at chord charts like they’re hieroglyphics.
Learning guitar is mostly about finding new ways to use your nondominant hand. In theory, a plucked string should create a musical vibration. In reality, a plucked string provides a muffled thud because I’m not on my fingertips or I’m too far from the fret or I can’t stretch my hand into a barre chord or I’m just inept. All of those things can be true.
After I played “If I Had a Hammer” for several weeks, my husband said if he had a hammer he’d smash my guitar. Not nice. But fair.
I grew up listening to singers like Joan Baez, Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. Mom and my aunt would visit assisted living centers (they were called rest homes in the ’70s) to sing and play the guitar, entertaining the captive audience. Sometimes I’d sing along and screw up their “Leaving on a Jet Plane” harmonies with my squeaky 8-year-old voice.
Learning to play the guitar is a connection to my late mom. I can’t say my guitar music honors my mom because no one deserves that kind of honor, but I can imagine her
smiling (and probably grimacing) whenever I pick up the guitar. Maybe there are earplugs in heaven.
Watching Prince perform at the Super Bowl, seeing Jack White in concert and hearing Sophie Lloyd shred has become an act of reverence. I stand in awe at their talent as I slowly pick through “Five Hundred Miles” for what feels like the 500th time.
