On Thursday, Ogden City put out a press release announcing that Utah Olympic organizers have created several new committees that will include members of the Ogden community.

“Utah Olympic organizers announced the formation of several new committees to help advise the 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Among the newly appointed members are several prominent representatives from northern Utah, including Ogden City Mayor Ben Nadolski, who was named to the Host Communities Committee. This committee is dedicated to engaging local communities throughout the planning of the 2034 Winter with a strong focus on sustainable economic developments and community driven initiatives.”

Nadolski said this appointment helps create local opportunities.

“Being at the table as Olympic plans take shape is a rare opportunity to help chart our future,” he said in the release. “The Games bring more than world-class athletes–they bring global attention, economic opportunity, and a chance to build a culture and legacy of sport that develops character in our kids and creates lasting opportunity for our community.”

Ogden City Communications Director Mike McBride told the Standard-Examiner that the mayor’s presence will help in the planning process.

“The mayor is serving on the host cities committee, which allows mayors of host cities to engage with planning conversations and to create other various engagements in the community surrounding the Olympics,” McBride said. “This committee serves as opportunity to have local input and buy in surrounding planning details of this very important international event.”

The press release noted that the mayor will also be joined by Weber County Commissioner Jim Harvey on the Host Communities Committee.

The release notes other locals will be part of other committees, including:

• Kym Buttschardt, owner of Roosters Brewing Co. and Restaurant Group, and Nolan Karras, former Utah Speaker of the House, who have been appointed to the Finance and Audit Committee.
• Weber State University President Brad Mortenson, who was selected for the Ethics Committee while continuing his role on the 2034 Steering Committee.

“These committee appointments were selected in part by the Utah Winter Games Steering Committee, established earlier this year,” the release said. “The Steering Committee is comprised of former Olympic athletes, community and business leaders as well as state and local elected officials who serve as advisors to the Organizing Committee Board.”