Mayor Brent and Jennie Taylor Service Award

Honoring Extraordinary Community Service

About the Award

The late Mayor Brent Taylor of North Ogden gave a life of service to his community before he was tragically killed in November 2018 while serving a second tour to Afghanistan with the Utah Army National Guard. Major Taylor had just been re–elected to a second term as mayor when he accepted his deployment.

Brent Taylor practiced what he preached: service above self. Whether as Mayor of North Ogden, or Major in the Utah National Guard, he dedicated his life to serving his community and his country. His wife, Jennie, and their seven children continue his legacy through activity in civic, faith, and community groups. Brent served on the ULCT Board of Directors prior to his final deployment to Afghanistan. He helped modernize the organization’s structure and set the League on a new path to more thoroughly address the needs of Utah’s municipalities with transparency, accountability, and focus. ULCT created this award to honor the Taylors’ tremendous sacrifice and dedication to service. Jennie was the final President of the ULCT Auxiliary and a frequent attendee at ULCT conferences. She works tirelessly continuing a legacy established with her husband to honor country and community through service.

Purpose

The Mayor Brent and Jennie Taylor Service Award is given to a Utah mayor or council member who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to serving their community.

Eligibility

Individuals affiliated with municipal government (including elected officials, staff, or ULCT affiliates) who are in good standing with ULCT.
Nominees must represent a municipality that is a member of ULCT and in good standing.

Nominations Process

Nominations can be submitted by municipal staff and elected officials, Councils of Governments, Associations of Governments, and the individuals themselves. ULCT staff and board officers may not submit nominees.

Nominations should include a detailed description of the nominee’s contributions to their community.

Self-nominations are allowed.

Selection Process

ULCT staff will vet the nominations and create a shortlist of finalists based on the strength of the application and community impact for the officers of the ULCT Board of Directors to review.

The officers, consisting of the ULCT Board President, 1st Vice President, 2nd Vice President, Immediate Past President, and UCMA representative shall select the winner.

Winter Announcement

Winners will be announced during a major League event based on the Taylor Family’s availability.

Previous Award Recipients

2023 Award Presented to Payson Mayor Bill Wright

About Mayor Wright

Mayor Wright ran for mayor after completing an exemplary career in law enforcement. He is constantly working with the planning department, public works, economic development, and city administration to advance the goals Payson. Mayor Wright embraces the expected future growth within his with enthusiasm as an opportunity to help future generations know the value of a community with a small town feel.

His nominee says, “Just talk to him for a few minutes and you’ll have a friend for life.”