Mayor Staley touts new Canal Trail, urges winter water precautions and calls for more entry-level housing

Mayor Staley delivered a December year-end message to Washington City residents that combined seasonal greetings with updates on local projects and policy priorities.

Staley announced the recent construction of roughly a mile and a half of the historic Canal Trail, saying the city acquired easements, completed contractor work and installed split-rail fencing on the new sections. "We have recently built a mile and a half," he said, framing the trail as part of a network that connects neighborhoods, parks and safe routes to elementary schools.

The mayor also advised practical steps for winter: "If your sprinklers are still on, turn them off," Staley said, explaining residents should do so both to avoid frozen and burst pipes and because winter watering is unnecessary.

Housing was a key theme. Referring to his mayor's newsletter, Staley called for the return of "the entry-level home," emphasizing the need for smaller, thoughtfully placed housing types that young families and local workers can afford. He linked the housing shortage to workforce challenges, saying he had met with administrative staff at St. George Regional Hospital who raised concerns about filling critical care positions because "housing is so difficult" even for workers earning competitive wages.

"We want thoughtfully placed, thoughtfully sized homes intermixed within our community that add value to the overall community," Staley said, adding that city staff and elected officials will prioritize attainable housing without sacrificing neighborhood quality.

Staley closed with holiday wishes and a sign-off: "I hope you find much joy thinking of others... I'll see you again in 2026, and until then, I'm Mayor Staley."