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SALT LAKE CITY — Gov. Gary Herbert praised the resilience of Utahns, from the pioneers who settled the state to a couple who lost their home in last summer's wildfires, after he was sworn in for his first full term as governor Monday.
The governor encouraged optimism, courage and faith in his inaugural address in the Capitol rotunda, delivered to an audience that included political, community and business leaders.
“Utah’s economy is recovering — and it is growing once again. We are making progress and we will reach our destination,” Herbert said. "We are stronger because of our difficult climb, because from adversity comes strength, and from strength comes success.”
The hourlong ceremony included performances by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, the One Voice Children's Choir and Herbert’s sons, Nathan, Bradley and Daniel, who sang "The Star-Spangled Banner."
SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake County also swore in a new leader. Mayor Ben McAdams took his oath of office Monday morning.
The former state senator even made his campaign bus available to other county mayors and officials so they'd have a ride to his inauguration.
One of the first campaigns he plans to launch as mayor is to restructure the county's public works department. McAdams said there is a need for improvement in services, especially in unincorporated areas.
There was also a 19-gun salute and a flyover by three Blackhawk helicopters. Prayers were given by Indra Neelameggham of the Hindu Temple of Sri Ganesha and Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Also taking the oath of office were Lt. Gov. Greg Bell, Attorney General John Swallow and Treasurer Richard Ellis. The other state executive officeholder elected in November, Auditor John Dougall, chose to be sworn in earlier Monday at his office.
The event cost $65,000, with half being donated.
The Governor has enjoyed a good working relationship with the Republican dominated legislature so far. House and Senate leaders expect conflict to remain at a minimum.
"The relationship is such that I've had with the governor is that we work things out, said Sen. Wayne Niederhauser. "And we do it in 45 days, unlike most legislatures in the country."
Herbert assumed the office in 2009, when then-Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. stepped down to become U.S. ambassador to China, and was elected to the remainder of Huntsman’s term a year later. He won his first full, four-year term in November.
Contributing: Richard Piatt
