Wasatch County

Who is PAYING for the RAISE?

2012-02-05T23:05:00.000-07:00

Wasatch County residents want to know! It is now over two months since the decision was made for a fourfold pay increase by a few of our elected officials,and nary an explanation, justification or rationalization has been offered. Adequate opportunities have been available when asked at Council meetings, or after a bevy a comments at the HL&P Board meeting, or in responses to Email queries on

Open Letter to Pay Recipients

2012-02-05T22:43:00.000-07:00

Enough is Enough - Wasatch County residents want to know An Open letter to recipients of the HL & P pay raise (1/27 Via Email to: David Phillips, Connie Tatton, John Whiting, Mike Kohler, Benny Mergist, Alan McDonald, Nile Horner, Robert Patterson, Eric Straddeck, Erik Rowland, Jeff Bradshaw) First, let me offer my apologies for the delivery of my comments at the recent Heber Light and Power

HL & P Board Comments

2012-01-29T19:30:00.003-07:00

While the recent HL & P Board meeting allowed comments from the public, many questions raised but NONE were answered. Acting Chair Connie Tatton, sitting in for the 'vacationing' Chair (and Mayor) Dave Phillips, prefaced the comment period with a statement than no explanation would be made, no questions would be answered and no discussion would be held. After the comment period the meeting was

HL & P Board Pay Raise Update

2012-01-20T15:09:00.003-07:00

The health insurance benefit (aka pay raise) for the Board of Directors (Elected Officials) was approved in the November 2011 meeting. The meeting agenda shows this item: Administration – General Business *2012 Preliminary Budget *2012 Operating Resolution *Employee & Exempt Employee Manual Amendments The minutes of the meeting for this item report: "Employee and Exempt Manual

Heber Light and Power Board PAY increase

2012-01-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

Elected Official have historically served on subsidiary boards with no, or a token, payment. They are paid for their official duties and are, or should be, aware of both the duties AND the pay before they were elected.In recent year, the trend has been to offer pay for board service. This decision has NOT been made by those paying the bill, but by those receiving the money. In particular,

Heber Election Update

2011-11-07T08:08:00.001-07:00

With the election tomorrow, I hope apathy is not the winner in the municipal election in Heber City. The choice is clear - more of the same or a return to representative government. The primary winnowed the field down to, apparently, two groups - the status quo vs. change. Here's an update to my recommendations for return to checks and balance and fiscal responsibility. While you have the

Redistricting followup

2011-09-28T12:06:00.000-06:00

The latest edition of the "approved" redistricting maps can be found here The new proposed legislative district containing Wasatch County, maintains the integrity of the county as a whole and combines it with some of Summit County (PKC). While my preference would have been to remain united with Duchesne, this is probably not a bad alternative. Wasatch fared much better than Duchesne, see

Redistricting ALERT

2011-09-15T12:25:00.002-06:00

There will be a Special Session of the Legislature to finalize the plans on October 3rd. (In less than 3 weeks) That accepted plan will govern for TEN Years. Wasatch County needs a united front and it is needed NOW or we can hope our friends in PKC or elsewhere will look out for us. In case you haven't seen the recent Redistricting Committee recommendations, be aware that Wasatch

Heber Council Candidates

2011-09-12T11:14:00.000-06:00

I am a supporter of the old adage; “he governs best, who governs least.” My personal preference is for small government with maximum openness, transparency and FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY. I’m a strong believer in citizen involvement in government and would like to see separation of powers and a cessation of favoritism. Government should make good laws, people (including those in government) should

Stop Sign Study Released

2010-10-30T13:44:00.000-06:00

Two years after the proposal to reconsider four way stop signs, the County Council met (10/6 - no minutes available, but Neil Anderton's report below) and decided 5-2 to continue the use on 1200 South and 2400 South. Contrary to the local action, Cottonwood Heights (with input from GILSON ENGINEERING, INC.) has adopted a Stop Sign Removal Policy declaring "it is very important to use stop

Four Way Stops - continued

2010-08-30T12:23:00.004-06:00

Useless Stop Signs - (and procrastination by committee) Just over two years ago, a proposal was made to the Wasatch County Council to consider changing four way stops to two way stops, particularly on 1200 South. The proposal included a study done by the Institute of Traffic Engineers regarding all-way stops which indicated that multi-highway stops do not control speed except under very

Wasatch County Foreclosures

2010-07-08T11:29:00.000-06:00

Wasatch County Foreclosures Wasatch County has 411 properties in some stage of mortgage default. Realty Trac lists 99 Properties as defaults with a status of "pre-foreclosure," 75 up for auction in a trustee sale and 237 Banked Owned properties as of 6/14/2010. Also listed are 253 house "For

