RIVERTON REVIEW
Official Newsletter of the Riverton, Utah City Government
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
JUNE 1, 2025
Riverton’s Summer of Connection and Celebration
By Mayor Trent Staggs
As we welcome the warmth and excitement of summer, I’m reminded of just how fortunate we are to live in a community like Riverton where traditions thrive, families flourish, and neighbors come together to enjoy all that life has to offer. Our Recreation & Events Department has been hard at work planning an outstanding lineup of summer activities that reflect the vibrant spirit of our city, and I couldn’t be more excited to share what’s in store.
Summer in Riverton isn’t just a season. It’s a celebration of community. It’s a time when front porches turn into gathering spaces, local parks become hubs of laughter and play, and shared experiences strengthen the bonds that unite us. These moments of connection are vital to the health of our community, and they’re exactly what our events aim to foster.
One of the highlights of the summer will undoubtedly be the Riverton Rodeo, a beloved tradition that brings out the best of our western heritage and hometown pride. Mark your calendars, tickets go on sale starting June 9. This is a can’tmiss event for the whole family.
For our youth, we’re offering a variety of engaging and active programs this month. Youth Tennis Classes and Leagues, as well as Youth Pickleball Leagues, provide fantastic opportunities to learn new skills, make friends, and stay active. For the nature enthusiasts, our Outdoor Stewardship Classes will offer hands-on learning about how to care for and enjoy the beautiful natural spaces that make Riverton such a special place to live.
brings together thousands of residents for a week of patriotic fun, including the hometown parade, carnival, fireworks, and community entertainment.
“Our Recreation & Events Department has been hard at work planning an outstanding lineup of summer activities that reflect the vibrant spirit of our city.”
Then, as summer winds down, we’ll keep the excitement going with Friday Fun Nights, Volleyball Tournaments, Flag Football and much more in August. All of it is designed to give families a reason to keep coming back to our city parks for food and fun.
Whether you’re new to Riverton or have called it home for generations, I invite you to join in the festivities. Take the time to get outside, meet new neighbors, and be part of something bigger.
And of course, Riverton Town Days in July remains our signature summer celebration. This cherished tradition
Let’s make this summer one to remember for ourselves, our families, and our community.
Riverton Rodeo Town Days
Friday Fun Nights
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Trent Staggs - Mayor
Andy Pierucci - District 1
Troy McDougal - District 2
Tawnee McCay - District 3
Tish Buroker - District 4
Spencer Haymond - District 5
UPCOMING
CITY MEETINGS
CITY COUNCIL
June 3 & 17, 7 p.m.
PLANNING COMMISSION
June 12 & 26, 6:30 p.m.
CONTACT US
rivertonutah.gov
801-254-0704
Report a problem at rivertonutah.gov/report
FIND US ONLINE!
@rivertonutahgov
COUNCIL MESSAGE
The Truth About Density
By Councilmember Troy McDougal
One of the most important issues elected officials face is the decisions regarding land use in our community. How do we balance the rights of property owners to sale or divide their land, while protecting the rights of existing home owners who have bought into the community with the expectation that it will stay the same.
You often hear the cry for more affordable housing. The argument goes this way, if you increase the density it will lead to more housing, which they claim will lower housing prices, making it more affordable. The problem is that in my 50 plus years of living in Utah, I have never seen that work. The housing is far denser, the total number of units built in the last 50 years has been tremendous and yet home prices have continued to go up.
The truth about density is we already have a lot of housing units approved, they are just not being built. I highly recommend reading Mayor Staggs Op-ed piece in the Deseret News, March 1,2025. There he pointed out that cities already approved over 200,000 housing units to be built throughout the state. But developers are not developing the housing units. It’s simple supply and demand. By not developing what is already approved, it creates shortages. Uninformed people cry out about affordability demanding higher density. State officials try to seize control of zoning decisions from local cities. They approve higher density, and developers stockpile more units to slowly bring to market, maintaining higher prices.
Let’s look at Riverton specifically, today, right now, there are 3,100 housing units approved in our city limits from past years, which are currently unbuilt. Over 700 of those
Riverton does not need more high density being shoved down our throats by State officials that do not live in our community.
are specifically approved multi-family units. In the Mountain View project west of Bangerter Highway 2,100 units are approved for mixed high density and single housing still to be built.
