This summer, the Taylorsville City Police Department reached an important milestone, celebrating f ve years of proudly serving our community. Since ofcially launching on July 1, 2021, TVPD has grown into a department our residents know and trust.
Refecting on that journey, I am incredibly proud of what the department has accomplished and grateful for the dedicated men and women who have made it all possible.
The decision to bring police services in-house was not made lightly. It required careful consideration, but we believed creating our own department would provide the accountability, responsiveness and community-focused policing our residents deserved. Looking back today, I am more convinced than ever that it was the right decision.
Bringing that vision to life, however, required extraordinary effort. During the yearlong transition, a project management team of city staf met weekly to oversee every detail, from hiring personnel to establishing policies and procedures. Their hard work culminated in the swearing-in of our ofcers in June 2021 and the ofcial launch of TVPD just days later.
Today, TVPD is made up of more than 65 outstanding ofcers led by Chief Brady Cottam and Deputy Chiefs Miller and Lloyd. Chief Cottam describes the department as the “best of the best,” and I couldn’t agree more. From the beginning, he focused on building a department rooted in transparency, connection, collaboration, respect and innovation. Those core values guide the department and support a culture dedicated to outstanding public service.
Over the past five years, our officers have done much more than respond to calls. They have built relationships with residents, visited schools and neighborhoods, participated in community events, supported local businesses and found ways to connect with the people they serve. They are visible throughout our community, and that presence has strengthened the trust that is so important to efective policing.
I also want to recognize the department’s civilian employees and support staf, whose work behind the scenes is essential to TVPD’s success. Every member of the department plays an important role in serving our community, and I couldn’t be more grateful for their good work.
Together, these officers and staff members have made TVPD the strong, trusted department it is today. Please join me in congratulating our TVPD on this fve-year milestone. Thank you for your professionalism, compassion and unwavering commitment to keeping Taylorsville safe. We are proud of all you have accomplished and grateful for your service every single day.
—Mayor Kristie S. Overson
WHAT’S INSIDE – AUGUST 2026
Frequently Called Numbers, Page 2
Council Corner, Page 3
TVPD News, Page 4
Heritage Remembrances, Page 7 Environment, Page 8
After decades of vision, planning and persistence, the Midvalley Express Bus Rapid Transit line is now rolling through Taylorsville, fulflling a long-anticipated transportation goal and creating a new east-west connection through the center of the Salt Lake Valley.
The new MVX line, also known as Route 50X, connects West Valley Central Station and Murray Central Station, traveling through West Valley City, Taylorsville and into Murray along the 4700 South corridor.
The route creates a direct east-west transit connection through the heart of the valley, giving riders another way to reach schools, employment centers, shopping, parks, healthcare and other regional destinations.
For Taylorsville, the service adds another transportation option along one of the city’s most important corridors while supporting continued investment in mobility, economic development and quality of life.
“After decades of vision, planning and persistence, we are fnally watching MVX roll through Taylorsville,” Mayor Kristie Overson said. “This project represents what can happen when we stay committed to a long-term vision for the future.”
The route serves several major destinations, including Salt Lake Community College’s Taylorsville Redwood Campus, Intermountain Medical Center and the Calvin Rampton State Office Complex. Connections at Murray Central and West Valley Central also give riders access to the broader UTA system and destinations throughout the Wasatch Front.
Mayor Overson and members of the Taylorsville City
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
AUGUST 2026
Every Friday night through Sept. 25
Starry Nights @the Plaza. The food trucks arrive at 5:30 p.m. and most music starts at 6:30. See www.taylorsvilleut.gov for the full schedule and details about what’s happening each night.
Every Tuesday through Sept. 29
Taylorsville Farmers Market @ Centennial Plaza. Shop for fresh fnds and artisan products. The market opens at 5 p.m.
August 5 & 19 – 6:30 p.m.
City Council Meeting @ City Hall. Address the Council during Citizens' Comments. Agendas are always available online.
Aug. 7 – 6 p.m.
Night Out Against Crime @ Centennial Plaza. Come learn about ways to keep your neighborhood safe and have some fun, too.
Aug. 11 & 25 – 6:30 p.m.
Planning Commission Meeting @ City Hall. The Planning Commission meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.
Every Thursday – 2 p.m.
The Mayor Is In. This is an excellent opportunity to connect, listen, ask questions and share ideas about our city with the Mayor.
UPCOMING: Sept. 7
Labor Day. City ofces will be closed to observe the holiday.
