March 15, 2024 – Cedar Crest Village Overlay, Kimball Junction EIS, Restaurant Tax Grant Deadline & Trout Unlimited Award



TODAY, WE COVER…

  • A quick Cedar Crest Village update
  • Kimball Junction EIS public comment period
  • Upcoming Restaurant Tax Grant deadline
  • Trout Unlimited Award for Summit County Lands + Natural Resources Department  

CEDAR CREST 

Up next, we have a quick update related to the Cedar Crest Village Overlay. The public meeting originally scheduled for next Thursday, March 21, has been canceled. The next tentatively scheduled meeting is set for April 18, 2024 (6 PM, Ledges Center).

You can find more information about the overlay at summitcounty.info/cedarcrest or at cedarcresthoytsville.com.

KIMBALL JUNCTION PUBLIC COMMENT 

Moving on, we have another reminder about the public comment period that is open now until March 27 related to the Kimball Junction Environmental Impact Statement or EIS. 

For some context, the Kimball Junction EIS is all about building a gateway corridor into the Park City and Snyderville Basin area that is safe, efficient, and comfortable for all users whether that be in a car, bus, bicycle, or on foot.

We are working towards a solution would accomplish the following:

  • Less vehicle queuing on I-80 meaning fewer crashes and saved lives 
  • A more comfortable pedestrian connection to neighborhoods on both sides of SR-224  which would create a more livable community 
  • Faster access to resorts and other destinations in the Wasatch Back which would mean  more economic development and tourism​, and as a result, a successful 2034 Olympics

The study began in 2020 and as of this March 2024, UDOT has published the Alternatives Development and Screening Report online and is asking for public input on each of the alternatives they proposed. So this means they’re looking for guidance on what options move forward, are eliminated, or are revised to best serve the community. UDOT is planning to wrap up the study at the end of this year. The detailed evaluation is included in the Draft EIS—All of this is available online at: kimballjunctioneis.udot.utah.gov

*Keep in mind that Alternative B, the grade-separated intersections with frontage roads did not continue into this next phase of planning. However, we still want to know if there are aspects from this proposed plan that you liked, for instance: the grade-separated “flyunder”, the public area connecting the neighborhood, or something else! This is your time to share your thoughts.

A quick note about the public comments: We hope everyone takes the time to weigh in. You can  submit your feedback online about different aspects of each design alternative at kimballjunctioneis.udot.utah.gov. Making comments to the county or anywhere else like on social media will not be included in the official UDOT record. 

We also want to be clear…this comment opportunity is not a “vote” and we won’t be tallying the number of times a person “likes” an alternative. UDOT is looking for the public to identify characteristics of all alternatives that they’d like to see for the final design and evaluation.

Before we close out on this topic, it is important to note that Summit County is requesting UDOT add the Kimball Junction Interchange to the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) which would mean that this project gets funding with plenty of time for design and construction prior to the 2034 Olympic games. Your comments are really important and have an impact on whether or not this project gets added to the Transportation Improvement Program.

Once again, you can visit: kimballjunctioneis.udot.utah.gov to read more about the project and submit comments.

RESTAURANT TAX GRANT 

The Summit County Restaurant Tax Grant Application is open now through Friday, March 29 at 5 PM. The application can be found at summitcounty.info/restaurant and must be submitted online. 

Some requirements to be aware of before you start applying: Restaurant Tax Grant applicants must be a governmental entity, governmental subdivision, or nonprofit and use grant funds for the primary purpose of bringing new tourism from outside Summit County, preferably overnight visitors. The exact criteria for funding are outlined on the county website, again summitcounty.info/restaurant, and are attached to the applications.

Once applications close, the Grant Committee will review applications and make recommendations to the County Council in May. If you have any questions, please contact Amy Jones at 435-336-3042.

TROUT UNLIMITED AWARD 

And, last but certainly not least, County Lands and Natural Resources Director, Jess Kirby attended the Utah Trout Unlimited State Council annual banquet on March 14 where she accepted two awards that recognize Summit County for efforts in conservation and restoration of Utah’s watersheds.

Summit County is the first ever recipient of the Community Action Towards Conservation Habitat (“CATCH”) award which spotlights the county’s continual effort to improve the overall health of the Weber River watershed, years of collaboration on state World Resource Institute grants, and most recently efforts associated with the 910 Ranch and East Canyon Creek that runs through it. 

The “Community Conservation Partner” award was created by Trout Unlimited staff to honor the communities that are going above and beyond in local conservation and embodying the mission of their organization to bring together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams for future generations. 

In his written remarks, Trout Unlimited director Scott Catton mentioned that this award specifically honors Jess Kirby, Director of Summit County’s County Lands and Natural Resources Department, for her work as a leading partner in conservation. He went into detail about how “she has teamed up with Trout Unlimited for many years to secure funding for projects that range from improving fish passage infrastructure on the Weber River, to building beaver dam analogs on small tributaries to improve water quality…” Reflecting upon her recent leadership in the acquisition of the almost 9,000 acre 910 Ranch near Jeremy Ranch, Catton said Kirby has wasted no time in initiating habitat restoration projects on the ranch throughout the forest area and along the four miles of East Canyon creek that flows through the property.

