I love Hurricane! I attended Kindergarten through 12th grade in Hurricane and took some classes at SUSC (now SUU) and Dixie College. I married Kaye Wright, moved away from Hurricane for 7 years, and learned what the world was all about. One thing Kaye and I realized was that we wanted to raise our family in the atmosphere that Hurricane provided. I knew that jobs were scarce here, so I attended Barber school at Utah Trade Technical College. Once I had a way to make a living, we moved our family back to Hurricane and they continue to grow. My dear wife Kaye and I had eight wonderful children. After she passed away in February of 2000, I married another great lady and great support, Kitty Campbell, and became stepfather to another great five children.

My ancestors helped develop the Southern Utah "Dixie" area, all the way from Santa Clara to Rockville including Toquerville, Virgin, and Hurricane. Five and six generations of my family before me lived and developed this wonderful area we call home. My Great Grandfather started the first bank in Hurricane. He and my Uncle were very prominent business and civic leaders for many years. I have a great heritage with wonderful examples of service.

I try always to be a support to Hurricane, helping in every way I can. I have been a member of the Hurricane City Planning Commission, Chairman of the Planning Commission, Power Board Member, Manager of City sports, West Zion Little League President, H.H.S. Coaches Club president, and Coach-Participant on many winning teams. I was the Chairman of the Washington County Fair for two years plus served as a board member for ten years. I have been co-chairman of the Peach Days event held Labor Day Weekend. I have been an area volunteer and worker in the political process.

I enjoy working with livestock and the western way of life and was a member of the Hurricane Roping Club for many years. I rode the Nevada State Champion Trail and Western Pleasure horses to their championships in 1972 and 1973. I manage my own Barber Shop, "Tom's Clip Joint", located at 119 West State Street in Hurricane and can be found cutting hair most days. My activities include many other civic and church affairs in our area. I have driven a Washington County School District bus here in Hurricane for 21 years and have enjoyed getting to know all the area children very much.

I love people and try to let them know it. I know that each individual is important and that as a whole we are excellent.The reason I ran for e Mayor is to honor my heritage and demonstrate the love I have for Hurricane. I have watched over 50 years of growth here in Hurricane and I want to be a part of keeping it the town that I loved growing up. A town of heritage, friendliness, love, and tradition. I hope to help Hurricane project the image of a well kept community with businesses that will offer good wages for all who work and live here, a place where our children can grow up with peace and contentment in these busy times.

Thomas Beatty Hirschi

Mayor

Hurricane, Utah

Mayor’s Update 2/8/2010

The 600 North construction project is progressing well despite inclement weather. Asphalt will be laid soon between 200 West and 870 West which will provide a secondary access to the new elementary school. We anticipate the entire project will be completed by the end of May.

Construction on the SR-9 widening project is also underway. For across town travel, I recommend using 100 North or 100 South whenever possible to avoid construction. Please be aware that the stop signs on both 100 North and 100 South have been realigned to accommodate a more fluid east-west traffic flow. Use caution at intersections as many motorists are still adjusting to the changes. We encourage you to continue patronizing businesses located in the construction zone. Many of the businesses on State Street can be accessed off side streets or from rear entrances. Please use extra caution when travelling in construction zones.

The City will soon be taking possession of the old elementary school property. We are currently looking at many options and proposals for how best to utilize the property as we work toward making it a vibrant City Center. We are considering using the old school as a business incubator to assist start-up enterprises. We may also rent out space for arts programs, family reunions and parties, and community events. We welcome input and volunteerism from our citizens as plans move forward.

New appointments have been made to several City boards and commissions. Ralph Ballard and Sherrill Nelson have agreed to serve on the Planning Commission. Dean McNeill and Charles Reeve will serve on the Airport Board. And Tonya Jocelyn will fill a seat on the Board of Adjustments. We are looking forward to working with all of them. Additionally, we are starting a Tree Board and a Trails Board this year. Also, I am still looking for a few community members to serve on the Historical Preservation Board and the Downtown Development Committee. I would be delighted to hear from anyone interested in serving. Please email me at thirschi@cityofhurricane.com