COUNCIL MESSAGE
James Madison wrote in Federalist No. 51, “If men were angels, no government would be necessary.” John Adams added that our constitutional government suits only “a moral and religious people.” These founders underscore that liberty demands responsibility and responsibility deserves liberty. John Stuart Mill defined Liberty as pursuing our own good without harming others. I’d add that liberty requires accountability. Liberty breeds responsibility, and responsibility in turn sustains liberty. It can be a virtuous cycle … or vicious, if irresponsibility prevails.
As a city councilmember, I reflect on these principles often. We grapple with balancing personal freedom and community harm. What decibel level is acceptable, when? How much light trespass is too much? What are safe speeds on our streets? When should fireworks or electric scooters be allowed? These questions can make me feel like I’m on a citywide HOA board! A respected constituent recently lamented a neighbor’s lawful but inconsiderate action: “Perhaps they’re within the rules, but not the Golden Rule.” Sadly, I agreed.
Before my term, I had a challenge with a neighbor after building a skate ramp with my children, unaware of its disturbance or a restrictive county inherited ordinance. We contested and the Council later relaxed the law. Meanwhile, I worked with my neighbor, agreeing to remove the ramp if soundproofing failed, which we did. Visiting their home helped me see the issue through their eyes, a perspective we could all embrace more.
Last year, I visited my sister living in Switzerland, where I was impressed to see classically liberal laws coexist with a culture of responsibility. They seem to embrace personal risk in sports, favor recommendations over bans, protect data privacy, and even switch stop lights to blinking yellow in lowtraffic areas after 10 p.m. and on weekends. They also watch out for each other. My sister often comments on how aware the Swiss are of those around them. How often do regular citizens politely speak up when someone is out of line? While on a train, my son rested his foot on the seat in front of him until another passenger kindly corrected him. This, after the same had happened to yours truly earlier on our trip! Americans! The Swiss also respect their laws—perhaps because they’re strictly enforced.
Interested in Running for Mayor or City Council?
Candidacy Filing Open June 2-6
Are you passionate about your community? Do you want to help shape the future of Holladay? Now is your chance!
The 2025 Municipal Election is just around the corner, and we’re looking for dedicated residents to run for local office. This year, three positions are up for election, each with a four-year term:
• Mayor
• City Council – District 1
• City Council – District 3
Why Run for Office?
Serving in local government offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of Holladay. Whether you’re passionate about community development, public safety, sustainability, or civic engagement, your leadership can make a difference. Declaration of Candidacy
Interested candidates must file their Declaration of Candidacy in person at the City Recorder’s Office during the official filing period:
• Monday, June 2 through Friday, June 6, 2025
• 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Holladay City Recorder’s Office – 4580 S 2300 E
• Filing Fee: $50
To my brother-in-law’s dismay, he once received a speeding ticket for going just 2 km/h over the limit.
In Holladay, I hope we can continue building a culture of personal responsibility and respect for the law. Laws matter. They’re not always perfect, and we strive to improve them.
I hope we recognize the accountability and safety that local government provides. I’d like to pay tribute to the officers of the UPD, who help enforce our laws and keep us safe, and to the first responders of UFA. I’m especially grateful after witnessing their service firsthand: Two years ago, I attended fire school where I got just a taste of what these public servants do — and a couple of months before, UFA had responded promptly to an emergency call for my mother-in-law, who lived two doors down from me. With deep regret, we lost her, but the care and professionalism they showed was world-class. I appreciate these great men and women!
May we nurture a culture of responsibility, be kind to one another, be appreciative of those who serve, and be thankful for the safe and beautiful Holladay that we call home.
—Ty Brewer, Councilmember District 1
Candidate Qualifications
To run for office, you must meet all of the following requirements:
1. Be a United States citizen
2. Be a registered voter
3. Have lived in Holladay city for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the election
4. You must live in the district you want to represent
If you’ve ever considered public service, now is the time. Anyone interested in running should get acquainted with the filing deadline and other campaign guidelines and election information found on the city website at holladayut. gov under “Elections”.
If you have questions or need help determining your eligibility, contact Stephanie Carlson, City Recorder at scarlson@holladayut.gov or 801-527-2454.
Are you looking for professional advice on essential business topics? Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with experts in business law, hiring and recruitment, marketing and promotions, accounting, and copywriting. Each expert will be stationed at one of five tables, ready to answer your questions and share their expertise. This event will take place at Granato’s Food Hall from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM on May 21st
Enjoy lunch while you learn! Simply purchase your meal and gain access to complimentary expert advice. Move between tables or stay focused on one topic—it’s up to you. Seating is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot by emailing annfgarcia@holladayut.gov by May 16th
Granato’s Food Hall is located at 4044 South 2700 East in Holladay.
Be Firewise: Simple Steps to Protect Yourself & Your Home
by Allison Jester, Emergency Mgmt Coordinator
We live in an amazing area with views of the mountains and easy access to outdoor recreation, but with it comes an increased wildfire risk. This risk is greatest along the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) where homes sit up against undeveloped areas. Fortunately, a few simple actions can dramatically improve your home’s chances of surviving a fire.
1. Know Your Risk
Visit wildfirerisk.utah.gov to get an idea of the risk of wildfire in your specific area.
