Change afoot in South Salt Lake

SOUTH SALT LAKE — Classic-car enthusiast Irvin Jones will replace Shane Siwik on the City Council, following a unanimous vote in his favor Wednesday by the other six members of the body.

The 56-year-old has lived in South Salt Lake for 20 years and owned businesses there, including one business that remodeled elevator interiors and another that replaces automobile windows.

"South Salt Lake is at a great place, at a crossroads," said Jones, who will fill the District 5 seat. "We're seeing growth and some opportunities to become a first-rate city."

Jones plans to focus on boosting the city's image, and by doing so bring in more families and businesses, he said.

Also appointed during Wednesday night's meeting were Troy Bennett, who will lead city parks and recreation; Garth Day, who will be the municipality's first economic development director; and Charee Peck, the new assistant mayor and treasurer.

Filling the shoes of city attorney Dave Carlson will be Lyn Creswell, who recently left a leadership position in Salt Lake City.

"After interviewing many different candidates, he was the best choice for the city's needs right now," said newly elected Mayor Cherie Wood. Creswell brings broad economic development and municipal law experience to the full-time position, she added.

— Rebecca Palmer