ON THE MOVE
South Salt Lake Newsletter
SSLC.GOV Cherie Wood, Mayor 801-464-6757 mayor@sslc.gov
South Salt Lake City Council Members LeAnne Huff, District 1 801-440-8510 lhuff@sslc.gov Corey Thomas, District 2 801-755-8015 cthomas@sslc.gov Sharla Bynum, District 3 801-803-4127 sbynum@sslc.gov Portia Mila, District 4 801-792-0912 pmila@sslc.gov Paul Sanchez, District 5 801-671-1154 psanchez@sslc.gov Natalie Pinkney, At-Large 385-775-4980 npinkney@sslc.gov Clarissa Williams, At-Large 505-879-2457 cwilliams@sslc.gov
City Offices
8 am to 5 pm 801-483-6000 220 East Morris Ave SSL, UT 84115 Animal Service 801-483-6024 Building Permits 801-483-6063 Business Licensing 801-483-6063 Code Enforcement 801-464-6757 Fire Administration 801-483-6043 Justice Court 801-483-6072 Police Admin 801-412-3606 Promise 801-483-6057 Public Works 801-483-6045 Recreation 801-412-3217 Utility Billing 801-483-6074 Emergencies 911 Police/Fire Dispatch 801-840-4000
DECEMBER 2023
Small Ways to Help Build a Stronger SSL Thank you for making a difference.
Building a thriving community takes all of us. As we close out our 85th year as a city, we are reminded of the incredible power of coming together for the greater good. From volunteering to xeriscaping your yard, there are countless ways Mayor Cherie Wood to make a difference. This holiday season let’s continue to show up for each other and support programs that invest in our youth and families (and animals). Whether it’s hosting a donation drive, clearing a storm drain, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of kindness can have a big impact. Thank you for all that you do to make South Salt Lake such a wonderful place to call home. Happy Holidays! • Make a donation. Host a donation drive for food, school, hygiene, and household supplies for the Promise Community Resource Pantries, or add a donation to one of SSL’s nonprofit partners. • Clear a storm drain. Keep storm drains clear of ice, leaves and debris to prevent flooding and clean our waterways. • Conserve H2O. Look into new water conservation rebates (www. utahwatersavers.com) and rethink your landscaping by planting desert-tolerant, native plants. • Be a lifesaver. Consider adopting a hydrant near your home and clearing snow away during winter for local firefighters. • Make a furry friend. Help out at the South Salt Lake Animal Shelter by donating food and supplies or volunteering your time. • Be a part of building strong neighborhoods. ○ Keep in the know by creating an account at sslc.gov and signing up for e-news, events, and emergency alerts. ○ Attend City meetings. Wherever your interest lies, attend City Council meetings or participate in meetings like Neighborhood Watch. Many are also held or broadcast online. The current city calendar with virtual links can be found at sslc.gov. ○ Maybe you can’t attend City Council meetings or are apprehensive about speaking in public. Using this new statistically valid survey tool, Flash Vote, results more accurately reflect the voice of South Salt Lake. Sign up at www.flashvote.com/sslc ○ Have something you need to report or resolve? SSL Neighborhood Connect was created to help our residents connect with the city either via email at connect@sslc.gov or by calling 801-464-6757.
Volunteer! One of the biggest ways you can give back to our community is by giving your time as a volunteer. Creating an account on GivePulse.com makes it easy to find out about various local volunteer events (The Mural Fest, Promise SSL, and Neighborhoods) throughout the year. Learn more on p. 7. Being a good neighbor. It should go without saying, but think to check in with elderly, chronically ill, or special needs neighbors and offer to run errands or help with outdoor chores.
Take the Dignity Pledge. I believe that we all have a responsibility to create the kind of community that we want to live in. I invite you to join me in taking the Dignity Pledge, a commitment to treating each other with dignity and respect even when we disagree. By taking this pledge, we can work together to ease the divisions in our country and create a more compassionate and united society. To learn more, visit: www.dignityindex.us.