2. Harden Your Home
Keep gutters and roofs clear of leaves, pine needles, and other debris. Remove all combustible materials from within the first 5 feet of your home, do not store anything flammable beneath elevated decks and porches. Cover outdoor vents with metal mesh to block embers, and seal any other gaps where embers could enter.
3. Create Defensible Space
Utah’s dry summers and frequent winds can spread fire quickly. Create defensible space by trimming trees and clearing brush, dry grass, and dead vegetation from within 30 feet of your home.
4. Fire-Safe Landscaping
Space out trees, bushes, and other plants to reduce fuel loads. Consider replacing wood chips with crushed stone or gravel.
5. Be Ready to Evacuate
Know your evacuation routes and pack a go-bag with essentials like medications, documents, and supplies.
6. Stay Informed Year-Round
Check fire conditions at utahfireinfo.gov and find additional information at firewise.org.
Incorporating these simple steps into your spring yard cleanup may add a little extra time an effort, but it will go a long way to mitigating the risk of fire to your home this coming fire season.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Rob Dahle, Mayor rdahle@holladayut.gov 801-580-3056
Ty Brewer, District 1 tbrewer@holladayut.gov 801-550-8747
Matt Durham, District 2 mdurham@holladayut.gov 801-999-0781
Paul Fotheringham, District 3 pfotheringham@holladayut.gov 801-424-3058
Drew Quinn, District 4 dquinn@holladayut.gov 801-860-6130
Emily Gray, District 5 egray@holladayut.gov 801-755-3477
Gina Chamness, City Manager gchamness@holladayut.gov
PUBLIC MEETINGS:
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
JOIN US FOR A COMMUNITY NIGHT OF SUPPORT & INSIGHT
The Happy Healthy Holladay Coalition, in partnership with Holladay Emergency Preparedness, invites you to a Mental Health Night on Wednesday, May 14th, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Holladay City Hall Dinner will be served.
This free event is open to all, but registration is required and space is limited The evening will focus on recognizing and responding to distress, whether caused by life changes, current events, loss, or personal crises. It will also offer strategies for supporting yourself and loved ones during difficult times, validating emotions, and connecting with local resources that promote mental and emotional well-being.
LIBRARY HAPPENINGS
Our speakers for the evening are:
• Rev. Nancy J. Cormack-Hughes (BCC, MDiv, BA), Hospital Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Care at ECS Spiritual Care & ACPE Education Center. She brings extensive expertise in grief support, crisis response, and emotional care.
• Rev. Dr. Angela Smith (ThD), Hospital Chaplain, committed to supporting individuals and families in crisis through connection, compassion, and trauma-informed care. Her work emphasizes healing and restoring balance in people’s lives.
To register, scan the QR code or contact Meg Bartley, Public Health Coordinator, at mbartley@holladayut.gov for more information.
MAY 2025
Storytime in the Gazebo Holladay City Hall Park
Mondays starting in May • 10:15-11:00
Children and their adults enjoy an interactive storytime at the Holladay City Hall Park in the Gazebo. Afterward, enjoy the jungle gym at the park.
Every Monday in May except the 26th-Happy Memorial Day!
Join us at the park as we have fun focusing on the five early literacy skills: talking, singing, reading, writing and playing. Mondays, May – July.
We invite you to a Community Pancake Breakfast hosted by Unified Police Department and Unified Fire Authority on May 10th!
The free breakfast will take place from 8am - 11am at the Holladay Fire Station #104 (located at 2210 E Murray Holladay Rd). This will be the culminating piece of Public Safety Appreciation Week, which we will celebrate May 5th through the 10th
Join us as we recognize the hardworking officers, firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, and other first responders who diligently serve our community.
Hot Weather Do’s & Don’t
to Keep Your Dog Safe
Salt Lake County Animal Services
Ensure you’re the ultimate pet owner and prioritize your pup’s comfort this summer! You and your furry friend deserve to stay chill and safe, steering clear of scorching cars, sizzling pavement, and sweltering balconies or patios.
Hot Cars: Don’t underestimate the danger. Once the mercury hits 70 degrees, car interiors can soar past 116 degrees in just 10 minutes. Even on a mild 75-degree day, cracking a window or seeking shade won’t save your pet from the lethal heat inside. Heatstroke, brain damage, and worse can result. If you spot a distressed pet in a vehicle—panting excessively, not responsive, drooling, or lethargic—act fast. Dial Salt Lake County Animal Service’s Animal Dispatch at 801840-4000. Avoid breaking windows yourself; instead, document the situation by taking down the license plate, taking a photo of the pet and providing details to Animal Control Officers.
Hot Pavement: Protect those precious paws. Summer sidewalks can scorch, causing painful burns. Before stepping out, test the pavement with the back of your hand. If you can’t endure the heat for five seconds, it’s too hot for your pup. Plan to walk your dog during cooler morning or evening hours and skip outings to crowded events like festivals or markets.
Hot Balconies: Even shaded balconies can become danger zones. High temperatures can quickly make them unbearable for pets left unattended. Anxious and dehydrated, they may attempt risky escapes. If you witness a distressed pet on a balcony, reach out to Animal Control at 801-840-4000 immediately.
For additional information, please visit AdoptUtahPets.org or reach out to animal@slco.org.
Keep your pet cool, safe, and happy this summer!
