Ogden Valley stands at a unique and pivotal moment in its history. As we begin the process of forming our own city, we have a rare opportunity to do something few communities get to do: build local government from the ground up—with intention, with care, and with our shared values at the center.
One of the most powerful tools available to us in this process is the creation of a city charter.
The Utah Constitution—specifically Article XI, Section 5—gives communities like ours the legal right to adopt a charter. This isn’t just a formality. It’s a meaningful opportunity to shape our city’s foundation in a way that reflects the priorities, culture, and character of Ogden Valley.
A charter is essentially a locally crafted constitution. It gives the people of Ogden Valley the chance to define how our new city will function—what kind of government structure we want, how decisions will be made, and how the public will be involved. It’s a framework for local control, community voice, and transparent governance.
With a charter, the residents of Ogden Valley can take the lead in shaping policies that reflect who we are. It can empower us to manage our own land use and zoning decisions, protect our natural environment, guide economic development, and ensure that public services meet the needs of our residents. It can lay out rules for ethics, transparency, and accountability in government—building trust from the very beginning.
More than just a set of rules, a charter is a vision for the kind of community we want to become. It can help us preserve our rural and agricultural character, protect open space and other resources, and plan for growth in a way that honors our heritage while looking ahead.
This is not about following someone else’s blueprint. It’s about writing our own.
Of course, this process will take time, and it should. A good charter requires thoughtful public input, robust discussion, and a shared commitment to the long-term well-being of Ogden Valley. But the opportunity is here, and it’s ours to shape.
So how does the process work? After the city’s first municipal election, the newly elected city council—by a two-thirds vote—and a petition signed by at least 15% of registered voters can place a question on the ballot: “Shall a commission be chosen to frame a charter?” If voters approve that question, they will also vote to select members of the charter commission from a list of nominated candidates. The 15 individuals who receive the highest number of votes will serve on the commission.
This commission will be responsible for drafting the proposed charter, often with input from legal experts and members of the broader community. Once the draft is complete, it will be presented to voters in a public election. If a majority of voters approve it, the charter becomes the official governing framework of the new city—ensuring that the foundation of our local government reflects the will and values of Ogden Valley residents.
As a resident who cares deeply about Ogden Valley, we encourage everyone to learn more, ask questions, and participate in this exciting chapter. The choices we make now will shape the valley for generations to come.
Let’s be thoughtful. Let’s be engaged. And let’s work together to build a foundation that truly reflects the spirit of Ogden Valley.