City News City Council
When it Snows: Create a Clear-Away Zone this Winter
Wed, Dec 13, 7 p.m.
By Corey Thomas, City Council District 2
Public Meetings
For more info: www.sslc.gov
SSL City Council Oath of Office Ceremony Tues, Jan 2, 2024, Noon SSL Community Center Auditorium 2531 S 400 East
Planning Commission Thu, Dec 7, 7 p.m.
Civilian Review Board Mon, Dec 4, 6:30 p.m.
Holiday Closures SSL City Offices and Community Centers will be closed Dec 25-26 in observance of Christmas, and Jan 1, 2024, in observance of New Year’s.
As the winter months approach, I want to remind you of the importance of keeping your neighborhood safe. By clearing the areas around your fire hydrants, sidewalks, and even branches from trees or shrubs in your yard after a snowstorm, you’re not only helping your community navigate safely but also making it easier for our firefighters to do their job in case of an emergency. We know that shoveling snow and removing ice can be a hassle, but it’s a small price to pay for the safety of our community. Remember, when you clear a path from the hydrant to the street, you’re creating a “Clear-Away Zone” that helps our firefighters do their job quickly and efficiently. So please, take a few extra minutes after a snowstorm to clear your sidewalks, driveways, and the areas around fire hydrants. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference in our community.
Now Even More Ways to Pay Your Utility Bill Xpress Bill Pay now offers a “pay by text” option to conveniently help residents pay your monthly utility bills. When you set up your Xpress Bill Pay account, you can opt to go paperless and select how you would like to pay: 1) set up automatic payments, 2) pay online monthly, 3) download the mobile app to pay, or 3) set up pay by text to have monthly texts sent to you with a direct pay link. Don’t stress about missing a utility bill, setup auto pay today.
Christmas Tree Recycling
Garbage and Recycling
In January, SSL Public Works will collect Christmas trees curbside (natural trees only) at no cost. Ace Disposal will also collect trees during the second week of January (Jan 8-11) on your regularly scheduled garbage pickup day, to be used in their composting program.
If your regularly scheduled pickup day falls on Monday, Dec 25 (Christmas), or Monday, Jan 1 (New Year’s Day), service will be delayed one day starting with the holiday.
Merry & Bright Yard Awards
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and we want to celebrate with you! Our Merry and Bright Yard Award recognizes the most lit houses in the City. You know the ones, you can see the holiday passion and dedication glowing from down the block. Merry and Bright Award comes with bragging rights and seasonal joy. Submit a home in your neighborhood for an award by December 20. Email connect@sslc.gov or visit sslc.gov to nominate a home online.
South Salt Lake City Council Action Report Summary
Full agendas, minutes, handouts, and video recorded meetings available at: www.sslc.gov/160/City-Council Date
Agenda Item
Subject
Action
Next Step
Regular Meeting 10/25 Unfinished Business
An Ordinance Amending the SSL Zoning Map for Property Located at 50 E 2100 S from Commercial Corridor (CC) to Crossing Master Planned Mixed Use (MPMU)
Approved No further action needed
10/25 Unfinished Business
An Ordinance Amending Chapters 17.03 and 17.06 of the SSL Municipal Code to Amend Development Standards for Sidewalks and Landscape Setbacks in the Crossing MPMU District.
Approved No further action needed
10/25 Unfinished Business
Selection to Fill Vacant Council District 5 Seat by Paul Sanchez
Approved No further action needed
Regular Meeting 11/15 Unfinished Business
A Resolution Requesting the Recertification of the SSL Justice Court
Approved No further action needed
Public Safety Remembering Fallen Officer David P. Romrell
Message from SSLPD Chief Jack Carruth
In loving memory and solemn tribute to Officer David P. Romrell, whose valor and sacrifice continue to resonate in the hearts of our community, the City of South Salt Lake invites you to join together for a candlelight vigil to commemorate the 5th anniversary of his passing. Officer Romrell bravely answered the call to duty and tragically lost his life on November 24, 2018, while responding to a burglary in progress. As a community, we gather every year at this time to pay our respects and express gratitude for his dedication and bravery. This candlelight vigil is a moment to unite in remembrance and shine a light of appreciation for Officer Romrell’s service. Your presence at this event will serve as a symbol of support for his family, friends, and our law enforcement community. We encourage all residents to attend and join us in showing our collective gratitude for Officer David P. Romrell’s sacrifice.
