New Midvale mayor adjusting to new position

MIDVALE, Utah — Midvale’s brand new mayor describes his first day on the job as trial by fire. He takes the job after the city’s last mayor abruptly resigned following accusations of an affair.

Councilman turned Mayor of Midvale, Dustin Gettel, recognizes what that sudden resignation did to the city. He also recognizes that the entire council felt the impact.

“It’s been a little surreal. That’s the first feeling,” Gettel said. “I’m just very proud of our council. It was a very difficult decision for them to make. It’s been a difficult month for us.”

It’s not stopping him from meeting residents face to face on Saturday when they light up Main Street to celebrate the holidays.

He said a few issues are pressing on his plate.

“Knowing the issues here in Midvale and just making it as easy as possible of a transition for our city, staff [and] our residents,” Gettel said.

Gettel said he feels like he’s prepared for the transition.

“I just want people to be reassured that we are continuing to move forward as we have in the past,” Gettel said. “Midvale has done some really great things over the past five years … We’re moving forward. We are not slowing down the momentum.”

Eric Cabrera is a reporter for KSL NewsRadio. You can follow him on Instagram.

Related:

Midvale city mayor resigns after ‘extramarital affair’ accusations, city says