Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
- Utah County commissioners praised infrastructure investment and employee dedication in their annual address.
- Commissioners highlighted accomplishments, including improved cybersecurity, volunteer efforts and reduced employee turnover.
- The county honored local leaders and organizations for their contributions to community well-being and growth.
PROVO — The Utah County Commission praised investment in infrastructure and the county's economy during the annual State of the County address Tuesday.
"In 2024, we accounted for 43.6% of all of Utah's growth. A testament to our thriving economy, vibrant communities and the endless opportunities for our residents and our businesses," Commissioner Amelia Powers Gardner said.
The three county commissioners each spoke during the address at the Utah Valley Convention Center where they detailed accomplishments in various government departments that have contributed to the county's success.
Powers Gardner said the growth in the county was anticipated and the county has worked with state partners to invest in infrastructure and "ensure Utah County remains a place where families thrive, businesses succeed and the quality of life we value is preserved."
Some of last year's accomplishments include an improved cybersecurity system, surveys to assess community health needs and thousands of volunteer hours at schools and with homebound individuals. The commissioner also highlighted how the county is using a grant to assist families in breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty.
"I'm proud of how Utah County continues to prioritize the well-being of our residents, providing efficient services, while also being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars," Powers Gardner said.
She pointed to the hard work of all county employees, saying they are the ones who keep the county moving forward. The county has prioritized employee well-being, adjusted pay to maintain competitiveness and decreased employee turnover through better work practices which has saved the county approximately $1.3 million, she added.
"None of these accomplishments would be possible without the tireless work of each of our dedicated employees," Powers Gardner said. "Together, we will build a stronger, more resilient Utah County for our children and their children."
Commissioner Skyler Beltran pointed to the success of the Children's Justice Center, which helped more than 4,200 victims in 2024. After the organization faced budgetary challenges, the county recently voted to use general funds to help continue its work.
"This decision ensures Utah County remains a safe and responsive place for our most vulnerable children," he said.
Beltran spotlighted the county clerk's work in the marriage license division, which he said is leading the nation in providing secure and convenient marriage services. He called it a "fitting honor" for the community.
In partnership with Provo, the county recently announced a large investment in the Provo Airport which will create jobs and enhance quality of life by offering more travel options, he said.
"This once-in-a-generation project will transform PVU into a 10-gate airport with additional amenities and the potential for international routes in the foreseeable future," he said.
Looking to the coming year, Beltran said he is excited for the county to work with local leaders to navigate the Alpine School District split and to collaborate with the U.S. Forest Service on a land swap near Bridal Veil Falls to improve recreational opportunities. A study on Utah Lake is also set to be completed this year and will be a road map for the county to clean up the lake so it stays a desirable location, he said.
"Our community has become one of the most desirable places to live, work and raise a family. And we are seeing the results of that. It's because of our people and our neighbors that we continue to grow and thrive," Beltran said.
Commissioner Brandon Gordon focused his remarks on public safety and local organizations that provide "wraparound" services to the needy.
Gordon praised the Utah County Sheriff's Office for its efficiency and the thousands of meals that inmates have prepared for corrections employees, other inmates and donated to food banks.
More than 1,600 volunteer shifts have been conducted throughout the winter to operate a warming center in south Provo. Gordon said he applauds the efforts of the public works department which has been dedicated to welcoming individuals off the streets who need a warm place to stay.
At the end of the commissioners' speeches, the County Commission honored Wendy Osborne, executive director of Tabitha's Way as Person of the Year for her contribution to feeding those in need throughout the county.
Wasatch Behavior Health was honored as the Organization of the Year for its work in providing critical mental health resources and services. Business of the Year was awarded to the multimillion-dollar health foods company Just Ingredients which started in a home in Lehi.
"These individuals embody the spirit of Utah County. They give of themselves to make our community better," Beltran said.