Candlelight Vigil — December 5, 2023 | 4:00 p.m. SSLPD, South Parking Lot | 2835 South Main Street
DOJ Grant Awarded to SSL for Innovative Homelessness Solution The South Salt Lake Justice Court has been awarded a four-year, $569,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to help individuals experiencing homelessness move through the court process more efficiently. The funds will be used to hire a Judicial Case Manager and an Outreach Case Manager to work with several City Departments and community partners to address the specific needs of homeless individuals, including mental health and drug addiction services. The program aims to ensure that homeless individuals receive the necessary hands-on support to successfully navigate their sentencing requirements on their path to a more stable life.
Coffee with a Cop Dec 6, 9-10 a.m. In-Person
2023 Firefighter of the Year, Mayor’s Spirit of Community Award
Délice Bakery & Café 2747 S State Street
Business Watch Dec 7, 5 p.m. Crone’s Hollow 3834 S Main St
Neighborhood Watch Dec 7, 7 p.m.
Go to sslc.gov for the virtual link
Donate to the Pamela Atkinson Resource Center Firefighter/Paramedic Anthony (Tony) Pappas Tony’s dedication to teaching CPR and first aid courses to our community is truly remarkable. He not only has the knowledge to save lives but also the passion to teach others. Thank you, Tony, for inspiring the hero within each of us to be ready when it counts. We are grateful for SSLFD Chief Terry Addison and the dedicated and heroic efforts of the SSLFD and their commitment to serving and protecting our community. Congratulations to these members of the SSLFD team and for their outstanding work. SSLFD 2023 Life-Saving Award Captain Jones, Captain Dawson, Paramedic Goran, Paramedic Wharton, and Firefighter Kelly SSLFD 2023 Commendation Award Captain Larsen
The PARC is looking for winter clothing and coats for men sizes 2XL and larger. Wish to donate? Let’s point you toward TheRoadHome.org for drop-off locations.
SSL Community Centers PAL’s Annual Thanksgiving Giveaway Feeds 80 Families
2530 S 500 East 801-412-3217
2797 S 200 East 801-386-4949
3280 S 540 East 801-803-3632
We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the amazing support and kindness shown during the annual PAL Thanksgiving Giveaway in South Salt Lake. Thanks to the referrals from our local schools, SSLPD Victim Advocates, and Promise SSL Afterschool Programs, we were able to share 80 Thanksgiving meal kits with those in need. We are so grateful for everyone who comes together to make this event possible year after year. Together, we are making a difference in our community and spreading joy and kindness to those who need it most.
Refugees and the Path to Entrepreneurship in Childcare
As the youngest state with the highest birth rate, childcare is a crucial component of Utah’s economic success. According to the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, Utah loses an estimated $258 million annually in tax revenue due to childcare issues. This issue is compounded for some of Utah’s refugee populations. For some individuals in these communities, childcare is even less accessible due to cost and cultural barriers. For that reason, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) offers its Childcare Business Program to refugees who have been in the United States for less than 6 years to learn the skills to start a home-based childcare business for free. The Promise South Salt Lake Co-Op has partnered with the IRC to host their cohort of childcare providers in its facility to provide program participants with an inviting environment to participate in these classes within their community. The CoOp provides an ideal location for would-be entrepreneurs to participate in childcare classes, but also take advantage of the many learning opportunities the facility offers including additional business courses, digital skills, and English classes. Assisting community members on their Workforce journey is among the Co-Op’s core missions. Programs such as these allow our community to thrive by ensuring that we invest in our residents in a culturally competent manner. To learn more information about the Childcare Business Program contact the IRC Economic Wellbeing team at: www.IRCSLC. EconomicWellbeing@rescue.org
New Renovations at Historic Scott School
Thank You, Bimbo Bakeries USA
After months of renovations, the dust is starting to settle at our Historic Scott School Community Center. As we prepare the space to be ready for the community, we are so glad that Bimbo Bakeries, who are located here in South Salt Lake, generously donated their time and resources to help us furnish the Art Room. Not only did they purchase new tables, stools, and book carts, but they also came by to assemble it all. For years we’ve had used furniture that’s been worn down from daily use so we’re excited to have some new furniture to compliment the new space. We can’t wait to welcome the community into the updated space soon! Keep an eye out for updates.