School Budget 2010

2010-06-24T14:13:00.000-06:00

Once again there are a few questions that might be asked about the latest budget. The budget is dated 6/11, so there has been little time for analysis. The proposed budget is available here. Last year a few of the questions were answered. According to the notice: "Also proposed will be an increase in the 2009-10 Budget from funds currently available." Does this mean that the

2010 County Candidates

2010-03-19T20:45:00.000-06:00

2010 Elected Office Fillings - Updated Friday March 19, 2010 - 5:10 pm - County Council Seats At-Large - Seat A Chip Turner (R) Jay Price (R) Donna Hayes (D) Heber North - Seat C Richard J. Boulter (R) Garth L Brown (R) Stephen R. Capson (R) Kent Smith (D) County East - Seat F David M. Fife (R) Greg McPhie (R) Neil G. Anderton (D) Jon W. Jacobsmeyer (D) County Treasurer Joey Diane

Hub Intersection Traffic Part 3

2009-11-26T11:50:00.005-07:00

An exchange of Emails with UDOT (They DO listen):(Here are the Email addresses to UDOT if you would care to contact them: Dave Nazare, Doug Bassett ) Nov 2009:I would be remiss this Thanksgiving day not to thank UDOT for modifying the left turn signal at the Hub intersection in Heber.On additional point concerning #4 (s) below, changing the green light in the left turn lane to a yellow caution

The Continuing Saga of Wasatch City

2009-11-05T11:44:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time in a quiet rural village nestled in the mountains of Utah, the villagers live in bucolic peace, comfort and tranquility. It was decided, by some of the outlanders, that the valley would be a lovely place for an international sporting event. Some of the villagers rejoiced and looked forward to an economic boom to be ushered in by the international acclaim. Some said, “there goes

Area Police Salaries

2009-08-22T09:26:00.011-06:00

A rough analysis of the comparative salaries of Law Enforcement in the local area. Data SOURCE In an economic downturn, local governments need to cut back spending and have done so - right? Heber City Police are underpaid - right? Wasatch County pay is lower than Heber and surrounding areas - right? Apparently NOT, but draw your own conclusions:(Note: two averages are given for Park City as their

Wastch County Payroll Update

2009-08-06T23:28:00.006-06:00

THE TOP TEN (of 274)Michael Davis COUNTY MANAGER $105,397 up $16,531 +18.6%Phil Wright HEALTH DEPARTMENT $104,330 up $6,699 +6.9%Dennis Hansen PREVENTION $98,334 up $11,843 +13.7%Alfred Mickelsen PLANNING & ZONING $91,386 up $2,520 +2.8%Kent Berg PUBLIC WORKS $90,791 up $7,732 +9.3%Thomas Low ATTORNEY $86,586 up $5,362 +6.6%Don Wood GIS-DATA

Heber City Salary Update -2009

2009-08-06T22:58:00.008-06:00

The Top Ten Mark Anderson **City Manager** $97,737 up $2,224 +2.3% Edward Rhoades **Chief Of Police** $79,568 up $2,245 +2.9%Bart Mumford ***Engineer*** $78,363 dn $ 614Steve Tozier *Director Public Works* $72,378 up $5,732 +8.6%Jason Bradley **Police Sergeant** $68,099 up $2,425 +3.7%Wesley Greenhalgh *Building Official* $67,481 up $921 +1.4%J.m. Smedley ***City Attorney***

School Budget Questions

2009-06-24T17:04:00.006-06:00

Here are a few questions on the 2009/10 School budget, which were recently sent to the Board of Education for the Public Hearing on 25 June. (A prompt response has been received from Board Chair, Ann Horner (see below) Thank you, Ann. Why are teacher and education salaries decreasing and maintenance increasing? "maintenance went up because of additional staff required for thelarger High School."

Truth in Education (Construction) Costs

2009-06-16T15:52:00.003-06:00

It appears that the School District has opted not to release ALL of the teacher's aides, finding money to keep perhaps two thirds of them. It was nice to read on the School website that several of these proposed suggestions were adopted. Earlier, funding had been "found" to build the third high school gym, and finish adding bricks and mortar. An analysis of recent school budget leads to the

Bricks OR Aides?

