Catherine Houghton leads International Youth Day of Service in Layton City

Under the soft glow of the Layton City Hall lights, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as the Layton City Council convened on May 15, 2025. Among the highlights of the evening was a heartfelt presentation by youth council mayor Catherine Houghton, who shared her experience organizing the International Youth Day of Service. This past Saturday, over 330 young volunteers came together to engage in various service activities, including preparing meals for those in need, crafting toys for children, and cleaning local parks. Houghton’s enthusiasm resonated with council members, who praised the youth's remarkable turnout and commitment to community service.

As the meeting progressed, the council addressed routine matters, including the adoption of minutes from previous meetings. With a swift motion, the council moved forward to municipal announcements, where exciting developments were shared. A ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new underpass connecting trails in the city is set for May 19, promising enhanced walkability and bike access for residents. The event will kick off with a community bike ride led by the mayor, celebrating May as Bike Month.

In addition to the underpass celebration, preparations for the upcoming Liberty Days Fourth of July festivities were discussed. The city is currently accepting applications for parade floats, offering fee waivers and grants to encourage participation. Residents were also invited to nominate local heroes for recognition during the celebrations, fostering a spirit of community pride.

The evening took a poignant turn as Chief Kevin Ward and Natalie, the coordinator of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), took the stage to honor the latest graduates of the CERT program. This initiative trains volunteers in disaster preparedness and response, equipping them with essential skills to assist during emergencies. The council recognized the dedication of both the graduates and the instructors who contributed to the program's success, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in ensuring safety and resilience.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council expressed gratitude for the volunteers' commitment to serving the community, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines Layton City. With a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the upcoming events, the council left the meeting eager to continue fostering community engagement and support.