Farewell open house honors departing elected officials

Eagle Mountain City hosted a Farewell Open House to honor two of its departing elected officials on Thursday evening.

The open house allowed City staff, residents, family members and community partners to share their appreciation for Mayor Tom Westmoreland and Council member Donna Burnham, who are both ending their terms on the Eagle Mountain City Council this month.

In the Dec. 16 City Council meeting, members of the City Council voiced their appreciation for Westmoreland and Burnham.

“Our city is a different city than what it was when [Donna] and Tom started serving us,” Council member Melissa Clark said during the meeting. “Very few people will ever understand the toll that serving in office takes on an individual and their family members.”

Westmoreland served for four years on the City Council followed by eight years as Mayor. Burnham served for 16 years on the City Council.

Members of the City Council presented Westmoreland and Burnham with flower leis – one for each year they have served the City – as a token of gratitude.

“The Hawaiian lei is symbolic of honor and respect and it is given when you arrive and when you depart,” said Council member Brett Wright. “We are recognizing them this evening for the tremendous service they have offered our community.”

During the meeting, Westmoreland and Burnham also expressed their appreciation for Eagle Mountain residents.

“I love this city, I love our residents. Thank you for letting me serve you,” said Burnham.

“It’s been a real honor to be trusted at the helm of this City,” Westmoreland said of his service. “I really appreciate all that we’ve been able to accomplish.”