City plans to apply for ‘Healthy Utah Community’ designation

Eagle Mountain City is in the process of applying to become a designated “Healthy Utah Community,” a no-cost program that recognizes cities making active efforts to improve the health and well-being of their residents.

The designation is awarded by Get Healthy Utah in partnership with the Utah League of Cities and Towns. It acknowledges local governments that adopt policies and programs aimed at promoting active lifestyles, expanding access to healthy food and supporting mental health initiatives. Cities must meet a series of criteria across these categories to qualify.

Assistant to the City Manager Natalie Winterton said the application reflects the City’s long-term commitment to health and quality of life.

 “We already have many programs and amenities in place that align with this goal, and this is a chance to organize those efforts under one framework,” said Winterton.

To be considered for the designation, communities are required to form a health coalition, assess current health-related assets, and implement a series of strategies. These might include expanding trails, organizing mental health awareness events, supporting farmers markets, or offering workplace wellness programs.

In Eagle Mountain’s case, Winterton noted that the City already provides infrastructure that encourages active living, such as an extensive trail network and outdoor recreation opportunities.

“There’s no single program that defines a healthy community,” she said. “It’s really about consistent efforts to make health a part of how we plan.”

Unlike many programs that come with application or participation fees, the Healthy Utah Community designation is free. The application must be approved by the Eagle Mountain City Council and submitted with supporting documentation. Once approved, the designation is valid for three years, after which the community can apply for renewal by demonstrating progress and updating its plan.

While the designation does not come with direct funding, Winterton said it can serve as a valuable framework for the City to set priorities and potentially qualify for future grant opportunities related to public health.

 “We have an opportunity to align our policies with the health of the people who live here,” Winterton said.

The Get Healthy Utah initiative was launched in response to the growing concern over chronic disease, obesity and mental health challenges across the state.

If approved, Eagle Mountain would join a list of more than 30 other Utah municipalities that have already received the designation since the program’s inception.

The City expects to complete the application process in the coming months.