The Downtown Business District review subcommittee has finalized the draft document that includes recommendations to the zoning and building codes for the business areas along 1900 West. After years of work and a significant financial investment, the next step will be what to do with it. Ideally, it would be nice if the City Council approved the zoning code changes so that modernization would finally occur. (Not an easy task, since change is difficult). It would be simple to just vote it down, stay as we are, not want or entertain any significant improvement to the area. Some may think that decisions regarding bringing new business development into our city be left to the next City Council. Interesting thought, considering that if we keep “kicking the can down the road” at some point there will be nothing to kick. The opportunities will be gone.

I understand this is a tough decision for some, but if there was one time I wish I could vote as mayor, it would be now. Change is necessary for growth and progress. We need to have modern facilities in our downtown business area. People need to see, experience, and appreciate a business district that is booming, productive, and well thought out. We need to limit our demand of increasing property taxes to cover the rising costs of providing city services. It has been over 20 years since any major improvement has come to the downtown area. It is time to step up and move forward. We need mixed-use developments, a hotel, a theater, and more sit-down restaurants. Roy City should not have to keep waiting and watching other surrounding cities realize these benefits. It is our time to move forward. .

The proposed Downtown Business District document will be available for public inspection before it is formally voted on. We will get the message out on how you can see it and I ask that you consider reviewing it. Roy City needs a plan for the future; it is here, and it is ready.

Be safe and keep your family safe!
Robert Dandoy, Mayor