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
Night Out Against Crime
COUNCIL CORNER
By Council Member Anna Barbieri
Beyond the Desk: Building High-Paying Careers Through SLCC’s Trades
Look out any window in Salt Lake County and you will see an economy fring on all cylinders. Towering cranes punctuate the skyline, new neighborhoods are popping up overnight and industrial complexes are expanding rapidly. Utah is growing fast, and that means one thing: We have a lot of things that need to be built, wired, plumbed and welded.
This boom reminds me of a lesson I learned early in life. Growing up, my father owned an auto repair shop and parts store in Midvale. He taught me that if you build or fx things, you will always have a job. Today, that wisdom is more relevant than ever. While desk jobs get the spotlight, the real action right now is happening in the skilled trades. Local contractors have plenty of open positions, rolling out the red carpet for anyone ready to pick up a tool. There is a massive, growing demand for hands-on professionals like plumbers, HVAC technicians, electricians, welders, diesel mechanics and pipeftters.
For years, the standard advice was to head straight for a traditional four-year desk job. But times have changed: The trades are booming, pay incredibly well and ofer job security that a computer screen simply can’t match. In Utah, an experienced journeyman can easily command anywhere from $70,000 to more than $100,000 a year. You can hit those milestones quickly,
entirely free of the student debt that comes with a university diploma — resulting in zero debt for most students who choose this path.
Fortunately, Salt Lake Community College in Taylorsville makes it easier than ever to enter these lucrative careers. Recently, I toured SLCC’s awardwinning Westpointe Workforce Training & Education Center. Their programs, like Diesel Service Technician, Electronics Engineering Technology, Composites Technology, Welding Fabrication, Injection Molding and Aviation Maintenance feel less like a school and more like a high-end innovation lab.
Instead of sitting through hours of dry lectures, students dive straight into expansive, real-world simulation spaces. You can learn precision sparks in advanced Welding Technology, master smart-home climate control, or fgure out how to power a commercial building. It is fast-paced and highly collaborative.
A big part of SLCC’s success is how closely they team up with local businesses to get students paid while they learn. Through apprenticeship programs, students split time between the classroom and a paid position on a manufacturing foor, immediately putting skills to work. These opportunities mean you are earning a paycheck and building a network from day one.
Utah’s thriving economy needs a solid foundation, and we are fortunate to live in a state where
businesses, educators and lawmakers collaborate to create career opportunities. The people building our infrastructure are securing steady, in-demand jobs with excellent pay. These rewarding careers are being built by the hands-on professionals graduating from Salt Lake Community College.
Spend Tuesday Evenings at the Taylorsville Farmers Market
Looking for an easy way to enjoy a summer evening? Stop by the Taylorsville Farmers Market on Tuesdays to shop from local vendors, support small businesses and spend time at Centennial Plaza.
Open each Tuesday through Sept. 29, the market features fresh f nds from local vendors, including specialty foods and beverages, baked treats, jams and jellies, herbs, essential oils, soaps and other handcrafted products. Vendors may vary throughout the season, giving visitors something diferent to browse from week to week.
The market is held at Centennial Plaza, 2600 W. Taylorsville Blvd., providing a welcoming setting to meet vendors and catch up with neighbors and friends in the heart of the city.
Depending on the evening, visitors may also fnd a few food trucks and occasional live music to enjoy while exploring the market.
Hours are 5 to 9 p.m. during July and August and 5 to 8 p.m. in September. The market is operated by Good4Life Markets and accepts SNAP payments.
Whether staying for a while or making a quick stop, visitors will fnd plenty to browse and enjoy each Tuesday.
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)
TVPD K-9 Teams Visit Taylorsville Elementary Schools
Check this space each month for news about the Taylorsville Police Department (TVPD) and their valuable service to our community.
TVPD’s K-9 teams made the rounds at all eight Taylorsville elementary schools, giving ffth-grade students an up-close look at Koda and Turbo and the important work they do.
K-9 Officers Wakefield and Cameron, along with Sgt. Bennett, explained how police dogs assist ofcers in keeping the community safe. Students also had the chance to watch Koda and Turbo demonstrate some of their skills.
The presentations offered an exciting look at police work while giving TVPD ofcers an opportunity to connect with students and build positive relationships in Taylorsville schools. Judging by the smiles, Koda and Turbo stole the show at every stop.
