Mayor Dave Young

 Four years ago, I didn’t run for mayor because I wanted a title or recognition. I ran because I felt called to serve. I felt a responsibility to stand up for Orem and protect the values that make this city home — the same city where Cathy and I raised our family and built our lives.

From day one, I asked a simple question before every decision: Does this take Orem closer to being Family City USA? Or does it move us further away?  That principle became our compass. We defined our mission as creating an environment where families can thrive; spiritually, economically, and emotionally.

Guided by that standard, we made significant and lasting changes to Orem. We strengthened the city’s financial position, protected neighborhoods, elevated essential services, and invested in community spaces that bring people together. We also made a deliberate commitment to better communication and community-building — and as a result, participation in city events and engagement across Orem has grown in ways we had never seen before. Our community connection is stronger today because we chose to prioritize it.

Leadership isn’t about comfort or popularity. It’s about responsibility. It’s about being willing to step into the arena, make hard calls, and carry the weight of those decisions with integrity. I carried the trust you placed in me into every meeting, every challenge, and every moment of service.

Over the last four years, I was often told by long-serving city employees that Orem is in the strongest position they had seen in decades. I was also told that leaders in other cities were looking at the changes we have made as a model for transparency, fiscal discipline, and putting residents first. Our city decided to aim higher and do things the right way.

I know not everyone agreed with every decision we made, and that’s okay. A close election reminds us that people can love this city just as deeply and still see things differently. What matters is that we always acted in good faith, listened respectfully, and put Orem first.

None of this happened because of one person. It happened because of incredible city employees, first responders, volunteers, and residents who care deeply about this community and give their best every day. Their dedication is Orem’s greatest strength.

As Orem moves forward, my advice is simple: always put families first. Put our residents before special interests. Put our community ahead of politics. Cities are strongest when leaders listen more than they speak — and most important, remember whom they serve.

I leave this office with peace, gratitude, and confidence in Orem’s future. The foundation we’ve built is strong, and Orem’s story is far from finished.

My commitment to this city doesn’t end here; it simply takes a new form. Serving as your mayor has been one of the greatest honors of my life.