MAG NEWS & UPDATES - July 2026

Executive Director's Corner

To ensure MAG remains responsive to the evolving needs of our member governments and state and regional partners, it's important that our organization continues to evolve as well. Following an organizational assessment, we are implementing a restructuring designed to strengthen our internal operations, improve collaboration, and better position us to serve our member governments and regional partners.

On July 1, Jessica DeLora transitioned into the new role of Chief of Staff, where she will oversee internal operations, IT and human resources. This change will allow me to devote more time to MAG’s external mission efforts, working with the Legislature, our elected officials, and regional partners while ensuring our day-to-day operations remain strong and well coordinated.

As part of this transition, several community and economic development programs (Community Development Block Grant, Social Services Block Grant, Small Business Loan Program, Mountainland Economic Development District) will be integrated within our Community Planning team under Dan Wayne, creating greater alignment and efficiencies across programs that already work closely together. Jessica will continue to oversee our HOME programs, providing continuity in these important initiatives.

These changes reflect our commitment to continuous improvement and to building an organization that is well positioned for the future. I appreciate the support and dedication of our staff as we move forward together and look forward to the opportunities ahead.

-Michelle Carroll, MPA

Happy Birthday to Our Seniors!

We're delighted to partner with Birthday Box Foundation to celebrate our meal recipients' birthdays.

Many of our recipients live far from family, and some have told us they usually skip celebrating altogether. So instead, Birthday Box Foundation donated a box full of birthday celebration supplies. 

Every year is a gift, and we're excited to continue this great partnership with Birthday Box Foundation.

Meals on Wheels Summit Utah & Wasatch Wins Award in 2026 National Mature Media Awards Program

Communications Coordinator Stephanie Benson created our Annual Report, which received a Silver Award in the Annual Report category from the National Mature Media Awards Program, presented by the Mature Market Resource Center. The national program recognizes outstanding marketing and communications created for older adults. The annual report was recognized for its excellence in design, creativity, and impact. 

To view the annual report, visit mowsuw.org/annual-report-2025.

Did Someone Say Pickleball?!

Rally to support Meals on Wheels for our first ever pickleball tournament fundraiser! 

We'll have competitive play at the intermediate and advanced levels, plus an hour of instruction by Junior Pros for those who are new to the game or looking to sharpen their skills before stepping on the court. 

All funds raised go directly toward supporting our mission, delivering meals and connection to seniors and homebound neighbors across Summit, Utah, and Wasatch counties. So every game you play makes a real difference. 

Registration is now open at https://mowsuw.org/pickleball.

Meals, Wheels & Paddles

Pickleball Tournament

Saturday, August 22 | 11 a.m.

Club Pickleball USA: 1300 Sandhill Rd, Orem

HEAT Helps Utility Bills Stay Cool

The Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) Program assists income-qualified households with energy costs. Households may apply for a one-time benefit per year.

The CRISIS Program can provide additional assistance with your utility bills if you have a shut-off notice and meet State & Federal CRISIS guidelines. 

Visit our HEAT website at magutah.gov/heat/

MAG Appoints Claudia Saldana as Local Administrative Advisor

MAG is pleased to announce that Claudia Saldana has been appointed as the new Local Area Administrative Advisor (LAA). Claudia is a familiar face at MAG, having previously served our region in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Her deep understanding of local government needs and grant management makes her an ideal fit for this critical role.

The LAA Program provides essential support to local governments that operate without full-time administrators. By offering professional training, operational guidance, and capacity-building strategies, the program helps smaller municipalities improve efficiency and maintain state compliance.

We are confident that Claudia's leadership will greatly benefit our member agencies and foster continued regional success. Local leaders interested in program assistance are encouraged to reach out to the MAG team or visit our LAA website.

We Need Public Comment on the Transportation Improvement Program

We need your input on important projects that directly impact the daily life of the residents in our region.  

MAG is seeking public comments on the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The MAG TIP is a six-year, multi-billion dollar construction plan of transportation projects, programs, and studies in Utah County funded by MAG, UDOT, and UTA.

Visit magutah.gov/tip to provide your feedback on the TIP. The public comment period runs from July 10, 2026 through August 10, 2026.

The Draft 2027 TIP includes 14 transportation projects that may be approved for funding. As part of MAG’s established technical process, the MPO Board, MPO Technical Advisory Committee, and MAG staff worked together to prioritize projects in this funding cycle.

MAG held an open house on Wednesday, July 22 from 4pm to 6pm at MAG’s Orem office where staff were available to answer questions about projects. Thank you to those who attended!

If you have any questions about the TIP or TIP funding process, please contact Bob Allen, Transportation Program Manager, at rallen@magutah.gov or 801-229-3813.

For questions, concerns, or comments contact Johnathon Knapton, MAG Communications Manager, at jknapton@magutah.gov or (801)229-3836