HOOPER, Utah— A heated discussion took place at the Hooper City Council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 25, as city leaders debated an ordinance aimed at reducing the mayor’s executive powers.
Instead of making a final decision, the council chose to postpone the vote for several months, opting for a closed-door discussion with Mayor Sheri Bingham before revisiting the issue in approximately three months.
Proposed Shift in Government Structure
The proposed ordinance seeks to transfer executive and administrative authority from the mayor to the City Council, fundamentally changing how Hooper’s local government operates.
A packed crowd of residents attended the meeting at the Hooper Civic Center, with some unable to find seats inside. Among the key concerns raised were budget management and the recent dismissal of city attorneys.
Mayor Bingham expressed surprise at the proposal, saying she had not anticipated such a drastic change to her role.
“There have been times when councilmembers didn’t agree with my approach,” Bingham said. “But this ordinance was unexpected.”
The City Council defended the move, calling it a necessary step toward greater accountability and transparency.
“For quite some time, we’ve struggled to fulfill our duties because of roadblocks,” said Councilmember Bryce Wilcox. “On multiple occasions, we were prevented from adding critical items to the agenda.”
If enacted, the ordinance would limit the mayor’s authority, reducing the position to more of a ceremonial role with no power to veto council decisions, approve appointments, or oversee city operations.
Divided Opinions on Leadership
Under the current system, Hooper operates with a mayor-council form of government, which was established when the city was incorporated in 2000.
Bingham, who took office in 2024 after winning 58.9% of the vote in the 2023 election, argued that the mayor’s responsibilities extend beyond a symbolic position.
“As mayor, I serve as both city manager and CEO,” she explained. “I oversee employees, manage finances, and ensure the city runs smoothly.”
She also criticized the emergency meeting where the ordinance was introduced, saying she would have preferred open dialogue with councilmembers before such a major proposal was put forward.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the ordinance, Bingham reaffirmed her commitment to serving Hooper.
“Regardless of what happens, I am still the mayor,” she said. “I will continue doing everything I can—within my authority—to ensure Hooper remains the great community it is.”
Bingham’s four-year term runs until 2027, and she succeeded former Mayor Dale Fowers, who now holds a City Council seat representing District 2.
The Future of Hooper’s Leadership
Hooper, located just west of South Ogden and Roy, has a population of 9,369 as of the latest Census data from 2023.
While the City Council has yet to decide on the ordinance, the debate highlights growing tensions over the balance of power in local government.
Bingham remains optimistic about the future, expressing her deep connection to the community.
“Hooper is an incredible place,” she said. “I love this city, and I love the people who call it home.”
The next City Council meeting on the ordinance is expected in the coming months, with further discussions set to take place behind closed doors before a final vote is scheduled.
- 8 Baby Names Now Officially Banned in Utah - March 10, 2025
- Sen. Capito Expects Federal Funding Relief for WV Organizations - March 10, 2025
- West Virginia Becomes First State to Ban Artificial Food Dyes - March 10, 2025
