There is nothing quite like a summer evening in Taylorsville, and I am excited to invite you to the return of Starry Nights @ the Plaza, kicking o Friday, May 15. Now celebrating its fth season, this high-energy concert series brings our community together for evenings lled with music, connection, food and fun.
We’re opening the season with a must-see showcase that sets the tone for the months ahead. The Alex Elggren Band will get things started with an upbeat mix of country and Southern rock that will have you tapping your feet and settling into the spirit of the night.
Then, returning favorite De Novo is ready to deliver the dynamic, crowd-pleasing classic rock performance fans have come to expect. Known for their tight musicianship, powerful vocals and engaging stage presence, De Novo creates an unforgettable experience with every song. Their infectious enthusiasm and love for performing are guaranteed to keep the momentum owing as we kick o the season.
Of course, Starry Nights is about more than just music. The food trucks will be on site each week, serving up delicious eats. The live music and other Friday night performances and activities are free, with something for everyone. So, bring your blankets and lawn chairs, gather your family and friends, and take a moment to relax, unwind and soak in the spirited, welcoming atmosphere.
You’re sure to enjoy a carefully curated lineup all about great music and great vibes. In fact, our band selection committee reviewed a record 100 applications. Truly, my o ce was rocking as we listened to snippets from every band to narrow down the list. Some of your favorites are returning, along with exciting new performers we cannot wait for you to experience.
It’s amazing to think that ve years ago we were just getting started, even begging bands to play, and now Starry Nights has become a signature part of summer in Taylorsville. For details on the kicko , please see the ad on Page 6 of this section. The full season lineup will soon be up on taylorsvilleut.gov and will also appear in next month’s edition. Be sure to go online to explore the bands and even listen to samples of their music before the show.
We hope you’ll join us as we kick o another wonderful season. Bring those you love, meet someone new and come enjoy the music, celebration and community spirit that make Taylorsville so special. We can’t wait to see you at the plaza for an unforgettable summer of Friday nights!
—Mayor Kristie S. Overson
WHAT’S INSIDE – APRIL 2026
Frequently Called Numbers, Page 2
Council Corner, Page 3
TVPD News, Page 4
Heritage Remembrances, Page 7
Environment, Page 8
Summit Park Growing with New Recreation Features Expected this Fall
Construction is now underway on the next phase of Summit Park in Taylorsville, bringing new recreation opportunities that will expand the already popular community space by this fall.
The new phase will add several amenities to the 16-acre park, including a skate area, bike trail, dog park, sand volleyball court, additional walking trails and an overlook plaza designed to take advantage of the park’s hilltop views. See the accompanying image detailing the amenities outlined in red that will be completed in Phase II, and view all of the park's Phase II image boards and schematics online at www.taylorsvilleut.gov under the News section.
Located at the northwest corner of 6200 South and 3200 West, the brand-new Summit Park — a ectionately known as “Tank Park” because of the two large water tanks nearby — ofcially opened its rst phase last year. That phase introduced a new playground, pickleball courts, restrooms, parking and a large pavilion designed for family gatherings and community events.
City leaders celebrated the opening with a ribbon-cutting event last summer, calling it a major investment in the community’s future.
“This park will make a di erence for generations to come,” Mayor Kristie Overson said at the
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
APRIL 2026
April 1 & 15 – 6:30 p.m.
City Council Meeting @ City Hall. Watch a livestream of the meeting and nd agendas at www.taylorsvilleut.gov
April 3 – 7 to 8 p.m. & April 11 – 9 to 10 a.m.
Tap Dance Clinics @ the Taylorsville Senior Center, 4743 Plymouth View Drive. The Taylorsville Arts Council is hosting a series of free tap dance clinics for ages 16 and older to help performers prepare for auditions for the upcoming summer production of Anything Goes.
April 14 & 28 – 6:30 p.m.
Planning Commission Meeting @ City Hall.
April 9 & 23 – 7 p.m.
Localscapes classes @ City Hall. Get some tips on landscaping your yard in ways to save water and money. Just in time for spring planting, the Taylorsville Green Committee is hosting the two classes. They are free but please register to hold your seat. Go to www.taylorsvilleut.gov, under the Services and Localscapes tabs.
UPCOMING:
May 16 – 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Cleanup Day @ Taylorsville High. Bring your bulk waste, green waste, glass and recycling, prescription medication, and gently used household items and clothing for recycling and safe disposal.
May 30 – 10 a.m.
Ride, Roll & Stroll @ Millrace Park. Join the Taylorsville crew for a jaunt along the Jordan River Parkway! We’ll loop around for a mile and a half, kicking o at the Millrace Park Pickleball Courts. No need to register, just show up.
