The Davis County Commission met Tuesday, December 16, 2025, for its regularly scheduled meeting at the Davis County Administration Building in Farmington, with all three commissioners present, including Commissioner Bob Stevenson.
The meeting opened at 10:00 a.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by County Treasurer Matt Brady. No public comments were offered.
Youth Leadership and Community Service Recognized
A major highlight of the meeting was a presentation recognizing the Miss Northern Utah Organization, a nonprofit scholarship and leadership program recommended by Vice Chair John Crofts. Crofts praised the titleholders as outstanding examples of service and leadership, describing them as a positive reflection of Davis County’s future.
Melissa Payne, director of the Miss Northern Utah Organization, explained that the program is not a beauty pageant but a volunteer-run leadership and scholarship organization focused on education, service, and developing well-rounded young women. Through partnerships with Weber State University and local sponsors, the organization awarded $22,000 in local scholarships this year. Each participant also leads a year-round Community Service Initiative addressing local needs.
Several titleholders shared their initiatives, which included mental health awareness, autism inclusion, caregiver support, and cancer outreach. Commissioners encouraged continued collaboration with County programs and resources.
Animal Foster of the Year Honored
The Commission presented the Animal Foster of the Year Award to Cindy Blanchard, recognizing her exceptional volunteer service. Animal Care Director Michelle Hicks noted that the foster program includes approximately 250 active foster families and plays a critical role in saving animals and taxpayer dollars.
Blanchard has fostered 57 animals over the past two years, frequently caring for high-need cases. Commissioners thanked her and the broader foster network, emphasizing the positive impact volunteers have on animal welfare and shelter operations.
Employee Service Awards
Davis County employees from multiple departments were recognized for milestone service anniversaries ranging from five to thirty years. Departments represented included the Sheriff’s Office, Clerk’s Office, Assessor’s Office, Health Department, Human Resources, Information Systems, Library, and Treasurer’s Office. Commissioners expressed appreciation for employees’ dedication, calling them the County’s greatest asset.
Key Business Actions
Among business items, the Commission approved the creation of an Amazon wish list to better organize and manage donations for Animal Care. A proposed $28,000 fundraising feasibility study for Animal Care was discussed extensively and ultimately postponed indefinitely.
The Commission also approved updates to County ordinances, accepted property for future aging services in Clearfield, authorized environmental research access related to the Great Salt Lake, approved tourism and economic development contracts, adopted updated Human Resources and retirement policies, and approved budget adjustments reflecting higher operating costs and increased golf course revenue.
Closing Remarks
In closing remarks, Commissioner Crofts invited the public to attend an upcoming volunteer open house and noted that volunteer service saves Davis County taxpayers millions of dollars annually. Chair Lorene Kamalu highlighted strong inter-jurisdictional collaboration among fire agencies and emphasized the need for a modern Animal Care facility to better serve the community.
The meeting adjourned at 11:38 a.m.