As their terms come to a close, Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini and Holladay Mayor Rob Dahle prepare to pass the torch to new leadership. Both mayors have left an indelible mark on their communities, championing growth, sustainability, and a strong sense of local identity. In this article, we reflect on their accomplishments, challenges, and what lies ahead for these dedicated public servants as they bid farewell to their roles.
Q. Looking back on your time in office, what accomplishments are you most proud of, and why?
Mayor Jeff—Setting up a new city and, within 9 years, seeing it achieve a Triple A bond rating, and running this city with compassion through our after-school programming that has helped build connections in our city.
Mayor Rob—In 2019, we went for a tax increase, and with that revenue, we did some bonding, and over the last six years, we have been able to invest over $20 million in our road and storm drain infrastructure.
Q.What was one of the biggest challenges you faced as Mayor?
Mayor Jeff—Convincing folks who were against incorporation that it was a good idea. Our city offers better services, and we have repaired more roads and built more sidewalks. We maintained other essential services, like snowplowing and police and fire, without drastic tax increases.
Mayor Rob— The budget, trying to do something with nothing. That tax increase was a three-year process; we wanted to make sure the citizens knew why and what we were going to invest that money in.
Q.How do you feel the city has changed during your tenure, and what legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Mayor Jeff—This city has matured really fast. We have put Millcreek on the map and made it a strong player in state politics. That has helped us a greater share in grant funding. Getting the city started and on the right track is my legacy, if I have one.
Mayor Rob—We put a tree preservation ordinance in place that was tough to get through the public process because it involved the private property rights of people. We felt strongly that we needed something that looked out into the future when people were clearing lots. We require them to replant the trees so they regenerate in Holladay. I think I leave behind a strong, respectful culture.
Q.What advice would you give to the next Mayor stepping into this role?
Mayor Jeff—Be bold, seize opportunities. One of the advantages of being in a new city is not having to do things the way they've always been done. I hope that type of philosophy will not confine the next Mayor who follows me. Play to win.
Mayor Rob — Really value the role that the volunteers play and the work they do in their various committees to support the mission of the city. Understand your role as an elected official and your interactions with city staff, and ensure they are properly respected. Continue to appreciate and protect the little open space we have, and acquire more when the opportunity arises.
Q.As you retire, what are your personal plans, and how do you hope to stay connected with the community?
Mayor Jeff — I really hope to travel more with my wife; we have put that off because of the time I have devoted to this job, which I felt was necessary to do a good job. I am really looking forward to not having to think about going to work or school.
Mayor Rob — My wife, Joni, has said I can't volunteer for anything for the next 6 months. I have a couple of trips planned, and I will help out more with my five grandkids. I think I will just wait to see when something I am passionate about comes along, and then get involved with that and the community somehow.
After working in retail for 20 years, Christmas marked the end of the busy work season for me, that makes it my favorite holiday.- Mayor Rob
My favorite holiday tradition is the “odes” or smart alecky poems or letters our family members write to each other which we open when we gather, usually on Christmas Eve over egg nog. They reflect events which we experienced that year, usually embarrassing moments.-Mayor Jeff