2009-04-17T11:45:00.004-06:00

A recent report stated that the School District "is currently in excellent shape financially," and that the shortfall this year was covered "without individuals losing their jobs."Perhaps it needs to be asked why 2/3's of the teacher's aides need to be fired for next year. It would seem that these employees are probably more important, and helpful to EDUCATION than, for example, a third gym.A

Hub Intersection Traffic part 2

2009-03-26T12:03:00.000-06:00

December 2008Dear UDOT:As it appears the Hub intersection is nearing completion for the new right turn from Main St. down the Canyon, I humbly suggest a reevaluation of the LEFT turn from Main St. onto 1200 S. I just drove home via the Hub intersection, as I regrettably often must do. There were six cars waiting to make that left turn, four of them were able to turn on the green. one snuck

Legislative Audit Shows High School Over Budget

2008-11-30T19:06:00.003-07:00

The cost of the new Wasatch High School appears to be $77 million as opposed to $59.5 authorized in the November 2006 bond which stated "that general obligation bonds would not exceed $59.5 million for the purpose of defraying all or a portion of the costs of land acquisition, equipment, acquisition, and construction of a new high school and related improvements." The school construction cost is

North/South Fields Rezone

2008-11-16T22:26:00.005-07:00

The move is on to rezone the North Fields. The first step appears to be the rezone of the South Fields, this was recommended by a 4-1 vote at the recent Planning Commission meeting.A public Hearing on the matter is scheduled for 6 PM on 19 Nov. It is item #9. Items #7 and #8 are also rezone requests (P160 to M zone or 1 house per 160 acres to a potential 1 house per 2.5 acres - a 64 fold increase

Removing Four Way Stops

2008-07-18T23:48:00.005-06:00

Open Letter to Wasatch County Council: I would like to strongly urge the removal of the Stop Signs on 1200 South at 2400 E, 3600 E, 4800 E and, possibly, 1200 E.These intersections are currently all 4 way stops.Reasons for removal:1200 S is designated a major collector and the recent General Plan called for upgrading and less access.I'd guess 90% of the traffic at the intersections is on 1200 S

Hub Intersection Traffic

2008-07-17T00:04:00.001-06:00

Email to UDOT 3/15/2007 10:23 PM Suggestion for the intersection of 189 and 40 ( or 1200 S and Main St. in Heber. This is one of the busiest intersections in Heber City (Soon to be made worse by the proposed Big Box/Boyer development to be located there.) An improvement to the flow of traffic could be made by allowing South bound traffic on Main St. to make the left turn onto 1200 S (heading

Provo Canyon Road et al

2008-06-06T21:23:00.001-06:00

The cost of Provo Canyon Road appears to have been $108,020,325 See page 69 of UDOT STIPThat seems to be a little higher than I remember. DNews 3/4/2005 "The five major projects in UDOT's Region 3, covering the north-central part of the state, will cost a combined total of more than $83 million. The most significant of those projects, by far, is in Utah County. It involves

HUB Intersection - Gridlock Coming Soon???

2008-06-06T12:18:00.005-06:00

Let's talk TRAFFIC - Most Wasatch County residents have, I'm sure, noticed a massive increase in traffic in recent years to the residential growth. A new study has been released showing the effect of the Boyer Development (Valley Station, formerly Crossings at Heber, aka Walmart, Big Box, etc.) on the most crowded intersection in the Valley. US 40 and SR 189 or the Hub Intersection.The DMJM

Heber City Salaries and Population Density

2008-06-05T23:43:00.001-06:00

Heber City public employee Salaries are now posted online.Top Ten:Mark Anderson City Manager Administration - $95,513 Bart Mumford Engineer Engineering - $78,977 Edward Rhoades Chief Of Police

Hideout Incorporation Vetoed

2008-02-07T23:41:00.000-07:00

The Wasatch County Council dismissed the Hideout annexation at its meeting 2/6/08. SLTrib and DNews reported on the meeting.A little further info: The meeting was held before an overflow crowd of more than 100. Hideout's attorneys and owners present their interpretation of compliance with the 2007 Incorporation law.Hideout indicate "the law is, what the law is" and the 'people' wanted to

Incorporation Law - background

2008-02-07T22:42:00.000-07:00

The incorporation law passed in 2007 was hastily passed and badly flawed. It effectively allow a "company town" or a large land-owner to incorporate residents into a town controlled by the developer without there permission or even their KNOWLEDGE.The bill was presented as assisting a group of people to acquire municipal services and requiring a feasibility study. The wording of the bill is

INCORPORATIONS

2007-12-12T23:17:00.000-07:00

Aspen - Independence - Hideout - Woodland - will Podunk village be next? HB 466 has launched an open season on incorporation in Wasatch County. Thankfully, someone in the legislature is trying to change the law. Sen. Stowell is looking for comments, Wasatch residents should have quite a few!!! Tuesday, December 04, 2007 Becoming a Town By Dennis StowellUtah State Senator, District

Update on Proposed Developments

2007-12-07T12:26:00.000-07:00

Wasatch County has updated its monthly development report.13,000 new houses waiting in the wings.Heber City has also updated its too!!About 3,000 additional coming.

