Dear Neighbors,

As I reflect on events that occurred in Salt Lake City during 1998, I don’t know what to say other than, "What a year!" On a citywide level, the City Council adopted some ordinances that will have a significant impact on city government such as conflicts of interest and municipal ethics, campaign finance disclosure, nondiscrimination in employment practices for city employees and land use for the Gateway area. The Council also initiated an independent study of the city’s capital improvement budget to gain a comprehensive view of the city’s capital needs. (See legislative report article on page four.)

Legislative action directly affecting District One is the rezoning and annexation of approximately 45 acres north of 1700 North at 1850 West. Annexing this property will offer the opportunity to develop about 200 single-family homes. An ordinance was also adopted to rezone properties along the Jordan River Parkway at approximately 1000 North Cornell Street from single-family residential to open space. This rezone is the final link to complete a green belt which runs through the city and, as stated at the Council’s public hearing, is the last wild section of the Parkway which could be used for educational opportunities.

The 600 North I-15 ramp is an issue which has a direct influence in our daily lives. The ramp closure and related construction caused difficulties for many neighborhoods in our area. At times, this project was an enormous inconvenience. However, it’s rewarding to know that the outcome of encountering obstacles relating to the construction project is positive. Now that the ramp is open, we have better access to I-15. (See article on page three.)

In the future, the west-east light rail may cause some disruption in our district. The Transportation Advisory Board and Planning Commission recommend light rail alignment on North Temple, 400 West and 400 South. The Council supports this recommendation with the understanding that construction impacts be minimized and full access to businesses and residences be maintained during construction.

I appreciate the opportunity to represent District One on the Salt Lake City Council. I am proud to represent residents who care about their community and volunteer their time to help others.

Sincerely,