Scott Smith was identified as a member of the Highland City Council in a January 2023 newsletter. During that same period, he was listed as one of the council members who would continue serving alongside Mayor Kurt Ostler and Council Member Ron Campbell.
In the context of municipal governance, Smith was noted for his professional background that influenced city policy efforts. According to the November 2025 newsletter, Smith maintained a long-standing relationship with U.S. Representative Mike Kennedy, having previously been partners in the same medical practice. This connection was cited as a key component in the city's effort to obtain a unique ZIP code for Highland. For many years, the city shared the 84003 ZIP code with American Fork, a situation that has resulted in various community challenges.
The push for a distinct ZIP code involved formal communication with federal officials. According to the November 2025 newsletter, the Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator submitted a formal letter to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform on October 21, 2025, to request a unique ZIP code. This request was made with support from both Representative Mike Kennedy and Senator John Curtis. The city's advocacy for a new ZIP code was driven by several documented concerns, including sales tax misallocation, mail delivery issues, insurance rate discrepancies, and online address errors. One economic study highlighted in the November 2025 newsletter estimated that Highland loses approximately $4.9 million annually in sales tax revenue due to incorrect ZIP code assignment.
Residents encounter the work of the City Council through various public channels. The city provides full agendas, minutes, and audio for council meetings on its official website. Additionally, the council's activities are summarized in the Highland Insider newsletter. In the January 2023 newsletter, the city also utilized social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, to conduct casual interviews with council members to help residents get to know them better. These interviews were intended to showcase the council members' personalities and senses of humor.
While Smith's specific legislative actions are not detailed in isolation, the council's broader work includes diverse municipal responsibilities. For example, the council has addressed fire department funding, discussed park impact fees for Mountain Ridge Park, and reviewed ordinances regarding alcohol sales. The council also manages city-wide issues such as the implementation of the General Plan and the management of open space property. These administrative and legislative functions are carried out through regular sessions held at the Highland City Council Chambers located at 5400 West Civic Center Drive.
What this means for Highland
Highland residents encounter Scott Smith's influence through the city's ongoing efforts to secure a unique ZIP code. By leveraging professional connections to federal representatives, the council aims to resolve issues like sales tax misallocation and mail delivery confusion. Residents can track these legislative efforts and other council activities through the city's official website and newsletters.
