Gary Herbert in 2014 Governor's State of the State speeches

On Families & Children: Population growth is challenging: doubling in 35 years

Take education, for example. We have a fast-growing student population, which creates a major funding demand. It costs us nearly $70 million per year in additional money just to pay for our new students.

On Government Reform: Ongoing review of election laws to upholding public trust

On Local Issues: State Capitol, built a century ago, was built for the future

In 1914, when Governor William Spry cemented the cornerstone in place, some wondered why the Capitol needed to be so large when Utah's population was so small. The answer is simple. They were not building for what they were. They were building for what Utah could become.

Just as they laid a solid foundation to make Utah what it is today, it is our responsibility to continue to build upon that foundation and make Utah even stronger.

Tonight, I ask you to join with me in building upon the foundation laid by those who came before us a century ago. As elected officials, we are entrusted by the people to manage the affairs of the state, and to provide vision and leadership. Let us set aside any personal agenda and work to benefit the Utahns we serve.