Embracing Change: Preparing for Fall and Winter

The statements in this article are the author's views and not necessarily of the entire city council.

Rolling into fall we are enveloped in a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors. These rays and reflections signal impending changes.  There will be changes in the weather and the earlier darkening of our skies.   As residents, we’ll be preparing for the overlay of winter by making hurried steps to cover and store some of our personal amenities. Others will be reaching high in closets and digging deep into storage for those winter clothes. We’ll be enjoying brief conversations with neighbors as we rake the fallen foliage in our yards. Chatter will abound as the conversations will be about the city, the grandeur of our snowcapped mountains, and the golden hue of foliage.

Cottonwood Heights City will undergo some key preparations for the impending winter.  In preparation for early snowfall, there will be proactive maintenance done on the city’s fleet of snow plows. The individuals that serve on our public works team are charging into fall by clearing brush, sweeping the streets, and overseeing the timely completion of critical infrastructure projects that might be impacted by shifts in the weather.  The continued work on the major reconstruction projects occurring on many of our streets will be limited.  This includes curb and gutter, lighting, and storm drain upgrades and repairs.  I see fall as an opportunity to reflect on the year’s activities and accomplishments.  The public works department continues to work on the city’s landscape and beautification projects. Trees have been planted, and issues around irrigation of city-owned property have been addressed.  

As the days get darker earlier, we as a community will need to be vigilant in monitoring our speeds on our streets.  This is an area that we can all be conscious of, as we traverse our neighborhoods.  Our public safety is continually being considered and improved by your council and staff.  However, diligence by all in watching out for bicyclists and pedestrians is paramount in keeping our roads safe.  As pedestrians, we need to remember to wear high-visibility clothing and to utilize reflectors and lights so that we are more readily recognized when traversing our neighborhoods.   The addition of the police department’s traffic safety team is proving to be a benefit to residents as well.  The implementation of these additional officers enhances our law enforcement team and engenders the community’s overall safety needs.  Safety on our roads is a responsibility we all bear.  Let’s work together to make our streets safer.

This is our city’s 20th celebration.  Cottonwood Heights did not get this far without you, the residents.  This is a result of a collective accomplishment mindset by our community members, service providers, and leaders.  As we move into winter and begin a season of holiday celebrations, let's maintain an appreciation for our families and our community. ■