Monthly Newsletter - October 2025

Executive Director's Corner

I’m excited to announce the completion of a major milestone for our organization, the publication of our inaugural Annual Report. A longtime goal of mine, this annual report represents more than a collection of numbers and highlights. It’s a reflection of our collective impact, growth, and the strong partnerships that have propelled our mission forward. As we produce this report each year going forward it will serve as a bookend for our Budget Reports, produced each spring.

The results illustrated in this report are a true team accomplishment.. From MAG staff and volunteers, to board members and community partners, to elected officials and municipal staff, everyone played a role in empowering communities to achieve their vision in Summit, Utah, and Wasatch Counties.

I invite you to explore the report, by clicking here or the photo below. Thank you for being a part of our team as we work together to improve our region.

-Michelle Carroll, MPA

20th Annual Caregiver Conference

Join us on Saturday, November 1, from 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. at the BYU Conference Center in Provo or online for a day of support, learning, and connection. This year’s theme is “Thriving Together: Finding the Light in Caregiving.” Dr. Craig Manning will be the keynote speaker.

If you care for an older loved one, this free conference is for you! Registration is required — call 801-229-3818 or visit magutah.gov/cg to sign up and learn more.

Live PC Give PC

We’re thrilled to join Live PC Give PC for the second year in a row! Your support helps Meals on Wheels deliver nutritious meals and friendly visits to local seniors—because no one should feel forgotten or go hungry. 



You can donate anytime and make a difference right here in our community: 

mowsuw.org/livepcgivepc

Medicare Open Enrollment is Here!

Get free, unbiased help comparing plans and finding the coverage that fits your needs. A local SHIP counselor can walk you through your options. Call 801-229-3819 or visit magutah.gov/medicare to get started.

Haven Haus Co. Expands with MAG Small Business Loan

Haven Haus Co., a premium home décor retailer and e-commerce company nestled in Midway, Utah is poised for significant growth thanks to a business loan secured through the Mountainland Small Business Loan Fund. This strategic investment directly targets regional economic development by fueling the expansion of a thriving local business and creating new jobs in the manufacturing and retail sector.

The loan will help purchase crucial inventory and hire additional warehouse and production staff. This expansion focuses on the company’s signature product: its proprietary wreath ribbon sets. By boosting capacity for this most popular item, Haven Haus Co. is increasing its manufacturing footprint in the region. This not only strengthens the company’s foundation but also creates quality jobs for local production.

This partnership exemplifies how targeted financing can transform local businesses into engines of economic vitality. The expanded sales and production of Haven Haus Co.'s premium home décor products will contribute to the financial health of the region while ensuring that this Midway-based brand continues to bring "timeless beauty" to homes across the country.

Local Administrator Program Recognized with Award

The Local Administrative Advisor (LAA) Program has been recognized with a 2025 National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) Impact Award.

The NADO Impact Awards celebrate members’ efforts in advancing regional planning, economic development, and community resilience. NADO staff use the award-winning projects to share significant achievements in the areas of infrastructure, community engagement, workforce development, emergency preparedness, local business support, and human services on Capitol Hill and with federal agencies. 

The award application was submitted on behalf of all seven of Utah's AOGs and the Utah League of Cities and Towns (ULCT). Regional organizations across the country were very interested in Utah’s LAA model and how it supports local governments through AOG and regional partnerships. Several attendees expressed interest in introducing similar programs within their states’ regional organizations.

To learn more about MAG's LAA Program, visit magutah.gov/laa.

Centers Work!

Utah is growing, and communities across the region are working together to shape that growth in ways that protect what we love and enhance our quality of life. The Wasatch Choice Vision provides the roadmap — and developing vibrant city and town centers is a key strategy that’s already delivering results.

Centers Work! highlights this progress, shares examples, and offers resources to help every community create places that strengthen local character and benefit the entire region.

To learn more, visit https://wasatchchoice.org/centerswork/.

Utah Active Transportation Implementation Academy

The Utah Active Transportation Implementation Academy is a high-impact professional development program designed to elevate your learning for how to build stronger, safer, and more connected communities through active transportation. Whether you are a planner, engineer, elected official, or other staffer of a local, regional, or state entity, you will gain new insights that will help you utilize active transportation to strengthen your community.

The UATIA will consist of a limited cohort of 15 - 20 professionals who will work through the course together. 

The Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC), Mountainland Association of Governments (MAG), Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT), and the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) have partnered to develop and offer the UATIA. The program, developed by the listed partners, is a cost-free opportunity for eligible applicants. Accepted participants are responsible for travel to and from Salt Lake City for in-person sessions.  

To apply, visit https://laneshift.net/utahactive-transportation-implementation-academy

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