Nine out of 10 Utahns live in urban areas, with urban regions making up only 1.1% of the state’s land but housing the majority of the population, according to the Deseret News. The University of Utah’s Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute’s analysis highlights that, despite similar income levels and educational attainment, urban and rural Utah differ in demographics, health metrics, and housing dynamics. Rural Utahns tend to be older, less racially and ethnically diverse, and more likely to own their homes, with a significant portion of housing used seasonally. To read more go to the Deseret News website.
Salt Lake City residents may face an increased sales tax to fund a new downtown sports and entertainment district, costing households about $18.41 per month, equivalent to a Netflix subscription or a large pizza, according to the Salt Lake Tribune. While the tax increase aims to benefit the city’s economic development and public spaces, advocates for low-income residents argue it will disproportionately strain those already struggling with high living costs. Mayor Erin Mendenhall and Gov. Spencer Cox support the project, emphasizing its long-term public benefits. However, critics highlight the regressive nature of the sales tax and question whether the development will truly address affordable housing and equitable economic opportunities.
According to a Utah News Dispatch story by Alixel Cabrera, after Brian Adams withdrew from the race for Utah’s 2nd Congressional District, the Utah Democratic Party will select a new candidate during a virtual meeting on Saturday. Adams stepped down following criticism from the Young Democrats of Utah, who said his views did not align with the party’s values. The selection process will feature comments from eight candidates and a virtual ranked-choice vote by Central Committee Members. The chosen candidate will bypass a primary and face either Rep. Celeste Maloy or Colby Jenkins in the November general election.
For a memorable dining experience, try these standout burger spots in Utah that blend ambiance, flavor, and scenic beauty. Capitol Burger in Torrey offers burgers made from locally-sourced, dry-aged beef, prepared fresh daily, while Central 9th Market in Salt Lake City collaborates with Scion Cider Bar for a delightful smashburger and cider pairing. The Cotton Bottom in Salt Lake is famous for its garlic cheeseburgers enjoyed on a flower-filled patio, and Lucky 13’s adventurous gourmet burgers attract fans with unique combinations like the Nut Butter Burger. Other notable mentions include Bout Time Pub & Grub varied burger menu and Millie’s in Sugar House, a nostalgic spot serving homemade fries and shakes.
According to the Utah News Dispatch article by Kate Mckellar, the 2024 Utah Legislature passed HB298 to revamp the governing body overseeing the state’s homeless services, creating the new Utah Homeless Services Board. This board, which held its first meeting on Thursday, approved nearly $31 million in grants for homeless providers and discussed the state’s severe shortage of mental health beds. Rep. Steve Eliason emphasized the urgent need for more mental health hospital beds, highlighting recent closures and the growing demand for in-patient care. The new board aims to improve accountability in homeless services and includes new members from local government and philanthropic organizations.
*Content for this article curated from other sources.
