Marriott-Slaterville City History January 1 - December 31, 2008 Our world has seen many changes and a wide variety of "ups and downs" during 2008. Overall, Marriott-Slaterville City has weathered the "storms" quite well, and has realized advancements, improvements, successes, and some worries, as residents enjoy living in most favorable conditions here. City residents, along with the rest of our state and nation, endured rapidly increasing gasoline prices in 2008. Filling up a car's fuel tank with gas at over $4.00 per gallon is a huge shock. The problem didn't stop there, as grocery prices, and the cost of many day-to-day necessities, rose dramatically because of the increased cost of transporting them to the place of sale. Diesel prices were higher than unleaded gas. Utility companies asked for rate increases; heating oil was much higher for users, with the arrival of winter. Local and state governments face budget problems with increased costs and decreased tax revenues as citizens conserve. A number of state offices went to a four-day week to help both the state and employees conserve. Fortunately, early winter brought dropping gasoline prices, and smiles to consumers. Prices are expected to rise some after the beginning of 2009. The coming months will be important as we learn to face the many problems arising in our nation. Looking back to the beginning of 2008, snow and more snow was everywhere one looked as the new year began. After several years living with a drought situation, residents of Marriott-Slaterville City were happy to see the abundant amount of snow piling up around us, knowing it meant more water for the coming summer months. Most people considered it a record-breaking accumulation, but state weather gurus told us January was a "normal" month. We were accustomed to the meager snowfall recent years had produced. Enthusiasm waned a little with the constant shoveling and cleaning which was required. February brought continued snow and cold, and this year we had an additional winter day in February. We didn't need the groundhog to see his shadow to know we would have six more weeks of winter. The huge piles of snow on plowed parking lots were higher than the parked cars. There were fewer complaints expressed than appreciation for the mountain snowpack which will again fill our reservoirs. Cost of snow removal as of the end of February was $20,000.00. FROM THE MAYOR The State of the City by Mayor Keith Butler, was featured in the January 2008 issue of The Pioneer Post. He reported the annual independent audit had been completed for FY 2007, and revenues met expenses, with a surplus to be transferred to capital projects. This has been accomplished with no municipal property taxes. New businesses located this year on 12th street include Intermountain Farmers, Hi-tech Storage and Les Olson and Company. The First United Methodist Church, Venture Academy Charter School and Mill Creek Plaza are welcomed additions. A Maverick station on the corner of 400 North and 2000 West is being built. The state put a barrier in the middle of 2000 West at this intersection, which affects access to the station. Shortly after the barrier was installed, a car hit it, causing a serious accident, resulting in the death of the female driver. The Marriott Park and Slaterville Park now are operated by the city. Mayor Butler has a park advisory committee to make ongoing recommendations for park planning and operation. The senior center is 3