ANNUAL REPORT TO CITIZENS OF ST. GEORGE

“UNITED IN FAITH AND CONFIDENCE”

THAT WE MIGHT FIND STRENGTH TO RETAIN OUR CITIES AND THIS LAND UPON THE BEDROCK of VALUES we have been fortunate enough to have inherited from our founding fathers.

This I believe describes the guiding force behind the decisions made by those elected to represent SG citizens. While the Council may not find itself in 100% agreement on all items appearing on Council Agenda (and that, I believe is as it should be) …….Ultimately votes are cast with the intended goal of standing for those Principals, we know to be true.

My friends as I go about the city the question most often asked of me is…… How are things going for you on the council and is it what you expected?  My usual answer is……. Things are going well and after so many years of shadowing council activities there are no big surprises ……. I am however a little disappointed in how little communication actually takes place between council members and contact initiated by the city manager (although he is most gracious and willing to stop what he is doing and visit and respond to concerns) …….other than when the council is in session and following a structured agenda.  I have concluded that if you want to talk about something…… You have to be the one to reach out. I am encouraged by the warm and friendly reception I receive from the Mayor and Department Heads.  I can tell you that the citizens of SG can take great pride in the dedicated service performed by city employee’s regardless of what position they hold. It is most comforting to see and hear about acts of service beyond the call of duty routinely on display.

As you drive about town you may have noted developments taking place throughout the city. This has prompted some comments such as……..What’s it going to take to get the growth slowed or stopped?  Followed by the person identifying the immediate section of the city they themselves reside.  Recognizing that the State of Utah is a “Property Rights” State…….Meaning that Property Owners have a right to do what they want with “Their” property…….As long as they comply with zoning and city ordinances. (Respect/Follow Master Plan Guidelines)  This is a short and quick answer that can usually be expanded upon given the time and willingness of all parties to listen and understand another’s point of view. Having said this I would like you to know that due consideration is being given to updating Master Plan, Zoning and City Ordinances as required by law.

My friends, this is my way of restating the policies of Honesty, Transparency and Accountability are being adhered to. The City of SG is on an upward spiral and is financially stable. With expected changes and growing pains……. It is appropriate that this coming year will provide the opportunity to re-evaluate priorities……Perhaps realigning/adjusting percentages of where city revenues can be better placed…… In response to demands for improvements to city infrastructure and public input.   

I wish you all a Happy New Year and hope that this report will allow you to share in The Faith and Confidence that I have in our City and in our Country.                                                 ED BACA