Taylorsville Community Greenhouse
Cost is $25
Spots are also open for the same cost in the Community Gardens if you are interested in growing your own vegetables there.
April
April 3
April 4
Miami Show Productions presents Karina “La Voz” Freedom Tour
April 7 & 14
Academy of Ballet Arts presents Giselle
April 9
Studio 22 presents Work It!
April 23-25
April 16-18
Salt Lake City Ballet presents Sleeping Beauty
Central Utah Ballet presents Hansel and Gretel
COUNCIL CORNER
By Council Member Meredith Harker
Taylorsville
Parks and Rec Committee Honored for Promoting Health and Community
It was an honor for the Taylorsville Parks and Recreation Committee to receive an award from the Salt Lake County Health Department this past month. The committee was recognized for helping residents lead healthier lifestyles, get outdoors and enjoy the parks and amenities in Taylorsville.
The Parks and Recreation Committee has been putting on several community events, including the Taylorsville Dayzz 5K, Ride Roll and Stroll, Saturday with Santa and Movies on the Plaza for a few years now. This past year, committee members added a family-friendly healthy event called the “Boo Fun Run,” a Halloweenthemed fun run through Valley Regional Park.
The award from the Health Department, presented by Salt Lake County health educator Julia Glade, recognized “outstanding collaboration and leadership
to improve health and strengthen community in Salt Lake County throughout 2025.” Its accompanying description also speci cally noted the fun run, stating:
“In May 2025, Taylorsville City received the ‘Healthy Community’ designation from Get Healthy Utah through its partnership with the Taylorsville Parks and Recreation Committee. The committee hosted its rstever Halloween Fun Run for all ages, with more than 200 residents registered. This successful event was made possible through strong community partnerships.
“The Taylorsville Parks and Recreation Committee continues to support a wide variety of activities and events that encourage residents to connect with one another and enjoy the outdoors.
“Thank you to the Taylorsville Parks and Recreation Committee for your dedicated volunteer time and commitment to helping Taylorsville residents stay active, connected, and engaged in their community.
Time to dust off those sneakers and join the party as we celebrate Taylorsville Dayzz turning the big 3-0! Registration is NOW OPEN for the 2026 Taylorsville Dayzz 5K and Kids Run!
Race Day: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Come join the shenanigans and score yourself a snazzy t-shirt or tank top (if you register by June 10th), a gleaming finisher medal, a swag bag jampacked with goodies, and chip timing—all for a bargain: 5K - $30
Veteran/Military Pricing - $25
Kids Run - $15
Brand new this year: Ruck Run - $30
So, what are you waiting for?
Scan that QR code and sign up today!
Please join me in recognizing the Taylorsville Parks and Recreation Committee for their commitment and e orts to support and strengthen their community.”
The committee’s dedication is evident in the success of its events. In fact, the Boo Fun Run was such a hit that the committee is already planning for 2026. If you’d like to help, the Parks and Rec Committee is always looking for more volunteers who love bringing community events, outdoor activities and healthy opportunities to Taylorsville. Come join us! Visit www.taylorsvilleut.gov and click the Our City and Committees & Volunteers tabs to learn more and sign up.
Left to right: Bob Knudsen, Chair (District 5), Curt Cochran, Vice Chair (District 2), Ernest Burgess (District 1), Meredith Harker (District 4) and Anna Barbieri (District 3)
This year’s logo designed by Steven Powell
Officer Lutz Promoted to Sergeant, Returns to Patrol Division
Check
Congratulations to Sgt. Lutz on his recent promotion within the Taylorsville Police Department. Sgt. Lutz has been with TVPD since the department was established and has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to public safety and service to the community.
He brings more than 15 years of law enforcement experience, along with over 20 years of service in the U.S. Army. Throughout his career, Sgt. Lutz has served in a variety of assignments, including patrol and several specialized roles. Most recently, he was assigned to the Traffic Division and also served on the department’s SWAT team. His background includes extensive training and a broad range of operational experience.
In his new role, Sgt. Lutz returns to the Patrol Division, where he will provide day-today leadership by supervising o cers and supporting operations. His combined military service and diverse law enforcement background make him a valuable asset to the department and the community.
TVPD congratulates Sgt. Lutz on this well-deserved promotion and thanks him for his continued service to Taylorsville.
ANNUAL CLEANUP DAY
open Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and it’s FREE!
So please bring household hazardous waste and e-waste to the collection center and other items to the Cleanup Day.
