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RIVERTONINSIDER

Official Newsletter of the Riverton City Government BY RIVERTON MAYOR TISH BUROKER

Honored to Serve in this Momentous New Year

JANUARY 7, 2026

IN THIS ISSUE Why the Colorado River Matters to Riverton - Pg 3 Preventive Measures for Burglaries - Pg 3 Street Parking Policy During Snow Storms - Pg 3

Tish Buroker takes the oath of office as Riverton City’s eleventh mayor on January 6, 2026, by City Recorder Jamie Larson at the Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center. Key Takeaways • Mayor Tish Buroker begins term as Mayor, engages council, staff, neighbors, fulfills pledges. • Council involved early in budget planning, fiscal year 2026–27 underway. • America 250 celebrations, facility reviews, rebranding strengthen community engagement citywide.

Happy New Year! As 2026 Here are a few other items gets underway it is a new occurring: beginning for me as Riverton’s 11th Mayor, and second • AMERICA 250: Rollout of woman to hold the job. I the national, state and local have been busy meeting with celebration of the semi quinmayors from our neighboring centennial is taking place. In cities, meeting with our council this newsletter you’ll notice members, meeting with staff a new logo commemorating members and the police chief this important milestone in and orienting myself to the job our country. This year-long of mayor. And our new council event marks the signing of the members Alex Declaration of InJohnson and dependence and “I have already Shannon Smith the decision of initiated several of have been the 13 colonies my campaign pledges, to declare thembusy attending including involving orientation selves a free nacouncil members meetings and tion. As always, in the budget preparing our Recreation process early.” themselves for and Events the decisions Department has they will be making. planned great events to commemorate this historic year. I have already initiated several You will see street banners, of my campaign pledges, and two impressive pillar banincluding involving council ners at city hall. There will be members in the budget promany other events throughout cess early. Our first meeting the year including an art show regarding the fiscal year budat the dome. With the generget for 2026 – 2027 will occur ous support of sponsors all this month. events will be produced within

RIVERTON INSIDER • JANUARY 2026

the current recreation budget. I hope you are able to join in a few or all of the planned events. • A review of all parks and facilities is being undertaken to determine best uses. • A rebranding of the newsletter with the goal of improved communication and education. • City council members have been assigned to the various boards in which Riverton is a member. These board assignments are critical and important responsibilities. You will learn more about their responsibilities as the council members submit their newsletter messages in the coming months. There will be more changes in the following months keeping Riverton fiscally strong and ready for the future while remembering those traditions which are so important to residents.q

UPCOMING EVENTS See Back Page for Details

• Reservations for City Facility Use Underway • Live Christmas Tree Drop off Continues • Register for the Riverton Half Marathon,10K & 5K • Just You and I, Daddy Daughter Registration Opens

UPCOMING CITY MEETINGS CITY COUNCIL

January 7 & 21, 7 p.m. PLANNING COMMISSION

January 9 & 23, 6:30 p.m. REPORT A PROBLEM Report a problem at rivertonutah.gov/report CONTACT US 801-254-0704

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BY COUNCIL MEMBER ANDY PIERUCCI

Why the Colorado River Matters to Riverton

ELECTED OFFICIALS MAYOR

Tish Buroker

tburoker@rivertonutah.gov COUNCIL DISTRICT 1

Andy Pierucci

apierucci@rivertonutah.gov COUNCIL DISTRICT 2

Troy McDougal

tmcdougal@rivertonutah.gov COUNCIL DISTRICT 3

Alexander Johnson

ajohnson@rivertonutah.gov COUNCIL DISTRICT 4

Shannon Smith

ssmith@rivertonutah.gov COUNCIL DISTRICT 5

Spencer Haymond

shaymond@rivertonutah.gov

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The Colorado River—vital to Riverton’s water supply—highlights the urgency of smart planning, investment, and conservation to protect this life-giving resource.