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Congratulations to Sgt. Carver, TVPD's latest Employee of the Month. Sgt. Carver joined the Taylorsville Police Department in August 2021 and currently serves as a patrol sergeant. In addition to supervising patrol, he oversees the Trafc Unit, Crisis Negotiations Team and police feet while serving in several collateral assignments, including the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), Peer Support, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), the Awards Committee and as president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge. Before joining TVPD, Sgt. Carver served with the U.S. Navy Police and the West Val-
NEW UTAH E-RIDES LAW TAKES EFFECT
TALK TO YOUR KIDS • KNOW YOUR VEHICLE • RIDE SAFE
ley City Police Department. He has more than 21 years of combined military and law enforcement service and holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. His career has included assignments as a patrol ofcer, feld training ofcer, detective, CIT coordinator, department instructor and K-9 handler.
During his military service, he deployed to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq and Afghanistan, earning numerous honors, including the Bronze Star, four Navy Commendation Medals and multiple campaign and NATO service medals. He has also received several distinguished awards during his law enforcement career.
Sgt. Carver was nominated by Lt. Cheshire, who stated he "could not overlook the outstanding work that Sgt. Carver does daily for the city, the department and his personnel."
Lt. Cheshire described Sgt. Carver as one of the most selfess supervisors he has had the opportunity to supervise. He praised Sgt. Carver's commitment to mentoring ofcers, improving department operations and creating an environment where employees feel heard and supported. Whether helping ofcers work through challenges or ensuring the department's many specialty assignments run smoothly, Sgt. Carver consistently leads with professionalism and dedication.
Outside of work, Sgt. Carver enjoys studying history and military history, riding motorcycles and spending time with family and friends. Thank you, Sgt. Carver, for your outstanding leadership, dedication and continued service to the Taylorsville Police Department and the Taylorsville community!
STAY SAFE & RIDE SMART
Helmet rules. Required for riders under age 21 on roadways. Recommended for all riders.
Age restrictions. Under age 8: No motor use on public roads. Ages 8–15: Must have adult supervision. Ages 16+: No supervision required.
Know your ride. 750 watts, pedals required Modified e-bikes may be classified as e-motorcycles or high-powered e-rides
Where you can ride. Roads & bike lanes; Follow bicycle laws. Sidewalk use depends on city.
DUI enforcement. DUI laws apply. Officers may impound (under age-18 violations).
Coming in 2027. Ages 8 to 15 must: Ride with an adult, OR Complete a safety course
Taylorsville Dayzz Races Draw Nearly 400 Runners
Runners of all ages took to the course for the 2026 Taylorsville Dayzz 5K and Kids Run, held as part of the city’s 30th Birthday Bash celebration.
The June 27 event drew 398 registered runners and featured several special touches commemorating Taylorsville’s anniversary. Stephen Powell designed the race’s 30th anniversary shirt and medal and also joined the feld as a participant. Brigham Booth sang the National Anthem before Mayor Kristie Overson fred the starting gun to send runners onto the course.
“It was exciting to see so many runners, families and supporters come together for this year’s race,” Mayor Overson said. “We are grateful to the sponsors, volunteers and everyone who helped make the event such a memorable part of Taylorsville’s 30th birthday celebration.”
Jack Winward claimed the overall men’s 5K title with a time of 16:01, followed by Anthony Biesinger and Teren Jameson. Gloria Booth led the women’s division, with Lily Jameson and Erin Andrews fnishing second and third.
Kids Run frst-place winners were Avery Curtis, Cali Jameson and Sophie May in the girls divisions, and Ethan McKinnon, Ezra Gingery and Reid Matern in the boys divisions.
The event also included a rucking race. Ashley Plant and Michelle Poteki were the top women fnishers, while Cesar Ahumada and Porter Plant led the men’s feld.
Full race results and photos are available on the city’s website, www.taylorsvilleut.gov. The Taylorsville Dayzz 5K and Kids Run will return in June 2027.
THANK YOU SPONSORS!
Thank You Taylorsville Dayzz 5K & Kids Fun Run Sponsors!!!
We wish to extend our sincere gratitude to Biomat USA Grifols of Taylorsville and Chick-fil-A of Taylorsville for their generous contributions of delicious refreshments for our runners and their families after the race. Your support added a delightful touch to our event, helping to nourish and energize all participants. Thank you for your presence!
We also wish to acknowledge the sponsors listed below for providing coupons and engaging items for our runners' swag bags and door prizes. It is community partners like you who contribute to the success and memorability of our events. Thank you for your kindness and for being an integral part of our celebration!
