Marriott-Slaterville Monthly History January 201 Did January have more than 31 days this year? It seemed that it did, with the long stretch of bitter cold and lots of snow on the valley surface. An unusual and severe ice storm blanketed the community with a thick layer of ice. Driving was hazardous. The scheduled City Council Meeting for January 17, 2013, was cancelled due to the weather. An unfortunate accompanying factor was that the mountain elevations, where a good snowpack is essential for the summer water supply, did not receive normal amounts. After last year's low water, this does not bode well for filling our reservoirs. The February issue of The Pioneer Post featured an encouraging State of the City message from Mayor Keith Butler. He reported that the city remains in good financial condition, still has no debt, and no municipal property tax. Because of increased costs associated with the new sheriff contract, business license fees were increased to bring them up to current day costs. The previous fees were 12 years old and had not been updated with the rising costs of law enforcement. A grant obtained allowed the city to complete a one mile extension of the trail along the Weber River, ending at 1900 West. Also, grant funding enabled the city to complete various public improvements, including expansion of one of the secondary water ponds near 1200 West, curb, gutter and sidewalk improvements, and park improvements on 700 South. Such grants defray much of the expenses. Although no flooding problems occurred, the city is continuing to work with Weber County for future flood conditions. We now have our own supply of sandbags for such a disaster. Citizens were advised to prepare our family for disasters such as flood, severe weather, earthquakes, hazardous material spills, or major acts of violence. You could be forced from your home or neighborhood. Local officials, volunteers, and relief workers will help, but cannot reach everyone immediately. Steps to prepare now for disaster are: Find out what types of disaster could happen around you. Create a disaster plan. Practice your plan. Information for disaster preparation can be found at http://www.fema.gov or www.redcross.org. Bits and Pieces Lila Bott passed away on January 20, 2013, at the age of 78. IvaLou "Ivy" Purser Squires Woolsey died on January 24, 2013, at the age of 79. 107