WASHINGTON CITY — Chief Jason Williams, Detective Dayton Dickinson and Detective Josh Janda were not the only officers present as Washington City’s newest investigators took the official oath of office at the City Council meeting held Wednesday.
Stacked along the back walls of the city hall chambers stood dozens of local law enforcement to witness the promotions.
After taking the oath and having a new badge pinned on by his wife, Dickinson told the council his previous experience as a patrol officer prepared him well for the new investigative role.
“I am excited to grow and excited to be here,” he said.
Dickinson’s wife told the council their family approves of the city’s new detective and he has always been motivated to improve.
“Anywhere he can help in the community, he’s always willing to do so,” she said. “We’re in full support.”
Janda spoke to the council about his previous experience in law enforcement saying he has 10 years total experience, the last three on patrol in Washington City.
“Excited to go to this position and have this opportunity to broaden my horizons, my skill sets,” he said. “And do what I love.”
Mayor Kress Staheli told those supporting their loved ones he was grateful for their willingness to allow their family members to accept the new roles.
“We recognize the entire family sacrifices and supports these officers that put their life on the line every day,” he said. “So your contribution as a family doesn’t go unnoticed.”
Alcohol-free year for youth
Before performing her civic-related duties, Crimson Cliffs junior Meili Belnap crossed the finish line in a race on Wednesday night, then ran straight to the meeting to deliver a message to local youth.
Representing her school within the Washington County Youth Coalition, she read a proclamation designating the upcoming school year as an “alcohol-free year for youth.”
“We declare the 2023-2024 school year as an alcohol-free school year for youth to bring awareness to risky behaviors and underage drinking,” Belnap read from the proclamation. “And promote the bringing of families together.”
Pam Holiday, with Southwest Behavioral Health Center, told St. George News the proclamation is being heard by several city councils and Washington County Commissioners in upcoming meetings.
St. George and Santa Clara civic leaders have already signed off on the proclamation, Holiday said.
“The Washington County Prevention Coalition and the Washington County Youth Coalition are adult and student-led groups promoting substance abuse awareness and prevention, but also mental health and behavioral help,” she said.
Youth coalition members meet once per week, with meetings rotating through the participating Washington County School District schools.
“So all coalition students have the opportunity to attend at least one meeting in person,” Holiday said.
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