Winter Holidays Around the World As we approach the holiday season, we want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the beautiful diversity in our community. From Hanukkah to Christmas to Kwanzaa and everything in between, this time of year provides us with an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the many ways that people celebrate. We are proud to be a part of a community that embraces different cultures and traditions, and we hope that this season brings peace, joy, and good will to all.
Hanukkah - December 7th-15th: Hanukkah, the festival of lights, is an 8-day celebration that remembers the trials and tribulations of the Maccabees (ancient Israelites). Jewish families often say prayers and light candles together each night of Hanukkah, which are kept burning in ornamental menorahs. Children play games with dreidels (spinning tops made of wood or clay) and families exchange gifts each night. Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe - December 12th: This day commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to St. Juan Diego near Mexico City in 1531. Many Mexican and Mexican-American families celebrate this holiday by sharing large family or community meals, by creating shrines to la Virgen, or by praying or attending mass. Winter Solstice or Yule - December 21st: Winter Solstice marks the beginning of winter and is the shortest day/longest night of the year. Many people celebrate nature with festivals, decorations, and ceremonies. For Pagans and Wiccans, the Solstice represents rebirth, renewal, and new beginnings. Kwanzaa - December 26th - January 1st: Kwanzaa is a 7-day celebration of African American history, heritage, and culture. Each day is associated with a principle, which together are called the Nguzo Saba (7 principles). Families celebrate each day by lighting special black, red, and green candles, by creating artwork, and by sharing a Unity Cup, or Umoja, together.
Advent - December 3rd-24th: For Catholics, Advent is the celebration of and preparation for Christ’s birth at Christmas. During this time, biblical stories are shared, special pink and purple candles are lit at mass each week, and the days are marked off by many families on special advent calendars that sometimes have chocolate or other treats inside.
New Year’s Eve/Day - December 31st/January 1st: New Year’s marks the end of the calendar year in many countries. Many people celebrate New Year’s Eve by staying up late (until midnight) and use pots and pans, fireworks, and other noise makers to announce the start of a new year. New Year’s is also a time when individuals may make resolutions to plan for a great year.
SL County Senior Center EVENTS FOR DECEMBER 2023 Special Meal: Birthday Special – Tuesday, Dec. 5 Winter Holiday Special – Friday, Dec. 15 (reservation required) Live Entertainment at 10:30 am Time Steppers – Wednesday, December 6 Heralders Children’s Choir – Friday, December 8 SSL Choir Performance – Friday, December 15 Rich Dixon – Friday, December 22 Stretching Yoga on Wednesdays at 2:30 pm Chair Yoga on Fridays at 1:00 pm Vital Aging: Monthly group Wellness Discussions with a licensed therapist Wednesday, December 20 at 10:30 am Call 801-539-7069 to make a one-on-one appointment. Monthly Blood Pressure Checks with the Fire Department Every second Wednesday of the month. Wednesday, December 13 at 9:15 am
SSL Community Center • 2531 S 400 East • 385-468-3340 • Hours: 8:30 am – 4 pm
Community Happenings Celebrate South Salt Lake 2023 Mini-Grants: Success! To learn more and register for Community Art Classes visit SSLArts.org
ART55+ Creative Arts for Seniors
Instructor Laura Sharp Wilson Every Wednesday 10:00-11:30 AM SSL Community Center 2531 S 400 East FREE!
