In a historic vote for the Utah soccer community, the Salt Lake City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday, January 12 to authorize the release of $15.3 million in bonds that were passed by the voters in 2003. This vote, which occurred in Council chambers packed with soccer supporters, paves the way for construction to begin as soon as this summer . Phase 1 has been planned to include 13 soccer fields and two baseball diamonds. These facilities could become available as early as the fall of 2011.

Former UYSA President Paul C. Burke was invited to address the Council on Tuesday, and Burke answered a battery of questions during the Council's work session before the vote. The Council also heard comments from young players, young-at-heart coaches and parents, and other supporters of the project. Former Mayor Rocky Anderson also appear to speak in support of the project.

After the vote, Paul C. Burke applauded the Council's vote of confidence and also expressed appreciation for the efforts and commitment of Mayor Ralph Becker and his Administration. Burke also praised the soccer community for countering the cries of misguided critics of the project. "The strong voice of our soccer community was heard," Burke said. "In classic soccer style, this was a team victory for the Utah soccer community---players, parents, coaches, administrators, referees, and fans alike stood up for this project. Everyone made a difference. Now the Salt Lake Sports Complex is coming, and it will be a facility enjoyed by generations of Utah soccer players."

Here is the Deseret News' coverage of this historic vote: http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705358161/SL-Council-backs-soccer-complex.html Here is the Salt Lake Tribune's coverage: http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_14177954 Here is a copy of Former UYSA President Paul C. Burke's Letter to Mayor Becker: Burke_Letter_to_Mayor_becker.pdf