Roy, Utah Development News
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July 7, 2026 Roy City Council Meeting
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Resident Criticizes City Finances, Calls Taxes 'Theft'
Shelly Pston criticized the city's financial management, calling taxes 'theft' and stating that the city is not appropriating money properly. She highlighted that the city complex incurs annual losses, suggesting it would have gone bankrupt as a regular business. Pston believes the city is using funds to provide 'free perks' while operating a 'dump' that is a 'cash cow.' She asserted that if the council cannot make necessary cuts, they do not deserve a tax increase. Pston criticized the city's choices, prioritizing the complex and aquatic center over the fire department and police, and warned that raising taxes would be 'political suicide.'
Complex's Community Impact and Financial Viability Debated; Survey Suggested for Major Decisions
Council discussed the significant impact of the complex on the community and its financial benefits. Council Member Jackson suggested that major decisions like closing the complex or eliminating recreation programs should be made via a survey or ballot initiative due to their broad community impact. Council Member Wilson noted that the complex hosts multiple swim teams, provides PAR classes for special needs students, and offers numerous swim lessons. She cited the mayor of Clearfield's experience, where selling their pool was not feasible. Wilson emphasized the complex's utilization and benefits, including its role in reducing juvenile crime when open. Residents and council members highlighted that recreation programs teach skills, provide social interaction, and are a draw for families moving to Roy. Concerns were raised about potential closure, with many residents valuing the complex and recreation programs.
City Council Clarifies Fleet Management Practices and Vehicle Rotation Program
Council Member Wilson addressed concerns about the city's vehicle fleet, explaining that vehicles purchased under the one-year program have no attached equipment, maintaining high resale value. These vehicles are bought at fleet cost (below market value) and sold after one year, before major repairs are needed, resulting in less depreciation than leasing. Vehicles with equipment like toolboxes are kept longer. During COVID, selling these one-year-old vehicles at market value even resulted in profit due to public unavailability. The city evaluates the program yearly to ensure fiscal responsibility. Council Member Jackson inquired about a recent IT truck, which was confirmed to be part of the rotation, having been in the shop for electrical issues but previously in rotation for four to five years. The IT truck is funded through the data processing fund, appearing separately in the budget but following the same rotation and sale process.
Resident Questions Prioritization of Employee Benefits Over Budget Cuts
During the public comment period, Jeff Cox addressed the city council regarding lifetime employee benefits and the budget process. He argued that any discussion of additional lifetime benefits should have been part of the annual budget process. Cox stated that these long-term obligations affect future budgets, taxpayer liability, and city financial sustainability. He noted that recent discussions about saving money on Roy Days and fireworks yielded little budget relief. Cox suggested that the council prioritize reducing spending and identifying meaningful budget cuts before considering new employee incentives, proposing several low-cost ideas like free access to city facilities, lifetime transit passes, and enhanced library privileges. He questioned why expanding lifetime employee benefits is being prioritized before addressing budget reductions and clarifying the purpose and impact of a proposed property tax increase.
Marge Braft Honored as 2026 Roy Days Parade Grand Marshal
Resolution 26-20 honors Marge Braft as the 2026 Roy Days Parade Grand Marshal. Marge Braft has served four terms on the council and over seven years as chair of the arts department, initiating the poetry and gingerbread house contests. She is recognized for her many years of volunteer service, including countless hours and phone calls from her landline. Braft also oversaw the historical signs project, keeping Roy connected. She had a 35-year career as a school teacher. The resolution was moved and seconded, and a roll call vote was taken.
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The Roy News archive
Roy City Planning Commission
06/16/26 Roy City Council Meeting - video
06/09/26 - video
06/09/26 Roy City Council Special Work Session - video
2026-06-09 | USDB Committee Meeting | USBE
2026-06-05 | Finance Committee (Live) | USBE
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