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UAC Members Gather at the 2026 One Utah Summit
UAC members joined state, local, and business leaders from across Utah for the 2026 One Utah Summit, held August 4-6 at Southern Utah University in Cedar City. The annual summit brought together public and private sector leaders to discuss opportunities and challenges affecting Utah’s economy and communities.
The program featured presentations on rural economic development, water, energy, infrastructure, transportation, artificial intelligence, tourism, health care, public lands, and preparations for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Speakers included Governor Spencer Cox, Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson, First Lady Abby Cox, Congresswoman Celeste Maloy, state agency leaders, local officials, and business representatives.
A highlight for UAC was a mainstage presentation featuring Beaver County Commissioner, Tammy Pearson, and USDA Rural Development State Director, Stan Summers. Together, they provided a congressional district-by-district overview of USDA Rural Development investments made throughout Utah during fiscal year 2025. The presentation showed how housing, community facilities, and business programs support essential infrastructure, expand economic opportunities, and improve the quality of life in rural communities.
Commissioner Pearson brought an important county perspective to the discussion. As a longtime advocate for rural Utah, public lands, agriculture, and responsible resource management, she understands firsthand how these investments help counties meet local needs and build sustainable communities.
Other sessions explored Utah’s role in nuclear innovation and critical-mineral development, Colorado River negotiations, permitting reform, rail expansion, early-childhood literacy, and strategies for helping rural communities prepare for growth.
The summit also provided valuable networking opportunities for county officials to connect with state and federal leaders, business representatives, and community partners. It was especially good to see so many UAC members in attendance and participating in conversations about Utah’s future. These relationships strengthen collaboration among Utah’s counties and help ensure local perspectives remain part of statewide discussions.
UAC appreciates the members who attended and represented county government. Their participation helps Utah’s counties continue to play a meaningful role in building prosperity and opportunity throughout the state.
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