How was your drive home today? How crowded are your schools today? What impact will you feel when the already approved 3,100 units are built? Riverton does not need more high density being shoved down our throats by State officials that do not live in our community. What we need is planned growth, which compliments existing housing that is already here. I support zoning sunset laws that require developers to develop already approved units in a specific time period or they lose the zoning approval. This will bring more housing to the market, while allowing the cities to adjust to the growth, and impact on schools and roads, before approving additional projects and density without any plan or idea what the consequences will be.
This year we will be reviewing the Master Zoning plan for Riverton City. Make sure you are informed, and let your voice be heard. Remember as we plan for the future, we already have 3,100 units coming, how much more can we handle?
The Dangers of Lithium-Ion Batteries
By Chief Wade Watkins
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in electric vehicles (EVs), electronics, and energy storage systems due to their high energy density and efficiency. However, they pose fire risks if not properly managed, particularly during charging. Fires can result from thermal runaway—a chain reaction triggered by overheating, overcharging, physical damage, or internal defects.
Proper charging practices are key to preventing fires. Always use manufacturer-approved chargers and avoid charging batteries unattended,
especially overnight. Ensure the battery management system (BMS) is functional; it regulates voltage, current, and temperature, preventing overcharging and overheating. Avoid charging in extreme temperatures, as heat accelerates chemical reactions, while cold can impair battery performance and lead to stress during recharging.
Environmental considerations are crucial. Charge batteries in wellventilated areas, away from flammable materials. Do not expose batteries to direct sunlight or confined spaces where heat can build up. For large battery systems or high-power EVs, consider dedicated fire suppression systems or thermal barriers.
Visual inspections can help detect early warning signs such as swelling, discoloration, or unusual odors. If a battery becomes hot to the touch, smokes, or hisses, stop charging immediately and evacuate the area. Never use damaged or compromised batteries and always dispose of them at authorized recycling facilities.
In conclusion, while lithium batteries are generally safe, fire risks increase with poor charging habits or equipment failure. Adhering to safety guidelines and staying informed about battery health and best practices greatly reduces the risk of fire. Remember to stay safe Riverton, and don’t hesitate to call 911 if you are experiencing an emergency.
Salt Lake County Fireworks
Restrictions Map
Scan the QR code above to get up-to-date information on firework restrictions in Salt Lake County. It will help you pinpoint your specific area and ensure you’re following local guidelines.
For Riverton Residents: Fireworks are not allowed East of 1300 West, or in any creek corridor or trail area.
Let’s all do our part to stay safe and protect our community this season!
Proper charging practices are key to preventing Electric Car fires.
Riverton Town Days - July 3 & 4
• Carnival
• Car Show
• Parade
• Movie in the Park
• Activities for Everyone
• Country Races
• Concert with Collin Raye
• Fireworks
Register: Town Days Races
Join a Riverton family tradition and registrater for the Riverton Town Days races. There is someting fo everyone; 10K, 5K and 1-Mile. Register at rivertonutah.gov/races Friday, July 4, 7 a.m. (10K), 7:15 a.m. (5K), 8:30 a.m. (1-Mile).
Town Days Tournamanets Registration Opens
Registration is now open for Riverton City’s Town Days Tournaments that include 3-on-3 Basketball, Cornhole and the Pickleball Grand Rally.
• Registration Now Open Learn more and register at rivertonutah.gov/towndays
Town Days Rodeo - 3 Days of Excitement!
Thursday, Friday & Saturday, June 26-28, 8 p.m., Riverton Rodeo Arena. Get your tickets early so you don’t miss out at rivertonutah.gov/rodeo Tickets are $14 each and must be purchased online. Tickets will sell out early and will not be sold at the gate.
Town Days Parade Float Entries
Applications are available online for entries in the Riverton Town Days Parade. Entries are accepted on a first come, first served basis. Find details at rivertonutah.gov/parade Applications Close: Friday, June 13.
3-Man Arena Sorting Competition
Riverton Town Days kicks off with the annual 3-Man Arena Sorting Competition. Come watch as teams of three cowboys and cowgirls work to sort eight sequentially numbered calves past a center line. Monday, June 23, 7 p.m.at the Riverton Rodeo Arena. This is a free event, no tickets required.
Still Standing Art Exhibit
This exhibit honors the strength and resilience of those who’ve faced down cancer and celebrates their ability to create, inspire, and continue.
• Runs through August 27, Old Dome Meeting Hall Visit rivertonutah.gov/exhibits
