SALT LAKE CITY — Hildale Mayor Donia Jessop continued her nine-year tradition of advocating for her city at the Utah State Capitol this week, delivering the opening prayer on the Senate floor for the third consecutive year and meeting with key state leaders about ongoing development projects.
Jessop was invited by Senate President Stuart Adams to offer the invocation, a responsibility she described as both an honor and a representation of Hildale’s growing voice in state government.
“It is a privilege I do not take lightly, and it represents Hildale’s continued presence and voice at the state capitol,” Jessop said.
The mayor was accompanied by Lawrence Barlow, Hildale’s Economic Development and Maxwell Park Expansion Project Manager, as they met with legislators to provide updates on the city and ensure Hildale remains engaged in important state-level decisions.
Meeting with State Leadership
The day began with a meeting with Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson, where Jessop and Barlow shared updates on the Maxwell Park expansion and discussed Hildale’s continued progress.
“At a time when division can feel prevalent, we emphasize that our community stands for unity,” Jessop noted.
The mayor also met with Senate President Adams and Senator Darren Owens, who sponsored and championed funding for the park expansion project. During the meeting, they discussed next steps as Hildale prepares to seek additional funding to complete the vision for Maxwell Park.
Legislative Delegation Meetings
Throughout the day, Jessop met with members of Hildale’s legislative delegation, including Representatives Joseph Ellison and Don Ipsen, as well as Senator Evan Vickers. Each has supported Hildale over the years, particularly during critical moments when funding for Maxwell Park was at stake.
“We expressed our gratitude for their continued advocacy and partnership,” Jessop said.
Active Participation in Municipal Policy
Jessop also attended the Legislative Policy Committee (LPC) meeting hosted by the Utah League of Cities and Towns, where she received updates on key legislation affecting municipalities across the state. As a city with four votes on the committee, Hildale actively participated in discussions and cast votes on bills that will impact communities throughout Utah.
Additionally, the mayor met with Shawn Guzman, Hildale’s city attorney and St. George’s Legislative Liaison, to further coordinate efforts and ensure the city’s interests are well represented.
Building Relationships
Jessop emphasized the importance of maintaining a presence at the capitol and building strong relationships with state leaders.
“Showing up matters, and we are committed to strengthening those relationships,” she said. “These relationships and conversations are essential as we continue working to strengthen Hildale and advocate for the needs of our community.”
