St. George, Utah – In a celebration of community spirit, St. George's new City Hall will officially open its doors on January 17, 2023, after more than a year of construction. This modern facility, which replaces the outdated city hall built in the 1980s, features a unique and engaging centerpiece that embodies the stories and creativity of local residents: a grand mosaic mural crafted from approximately 1,000 individual tiles painted by community members. The 12-foot by 24-foot mural, designed by renowned artist Lewis Lavoie and his company Mural Mosaic, showcases a vibrant scene of hikers and bikers navigating the picturesque landscape of Snow Canyon. Each tile tells a personal story, contributing to a larger narrative that reflects the essence of St. George. Marc Mortensen, the operations director for the city, emphasized the significance of this community-driven art project. "I think the most important thing here is that somebody drew something that they love about this area. There are about 1,000 different stories in that mural," he said, highlighting the emotional connection residents have to their artwork. Mortensen and his family participated in the mural project, each painting tiles that captured their personal experiences and memories from the area. He described the challenge of locating individual tiles among the vast array, noting, "It took me a minute with a thousand tiles up there, you know, to find one in a thousand. That's kind of part of the fun about the mural overall—searching for the tile you did, or someone you care about. It's fun to spend a good 20 minutes just trying to figure out where those tiles are." In addition to the mural, the new City Hall incorporates other elements that celebrate the community's heritage and diversity. Small figurines representing various facets of St. George's history—ranging from early pioneers to modern outdoor enthusiasts—are strategically placed above departmental signs throughout the building. This thoughtful design aims to create a welcoming environment that honors the city’s past while looking forward to its future. The architectural design of the new facility offers a stark contrast to its predecessor. Mayor Michele Randall, who has played a significant role in the hall's development, noted the building's openness and brightness, which is achieved through large windows that provide views of the adjacent Town Square. "If you've been to our old city hall, of course it was built in the 1980s. It was dark, not a lot of windows, and in here you can just see how bright it is. I love this atrium that goes from the parking garage over to Town Square that people can just walk through all day," Randall remarked, reflecting on the positive changes the new building brings. As the opening day approaches, the community is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. The mural, a lasting testament to the residents' creativity, will become a focal point for visitors and locals alike. It symbolizes a place where generations can gather to share memories and explore their connection to the city. "For years and years, people will come back to this mural and say, 'Hey, mom, where's your painting?' or 'Where's grandpa's?'" Mortensen added, underscoring the mural's role as a historical touchstone for families. While the grand opening marks a new chapter for City Hall, it also coincides with a transition in leadership. Mayor Michele Randall will conclude her term just days before the official unveiling, passing the reins to Jimmie Hughes. As the city looks forward to new initiatives and projects, the new City Hall stands as a beacon of community engagement and pride. The opening ceremony will feature various activities, including guided tours of the facility, allowing residents to appreciate the unique design elements and the collaborative artwork of the mosaic mural. The event aims not only to celebrate the completion of a new city hub but also to foster a continued sense of community among St. George's residents. In conclusion, the new City Hall in St. George is more than just a government building; it is a vibrant representation of the community’s identity and shared history. With its striking mosaic mural and thoughtful design, the facility is poised to be a central part of life in St. George for many years to come. As residents gather to commemorate this milestone, they will do so with a renewed sense of belonging and pride in their city.