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
TVPD is proud to recognize O cer Goodson as our latest Employee of the Month. O cer Goodson has more than three years of law enforcement experience and joined TVPD eight months ago after serving with the Beaufort County Sheri ’s O ce in South Carolina. He is currently assigned to the Patrol Division, where he responds to calls for service, conducts proactive patrols and works to build strong relationships within the community. Patrol o cers are often the rst to arrive on scene and must rely on their training and instincts to identify details that may not be immediately apparent.
O cer Goodson was nominated by Sgt. Keller after demonstrating exceptional attention to detail during a recent incident. While handling what initially appeared to be a routine vehicle-related matter, he observed a small patch of blood frozen on the roadway in low-light conditions, something that could have easily been overlooked. This observation ultimately led to a response from the Herriman Police Department and contributed to an ongoing homicide investigation that has since been solved. Sgt. Keller noted that O cer Goodson’s diligence and willingness to take a routine call seriously helped ensure critical evidence was identi ed and preserved.
His investigative skills have been shaped in part by his previous assignment in the Crime Scene Unit at the Beaufort County Sheri ’s O ce, where he assisted with homicide and aggravated assault investigations. His experience included evidence collection, photography, scene documentation, DNA collection and assisting with search warrants. Outside of work, O cer Goodson enjoys hunting, shing and playing golf. TVPD appreciates his dedication, professionalism and commitment to thorough police work.
Annual Cleanup Day Set for May 16
Taylorsville’s Annual Cleanup Day will take place Saturday, May 16, giving residents an easy way to recycle and safely dispose of unwanted items.
The event, organized by the Taylorsville Green Committee, will again be held at Taylorsville High School, 5400 S. Redwood Road, in the northwest parking lot from 9 a.m. to noon. Residents should enter from 5400 South near the football eld.
Automotive fluids
Television/monitors
Yard-care chemicals
Cleaning supplies
Aerosols & cooking oil
Fluorescent light bulbs
Fuel & peticides Computers Cell phones Items we WILL be accepting at the Cleanup Day include:
Accepted items include bulk waste, green waste, glass and recycling such as cardboard, paper, magazines and recyclable plastics. Document shredding will also be available, limited to one box per car. Prescription medication and gently used household items and clothing will be accepted, too.
Like last year, household hazardous waste and e-waste, including paint, fuels, pesticides, batteries, automotive uids, aerosols, re extinguishers, uorescent bulbs and electronics, will not be accepted at the event. Those items should instead be taken to Salt Lake County’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center, 8805 S. 700 West, which is open six days a week from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and free for county residents.
Appliances containing freon, as well as mattresses, box springs and tires also will not be accepted at the Cleanup Day and should be taken to the Trans-Jordan or Salt Lake Valley land lls. Mattresses can be taken for recycling to Spring Back Utah. Visit springbackutah.com for details.
“Cleanup Day remains a popular annual opportunity where residents are invited to make a di erence, one carload at a time,” said City Council Member and Green Committee advisor Ernest Burgess. “We hope to see you there!”
Evening of Art Encourages Connection Through Creative Expression
By Leah Cowdell, Taylorsville City
For sculptor Brad Taggart, the journey from clay to bronze is both technical and deeply personal. As he shapes gures by hand, he draws on years of teaching, mentorship and relationships with military families whose stories have in uenced some of his most meaningful work.
Taggart shared that journey with Taylorsville residents as the featured presenter at Plaza +ART’s most recent Evening of Art, a community gathering designed to bring residents together through a shared appreciation of creativity and conversation. Additional Evening of Art events, which are always free to attend, are scheduled for May 12 and Oct. 8.
“It was, as usual, a remarkable evening,” Mayor Kristie Overson said at a recent City Council meeting, re ecting on the opportunity for residents to interact with Taggart and other local artists at the Feb. 11 event.
Best known locally as the creator of the Veterans Memorial sculptures outside City Hall, Taggart spoke about the inspiration behind honoring service members and their families. When the memorial was installed in 2011, he described the project as a “dream come true,” explaining that it pays tribute to “people I know, students who have gone away to battle, friends of mine who have gone away to war.”
AN EVENING OF ART
TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2026 AT 7PM
MID-VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
2525 W TAYLORSVILLE BLVD, TAYLORSVILLE, UT 84129 CENTENNIAL ROOM
Free and open to the public
Light refreshments will be served
Email plazaart@taylorsvilleut.gov to RSVP Scan to learn about the Plaza + ART program.
