It is that time of year for reflection and giving thanks. As a long-time resident of Summit County, and having had the privilege to participate in some of its affairs, I would appreciate the opportunity to share some personal views and give a big thank you to what I believe has been outstanding “stewardship” in both Summit County and Park City stewardship being that ethic that embodies cooperative planning, proper utilization and management of resources within a community, including its people, its property and its financial assets.
I gladly paid my property taxes in November, enjoying the many community benefits our fiscally responsible and proactive Summit County Commission has enacted. You don’t have to travel too far to realize how fortunate we have been both in the services provided and the fabulous life style we have been afforded. A magnificent Basin center and ice skating rink are just a couple of examples of a privileged life style that I truly enjoy. Thank you.
Every day I get up confident that I have a reliable culinary water resource available to me. It took courage and determination of past and present Summit County Commissioners to enable a change in the way water was provided in our county. I must admit I had some tumultuous moments of concern with Mountain Regional in its inception. The Summit County Board of Commissioners, however, had the insight and took the initiative to form a community-based advisory group to help Mountain Regional attain its objective of providing an affordable and reliable water source for Summit County. With a solid management team, and a dedicated group of highly qualified community advisors, I feel Mountain Regional has earned a thank you.
Every day I drive Highway 224 to Kimball Junction, and yes, at times it does get crowded. Fortunately the Summit Count Commissioners decided to do something about it. While developing a long-range traffic plan, the commission immediately implemented a plan that, with the use of roundabouts, realignment and road widening, provided a positive step in the right direction. Thank you.
Oh yes, in those times when I do get tied up in traffic, my Zen moment is when I relish the serene beauty of the Swaner Park and all the open space that both Summit County and Park City have dedicated to preserving. In fact, in light of the open space acquisition at Kimball Junction, I want to give up a special thanks for the tireless and dedicated work of Summit County Commissioners, especially Bob Richer, and Park City. Now instead of countless and more homes, I can reflect on the enjoyable times I spent tobogganing with my kids down those hills long before Kimball Junction was truly discovered. Thank you.
And when I don’t feel like driving, I can take a bus, or bike and walk the many trails in our community. All very convenient and free! Thank you.
Summit County and Park City are very beautiful and unique, and though the environment with its many outdoor activities certainly provides a powerful draw, let us not forget that our community is made up of community leaders who have taken the time to participate and provide quality stewardship through responsible management. And as an era of county government comes to an end, I personally want to thank the Summit County Commissioners for their service. Thank you. I’m feeling both encouraged and confident that the new slate of Summit Council men and women, who individually have a commendable history of service and stewardship, will continue to do so. Thank you.