Draper Mayor Reflects on 16 Years of Community Growth and Connections

The Utah League of Cities and Towns (ULCT) meeting held on April 26, 2025, featured remarks from ULCT President and Draper Mayor Troy Walker, who shared insights on local governance and community engagement. Walker opened the session with a light-hearted comment about his age, setting a friendly tone for the discussions ahead.

He emphasized the importance of local government, stating that it represents the highest form of public service. Walker reflected on his 16 years of experience in local politics, beginning as a council member before becoming mayor. He expressed his passion for serving the community, noting that while he enjoys his role 94% of the time, the remaining 4% can be challenging.

Walker recounted his journey into public service, which began with volunteering for community events like Draper Days. He highlighted the significance of community connections, stating that collaboration among cities leads to better outcomes for residents. He mentioned the competitive nature of cities vying for businesses but stressed that working together enhances community welfare.

A key theme of Walker's address was the value of service and volunteerism in fostering community ties. He acknowledged the contributions of volunteers in organizing local events, underscoring that without their efforts, many community activities would not be possible.

Walker also discussed Draper's population growth, noting an increase from around 40,000 to over 50,000 residents during his tenure. He reminisced about Draper's past, recalling a time when the city had more livestock than people. This growth, he argued, necessitates strong community connections and collaboration with neighboring cities, such as Sandy, Riverton, and South Jordan, to address shared challenges and enhance public safety through mutual aid agreements.

He touched on the importance of long-term planning, particularly regarding transit developments like TRAX and FrontRunner, which he initially opposed but now appreciates for their benefits to the community. Walker concluded by addressing the challenges posed by non-revenue generating properties in Draper, such as the state prison and the National Guard headquarters, which impact the city's tax base.

Overall, Walker's remarks underscored the critical role of local government in shaping communities and the importance of collaboration and service in enhancing the quality of life for residents. The meeting highlighted the ongoing commitment of local leaders to work together for the betterment of their communities.