Woods Cross resident Eric Jones has been appointed to replace Jessica Kelemen on the Woods Cross City Council. When Kelemen announced she was moving out of state, the city posted the position and received several applications. Jones was selected and sworn into the city council on Oct. 1. 

“I like the way Woods Cross has been run and I’ve been very encouraged by the leadership within the city, so I’m looking to continue on the path that’s been set,” Jones said. “Something that’s very important to me is being open and honest with citizens, and making sure people understand why certain decisions are made.”

Jones grew up in Bountiful and has lived in Woods Cross for 14 years with his wife and three children. He served two years on the Odyssey Elementary Community Council and three years on the city’s board of adjustments before it was eliminated.

As a partner at JZW Architects, Jones brought his knowledge to the Woods Cross planning commission for the last five years, recently serving as vice-chair. His time on the commission allowed him to see the inner workings of the city, learning more about its processes and procedures.

“As a member of the planning commission, I was involved with the rework of the city’s master plan and the new master plan that was most recently passed,” he said. “The city council is really where the rubber meets the road and I thought it would be nice to be involved that way.”

The council seat Jones occupies is up for reelection in 2025 and he plans to run again. He’s impressed by the city’s “financial responsibility” and the transparency with residents as decisions are made. 

Jones is looking forward to participating in discussions around the redevelopment of city hall and Hogan Park, and feels that part of the city has an impact on the perception of Woods Cross as a whole. He said people are looking for that nostalgic home-town feeling that the city has been careful to preserve.

“People reminisce about the small-town feel and that’s something that a lot of people yearn for,” he said. “Woods Cross really is a small town, with about 11,000 citizens. There are a lot of people who look out for their neighbors. There are people who want to see the community thrive and retain that neighborly feel within the community itself.”

Jones is a private pilot who loves the outdoors. He enjoys the hiking trails, bike lanes and parks available in the city which he believes heightens the quality of life. He hopes to encourage more of that development moving forward.

Woods Cross City Administrator Bryce Haderlie said the city received a talented group of applicants for the city council position, each bringing a background of knowledge and experience. He believes Jones will be a good addition to the council. 

“Eric has a wealth of experience serving on the Woods Cross Planning Commission and being involved in community service,” said Woods Cross City Administrator Bryce Haderlie. “We are excited to have Eric's perspective and knowledge and believe that he will complement the leadership and cooperative nature of the other members of the council.” λ