Key Takeaways • Colorado River overallocation creates uncertainty for Riverton’s long-term water supply planning. • New Green Well project reduces dependence on Colorado River water sources. • Increased water use drives rate study to ensure sustainable, balanced finances. For those of us who live in the of water each year from the Western U.S., water is one Colorado River Basin through of the most controversial and the Central Utah Project. The critical policy issues of our day. water is stored in Jordanelle One body of water in particular Reservoir and provides roughly has been the subject of intense 40-50% of JVWCD’s total drinkdebate, the Colorado River. ing water deliveries. I write this Council Message while participating in the As a city, we are taking action Colorado River Water Users to ensure your access to quality Association conference in Nedrinking water. In April of 2025, vada. This meeting is the one we celebrated the opening of time each year when leaders our Green Well project, a nanofrom key stakeholders in the filtration well designed to serve Colorado River baas a sustainable sin come together “The water is stored in water source for with representaJordanelle Reservoir the southwest tion from Native part of the valley. and provides roughly American tribes, The newly in40-50% of JVWCD’s Mexico, the Bureau stalled nanofiltratotal drinking water of Reclamation and tion plant purifies deliveries.” the seven states, the water, proto plan for the year ducing more than ahead. This year’s meeting 700-800 gallons per minute, or has added urgency due to the about 1 million gallons per day. existing water management It will supply roughly half of the agreement expiring on Decemcity’s water needs, reducing our ber 31st, and negotiators are dependence on water from the still trying to hammer out an Colorado River Basin. updated agreement. In addition to strategic infraThe Colorado River Basin is structure investments, we are the backbone of Riverton’s also undergoing a long overdue water supply. Our city receives water rate study to determine a significant amount of its drink- the appropriate rates the city ing water from the Jordan Valshould be charging for water. ley Water Conservancy District Prior to last year, the city had (JVWCD). JVWCD receives not raised water rates in over approximately 50,000-acre feet 10 years. These changes are

necessary due to the record water use we have seen. In 2025, Riverton’s water use exceeded historical consumption levels, exposing the city to higher wholesale charges. The city’s water fund was reduced by the higher water bill from JVWCD, this budget shortfall pushed the city council to request a rate study. The rate study will examine whether separate rates for different user classes (residential, PUD/ HOA, commercial, irrigation) are appropriate. The rate study should be finished this year, and the council will take action based upon the results of the study and public input. We are taking these steps to ensure our city’s finances are balanced and to preserve our precious resources. The Colorado River is overallocated, meaning farmers, cities and companies have rights to more water than runs through the basin. As Riverton’s representative on the JVWCD’s Board of Trustees, it’s an honor to be an active participant in shaping the future of our state and region’s water resources. Let us all work together as a community and do our part to preserve the life-giving resources for generations to come.q

RIVERTON INSIDER • JANUARY 2026

PUBLIC SAFETY MESSAGE BY CHIEF SHANE TAYLOR

Preventive Measures for Burglaries

CODE CORNER

Winter Snow Parking Protocol

Winter brings higher burglary risk; lock vehicles and garages, remove valuables, use cameras, and report suspicious activity to help police keep the community safe.

Key Takeaways • Winter burglaries increase; lock vehicles and remove all valuables. • Visible firearms and items invite theft and home access. • Locked garages, cameras, and reporting suspicious activity improve safety. As winter approaches, it is essential to take steps to prevent vehicle and home burglaries. Historically, there is often an increase in these types of crimes during this time of year.

We have received numerous reports of firearms being stolen from vehicles. It is essential to note that vehicle burglaries frequently occur when valuable items are left in plain sight. Thieves may gain access by Please ensure that firearms, smashing windows, so it is computers, cell phones, and crucial to refrain from leaving other valuable items are not any items inside your vehicle stored in your vehicle. Thieves at any time of day. Additionally, frequently it is advisable not check car doors to leave garage “Thieves frequently until they find remotes in your check car doors until car, as they provide one that is unlocked, allowthieves easy access they find one that is ing them easy to your garage and, unlocked, allowing access to steal consequently, an them easy access.” whatever they entry point into your can find. The residence. most effective way to prevent this is to keep your car doors To secure your home, be sure locked and avoid leaving valuto close and lock your garage ables inside, whether during doors. If left unlocked, this can the day or at night. provide access to your garage,

where valuable items are often stored, as well as an easy entry point to your home. Investigations have shown that camera systems—either at residences or those of neighbors—often capture entry points to homes and vehicles. These home camera systems are essential tools for investigations. The Riverton Police Department is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in our community and to working with you to maintain a safe, crime-free environment. We appreciate your cooperation and urge you to report any suspicious activity. Together, we can make a difference by keeping our doors locked. If you notice anything unusual, please call the dispatch at 801-840-4000. q

