Agency Histories
Hooper (Utah)
Prior Names
Abstract
Biography/History Notes
The City was incorporated on November 30, 2000, and had a population of approximately 4,719 people. Current population of Hooper City according to 2012 census in now 7,722 and growing. Much of what is now the city has traditionally been devoted to agricultural land uses including the raising of animals and the cultivation of alfalfa, grain, corn and onions. Hooper lies within one of the fastest growing counties in the state (Weber), in one of the fastest growing states (Utah), and in the middle of the fastest growing region in the country. As a result, Hooper is currently facing significant residential growth pressure.
The recorded history of Hooper begins with the experience of the trappers and government explorers. John C. Fremont, accompanied by Kit Carson and others, passed down the river in a rubber boat through the present site of Hooper when they were on their way to explore the Great Salt Lake and Fremont's Island.
In the pioneer days of Utah the district now included in Hooper, then known as "Muskrat Springs," was used as a herd ground by the Honorable William H. Hooper, Utah's delegate to Congress, and others. Captain Hooper ran his cattle from Clearfield to the Weber River. In 1854 he built an adobe house shelter for his herdsmen. It was located near what is known as Hale's Bend. It was the first building in Hooper. A monument erected by the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers now stands near the location of the original heard house at approximately 1926 N 5600 W, Hooper, UT 84315.
The Township of Hooper was created in 1996 subsequent to voting down an effort to incorporate some 15 years earlier. When it became evident that the township board could make plans and suggestions, but had no official power, the move to incorporation gained momentum, resulting in a vote to incorporate on Tuesday, May 2nd, 2000. Sponsors of the move to incorporate were members of the township board; Bette Wilson, Theo Cox, Janet Stoddard, Richard Noyes and Clair Widdison. Dennis Weston and Max Hunter were alternates.
Hooper residents chose a mayor-council form of government with a seven-member council. This was approved by the County, and by June 2, 2000 candidates began filing for the newly created offices.
The General election held Tuesday, November 7, 2000, Durk Bailey became the Mayor with City Councilmen as follows: District #1, Bradley Beus and Mark Bingham; District #2, Theo Cox and Bob Fowers; District #3, Korry Green and Richard Noyes and Dennis Weston became Councilman at-large.