ST.GEORGE I STAND ALL AMAZED. STANDING ON THE HILL SOUTH OF THE DIXIE CENTER AND CROSBY PARK THOSE GATHERED FOR THE APRIL 30^TH COUNCIL MEETING STOOD WITH THE REMNANTS OF A SOCIETY THAT INHABITED WHAT WE NOW CALL ST.GEORGE CITY PERHAPS 2000 YEARS AGO. ARCHAELOGIST GREG WOODALL REPORTED THAT DISCOVERED ARTIFACTS AND STRUCTURAL EVIDENCE LED MEMBERS OF DIXIE ARCHEOLOGY SOCIETY TO BELIEVE THAT THIS DISCOVERY EXTENDED TO A PERIOD BETWEEN 500 AND 1200 A.D.   THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL FIND PERIODICALLY IS WORKED BY STUDENTS FROM S.U.U. AND DIXIE STATE UNIVERSITY HAS SHOWN INTEREST.

THIS ASTOUNDING DISCOVERY LIES IN THE MIDST OF ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING AND PROGRESSIVE CITIES IN THE NATION. SG CITY IS ENAMOURED WITH TRADITION AND APPRECIATES ITS PIONEER AND AMERICAN HERITAGE.  LOOKING NORTH FROM THIS SITE YOU ARE PRESENTED WITH THE BEAUTY THAT SURROUNDS THIS VALLEY WHICH PERHAPS EXPLAINS THE FEELING OF A CONNECTION BETWEEN US AND THOSE THAT FIRST OCCUPIED THIS VALLEY 2000 YEARS AGO.

As Greg was speaking I looked upon the faces of those present and was pleased to see that all appeared in awe of the magnitude and importance of the physical evidence that has been accumulated in support of their proposal to have this site become an ARCHAEOLOGY PARK. As I browsed the site I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Karen Monsen, an associate of Greg’s who is I believe, affiliated with Dixie State University and an ardent supporter of education. Karen excitedly put into context the Economic, Educational, Historic and Community Benefits that await development of this Archaeological Gold Mine. I admit I was captivated by Karen and her ability to connect the dots in a meaningful way.

1.     Archaeology site located at the confluence of the Virgin and Santa Clara Rivers with Freeway 15 access.

2.     Hiking trails currently intersect site location making it a destination point and an integral part of city trail system.

3.     The site is literally surrounded by PETROGLYPHS crying out for recognition and protection. Rock Art consisting of carvings of human figures, animals and symbols…..Which could easily be connected to existing trail system.

4.     Within walking distance to Dixie Convention Center and Animal Museum and growing number of attractive Hotels.

5.    Trail system that leads to Dinosaur Discovery Museum attracting tourist from all over the World presenting an education environment for children of all ages.  

Truly the list seems endless as to multitude of benefits attainable by this proposal to establish an Archaeology Park. The clincher for me was the unbelievable view of the surrounding mountains that brought to mind the words of Charles H. Gabriel found in Church Hymn Book #193 that ended with “Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me”

Folks, understanding of the area’s Pioneer Heritage as well as its Native American Heritage is without question important to all of us…..Yet this is but a small part of the Historic Value that surrounds us.  It would be a tragedy for us not to honor the stewardship placed upon us to go forward and care for and cultivate this beautiful planet called Earth.

Having said this let me ask you.  Is it not more important and of a higher priority to spend  taxpayer money on a project such as an Archaeology Park…..Say, than rebuilding a Rodeo Site that is sure to cost millions of taxpayer dollars…..to be utilized for 3 Days.

Oh, to be sure, I have come to understand that an effort is underway to bring other events to the Sun Bowl. Most certainly to help justify the spending of millions of taxpayer dollars on a multitude of events, I believe are designed to camouflage the intended beneficiary. A Rodeo Event supported by the outspoken…..City Councilman Hughes.

I believe decisions such as these should serve the greater good and not be used as a vehicle to further a political career. Supporters of Councilman Hughes are expected to say I am picking on Jimmie unnecessarily. Not so. I fully expect Councilman Hughes to one day be Mayor of SG City. At this point in time I merely question the soundness of his decision making abilities. Like many of you I believe he has an attractive dimpled smile and when all is said and done he is able to make Councilwoman Randall giggle like a high school girl.  ALL KIDDING ASIDE, I love Jimmie’s youthful exuberance and I think we all benefit from a little giggle once in awhile, especially during a very boring council meeting.

To make my point on decision making abilities I offer the following exchange that took place. Listed under agenda item #2: Presentation and discussion regarding a possible water waste ordinance.  

A proposal to establish an ordinance to fine ($25.00) those wasting water and who are non-responsive to requests to repair deficiencies and conserve water was presented by Rene Fleming, Conservation Coordinator.  It appeared the suggested fine of $25.00 was deemed reasonable by all other members of council with the exception of Councilman Hughes. (Councilman Almquist was absent) Having heard the proposal Councilman Bowcutt stated “It’s a viable way to start the process” Councilwoman Arial stated “Fair as presented” Councilman Hughes stated “How often do we run into a problem? “Is it that big a problem? Councilman Hughes qualified his statement by saying “I am a little concerned, are we going to decide who is wasting water?” Mayor Pike stated “We have to deal more wisely with water rates, size of parcel.  We have some tiers already”. Councilman Hughes “I’d rather see a rate structure. Hate to see people wasting water. I lose sleep over it.”

Folks, I believe Councilman Hughes raises cattle/cows. It follows that he has a vested interest in water conservation and water rates. Would it not be in the public’s interest to begin water conservation efforts in the form of an ordinance containing punitive language that defines egregious waste of water prior to implementing water rates for all?

Water is too important to allow it to become a political football, kicked around to enhance the image of political figures.        

Thank you, ED BACA