And last but certainly not least, thank you to our exceptional staff; we couldn’t do it without you!
MVX CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Council experienced the new service frsthand during a short feld trip on May 26. Riding together along the route, they had an opportunity to visit the stations, travel the corridor and see how MVX serves residents, students, employees and visitors.
MVX also brings a distinctive visual element to the city. Public art has been incorporated into seven Taylorsville stations and the SLCC roundabout. In all, 15 separate pieces add color, character and a stronger sense of community to the rider experience.
The custom glass-panel artwork was developed through a Utah Transit Authority public art project in collaboration with Taylorsville City and Salt Lake Community College. Inspired by the people, culture and natural landscapes of the area, the designs connect the transportation investment with Taylorsville’s identity and character.
The works include colorful interpretations of the Jordan River, native birds, mountain views, local landmarks and themes of movement, memory and connection. Together, they turn the stations into more than places to board a bus. They give riders and passersby an opportunity to experience art created specifcally for the corridor while highlighting the varied perspectives and creative talents of the participating artists.
Read descriptions about each piece and learn more about the artists and their inspiration on the city’s website at taylorsvilleut.gov under the Services and MVX Bus Rapid Transit tabs.
The artwork provides a welcoming addition to the corridor while making each station more recognizable and refective of its surroundings, Mayor Overson added.
“We feel so lucky to have this impressive collection of artwork now here in Taylorsville,” she said. “The artists have created pieces that add beauty and character to the stations while celebrating the people, places and natural surroundings that make our community special.”
The MVX project was made possible through a grant from the Federal Transit Administration, with additional fnancial support from the State of Utah and local partners. The partnership allowed UTA and participating communities to advance a signifcant regional transportation project intended to improve access and support future growth.
MVX will remain zero fare through April 2029. Route maps, schedules and additional information are available on UTA’s website, rideuta.com
Taylorsville Bennion Heritage REMEMBRANCES
Forging a Community: Taylorsville’s Early Blacksmiths
By Susan Yadeskie
Blacksmiths were crucial to the work of Taylorsville farmers. Wagons needed repairs, horses needed shoeing and plows needed to be made. Nearly anything fashioned from iron for farmwork was made or repaired by a blacksmith. Taylorsville was fortunate to have several blacksmiths, as noted in the recently compiled book “What of Bennion” by Margaret Player.
Samuel Bringhurst and his son, Robert Pierce Bringhurst, were both blacksmiths and farmers who lived and died in the area. Samuel was the frst blacksmith in Utah.
Alphonso Morris Palmer Sr. learned blacksmithing from his father. He moved to South Taylorsville, later known as Bennion, and settled along Redwood Road. After his death, his sons Alphonso Jr. and Rufus carried on the trade. Orval Matthews also operated a blacksmith shop in Bennion during the 1940s and ’50s.
John Webster learned the blacksmithing trade from his father in Scotland. During the family’s f rst year in the Salt Lake Valley, John’s father worked at the Overland Blacksmith Shop. In the spring of 1868, John built a house on the brow of the hill just west of the Jordan River along historic 4800 South. He purchased the property from Joseph Harker, who lived east of the Jordan River. At the time, only f ve families lived in the area: John and Samuel Bennion, Joseph Harker, Robert Pixton and Llewellyn Mantle.
“The countryside didn’t look favorable for a blacksmith business. However, a smelter was built in Cottonwood, now Murray. Ore was hauled from Bingham Canyon. This made lots of work repairing wagons and shoeing horses,” Webster wrote in his autobiography.
He also recalled a tragic event connected to the shop:
“The saddest event that had its origin at our shop was this: On the morning of August 30, 1877, Brother John Bennion called at the shop on his way to his brother Samuel’s. He was riding his horse bareback, as usual. He stood on a white-top buggy tongue to spring onto the horse. In doing so, he injured himself internally but managed to ride only a short distance. … He passed away the next morning.”
Finally, William Deverall, who was born in Wales, moved to Taylorsville and opened a blacksmith shop at about 4650 South Redwood Road. He operated the shop from around 1900 until 1930, when it burned down. Many of the iron tools survived, including a large anvil.
William’s descendants donated the tools to the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center. A blacksmith shop furnished with these historic tools has been built at the museum, giving visitors a glimpse of what an authentic working shop once looked like.