The Presenters:
Jeanette Lukens, Printmaker and Rebecca Klundt, Wood Collage
An arts professor at Snow College in Ephraim, Taggart has spent much of his career guiding students while continuing his own artistic practice. He told attendees at the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center that he considers himself “ rst a student, next a professor and lastly a sculptor,” noting his belief in lifelong learning and his encouragement for students to remain curious and open to growth. That commitment to teaching and learning recently earned him recognition as the 2026 Higher Educator of the Year by the Utah Art Education Association, as reported by The Salt Lake Tribune in March.
“Without a doubt, events like this strengthen Taylorsville by giving us wonderful moments to learn from one another and celebrate the talents that surround us,” Mayor Overson said. “We look forward to another wonderful Evening of Art on May 12.”
The Taylorsville Green Committee is hosting TWO LOCALSCAPES CLASSES
Thursday, April 9
Thursday, April 23
Both start at 7 pm City Council Chambers
2600 W. Taylorsville Blvd
It’s a free class but please register at www.taylorsvilleut.gov/services/localscapes
SUMMIT PARK CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
time. “It’s the kind of space that brings people together — a destination for families, friends and neighbors to enjoy time with each other.”
The park’s development has been supported through a grant from Salt Lake County’s Tourism, Recreation, Culture, and Convention program, along with matching funds from the city.
Since the opening of Phase I, Summit Park has already become a popular gathering place for the community. Its pickleball courts quickly drew local players, and families have been enjoying the playground, open space and scenic views overlooking the valley.
The additional amenities now under construction are designed to further expand the park’s appeal, creating spaces for skating, biking, walking and dog-friendly recreation.
“We’re excited to see the next phase take shape,” Mayor Overson said. “These additions will create even more opportunities for residents to get outside, stay active and enjoy this beautiful space together.”
When completed later this year, the full build-out of Summit Park will o er a variety of activities and gathering spaces for residents and visitors alike.
“Summit Park is becoming more than just a park,” Mayor Overson said. “It’s a place where memories are made, neighbors connect, and our community thrives together. We can’t wait for the completion of Phase II this fall!
RIDE, ROLL & STROLL
SATURDAY, MAY 30 @ 10 AM
MILLRACE PARK PICKLEBALL COURTS 1150 W 5400 S, TAYLORSVILLE
Who's pumped for summer, a sun-drenched marathon of outdoor fun? We sure are! Let's launch the sunny season with a ride, roll, and stroll extravaganza! Join the Taylorsville crew for a giggle-filled, kid-approved jaunt along the Jordan River Parkway! We'll loop around for a carefree mile and a half, kicking off at the Millrace Park Pickleball Courts. No need to register, just show up! Snacks and water will be provided!
Taylorsville Bennion Heritage REMEMBRANCES
Building Taylorsville: From Mill to Marketplace
By Susan Yadeskie
Beulah Bennion Eyre wrote in History of Hyrum Bennion, Pioneer of 1847, “At the time the Bennions settled in Utah, it was a barren waste of valley, hills, and mountains, and they have taken a prominent and active part in bringing it up to its present wonderful state of development.” Indeed, the Bennion cousins worked together to bring productive industry to Taylorsville.
In 1880, Samuel Bennion, his son Hyrum, and cousin Samuel Robert purchased a burr mill on the Jordan River at the east end of Taylorsville. They organized a mercantile business called the Taylorsville Co-op, which operated until 1924 under Hyrum’s grandson, Joseph S. Bennion.
When Hyrum’s father passed away, Hyrum purchased additional interest in the business. In 1891, the mill was expanded and new machinery installed. Over time, Hyrum and his sons acquired full ownership, and Hyrum Bennion and Sons Co. were in business.
In 1908, disaster struck when the mill was destroyed by re. Nellie Bennion recalled, “Just after midnight, a terri c electric storm came with lightning followed by loud claps of thunder, awakening the whole household. Soon we heard a tap at the window—it was Joseph to tell Hyrum the mill, which was a wood-frame building, was on re.”
Undeterred, the Bennions built a new mill by the railroad tracks just east of Taylorsville. This new mill had double the capacity. They also built an electrical power plant at the old mill site, using water from the Jordan River through the mill race. Electric lines were installed to the new mill and throughout Taylorsville, bringing the rst electricity west of the Jordan River. History isn’t just in the past. Come experience the legacy of founders like the Bennions at the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center, 1488 W. 4800 South, and explore the stories of the families who helped shape our community.
Taylorsville Library Events
While the Taylorsville Library is temporarily closed for renovation, there is still plenty to do. See the following details about events The County Library is hosting in the community and at neighboring branches, as well as some additional information about construction at the Taylorsville branch.
RENOVATION — MONDAY, JAN. 5, TO SUNDAY, MAY 31. The County Library's Taylorsville branch will be closed for renovation and construction of the main entrance. Other nearby locations continue to be available for use during the closure. Holds will be transferred to the Kearns branch (4275 W. 5345 South) unless otherwise requested.