County Payrolls

2007-12-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

With Budget hearings now in progress, you may be interested in the Wasatch County payroll.These figures seem to be base salaries, without fringe benefits, overtime etc. The site has many other municipal payrolls, but does NOT include Heber City:Here are the top 12 on the payroll of 243 listed:Phil D Wright - Health - $97,631

Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment

2007-12-02T23:48:00.000-07:00

If any of you readers have desire to serve and attempt to assist in the planning of Wasatch County, here's a limited time (one month, or less, to apply) opportunity (Similar positions may be available at the municipal level):There are two County Planning Commissioners (George Holmes and Bob Gappmayer) whose terms expire at the end of December. Plus possibly one additional available who

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

2007-11-29T23:30:00.000-07:00

What determines a "Conflict of Interest?" A conflict of interest is “A situation in which a person’s individual interests are in opposition to the interests of his duty to others. As an example an elected public official who owns real estate may approve a ruling or a change in zoning that would increase the value of his property.” (Quoted from The Plain Language Law Dictionary)There are

Update on County RA-1

2007-11-20T22:58:00.000-07:00

The Plan to "encourage innovative site planning" with the objective for "Achieving a Rural Landscape Character and, specifically, to "maintain and protect Wasatch County's rural character" and to promote a rural feel along county roads" and all sorts of wonderful platitudes is nearing completion and passage by the County Council. This proposal was discussed here in September. It hasn't

People's Referendum Fails

2007-11-13T23:25:00.000-07:00

Regrettably, too many listened to the propaganda by Boyer/Walmart outspending the local citizenry by probably 50 to 100 to one. (as predicted) The valiant effort by the citizens' referendum failed to stop the Big Box behemoth, proving once again that massive advertising campaigns with cutesy slogans seem to work (e.g. $900,000 benefits).On the positive side there will be some new faces on the

VOTE NO on Big Box Mixed Up zone

2007-11-05T07:27:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow's the big day for Heber Citizens to vote on the rezoning issue to allow 150,000+ sq. ft. big box retail stores AND 20 housing units per acre in Heber City. I strongly urge a vote AGAINST this proposal. 1 The project will cost Heber City resident MORE in property taxes, not less. No analysis has been done showing the COSTS to Wasatch County residents (which includes Heber City) of

Big Box Advertisement response

2007-10-11T23:32:00.000-06:00

ADD your name to the No Big Box for Heber Valley PetitionIn response to the full page 10/10/07 ad in the Wasatch Wave (one of a $$$ series), I offer this response:MIXED UP Chaos ZoneSo why would someone like me vote AGAINST the proposed Mixed Use Big Box ordinance?10 Shopping Convenience: Many Heber Valley residents enjoy an occasional shopping trip to the "big city" only to return to the rural,

Here We Go Again - Development History

2007-09-20T14:44:00.000-06:00

Once again the County Council has understood that the current RA-1 zoning ordinance is in need of repair. Since the moratorium of September 2005, the County has enacted two RA-1 laws to maintain our "rural" atmosphere. At that time (2005) a group of citizens tried to suggest a solution to the growth, as usual it was met with a gaping yawn of indifference.The first try called for 50% open space, a

Heber Council Primary Results

2007-09-11T22:31:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to the winners of the Heber City Council Primary.1 Eric Straddeck - - 43% of voters2 Robert Patterson - - 38%3 Nile Horner - - 30%4 Terry Lange - - 29%5 Michael Thurber - - 28% 6 Kieth Rawlings - - 27% of votersThe voters of Heber City achieved an anemic 14% turnout (911 votes cast), with each voter casting an average of 2.8 votes. The first columns below are

Heber Council Candidates

2007-09-10T07:43:00.000-06:00

With the upcoming Primary Election for Heber City Council coming up, several people have asked my opinion on the ten candidates, of whom four will be eliminated. Heber City residents will be able to vote for up to three of the ten. Many worthy candidates available, but the tough choices need to be made; no offense herein to any willing to to step up and run for office!!As I am not a city

Truth (?) Part 2

2007-08-31T10:58:00.000-06:00

Allow me once again to attempt to explain Truth in Taxation. A hearing would not have been required if the School District had accepted the Certified Tax Rate, which would have allowed the same revenue to be collected as the prior year. By looking at individual property tax bills, each tax payer can see that, in general, most individual tax items apparently accepted the growth revenue

TRUTH (?) in Taxation

2007-08-17T15:53:00.001-06:00

I took the opportunity to attend the “Truth in Taxation” for the proposed 49.34% in “School District property tax revenue for the prior year.” I’m sad to have to report that there were two major losers at that meeting - Wasatch County taxpayers and the TRUTH.To no one’s surprise, the tax increase was passed unanimously by the school board. Many in attendance felt the School Board was as

Bypass, Big Box

2007-07-20T15:03:00.000-06:00

Wasatch County (via MAG RPO) gave a good presentation (large file) to the Transportation Commission this morning about Heber Main Street traffic, the West Bypass road, the River Road intersection and "the Hub" US40/189 intersection. Included were resolutions from Wasatch and Heber supporting the bypass. The reported traffic study (2005) showed 25,000 vehicles per day on Main Street,

