In a heartfelt ceremony held at the Midway Community Center, Craig Simons was officially sworn in as the new mayor of Midway on Monday afternoon. The event drew a large crowd, with friends, family, and city officials filling the venue to witness this significant occasion. Simons, who has been a part of the Midway City Council for the past year, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support he received from the community, securing an impressive 76% of the vote in the November general election. "I’m excited to take on this role," Simons stated after taking his oath. "Over the past year, I've been preparing myself by actively participating in city council meetings and understanding the workings of our community. I feel ready to lead." Simons has a background in local governance, having previously served on the Midway Planning Commission. This experience, he believes, has equipped him with the necessary tools to address the challenges that lie ahead. Reflecting on his time as a councilor, he mentioned that there were no singular achievements he could pinpoint, as local governance often involves collaboration with fellow council members and the mayor. However, one of the key issues that has consistently resonated with him—and former Mayor Celeste Johnson—remains the importance of preserving open spaces in Midway. "The open space component for Midway is huge. We have a strong community that recognizes the importance of maintaining our unique identity," Simons stressed. His commitment to open space aligns with ongoing projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and community resources, such as the construction developments around Center Street that he has been actively involved in overseeing. As mayor, Simons aims to prioritize the protection of Midway's water resources, which he considers the town's most vital asset. "I've engaged with the Midway Irrigation Company over the past two years, and there's been a lot to learn about our water systems and how we can better manage them," he explained. This focus on water resources is particularly important for a community that values its natural surroundings and outdoor recreational opportunities. Simons recognizes that the role of mayor involves a shift in decision-making processes. "It's no longer just about making decisions based on personal judgment; it’s about considering how those decisions will affect the entire community," he noted. He emphasized that he plans to approach his responsibilities with a greater sense of community engagement and awareness. In the coming month, Simons intends to immerse himself in various boards and committees, including the Heber Valley Special Service District, Heber Light and Power, and the local railroad. Additionally, he aims to revisit zoning regulations in the downtown area to support local businesses and address existing parking issues. "Midway is a diverse city, and I see this diversity as a strength rather than a weakness," Simons remarked. He believes that fostering a sense of community among residents from various backgrounds will be pivotal in moving forward. He is particularly enthusiastic about local cultural events, including Midway's concert series and the popular Swiss Days festival, which he views as vital components of the community's identity. As Simons steps into his new role, he acknowledges that the title of mayor is still something he is adapting to. "I’m used to being called by my name, and now it's 'Mayor, mayor, mayor.' I want to remind everyone that I’m still Craig, your neighbor," he said, emphasizing his desire to remain approachable and relatable. Grateful for the support he has received from both the community and fellow city leaders, Simons concluded, "I’m excited to represent this community. We have a lot of work ahead of us, and I’m looking forward to getting started." With a focus on community engagement, infrastructure improvements, and environmental sustainability, Simons aims to lead Midway into a promising future, reinforcing the values that make the city a cherished place to live. As Midway embarks on this new chapter under Simons’ leadership, residents can expect continued growth and an unwavering commitment to preserving the unique charm of their beloved city. The community looks forward to seeing how Simons' vision translates into actionable policies that benefit all residents and foster a stronger sense of unity.