The Mountainland Association of Governments announced Tuesday the appointment of Michelle Carroll as its new executive director. After 50 years as an organizing body, Carroll is the fourth executive director of MAG and the first woman to hold the position.

“I am so pleased that Michelle Carroll will be taking on the role of Executive Director of MAG. Michelle is not only highly qualified, but is uniquely qualified to direct the day-to-day operations at MAG. She will also be able to help our MAG region deal with the current and future transportation needs as our three counties continue to grow and change,” Denise Andersen, mayor of Cedar Hills and MAG Executive Council chair, said in a press release. “Her experience with local, regional and state government and planning is extensive, and a true asset to her role at MAG. She is a great collaborator, and truly dedicated to the mission of MAG.”

A coalition of county commissioners and mayors from Utah, Summit and Wasatch counties, MAG seeks to help the varied and interconnected communities with growth, economic development and informed aging, according to its mission statement.

The group provides support on a governmental level — overseeing development and transportation plans — and on an individual level with volunteer services, small business loans and various home protection programs.

Carroll has been deputy director of MAG for the past three years after spending 11 as the community and economic development director for the group and sitting on the Spanish Fork Planning Commission.

“I am passionate about working collaboratively with elected officials, stakeholders, and community partners to build consensus around decisions that empower communities to achieve their vision,” Carroll said in a press release. “I am excited to serve the communities in Utah, Summit and Wasatch counties and MAG’s staff as MAG’s Executive Director.”

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