Heber City Council Candidates

2007-07-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

In reverse alphabetical order:Michael Thurber - 1162 W Countryside Cir; 654-1926; Midway Postmaster; former Planning Commissioner; member Big Box study committee; Wife is Heber City recorder;Eric Straddeck - 446 N 1300 E; 657-0891; Effective Business Solutions, Inc.; Owner (?) TigerLight, IncKieth Rawlings - 126 W 500N; 657 1999; Planning

Open Letter to County Council

2007-07-12T12:57:00.000-06:00

A few comments on the developments discussed in the County Council meeting 7/11:I believe it should be noted that the County is NOT required to approve any bonuses for RA-1 developments, such approval is purely a discretionary legislative act for planned unit/performance developments and, if considered, the subjective ratings for the bonuses are completely at the discretion of the County. The '

2007-06-26T15:33:00.000-06:00

Report of recent Planning Commission meeting:The current "standard" development in Wasatch County is described in 16.27.09 and more specifically 16.27.10(2). (regrettably not available on the County Website) "Bonuses" above the "standard" of one house per 1.3 acres, with an average lot size of one acre, may be available at the discretion of Wasatch County by following procedures described in

Scriptural warnings

2007-06-18T23:18:00.000-06:00

Planning and Zoning?? Isaiah 5:8 Woe unto them that join house to house, that lay field to field, till there be no place, that they may be placed alone in the midst of the earth! 9 In mine ears said the LORD of hosts, Of a truth many houses shall be desolate, even great and fair, without inhabitant.Micah 2:2 And they covet fields, and take them by violence; and houses, and take them away: so they

Wasatch City - Part 27

2007-06-11T22:25:00.000-06:00

Many of you long-time residents of delightful rural Wasatch County remember the good old days of green fields, pastures and open spaces that you cherished about the lovely Heber Valley. Many of you newcomers were enticed to this area because of the same features.Most of you are aware that we live in one of the fastest growing areas of the country, partly because of the valley's desirability

New High school over budget??

2007-05-22T22:50:00.000-06:00

Ogden School District grapples with a $40 million shortfall, with plenty of projects in the pipe - excerpt:Ogden district isn't alone. Wasatch School District voters approved a $59.5 million bond in November 2006. The district estimated $50 million to construct its new high school and $9.5 million for the land purchase and furniture. Bids are still coming in and could be decided in mid-June. But

New Telephone Poll on Big Box

2007-04-16T22:43:00.000-06:00

A telephone poll is being conducted in Wasatch County by "Western Research" for an unnamed client:Questions:Does Heber City have enough retail?Would you prefer services (like police and fire ??) to be paid by propertytax or sales tax.Does Heber need a WalMart?Development proposes Lowe's and other stores, do you favor that being built?If the vote were held today, would you vote to repeal the

Wal-Mart Gears Up for Campaign in Heber

2007-04-13T22:38:00.000-06:00

Apr 11, 2007 by Julie Rose (KCPW News)Anti-big box organizers in Heber collected enough signatures to get the city's big-box zoning ordinance on this November's ballot. But now they'll have to campaign against one of the world's wealthiest corporate giants for enough votes to quash "big box" stores in Heber.Wal-Mart spokesman Gray McGinnis thinks a "silent majority" of voters will welcome his

BIG BOX repeal on the ballot

2007-04-12T22:29:00.000-06:00

The referendum petition was reportedly certified by the County Clerk today.1658 Signatures submitted1424 Certified as valid - others were not registered, duplicates, non Heber, etc.As under 1200 were required by law to put the item on the ballot; it appears that Heber citizens WILL have the opportunity to repeal the MURCZA zone allowing 150,000 (or more) sqft retail businesses and five story

Council Approves Red Ledges

2007-03-19T10:48:00.000-06:00

It continues to amaze me how some elected officials are seemingly oblivious to the desires and wishes of their constituents. Last week (3/15/07) the Heber City Council unanimously approved the annexation of the 1400 unit Red Ledges development. That application, submitted 11/22/06, had previously attempted approval through Wasatch County, but was brought to Heber City when it became apparent that

An Open Letter to Heber City Council

2007-02-26T16:28:00.000-07:00

The Heber Big Box issue was recently on KSL Click here: broadcast on KSL!!!Dear Heber City Council members,Some momentous decision are apparently soon to be made on two items which will have a lasting and unchangeable effect on the Heber Valley. The removal of the cap on retail business (Big Box) and the approval of the Red Ledges development. I urge, in the strongest terms, that a slow and

