Jonathan Bowers

The meeting addressed the selection and appointment process for a new Planning Commission alternate member following a vacancy, with discussion focused on representation from District One. The council also reviewed and discussed the proposed rental fee schedule for the athletic community and the new community center room rentals. Key points on the rental schedule included determining fee structures to cover operational costs and managing allocation priorities, especially concerning senior programming and external organizations. Additionally, there was a detailed discussion regarding contract build rentals for volunteer organizations managing leagues and tournaments, including the current subsidy levels provided by the city for field maintenance and operations.

The event was a formal inauguration and oath of office ceremony for Mayor Palmer and City Council members Tara Anderson, Teddy Hodges, and Matt Basham. City Manager Nathan Trapesky welcomed attendees and recognized outgoing council member Sherry Or. The ceremony included a presentation of the flag by the Herriman Police Honor Guard and the national anthem. Following the administration of the oaths of office by Judge Lisa Garner, the newly sworn-in officials—Councilors Hodges and Basham, Councilor Anderson, and Mayor Palmer—provided remarks highlighting their commitment to responsible growth, community service, local economy, neighborhood protection, and collaboration with city staff.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. Council provided comments and recognitions, including high praise for staff and volunteers regarding the 'Night of Lights' event. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a special recognition and farewell for Council Member Sherry Orin, who is concluding eight years of service. Fellow council members expressed deep appreciation for her dedication, passion for freedom, work with the youth council, and her role as a mentor and principled leader, referencing difficult past battles overcome with her partnership. Following the recognition, the council moved to public comment procedures, advising those wishing to speak about a storage unit gate issue to wait until that agenda item is reached. Council reports included an update on the Jordan Basin Improvement District, which adopted its budget reflecting a fee increase from $33 to $35, effective in January.

The work meeting covered several agenda items, including reviewing the evening's agenda and discussing future agenda items and citizen recognitions. Key discussions involved a city status report, which noted the Rio Vista widening and traffic signal project being out to bid, and a detailed review of a draft proposal to amend Title 10 of the City Code to permit detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The ADU discussion focused heavily on lot size minimums (5,000 sq ft versus 6,000 sq ft), setback requirements, parking implications, utility connections (separate meters versus shared services), and the potential for short-term rentals. The council also discussed standards for converting existing structures into ADUs and ensuring visibility from the street for emergency services access.

The event centered on the mission to remember the fallen, honor those who serve their families, and teach the next generation of freedom. Key components included a moment of silence for prisoners of war and those missing in action, the singing of the national anthem, and the posting of colors. Speakers reflected on the cost of freedom and thanked veterans and active-duty service members. The ceremony involved the presentation and laying of veterans' wreaths by representatives from the Utah National Guard, Herriman Police Department, U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marines, honoring personnel from each branch, as well as those listed as POW/MIA. Attendees were encouraged to speak the name of the veteran aloud when placing a wreath.