Orem Parks Department receives sporting grounds award and announces Arbor Day activities

In the heart of Orem, Utah, the city council meeting on April 8, 2025, buzzed with excitement and community spirit as officials celebrated significant achievements and upcoming events. The atmosphere was charged with pride as the Intermountain chapter of the Sports Field Manager Association honored Lakeside Park and the Orem Parks and Recreation departments with the prestigious "Sporting Grounds of the Year" award. This accolade not only recognizes the hard work of city employees but also highlights the importance of maintaining quality recreational spaces for residents.

Mayor Young and the council members invited the award recipients to the front for a photo opportunity, emphasizing the value of teamwork and dedication in enhancing community facilities. The recognition served as a testament to the city’s commitment to excellence in public service and the importance of investing in local parks.

As the meeting progressed, the council turned its attention to Arbor Day, with a proclamation set to be signed in support of Orem's Tree City USA program. Chris, a representative from the public works department, shared the history of Arbor Day, which began in Nebraska in 1872, and its significance in promoting urban forestry. With over 6,600 trees in Orem, valued at an impressive $20.3 million, the city is dedicated to maintaining its urban forest. Plans for a master tree care strategy were also discussed, ensuring the safety and health of these vital green assets.

In a heartwarming initiative, the council announced "Kindness Week," coinciding with Orem's 106th birthday. Kicking off on May 5, the week will feature daily kindness activities, yard signs for residents, and recognition of children performing kind acts. The culmination of the week will be a community service project and birthday celebration on May 10, inviting all residents to participate in fostering a spirit of kindness.

The meeting also highlighted the upcoming grand opening of the new Orem City Hall, scheduled for later this month. Residents will have the opportunity to tour the facility, engage in fun activities, and participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This event promises to be a celebration of community and progress, showcasing the city’s commitment to transparency and accessibility.

As the meeting drew to a close, public comments were invited, with local business owner Al Switzer addressing the council regarding the future of Wilkerson Farm. He emphasized the charitable mission behind the property and the need for a balanced approach to its development, aiming to alleviate food insecurity in the community.

The evening encapsulated Orem's dedication to enhancing community life through recognition, celebration, and proactive planning, leaving residents with a sense of pride and anticipation for the future.