Who deserves praise and criticism this week in Northern Utah?

THUMBS UP: Over the years, Ogden has been a trendsetter in its own way and continues that. The city council announced the approval and formation of a Natural Resources and Sustainability Stewardship Committee. That might be a mouthful, but it’s quite significant as local residents look to help keep the city informed on positive policies related to waste reduction, recycling, water and power conservation, air quality and open space.

These are all environmental issues that require attention and planning. Especially as growth comes to Northern Utah, this foresight should be a great benefit to our area and its natural resources.

Earlier this week, city councilwoman Marcia White was quoted as saying, “We’re setting the bar pretty high, from St. George to Logan there are only two other cities that … have ordinances like this and committees like this, including Salt Lake (City).”

We’re proud to live in an area that embraces setting a high bar and does not wait for other cities to finally pay attention to a serious issue.

For anyone who is interested in joining this committee, Ogden residents can apply online at https://bit.ly/2rD8rpk. The more applications the city receives, think of the competitive commitment to sustainable practices. Congratulations to the hard work of those who got the ordinance this far. Now, it’s up to residents to make sure it picks up steam.

THUMBS DOWN: Freak accidents can be a person’s worst nightmare. Unfortunately for one Northern Utah man, a 150-pound boulder dropped onto his windshield last weekend and was exactly that.

A 57-year-old man was driving his truck by Pineview Reservoir and suffered extensive injuries. According to UDOT, it was a rare event and anyone driving through canyon areas should know they’re at risk for getting pummeled with falling rock. After all, there are signs that warn, “Watch for falling rocks.” Unfortunately, recent events and those signs don’t really do much to ease our concerns and fears.

Canyons are difficult terrain, and that can be hard to manage and control, in UDOT’s defense. Influenced by this latest incident, the state agency is supposedly going to act. If there are realistic measures that can be taken, we hope they are. With so many canyons in Utah, it’s hardly realistic for drivers to avoid them altogether if they fear for their safety.

THUMBS UP: It’s hard to believe it’s already been five years since Utah’s laws against gay marriage were deemed unconstitutional, allowing couples to become legally married. Time flies. While many counties in Utah struggled with the initial ruling, eventually couples got their marriage licenses. Congratulations to all those celebrating upcoming anniversaries. Utah has much progress yet to make, but we’re happy to mark the momentous steps that have transpired to grant our LGBTQ family and friends the rights that are theirs.

THUMBS UP: In the week leading up to Christmas, we’ve seen and heard so many sweet instances of charity and thoughtfulness. To all those who have volunteered in some capacity, the community thanks you. We hope you will remember that needs do not cease after Christmastime. Blood donations are needed throughout the winter and year. Children still need to be fed. Others seek shelter and housing.

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