Tuesday, July 23rd, 2013

Brigham City Rotary met today at noon in the Members First Credit Union Building in Brigham City. We had a smaller than usual crowd, but still a good group to fellowship with.

President Kevin Blaylock spent a Rotary Minute talking about the International Theme: Engage Rotary, Change Lives. He asked for volunteers to share why they joined Rotary and how it has changed their lives.  This will prove to be a very informative portion of upcoming meetings.

A hand selected quartet sang Happy Birthday to Brent Gillies in recognition of his aging this month.

Our program was arranged by Brent Gillies.  We heard a presentation from David Pratt and Millie Peterson from VERACITY Networks Telecommunication Company. Mr. Pratt shared information about Veracity and the fiber network in Brigham City,as well as answered questions regarding UTOPIA and the positives it has been for Brigham City and our future.

It was a very informative program.  Thanks to David and Millie for spending some time with us and to Brent for arranging the program.

A reminder was made to all of the Family Picnic scheduled for 6:30 pm, Tuesday July 30th at Rotary Constitution Park.  Bring your family and your appetite and join us for food fun and fellowship.

Academy Square and a New Hotel

Mayor Dennis Fife spoke to the club today about the progress on the Academy Square and Hampton Inn hotel project.  He reviewed the process and the milestones that have been taken since the city purchased the building. As well as the remaining hurdles needed to cross to finish up the project, including a couple of pieces of property needed to complete the "square" that are still "in negotiations".

Mayor Fife also explained more detail of the no interest loan that is being made available, explaining that the funds aren't from the City, but from the USDA and funneled through the city.  City's smaller than 25000 residents qualify for, and are receiving these funds for economic development.

Currently, Hampton Inn is looking to break ground as soon as August and hopes to be a functional hotel by May of next year. And an "as yet unnamed" restaurant is looking at building as part of the project. The ultimate goal is a central focal point to Brigham City that could help with downtown revitalization.

From the City's website, an artists conception of the Academy building is viewable here:

http://brighamcity.utah.gov/academy-square-project.htm