Celebrate South Salt Lake was a shining example of how investing in our community’s arts and culture can bring people together and create a stronger, more vibrant city. This year, five free community events, sponsored by the SSL Arts Council and Rocky Mountain Power, brought together people from all walks of life to celebrate our city’s arts, culture, and diversity. 2023 Celebrate SSL events included: Brazilian Capoeira, Nepali New Year, 1520 ‘Hip Hop’ Block Party, Family Art Fair at the Visual Arts Institute, and Bomba Marilé. Keep on the lookout at sslc.gov as Celebrate SSL applications will roll out again in early 2024.
This summer, several youth and adults performed at the 1520 Block Party funded in part by a Celebrate SSL mini-grant. 1520 Arts is a local non-profit, dedicated to offering quality hip hop programming to our community. Learn more at 1520arts.org
Bomba Marilé is a non-profit with the purpose of sharing the Afro-Puerto Rican traditions of Bomba music and dance with the greater Utah community. Learn more at www.bombamarile.com.
South Salt Lake Animal Shelter: A Year at Full Capacity As the year draws to a close, the South Salt Lake Animal Shelter is taking a moment to reflect on the incredible community effort that has made this year so special. Thanks to the dedication and hard work of our volunteers, donors, and staff, we have been able to provide care and shelter to a record number of pets in need. We are proud to report that this year saw more adoptions than ever before, a testament to the love and compassion of South Salt Lake. None of this would be possible without the tireless efforts of our volunteers, who have donated their time, supplies, and love to our furry friends. Whether taking dogs for walks, cleaning cages, or simply providing a comforting presence, our volunteers have truly made a difference in the lives of our shelter animals. Learn more at: www.sslc.gov/369/Animal-Services. PETS ADOPTED IN 2023: Dogs 100 Cats 72 Guinea pigs 1 SSL ANIMAL SERVICES Birds 2 2274 S 600 West Turtles 3 801-483-6024 ext 6 Rabbit 1 M-F 9 am to 5 pm
2023 Giving Back SSL’s Gives Back in Ways that Count—Thank YOU!
Thank you to every single person who came out in April to help fill sandbags this year on the SSL Public Works campus. Together, we filled over 30K sandbags to help protect our homes and businesses from potential flooding. Your willingness to lend a hand when our community needed it most is a testament to the strength and kindness of our city.
2023 Community Volunteer Report From filling sandbags to planting trees at Fitts Park, in 2023 the South Salt Lake community stepped up by volunteering in all sorts of capacities. You can receive notices and register for various upcoming volunteer opportunities by creating an account at GivePulse.com and following the group ‘City of South Salt Lake’ at www. givepul.se/u118aq. • South Salt Lake Volunteers: 387
Volunteer Work Adds up at SSL City Parks
TREES PLANTED: 38 POLLINATORS PLANTED: 510 Several organizations and community members volunteered this year to plant trees, pollinators, and clear weeds at our city parks and waterways. Want to get involved? Join the ‘Friends of Fitts Park’ volunteer group to gather with like-minded neighbors throughout the year and keep our area green and thriving. Sign up at sslc.gov > sslc.gov/392/Parks.
SSL Neighborhood Block Party Grants
• South Salt Lake Volunteer HOURS: 916 • Estimated Value: Over $25,000
Fitts Park Community Garden
GARDEN PLOTS LEASED: 36 EST. PRODUCE GROWN: 3,206 LBS Thanks to several green thumbs, the Fitts Park Community Garden has been flourishing in its second year. With 36 garden plots, including 4 raised beds, the garden produced pounds of fresh organic produce ranging from zucchini to sweet corn to plenty of juicy tomatoes. We’re grateful to all the participants and the fantastic management from Wasatch Community Gardens. Get involved in the 2024 growing season at: wasatchgardens.org
We’re thrilled to announce that our mini-grants program was a great success, with seven block parties that represented nearly every neighborhood in our area. Our goal is to strengthen the bonds within our neighborhoods by supporting gatherings, whether it’s a potluck, a game night, or a holiday party. Hosting an event can be daunting, which is why these mini-grants provide support and make it easier for everyone to come together and have fun.