Mayor Gritton announces Squires as Director of City Services nominee
Last week, the city of Soda Springs held its first council meeting of 2026, during which Paul Gritton was sworn in as the city’s new mayor, preceded by Austin Robinson. Due to the fact that councilman Ryan Carpenter was not able to attend the meaning, two technicalities remain to be completed before the city’s business begins in full.
While new councilwoman Paige Byram was sworn in to begin serving in her elected position, nominee Daniel Larsen was not officially able to be confirmed, due to the lack of a quorum. Larsen, who was unofficially approved by the council, will soon be officially sworn in to allow him the serve as a voting member of the council.
On a related note, a newly nominated Director of City Services was announced, though his appointment will also require a full vote.
Mayor Paul Gritton announced: “This week, at the special council meeting on January 14th, I will formally nominate (He was nominated at last week’s meeting but due to a lack of a quorum, a vote could not be held) Daniel Squires to be the next City of Soda Springs Director of City Services. Another often heard title for the position that Dan will take is City Administrator. As Director of City Services he will direct the day to day operations of the City with oversight of the Mayor and City Council.
Dan has been a proven leader in our community for many years. I’ve known Dan somewhere around 20 years, the last two years working with him from my role as a city councilman. Director Squires quickly earned my respect while I watched him go about his duties.
He serves his community with integrity, passion and an undeniable work ethic. His common sense, proactive, visionary thinking has served the citizens well in the past. Dan’s easy going, friendly, approachable and always helpful demeanor makes him the ideal candidate. His knowledge of the City, its infrastructure and all of the great people that keep the City going each day will help him make Soda Springs an even better place to live. I know that Director Squires will accomplish many more great things and will serve our citizen’s well.”
Daniel Squires states that he was “born and raised in Soda Springs and am married to my wife Jennifer and have two wonderful kids. I attended Soda Springs High School and received my welding certifications through Idaho State University. I began working for the City of Soda Springs in October of 2000, starting as a laborer in the water department before becoming an operator in the water and waste water departments. I obtained my Drinking Water Level 2, Waste Water Treatment Level 4, and Waste Water Collections Level 1 certifications.”
Squires joined the Soda Springs Volunteer Fire Department in 2002 and became Fire Chief in 2013. “During my spare time, I enjoy building and driving classic cars, Razor riding and going on vacation with family and friends,” Squires added.
The Director of City Services position has not been filled for a number of years. It brings together oversight and coordination of the city’s essential services, something that Squires has to some extent been doing under his various existing titles, including those related to the Fire Department and Wastewater Treatment.