Taylorsville Library Events
The Taylorsville Library has planned several programs during the month of August. You’ll want to mark your calendar for these events:
EXPRESS SCAVENGER HUNT Monday, Aug. 3 to Saturday, Sept. 5. Look for the dogs hiding in the library. When you fnd them, return to the Info Desk for a small prize. They move to a diferent spot each week.
WALKING BOOK CLUB Thursdays in August, 10 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. The club meets Thursdays from 10 to 11:15 a.m. Take a 30-minute walk* along the paths behind the library and then participate in a 30-minute book discussion. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle. “Dinosaurs at the Dinner Party" by Edward Dolnick reading schedule:
Aug. 6: Introduction – chapter 13
Aug. 13: Chapters 14 – 27
Aug. 20: Chapter 28 – end *Dependent on weather.
I SPY FOOD Monday, Aug. 10 to Saturday, Aug. 15. Celebrate the last days of summer with an I Spy challenge. Return to the Info Desk for a small prize.
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE Monday, Aug. 31, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Give blood to help others. Schedule your appointment: redcrossblood.org or 1.800.RED.CROSS.
ADULT VIRTUAL LECTURE | The Truth About Lying: Homer's Odyssey and the Power of Stories — Monday, Aug. 31, 7 p.m. For nearly three millennia, Homer’s Odyssey has captivated audiences with its tales of adventure, deception and survival. Discover what Odysseus’ story reveals about timeless human nature and the enduring power of storytelling. Register at: thecountylibrary.org/LectureSeries.
Storytimes Return in September.
MUSIC & MOVEMENT Tuesdays in September, starting Sept. 8, 10:30 a.m. Can you "head, shoulders, knees and toes" with the best? Music, movement and fun for little ones and their grown-ups. Preschool Storytime Wednesdays in September — starting Sept. 9, 10:30 a.m. Interactive early learning storytime for preschoolers and their caring adult(s) with talking, singing, reading, writing and play. Toddler Playtime Fridays in September — starting Sept. 11, 10:30 a.m. Open playtime and social interaction for toddlers and their caring adult(s). Toys, tunnels and more!
TAYLORSVILLE SENIOR CENTER
4743 S. Plymouth View Drive
August 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:
Aging Mastery Program — Mondays from Aug. 24 to Nov. 2, 12:30 – 2 p.m. Ready to make the most of the years ahead? Join in the Aging Mastery Program, a fun and engaging journey designed to help you feel healthier, more confdent and connected! Each week, the group will explore a new topic with practical tips you can actually use in everyday life. You'll meet new people, share ideas, encourage one another and discover simple ways to build a happier, healthier future.
Topics include exercise, better sleep, healthy eating and hydration, fnancial ftness, medication management, advance planning, healthy relationships, fall prevention, community involvement and more. Meet new friends and build connections. Learn practical tips for everyday life. Invest in you and your future. Sign up at the front desk or call 385-468-3370.
Find the center’s full calendar and Senior Scoop Newsletter online at saltlakecounty.gov.
AUGUST UPDATES
WFDRD Now Has a New Payment System
WFWRD’s new payment processing vendor, Point & Pay, went live during the month of May.
They were selected through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process. Several vendors were evaluated based on functionality, implementation, customer service, security and overall cost. Point & Pay was selected because it ofered the best overall value and is expected to reduce payment processing costs by nearly $140,000 per year.
Due to banking security and privacy requirements, the previous payment provider could not transfer customers' stored banking information or autopay authorizations, requiring customers to re-enroll.
While WFWRD routes customers through its customer portal for convenience, you can access the Point & Pay landing page directly where you can sign in. Go to paydici.com/wasatch-fwr-district/search/landing. Be sure to have your WFWRD account number ready.
Please consider signing up for electronic, paperless billing. You can also sign up for convenient automatic payments. You must have an existing account before you can sign in with Google or Facebook.
Water Conservation Starts at Home
Every drop counts. By making a few simple changes at home, you can help protect Utah's water supply while saving time and money.
One of the best resources available is Utah Water Savers. By creating a free account at UtahWaterSavers.com, you can access valuable conservation programs and incentives, including:
• Smart irrigation controller rebates
• High efciency toilet rebates
• Localscapes University rewards
• Landscape consultations
• Additional water conservation resources and educational opportunities You can also improve your watering habits by visiting learn.jvwcd.gov, where you'll fnd practical tips, irrigation information and water-wise landscaping ideas to help you maintain a healthy yard while using less water.
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.
