MARRIOTT-SLATERVILLE CITY HISTORY JANUARY 2002 January saw the state of Utah experiencing all indications of "Olympic Fever," as the time for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City approached. Marriott-Slaterville residents joined in the anticipation of the event. We watched with interest the progress of the Olympic Torch as it wound its way through the United States. Traffic directions signs to venues and parking lots appeared on highways. Banners and decorations graced buildings in Salt Lake and other cities. Security plans were unveiled. It was coming! And we were making plans and preparing for it. Mayor Keith Butler's State of the City address was the first major event in our community. The good news was that we have no city property tax and none is expected for the coming year. He expressed again his appreciation to the council, staff and the many volunteers who help make the city government efficient and successful. A matter of concern was brought before the citizens in his address. Even though crime has been under control due to the efforts of Sheriff Brad Slater and the assigned deputy, our community has had increased crime calls. In 1990 the number of calls for our area was about 400. This past year saw 1,118 incident reports. The projection for 2002 is 1,400, a 20% increase. The mayor is encouraging the Neighborhood Watch and McGruff programs for the community and will appoint several residents for community safety and emergency programs. Having a Community Resource Officer assigned from the Sheriff's office is a great asset to the community. Scott G. Worthen was convicted on January 20, 2002, of sexual molestation of a stepdaughter. The charges were reported last September and occurred in Marriott-Slaterville. UDOT has commenced the work on the 12th Street and 1900 West intersection which will cause at least some inconvenience to residents. Bona Vista Water District is upgrading its line to an 8 inch capacity on both Pioneer Road and 2800 West. Probably the most contentious matter for the community during the month was the request for general plan amendment by Wesley Spencer and Pam and Kent Slater for approximately 75 acres along 1900 West to commercial zoning. The request brought many citizens to the January 9, 2002, Planning Commission meeting. The exchange became somewhat acrimonious as various people voiced opinions before the Planning Commission voted against opening the General Plan for amendment. While snow was covering the land, the Parks Committee remained busy developing plans for the Riverside Cove area. Assignments have been made for investigation of costs, design, maintenance concerns, and government regulations concerning many phases of development. These include the parking lot area, encompassing security lighting, garbage facilities, restrooms, and drinking fountains; the picnic area (firepit/barbecue, amphitheater/bowery, benches); enhancement of the riverbank, and vegetation and fence-line. Needs for signs, the waling/hiking trail, bird houses and cultural/historical site will also be assessed. A major concern is an effective way to water the trees and grasses. All members of the committee are, and have been, working diligently to provide an excellent area for the community. Residents were urged to take advantage of the Big Fix Program, whereby discounts were offered at various clinic sights for pets to be neutered or spayed. Using this program would help eliminate the problem of homeless and "dumped" pets. Gerald Bischoff received the January 2002 Volunteer Service Award for his service on the Planning Commission, including being the Chairman. His term ended this month.