New Cedar City Mayor and Council Members Sworn In

On January 5, 2026, Steven Nelson was officially sworn in as the new mayor of Cedar City during a ceremony held at City Hall's Council Chambers.

 

Alongside him, Waldo Galan took the oath for his inaugural term as a city councilman, while R. Scott Phillips commenced his third term on the council.

 

Mayor Nelson, a lifelong resident of Cedar City, has deep familial ties to the community, tracing back to its original settlers.

 

His extensive civic involvement includes leadership roles with the Cedar City Board of Adjustments, Downtown Economic Development, Chamber of Commerce, and the Iron County Board of Realtors.

 

Additionally, he co-founded the Iron Leaders Academy and has dedicated over 25 years to coaching youth sports.

 

His commitment to economic and downtown development has been instrumental in shaping Cedar City's future.

 

Notably, Mayor Nelson is the second individual to serve as a directly elected mayor since the city's transition from a commission to a mayoral system in 2021.

 

Councilman Galan brings a wealth of experience from his 32-year tenure at Ford Motor Company, where he led initiatives across sales, marketing, and international partnerships.

 

After retiring, he and his wife chose Cedar City as their permanent home.

 

Galan has been actively involved in the community, serving on boards such as the Cedar City Interfaith Alliance and the Canyon Creek Women's Crisis Center.

 

He co-owns a local small business with his daughter and remains engaged in church and civic services.

 

Known for his thoughtful leadership and ability to navigate complex issues, Galan is committed to fostering a transparent and forward-thinking city government.

 

Councilman Phillips has dedicated over four decades to public relations, marketing, and theatre administration.

 

He served as the executive director of the Utah Shakespeare Festival for a decade and has been actively involved in political advocacy at various levels.

 

Phillips has lived in Cedar City for more than 45 years and is proud to call it his home.

 

His re-election to a third term reflects the community's trust in his leadership and vision for the city's future.

 

The swearing-in ceremony marks a significant moment for Cedar City as these leaders embark on their respective terms, aiming to guide the community toward continued growth and prosperity.