Riverton’s New Year’s Goal is Water Conservation Over the past few years, Riverton residents’ collective water usage has outpaced our city’s year-over-year growth by over six-fold. This is not sustainable.

Avoid a possible ticket by not parking your vehicle on the street during snow events.

Vehicles parked on city streets during snow events hinder snow clearing efforts, are at risk of being damaged, and may be towed or ticketed. The following snow removal protocol and winter parking policy is in effect in Riverton: • Between November 1 and March 1, no vehicle may be parked on city streets during a snow storm OR where snow has accumulated on road shoulders. • As a matter of public safety, major roadways, high-traffic areas, and school zones are prioritized in snow removal. • Once main roadways are clear, minor roads and cul-de-sacs are cleared if 4 inches of snow or more has accumulated. Learn more online at rivertonutah.gov/snow

We all need to do our part in conserving water to help keep Riverton water rates low.

Riverton Culinary Water Use Increase

RIVERTON INSIDER • JANUARY 2026

To find rebates and incentives for water conservation, visit slowtheflow.org

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RECREATION & EVENTS DEPARTMENT

UPCOMING EVENTS

RIVERTONINSIDER

Reserve a Riverton Facility

Old Dome Meeting Hall & Plaza • Community Center • Hamilton Event Center • City Park Pavilions Riverton City has many wonderful facilities available for rent for residents and non-residents. Reservations can be made in person at the Recreation & Events window at Riverton City Hall. For more details about available facilities or to make reservations visit rivertonutah.gov/reserve or call us at 801-208-3101.

City Hall Plaza & Pavilion

Old Dome Meeting Hall

Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center

Christmas Tree Composting

Topaz Stories Exhibit at Old Dome Meeting Hall

Dispose of Christmas trees at one of three free drop-off locations through the end of January. Undecorated, live trees only.

Just You & I has become one of Riverton’s most beloved annual traditions. This Valentine’s Day-themed evening features dinner, dancing, photo, and special parting gifts for each daughter. This popular event sells out quickly so be sure to register early so you don’t miss out.

• Centennial Park • Monarch Meadows Park • Riverton Rodeo Arena

• Friday, February 6, 2026, 6-8 p.m. • Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center • $40 per couple (dad & daughter; $20 for each additional daughter)

After the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, the U.S. incarcerated over 120,000 Japanese Americans, at Utah’s Topaz camp. This exhibition preserves survivor voices.

Mission: Slim Possible Weight Loss Competition

Children’s Art Submissions Wanted

New year, new you? Join Riverton City’s 8-week Mission Slim Possible challenge to lose weight and start the year off right. Begins January 7. Cash prizes for winners!

Gradually build up your running ability as part of our Couch to 5K training program! Program begins January 26, 2026 and continues for 8 weeks.

Come participate in one of the valley’s best races. The race is designed for all ages and abilities with medals and prizes awarded for participants and winners.

Artists 18 and younger are invited submit artwork entries in the Not Your Parent’s Art Show. This nonjudged event gives young artists an opportunity to showcase their art.

• January 7 - March 4, 2026 • Cost: $30 per person

• Register or learn more at rivertonutah.gov/couch-to-5k.

• Race Day is Saturday, March 21 • Register: rivertonutah.gov/half

• Artwork Entry Period January 13 - 24, 2026

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Hamilton Event Center

Community Center Auditorium

Due to its popularity, this event limited to Riverton residents only.

• January 5 - 28, 2026 • Old Meeting Hall

RIVERTON INSIDER • JANUARY 2026