Heber City Council Comments on the Big Box Cap 2005

2007-02-26T16:16:00.000-07:00

Comments from the Heber City Council about the Big Box June 6, 2005 when the CAP was set at 60,000 sq.ft. on retail business:Councilmember Terry Wm. Lange – “We came to listen. We have learned from all of you the general way people feel.” He said it was important to him to know how the general pubic felt. He suggested this might be a very long-term ordinance change or it might be very short

Excerpts From Heber City Big Box Presentation 2005

2007-02-26T15:59:00.000-07:00

(Selected Excerpts)Big Box Presentation by Heber City 5/27/05 (*$15,000 of Heber Tax money)109,000 Sq. Ft. Smaller towns150,000 Sq. Ft. Market areas of 20,000-30,000180,000 Sq. Ft. Market areas of 30,000-50,000220,000 Sq. Ft. Market areas larger than 50,000Heber cannot rely on an increased trade area to mitigate impact of Wal-Mart80 percent of supermarket managers cite Wal-Mart as their biggest

An Open Letter to the County Council - Annexation

2007-02-22T15:09:00.000-07:00

A letter (Email) sent to County Officials 2/15/2007 (No response from any official)Gentlemen,While I can understand and applaud your attempts to work with Heber City officials on the annexation of Red Ledges, I strongly urge you to continue with the protest of the annexation to the boundary commission, and beyond, if necessary. As is generally agreed by all interested in the issue, the primary

Fear of Big Box - NOT ! ! !

2007-01-27T13:27:00.000-07:00

A respect for the desires of the community, rather than "Fear of the Big Box," is what is motivating those "opposing" a Big Box. Someone opined in the Wave of the supposed "Fear" driving opposition.A mere year and half ago the Heber City Council placed a cap on retail business at 60,000 sq. ft. in response to the expressed desires of the vast majority of the Heber Valley. This action followed a

Red Ledges Fiscal Impact Analysis - A Pig in a Poke???

2007-01-06T15:56:00.000-07:00

It’s axiomatic that developers and promoters will use numbers to prove and promote their particular project. This appears to be the case with Red Ledges. Is it really the Cash Cow some in the Heber City Government expect??Heber City RevenueFor the Heber City Tax revenue the study apparently uses a proposed SALE price as the assessed value. These sales prices are, at best, an estimate - probably

Why Does the County Council Want to Encourage MORE Houses than Before?

2006-12-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

A couple of people (including a current County Councilman) have questioned my data on the increase in potential houses as a result of the new proposed change to the existing development code.Here's a concrete example, that hopefully anyone (even the councilman) might understand:A development called Grand Haven (2400 S & 2400 E) filed for a "conservation" subdivision of 133 houses on 133 acres

Defining RURAL

2006-12-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

The RA-1 development code (and the General Plan) repeatedly mention the purpose and goal of RURAL. Many people seem to have trouble understanding the term, below are a few definitions found on the web which may be helpful in formulating law to institute the stated purposes. 16.27.10 (1) Requirements for Achieving a Rural Landscape Character. Achieving rural landscape character of a subdivision

NEW RA-1 Code = MORE houses

2006-12-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

On 11/29, the Wasatch County Council passed a new RA-1 development law again accelerating the march toward Wasatch City. This was a joint public hearing of the Council and the Planning Commission, which was not widely advertised. Changes to Title 16 (Land Use code) generally have two separate public hearings separated by 14 day public notice periods for the public to consider and comment on the

Red Ledges requests Heber Annexation

2006-11-17T23:48:00.000-07:00

Despite the 4-3 approval for a Zone change from the County Planning Commission, the Red Ledges apparently has decided to request annexation to Heber City."Todd Cates/Lauren Knowles – Annexation Petition – Red Ledges Recreation Community – Consisting of 1,515.73 Acres and located at approximately 2300 East to 3600 East Lake Creek Road on the northern side of Lake Creek Road" Heber City Council

Criteria for Rezoning

2006-11-13T16:05:00.000-07:00

The requirements for rezoning in Wasatch County are very clear. "amendments shall not be made to . . . the adopted Zoning Map except to promote more fully the objectives and purposes of the General Plan and this Title." Refer to the following for the code concerning establishment of the various zones and rezoning procedures.Also included are the "purposes" of Title 16 (15 items) and the General

Red Ledges Zone Change Approval

2006-11-10T16:37:00.000-07:00

A news story reported on the "ritzy venture" on Thursday, discussing the Red Ledges development and its effect on Wasatch County.The first step in the approval process came before the Planning Commission on 11/9, after an initial 3 to 3 vote in an earlier meeting. At this meeting, traffic studies indicated a threefold increase in traffic on Center St. from new developments - without some

