SEPTEMBER 2024
RIVERTON REVIEW Official Newsletter of the Riverton, Utah City Government
How the U.S. Constitution Shapes City Government By Mayor Trent Staggs Riverton residents are united in celebrating the honored principles of self-government, the rule of law, and federalism upheld by the U.S. Constitution. Each year Riverton City commemorates the courage and ingenuity of the Framers who crafted and signed the U.S. Constitution. Ours is the oldest written constitution still in use, and it continues to be the world’s best beacon of freedom to protect individual rights.
a similar structure for city governments. Our Riverton city councilmembers exercise legislative power by deliberating and agreeing on which laws we need. The office of mayor is the executive and is empowered to carry out the plans and enforce the laws the city council enacted.
in the U.S. Constitution. Riverton City crafts its land-use regulations with respect for people’s right to their own property. The principle of federalism in the Constitution encourages local government to manage their own affairs. Each community is empowered to follow their own vision for the future.
2. Riverton City police officers take an oath “Ours is the oldest to protect the U.S. written constitution Constitution. Law I thought it fitting still in use, and it enforcement is often to point out considered to be the how the U.S. continues to be the most visible protectors Constitution shapes world’s best beacon of Americans’ Godcity government of freedom to protect given rights. The U.S. and continues individual rights.” Constitution plays a to influence crucial role in ensuring municipalities police officers enforce throughout the the laws fairly, impartially, and country. with respect to the rights of all 1. The Constitution divides power individuals. among legislative and executive 3. Property rights of individuals and offices to incentivize cooperation. the laws protecting them originate The State of Utah has adopted
4. Most importantly, the U.S. Constitution begins with the immortal words of “We the People.” The American people are the sovereigns of this country. The U.S. Constitution sets up the government to be of, for, and by the people. Likewise, the Riverton City government is set up to serve you, the people.
As we celebrate Constitution Day this month on September 17, I encourage everyone to read it and learn more about how its structure safeguards individual liberty. During this occasion, may we recommit ourselves - like our forefathers - to making the United States a more perfect union.
RIVERTON REVIEW | SEPTEMBER 2024
These are just a few of the ways the U.S Constitution shapes the day-today work of city government. I urge everyone to celebrate this great governing document that has been the catalyst to unleash the genius of our country.
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