Newly elected Salt Lake City Council members take office

The scene on the east steps of City Hall was picture perfect Monday at noon as James Rogers (District 1), Stan Penfold (District 3), Erin Mendenhall (District 5), and Lisa Adams (District 7) were sworn in as members of the Salt Lake City Council.

It's Penfold's second term, the others took office for the first time.

The sun shone brightly on about 200 residents and dignitaries, including 2nd Congressional District Rep. Chris Stewart and former U.S. Sen. Jake Garn, as they listened to the Choral Ensemble from the Salt Lake City Fire Department sing the national anthem. Red, white and blue bunting hung from the historic City/County Building was the backdrop as the foursome took the oath of office one at a time followed by brief remarks.

Rogers, a businessman and fourth generation resident of Rose Park, pledged to revitalize his west side district. He said he "would bring about change that will make it a better community."

Penfold said he would continue to make downtown vital, which, in turn, would energize neighborhoods. He said he will continue to support "our small and neighborhood businesses. They are truly the heartbeat of our city."

Mendenhall referred to gay marriage in Utah and said there was more to be done on equality issues. She also pledged to continue work on Salt Lake City's ongoing challenges, including air pollution. She also emphasized her support for police, fire and municipal workers in Salt Lake City.

Adams, an attorney by education and neighborhood activist by avocation made note of Salt Lake City's culture, including the symphony and ballet and the 2002 Winter Games. Adams said she would work with all sectors of the community, emphasizing respect and civility.

The seven-member council will hold its first regular meeting Tuesday. Council members Kyle LaMalfa, Luke Garrott and Charlie Luke will join the others at a 2 p.m. work session and formal meeting at 7 p.m. Among the first items for consideration are selecting a council chairman and co-chairman. They also will discuss the scope of the proposed $350,000 study that will lead to a Salt Lake City Transit Master Plan.

csmart@sltribcom.