Red Ledges Development Survey

2006-11-05T00:07:00.000-07:00

A new internet poll has been posted concerning the Red Ledges development at www.snipurl.com/ledges This survey is open to Wasatch County residents and is totally anonymous. It will take about five minutes to complete and has ample room for personal comments. Please feel free to weigh in with your opinion.The Red Ledges development is proposed as a large gated community with a private golf course

The Bid Process, by Tracy Taylor

2006-11-04T11:23:00.001-07:00

After an apparently short consideration the AG's office seems to have changed its mind.AG won't probe bidding for schoolSalt Lake Tribune - United StatesHEBER CITY - The Utah Attorney General's Office will not investigate an allegation that a design contract was awarded unfairly for a proposed $59.5 million ...(Comment added 11/2) This was submitted as a letter to the Wasatch Wave, which was not

Comments on comments in the Wave on Bond

2006-11-01T23:05:00.002-07:00

Well, typical of the last issue before an election, the Wasatch Wave reports being overrun with letters and was unable to print them all. However, following from their editorial position of support seemed to somewhat bias their letter selection, with three expressing concern over the bond and eight supportive of the Bond.Further if one calculates the column inches devoted to the two "sides," the

Property TAXES

2006-10-27T23:37:00.000-06:00

With the arrival in the mail of the 2006 tax notices, residents can now compute their potential individual annual payment for the new High School Bond.The indicated rate is about $78/$100K of "Taxable Value," which can be found just above the middle of the Tax Notice. Multiply that value. divided by $100,000, (e.g. for $250,000, multiply be 2.5) by $78 to get your tax increase, should the bond be

WOW, what did they miss?

2006-10-26T16:39:00.000-06:00

After unsuccessfully asking for more detailed information plans about the new High School, they've been found. For those interested the new proposed $60 million High School, more detailed school plans are available at the Wasatch School website. Click on the various "levels" for PDF files (large, allow a few minutes to download). The plans can then be enlarged for greater detail, to see what the

The SURVEY says . . .

2006-10-20T20:59:00.000-06:00

The Survey on the $60 million Wasatch High School was posted to try to gauge the pulse of the community and gather comments about the bond and the proposed High School. The proponents of the bond decided to use (abuse) the survey and turn it into propaganda promoting the YES vote.They were successful! 78% now report being strongly in favor of the bond. As promised, the results are now being made

Latest Survey comments

2006-10-09T17:46:00.000-06:00

14 responses today (10/9) - ALL in favor (5) One did say the price was too high and one was only "somewhat in favor," and 4 or 5 were through the Utah Educator Network IP; with the request for comments, many were posted - however the last one reverted to true from - "It's outdated""standard answer" = (generally) Strongly support, the price is just right, location is great, sell old school. It

Building vs. Salary

2006-10-07T15:39:00.000-06:00

Some people have commented that education would be far better served by focusing on the educators (and students, of course) rather than the BUILDING.I heartlily agree with that sentiment. By focusing on a extravagant oversized school/community center, we, necessarily, place our money where our collective mouth is. Apparently, we value the bricks more than the educators. Again, why not put less

Is the new high school too expensive?

2006-10-05T23:13:00.000-06:00

The Vote Yes for a new High School website has a list of "Frequently Asked Questions" (as the site is relatively know, how frequently could they have been asked?)#9 Poses this question - and "answer." Is the new high school too expensive? In 1964, the bond passed to build the current high school cost 17% of the value of all property in Wasatch County. The 2006 bond is only 3% of all property

How Large should a High School be?

2006-10-05T22:22:00.000-06:00

In addition to other information on School construction, the Utah State Office of Education provides a chart of Per Student Space Criteria.The recommendation for Senior High Schools with a 1500 student enrollment is 145 sq.ft./student or a total school area of 217,500 sq.ft.For 1,000 students they allow 155 sq.ft./student or a total school area of 155,000 sq.ft.Wasatch School is proposing 308,000

$60 Million & 308,000 Sq. Ft.

2006-09-30T23:40:00.000-06:00

Is this reasonable for Wasatch High School?Total Sq.Ft. - - - 308,000# Students - - - 1,500 capacityCost - - - - - - - -$59,500,000$/Sq.Ft. - - - - - - $193.18$/Student -- - - - $39,667 at capacity, $59,500 at start upSq.Ft./Student - - 205.3 at capacity, 308.0 at start upThe 2006 School Construction Report (page 6) reports the following National Medians for High Schools:Total Sq.Ft.- - - 120,000

School Bond Survey

2006-09-30T11:35:00.000-06:00

With a reasonable number of responses to the poll on Wasatch County growth, including many excellent comments; a poll was created concerning the proposed School Bond hoping to gain some more comments (pro and con) on the issue.The growth issue poll was, from its inception, overwhelmingly of the opinion that Wasatch has too much growth and is not doing well at managing it. The School bond received

