Your Daily Guide

The Data Center's 'Wonder Valley'

What could the Box Elder County data center look like? New renderings give us an idea. Plus, state officials lay out expectations for what happens next. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

Utah Declares Drought Emergency

Gov. Spencer Cox has declared a statewide drought emergency as more than 60% of Utah is now in extreme drought conditions following the warmest winter and lowest snowpack on record. The declaration activates emergency coordination efforts and urges residents, cities, and water providers to reduce water use through conservation measures. [KUTV]

SLC Council Drops Sexual Misconduct Investigation

The Salt Lake City Council voted not to pursue an independent investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against former council member Eva Lopez Chavez, after she lost her seat over residency issues. Instead, council members will focus on reviewing and strengthening its code of conduct policies going forward. [Salt Lake Tribune]

New Rules for University Spousal Travel

A new Utah policy will require public universities to disclose how much taxpayer and university money is spent when a president’s spouse joins official trips. The change follows scrutiny over travel expenses by University of Utah President Taylor Randall and his wife, Janet Randall, whose trips cost the university more than $35,000 over the past two years. [Salt Lake Tribune]

This month, some old faves are expanding with additional locations. Plus, we have a couple of newcomers to add to your rotation.

Taste of Red Iguana

Utah’s beloved Red Iguana has officially landed in Downtown Daybreak, with a giant iguana on the side of the building to boot. Expect the same mole-covered classics right across from The Ballpark at America First Square.

Budda’s Bakery & Breakfast

Budda’s Bakery & Breakfast is opening its first Salt Lake City location next Friday, May 29. Come for their famous butter rolls, stay for the loco moco, Portuguese sausage, and warm Hawaiian hospitality.

First Watch

You can never have too many solid breakfast joints in the Salt Lake valley. First Watch opened a location in Taylorsville and is already a community fave.

Coffee & Chai

A perfect destination for your early morning or late night caffeine needs, since it’s open from 7 a.m. to midnight every day.

Fini Pizza

New York City-based Fini Pizza opened its first Utah location in Utah City (aka Vineyard) this month, adding another contender to our rapidly growing pizza scene.