Utah’s Governor Spencer Cox made a visit to the Uintah Basin this week stopping first in Vernal. On Monday, Governor Cox enjoyed a walking tour of downtown Vernal with Mayor Doug Hammond, City Manager Quinn Bennion, and other local officials. “We welcomed Governor Cox and his economic development staff to Vernal to showcase our downtown renewal,” shares Bennion. “The team effort is recognized and applauded with small business owners locating, upgrading and expanding in the downtown district.” Governor Cox posted about the visit on his social media, sharing that three years ago, Vernal had 25 business vacancies on Main Street and today there are fewer than five. “With a strong local vision and downtown renewal plan, sales tax revenue has doubled, and Main Street is booming again,” shares Cox. While in Vernal, Governor Cox also presented the ‘Utah Treasure’ award to local Ann Stewart. “Through her businesses, volunteer work, and vision for the High Desert Center for the Arts,” shares Cox, “Ann is helping build a stronger future for the Uintah Basin.” Finally, before leaving the area on Tuesday, Governor Cox enjoyed a stop at Marion’s Variety in Roosevelt where he had lunch with Duchesne County leadership.