What to do about growth

2006-09-23T20:34:00.000-06:00

1 Educate YourselfTo find the rules of growth, planning and zoning, see County Title 16, the County General Plan for Wasatch County. For Heber City, see the Heber City Code (particularly Titles 17 & 18).To read the City survey, click here - Big Box for the presentation and resultsOther contacts, Wasatch County Heber City and we mustn't forget Midway 2 Inform your NeighborsIn Wasatch County, Empty

Recordings of Public Meetings

2006-09-19T00:01:00.000-06:00

Effective 1 May 2006 all public meetings must be recorded and made accessible to anyone. "(3) (a) The minutes and recordings of an open meeting are public records and shall be available within a reasonable time after the meeting." A request was made for the recording of the joint County - City meeting and a fee of $12 was required for the CD. Subsequent to that request the County Council decided

Joint Wasatch County Heber City Meeting

2006-09-16T23:37:00.000-06:00

On August 14, the county and the city held a joint meeting to discuss issues of growth, annexation and working together. The primary focus for the first half of the meeting was working together to facilitate the Red Ledges development as a joint project.Below is a 'paraphrase' "transcript" extracts of the meeting - an interesting discussion. The numbers indicate the times from the beginning of

Initial Survey Response

2006-08-05T11:23:00.000-06:00

An online survey is being taken at Wasatch Growth Survey. It began on July 19, 2006. To date (Aug 6) the responses has been very consistent and the comments defining "rural" and benefits and problems with new developments and miscellaneous remarks have generally been quite insightful and apparently sincere. The survey was 'promoted' through word of mouth, two letters to the Wave and comments on

Land Use Survey - from Sep 2000

2006-08-05T11:22:00.000-06:00

I'm certain there will be those that say the anonymous, open to anyone, survey is not "scientific" or does not really indicate what the Wasatch County residents REALLY want. However, it is quite consistent with other measured barometers of public opinion. Anyone remember the Asphalt Plant hearings or the Airport Expansion.Prior to the 2001 General Plan a survey was done for the county by BYU.The

The BIG BOX survey - May 2005

2006-08-05T11:21:00.000-06:00

Talking about consistency of opinions, here a some from Heber City's "Big Box" survey. Many of the elected officials, appointed board members and associated bureaucrats are attempting to say that it was a clarion call for more retail stores, shopping and, of course, the ubiquitous BIG BOX.When asked in for an open answer (#6) "What do you like best about living in the Heber City are?" about 60%

Survey Comments - Define Rural

2006-08-05T11:17:00.000-06:00

These are VERBATIM comments submitted be survey participants:3. Please define "rural" in respect to growth in Wasatch County.Property used for livestock or crops.Generally Farms and ranches intermixed with low density housing. With recognition that some very limited areas will need to be set aside for affordable housing.open spacethe areas surrounding provo River that has not been developed but

Comments - Benefits of Developments

2006-08-05T11:07:00.000-06:00

6. What do you see as the benefits of new developments?increasing propety values for existing landownersNoneAdded tax base and continued increase in value of property in county for benefit of all. Need to be sure the new developments fully pay for themselves in relation to initial and ongoing costs of support and infrastructure.none for metax base increasedNoneMore excellent people with talent,

Comments - Problems with developments

2006-08-05T10:18:00.000-06:00

7. What problems do you foresee with new developments?pollution, increased txes, urban sprawl, loss of smal town feel, traffic congestion, noise, loss of public safety.Destruction of a once beautiful valleyAdded drain on infrastructure resources if they don't pay for it fully in taxes.tax increase/more trafficcongestion ,crowded schools and increased traffic. Valley would lose its charm and

Comments - Misc.

2006-08-05T10:00:00.000-06:00

12. Please add any other comments.we should have the best planners available to face he enormous problem facing wasatch county. It would be a good investment, Perhaps the coun ty and other muncipalities should have a unified planning gommision so developers can not use annexation and other threats to force the county to concede to their wishes.Respoinsible groth need to continue. Key word here is

Another Moratorium!!!

2006-07-14T16:08:00.000-06:00

Lo and behold, Wasatch County has discovered that the "solution" to the previous moratorium was unworkable and another moratorium has been enacted at the Wednesday Council meeting 7/12.Trying not to gloat, I'll simply refer the reader to this posted on Feb 22.Citizens of Wasatch have another opportunity to speak up about growth - if they will take it. Otherwise, I fear more of the same - or even

More Developments - Pre 2003

2006-07-13T15:42:00.000-06:00

Many of these developments were approved by the old County Commissioners prior to the cahnge of government. Some of partially complete, most are still waiting for who knows what. At an average of merely 3 persons per Household, these 7600 ERU's could account for 22,800 people in Wasatch County. (Many may be secondary homes, which are generally an economic benefit to the county.)