Crews have nished demolition of the entrance pergola and concrete, and the awning over the front doors. The footing and foundations for the entrance have been completed, as well as steel work, while renovation continues on the roof.
Two library programs that are held o site will continue during the closure:
SENIOR BOOK CLUB AT THE TAYLORSVILLE SENIOR CENTER — 4743 Plymouth View Drive, second Monday of the month, 11 a.m. Join in a lively discussion of a variety of ction and non ction books. Newcomers welcome! The book club will be led by a librarian from the Taylorsville Library. The April title is “The Westing Game” by Ellen Raskin.
WALKING BOOK CLUB AT THE TAYLORSVILLE RECREATION CENTER — 4948 S. 2700 West, Thursdays, 10 to 11:15 a.m. Walking Book Club is for readers interested in a weekly walk session and book discussion. The group reads one book over the course of three weeks, discussing the book in segments. Take a walk along the paths behind the Recreation Center and then participate in a 30-minute book discussion. Books will be available to pick up at the program with a valid Salt Lake County library card.
THE UPCOMING READING SCHEDULE IS:
“The Last Cuentista” by Donna Barba Higuera April 2: Chapters 19 – end
“How To Know a Person” by David Brooks April 16: Chapters 1 - 7
April 23: Chapters 8 - 13
April 30: Chapters 14 - end
Check out the Hunter Branch at 4740 W. 4100 South and the West Valley Branch at 2880 W. 3650 South for more interesting programs.
TAYLORSVILLE SENIOR CENTER
4743 S. Plymouth View Drive
April Activities
The Taylorsville Senior Center has planned a variety of classes every month. Classes are free for those over age 60. Among the activities scheduled this month:
Tai Chi —Spring Vaccination Clinic — April 22, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. This is a great opportunity to stay up to date on important vaccines and protect your health. Please remember to bring all of your insurance card(s) with you, as seniors many have multiple plans. To con rm coverage, the Senior Center recommends contacting your insurance provider(s) ahead of time.
ANNUAL COLLECTION DAY
APRIL UPDATES
2026 Seasonal Container Reservation Program (SCRP)
In 2025, Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District introduced a tiered reservation system designed to make the program more accessible for residents across the Salt Lake Valley. This tiered process will continue in 2026. All reservations open at 8 a.m. on your area’s designated reservation days.
Reservation Tiers by Location:
• Early Bird Residents: Residents who were on last year’s waitlist and did not receive a container, or who did not participate in 2025, receive early access to the reservation calendar. This group will have a dedicated threeday window to reserve a container.
• General Access Residents: After the Early Bird window closes, any remaining containers become available to all other eligible residents in the designated area on a rst-come, rst-served basis for the remainder of the reservation period.
This phased structure helps promote broader access to the program for residents. All reservations must be completed online by the homeowner due to required disclosures and forms. Availability is limited, so WFWRD encourages residents to reserve a container as early as possible.
PRO TIP: Consider sharing a container with neighbors to make the most of this complimentary seasonal service that is funded through your base service fees.
For 2026 reservation dates, service areas and full details, watch for your SCRP postcard in the mail with your designated website link and QR code.
Earth Day is April 22
Earth Day serves as a reminder that small everyday actions can have a big impact on our environment. Simple habits like recycling and properly disposing of green waste help conserve natural resources, reduce pollution and keep valuable materials out of land lls.
This Earth Day, consider refreshing your recycling habits by taking advantage of WFWRD’s curbside green waste subscription service. Together, small efforts can help protect our community and the planet for future generations.
WFWRD Switching to New Payment Vendor in April
WFWRD is updating their online payment system to a new, easier-to-use platform with Point & Pay. Beginning in early April, if WFWRD has your email on le, you will receive an email from “noreply+wasatch-fwr-district@paydici. com” with a link to set up your account.
Please keep an eye out for this email in your junk or promotions folder. Until then, please continue to use the current online payment platform with Xpress Bill Pay.
Hold Off on Watering for a Healthier Lawn
Patience is key, especially when it comes to spring landscape care. Waiting to water your lawn until after Mother’s Day can o er real bene ts. By holding o , you encourage roots to grow deeper, resulting in healthier, more resilient turf.
This simple step pays o in the hotter months. Deeper roots can reach moisture stored below the surface, even when the topsoil appears dry, helping your lawn stay green and strong through the summer. In the long run, a little patience now supports a healthier, more durable lawn.
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.
Spring
Spring
From tiny tots to teen athletes, we still have spots available for our Spring Youth Spor t:
