Mayor’s Connection Report

Hello Tremonton,

I want to give you a clear, straightforward update on what we’re working on at the city level. We have a lot moving right now—from budget planning to infrastructure and community events—so let’s get right to it.

City Finances & Budget Strategy
We are placing a strong focus on fiscal responsibility. The Council has set a target of identifying 15% in operating budget savings to better support our capital projects. Department heads have been asked to find efficiencies, evaluate the cost-effectiveness of outsourcing versus in-house work, and review a list of 16 specific waste and revenue items.

Public Works & Infrastructure
Major improvements are moving forward across our utility systems:

• Wastewater Treatment: The Council is advancing a $7.2 million phase-one project, including aeration basins and secondary clarifiers. Design will begin this summer on a $3 million digester and solids handling rehabilitation, with construction planned for next year.
• Secondary Water: A $343,601.80 contract has been awarded to Great Basin Development for expansion.
• Cemetery Paving: A $57,200 contract has been awarded to Reps, with completion required by Memorial Day.
• Traffic Calming: We are evaluating permanent, solar-powered speed signs for 1000 North and Iowa Street, estimated between $17,500 and $50,000 each.
• Grass Dumping Facility: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 6 PM.

Economic Development

• Main Street America: We are excited to be participating in the Main Street America program. Kelly Wood has been proposed as director, utilizing available RDA funds. Work will begin immediately to re-engage stakeholders and prepare initial materials.
• Billboard Lease: We are working to finalize terms on a freeway billboard lease with a local business, with the goal of breaking even on a $3,000 arrangement.

Public Safety & Emergency Management
Our Police Department has recently seen an increase in calls, leading to higher overtime. We are discussing placing the department into its own dedicated budget to better manage resources.

The Fire Department is also experiencing financial strain, and we will be reviewing that budget for efficiencies.

We are encouraging elected officials to complete ICS-400 (Incident Command System) training in coordination with the County Emergency Manager to ensure we are prepared for emergency situations.

Community Events & Recognitions

• Proclamations were issued for Arbor Day and Child Abuse Awareness Month
• Local students were recognized with citizenship awards
• City employee Tegan was honored for five years of service
• The American Legion presented a commemorative photo and announced a Gold Star Walk on May 23, along with a future US 250 celebration featuring a battle cross unveiling

Upcoming events include Literacy Night, the Spring Cleanup, and the Stamp Out Hunger food drive.

We’re staying focused and continuing to move the work forward. I’ll keep sharing updates so you know where things stand as we continue building connection here in the heart of Bear River Valley.

Best,
Bret Rohde
Mayor, Tremonton City