Get AI Briefings, Transcripts & Alerts on Local & National Government Meetings — Forever.
West Valley City swears in council members; mayor highlights neighborhoods and new projects
Summary
West Valley City held a swearing-in ceremony for council members Scott Harmon, Cindy Wood and Lars Nordfeldt and the city's mayor, who thanked voters and staff and highlighted priorities including neighborhood programs, staff recognition and upcoming development projects.
Council member Scott Harmon, Council member Cindy Wood and Council member Lars Nordfeldt were formally sworn in during a West Valley City ceremony that concluded with remarks from the mayor (unnamed in the transcript). The event included a performance by System of Strings from American Preparatory Academy and a reception in the lobby.
The ceremony, opened by an unidentified host, proceeded with the national anthem and oath administration by Nicole. "Scott Harmon" repeated the oath before addressing attendees and thanking District 2 voters, his family and fellow council members. Harmon named two items as highlights from his previous term: hiring "EFO" as city manager and selling the Embassy Suites, a transaction he said removed about "$20,000,000 in debt." He also praised public works for finishing Lancer Way and joked his top goal was to "eliminate daylight savings."
Council member Cindy Wood, after taking the oath, thanked family, friends and city staff and described why she ran for office. "This city, West Valley City, is full of energy and hardworking people, and I'm proud to call it my home," Wood said, and she urged District 4 residents to share concerns and ideas directly with her.
Council member Lars Nordfeldt echoed gratitude for voters and staff, said he is "humbling" to serve again and emphasized teamwork despite disagreement on policy. Nordfeldt said his motivation is the city's future generations and the need to preserve strengths while pursuing measured progress.
The mayor, speaking with visible emotion, said they were "truly grateful and honored to be reelected as your mayor" and praised city staff and leadership. The mayor singled out interim fire Chief Evans and assistant city manager John Flores by name, and noted large incoming projects including a hospital expected to be completed in the next three years. The mayor also cited the "My Hometown" neighborhood-strengthening program as a priority and invited attendees to continue visiting in the lobby for music and refreshments.
There were no motions or formal votes during the ceremony; the event was ceremonial and procedural, limited to oath administration and brief remarks. A reception with additional music and food followed the program.
The council members sworn in at the ceremony pledged to "support, obey and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Utah" and to discharge the duties of their offices "with fidelity."
