DECEMBER 2024
COUNCIL MESSAGE A season of memories and Holladay cheer! With Thanksgiving just behind us, we can all begin to unwind from a year marked by a particularly impassioned presidential election. Many have felt strong emotions surrounding its outcome, but as the holiday season unfolds, we can shift our focus to traditions that bring gratitude, peace, goodwill, and cherished time with friends and family. The celebrations of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and other winter holidays offer a welcome reprieve and a reminder of what truly matters as we close out the year. The city council recently had a unique opportunity to review the contents of a time capsule that city representatives assembled at the time of Holladay’s incorporation. From newspaper articles debating incorporation’s pros and cons, to photos of the city at the time, to looking back on all who were involved in that effort, I must admit — it beat my expectations! What a delight it was to not only reminisce on the Holladay of 25 years ago, but it naturally made us reflect further back on the Holladay-Cottonwood area that most of us were here for preincorporation. Holladay, this second settlement in Utah, is indeed a special place! Then, on November 18th, the Historical Commission put on an event celebrating 25 years as a city, where we heard from current and former mayors and city managers and where the contents of that capsule were on display for all to enjoy. What great memories! A special thanks to the wonderful volunteers on our Historical Commission, both past and present, for their efforts in preserving and celebrating Holladay’s rich history. History matters. Preserving history matters! On that note, at the time of this writing, we have amendments to ordinances
related to designating historic sites and to incentivizing historic preservation in Holladay that by the time this article is published, I expect the council to have adopted. Legislating changes like these can be more difficult than one might expect as it involves careful balance as we strive to support preservation while respecting private property rights. It is a privilege to serve with council members who understand the trust placed in us, and I believe we arrived at a place that properly considers these interests. These amendments enable additional properties to be added to Holladay’s historic register and enable our planning commission to approve alternative land use options for designated historic sites. Among the new provisions is an ability to exclude these structures from density calculations — an option that may make preservation more economically viable and help prevent demolition. I only wish we’d had these in place years ago! A heartfelt thanks to our city staff and city attorney for their work in turning council direction into ordinances that will help protect Holladay’s history. Throughout this month of December, I hope that we’ll all be able to keep the “holiday hustle” at bay, intentionally slowing down to enjoy the lights, sights, and sounds of the season. Perhaps we could each take moments to put pen to paper, or fingers to keyboards, to capture our own history. Our future selves and our posterity will thank us, as, indeed, “The faintest ink is better than the best memory.” May this holiday season be a time that brings warmth, connection, and joy to you and your loved ones and may we all make many memories worth preserving. —Council Member Ty Brewer, District 1
Be Winter Ready by Allison Jester, Emergency Management Coordinator Snowstorms, cold temperatures, and holiday travel are upon us, and while we are no strangers to dealing with beautiful snow, it is always prudent to make sure you are ready for the expected and unexpected. Whether you are setting out on a road trip to see family, commuting to work, or staying at home, here are some simple reminders to ensure you are #WinterReady. • Have an emergency kit in your car that includes the following: jumper cables, an ice scraper, flares or a reflective triangle, cat litter or sand, a cell phone charger, blankets, and hand warmers. • When shoveling snow, pace yourself and get your neighbors involved. Many people die each year from heart attacks brought on by shoveling snow. • Check that you have a carbon monoxide alarm to ensure your heating systems are working efficiently and safely. • When it’s freezing, limit time outside, and remember that layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than one bulky layer. • Clear snow and ice off of nearby fire hydrants so fire departments can gain access if needed. • Pay attention to weather alerts and remember: A WATCH means be prepared, and a WARNING means take action. Finally, check on your neighbors and loved ones and enjoy the white winter wonderland we are blessed with each year here in Holladay!
Foster A Pet This Holiday Season Salt Lake County Animal Services This holiday season, we invite you to open your heart and home to a dog or cat from Salt Lake County Animal Services. We have many pets eagerly waiting for foster homes where they can feel safe and loved while they wait for their forever families. Fosters provide essential, temporary care for animals in need, whether it’s a dog needing basic training, an animal recovering from medical treatment, or unweaned kittens requiring special care. Even a short stay in your home can have a profound impact on these animals. And if you develop a special bond with your foster pet, you’ll have the first opportunity to adopt! To get started, simply email Fosters@SaltLakeCounty.gov By fostering, you have the power to save lives. Make a difference this holiday season by offering a temporary home to an animal in need. Your kindness and generosity can be life-changing for these pets and help them find their forever homes. If you’d like more information or have any questions, email Fosters@SaltLakeCounty.gov or visit our website at www.AdoptUtahPets.org