Marriott-Slaterville the Healthy Utah Award and sparked interest from local restaurants looking to source ingredients locally, like successful models in Oregon and Colorado. COMMUNITY SPIRIT DRIVES GROWTH While managing infrastructure expansion and economic development, Marriott-Slaterville focuses on building a connected community through innovative financing approaches and robust youth engagement. The arrival of Amazon’s facility prompted the city to implement creative financing solutions. “We split it into a CRA - Community Reinvestment Area - where we use tax increment financing or TIF funds from property tax to fund improving the infrastructure,” Morris explains. This approach helps maintain the city’s efforts to keep costs low for residents. “We have offset that tax responsibility onto residents because we can use the tax income and financing generated through these projects to help fund them rather than having to raise taxes,” Morris notes. The strategy allows for sustainable growth while preserving the city’s distinction as one of Utah’s only municipalities that does not impose a municipal property tax. Beyond infrastructure, the city takes pride in its comprehensive youth programs. “We’ve got the biggest youth program in the state despite being one of the smaller cities,” Morris proudly states. These initiatives have created a vibrant community atmosphere that residents cherish. Holley, who works closely with young people in the community, shares her enthusiasm: “I love working with the youth, and they provide great events for the community.” The youth program’s impact is discernible during major community celebrations. “Our city has a big 4th of July celebration, and the youth provide games for the kids - they do a great job,” Holley explains. Perhaps most notably, the youth council initiated a veterans appreciation dinner that has grown significantly.“When we first started the youth council, we asked them what kind of ways we could serve our community. They came up with the idea to honor our veterans,” Holley recalls.“The event has grown so much that our venue has had to change to an extensive area where we can provide dinner 187 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 01 MARRIOTT-SLATERVILLE, UT
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