Mayor Hales outlines infrastructure, housing and economic priorities in State of the City address

Mayor Brett Hales delivered the State of the City address at the Murray City Council meeting on Feb. 4, saying the city made “substantial improvements” to roads, sidewalks and drainage while continuing investments in parks, public safety and downtown redevelopment.

Hales said Murray completed major street work including Vine Street from State Street to the northeast and a 5300 South–College Drive intersection improvement; won a quiet‑zone designation for train tracks through interlocal cooperation; and is continuing LED street‑lighting upgrades. He said sales tax revenues rose about 2 percent and that the city issued 3,782 business licenses last year, including 526 new businesses.

The mayor framed those accomplishments against the challenge of housing affordability. He said the median single‑family sales price in Murray is $587,000 and multifamily averages $412,000, and that an annual income of about $167,000 (single‑family) or $123,000 (multifamily) would be needed to afford median homes at current underwriting standards. Hales said 627 new residential units were permitted last year and noted the Redevelopment Agency had awarded $400,000 toward low‑income senior housing.

Hales reviewed public‑safety statistics, including emergency‑response outcomes and drug‑overdose reversals, and highlighted cultural and recreation milestones: the Murray Amphitheatre’s sold‑out tribute concerts, nearly 80,000 golf rounds at Murray Parkway (the highest in 12 years), Riverview Park renovations including new pickleball courts and library study‑room expansion.

On larger projects, Hales said construction continues on the Mid Valley Express (MBX) bus rapid transit line linking Murray, Taylorsville and West Valley City, expected for completion in 2026. He also listed nearly finished projects — the Murray Mansion Museum, Murray Armory Events Center and the Murray Theater — and previewed a planned new Murray Park and splash pad, public‑works infrastructure upgrades, water metering automation and the city’s “Love Murray” campaign.

Hales closed by urging residents to support local businesses and to engage in public forums and volunteer efforts as the city balances growth and preservation of community character.

Ending

Hales said Murray will fund upcoming initiatives through a mix of federal grants, public‑private partnerships and conservative fiscal management. He invited residents to participate in planning and events and emphasized city staff and first responders as central to the city’s work.