A huge congratulations are in order County Lands and Natural Resources Department! Visit summitcounty.org/countylands to follow along with the latest efforts of our Lands and Natural Resources Department.   


March 8, 2024 – Kimball Junction Interchange Project, Board of Health appointments, primary elections info



Hey everyone! Welcome back to another week of news here on Summit in Six! Winter storms churned through the Wasatch this past week. For those powder-hounds out there we hope you’re getting some great skiing and riding in!

In today’s episode, we are going to cover the latest info from UDOT on the Kimball Junction interchange project, announce some appointments to our Board of Health, share council’s decision regarding the Maverick gas station project near Quinn’s Jct. and hear from the County Clerk about how this year’s presidential primary elections went.

Alright, let’s get into the news!

– Kimball Junction Interchange EIS
This week’s council meeting kicked off with an update from UDOT on the Kimball Junction Interchange project. UDOT representatives summarized their most recent progress on the Environmental Impact Statement (also referred to as “EIS”).

But before we get into the weeds of it, let’s take a step back and reiterate what this project is all about: building a gateway corridor into the Park City and Snyderville Basin area that is safe, efficient, and comfortable for all users whether that be in a car, bus, bicycle, or on foot.

We are working towards a solution would accomplish the following:

  • Less vehicle queuing on I-80 meaning fewer crashes and saved lives
  • A more comfortable pedestrian connection to neighborhoods on both sides of SR-224  which would create a more livable community
  • Faster access to resorts and other destinations in the Wasatch Back which would mean  more economic development and tourism​, and as a result, a successful 2034 Olympics

The study began in 2020 and as of this March 2024, UDOT has published the Alternatives Development and Screening Report online and is asking for public input on each of the alternatives they proposed. So this means they’re looking for guidance on what options move forward, are eliminated, or are revised to best serve the community. UDOT is planning to wrap up the study at the end of this year. The detailed evaluation is included in the Draft EIS—All of this is available online at: kimballjunctioneis.udot.utah.gov

*Keep in mind that Alternative B, the grade-separated intersections with frontage roads did not continue into this next phase of planning. However, we still want to know if there are aspects from this proposed plan that you liked, for instance: the grade-separated “flyunder”, the public area connecting the neighborhood, or something else! This is your time to share your thoughts.

A quick note about the public comments: We hope everyone takes the time to weigh in. You can  submit your feedback online about different aspects of each design alternative at kimballjunctioneis.udot.utah.gov. Making comments to the county or anywhere else like on social media will not be included in the official UDOT record. 

We also want to be clear…this comment opportunity is not a “vote” and we won’t be tallying the number of times a person “likes” an alternative. UDOT is looking for the public to identify characteristics of all alternatives that they’d like to see for the final design and evaluation.

Before we close out on this topic, it is important to note that Summit County is requesting UDOT add the Kimball Junction Interchange to the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) which would mean that this project gets funding with plenty of time for design and construction prior to the 2034 Olympic games. Your comments are really important and have an impact on whether or not this project gets added to the Transportation Improvement Program.

Once again, you can visit: kimballjunctioneis.udot.utah.gov to read more about the project and submit comments.

– Also at Council this week…

  • We had some Board of Health re-appointments: so congratulations to Ilyssa Golding and Chris Cherniak. Thanks for your continued service. And congratulations to newly appointed Michelle Downard and Stephen Trapp. All of these terms will expire December 31, 2026.
  • The council also approved the permit for Maverick to build a Gas Station with a Convenience Store near the Quinn’s Junction interchange off I-40 exit 4.
  • And lastly, during manager’s comments, Summit County Clerk Eve Furse went over the Presidential primary elections that took place this Tuesday, March 5th. She clarified why the Democratic Party nomination process was through an election process (mail in ballot, in person voting, ballot drop box voting) run through the County Clerk’s office and the Republican Party chose to hold and run their own Presidential Preference Poll through their caucus.

March 1, 2024 – Election info, Cedar Crest & Ure Ranch public meetings, and Kimball Junction traffic study updates



INTRO 

Welcome back to another week of Summit County news on Summit in Six. We’ve got important election news and updates on some big projects like Cedar Crest and the Ure Ranch as well as Kimball Junction/ 224 traffic study updates. Let’s get started.

ELECTIONS INFORMATION

The 2024 Democratic Presidential Primary Election is coming on March 5, 2024. If you’re a registered voter that has declared their party as “Democrat”, or requested a Democratic ballot in writing, you should have received your ballot in the mail in mid-February. For voting information, please visit summitcounty.org/elections

Also on March 5, 2024, both the Summit County Republican and Democratic parties will hold a caucus to choose their party’s leadership for the next two years. The Republican Caucus will vote on their preferred presidential candidate nominee in addition to selecting their party’s leadership. Questions? Visit: summitcountyutgop.org/caucus/ or scdems.org/

CEDAR CREST (Derek)

The Cedar Crest Village Overlay project was back in front of the Eastern Summit County Planning Commission this week. 

On Thursday, February 29, the commission held another work session related to the project. They heard specifics from Larry H. Miller Real Estate about infrastructure phasing, water and traffic impacts, and their affordable housing proposal. If you couldn’t make the meeting, you can listen back to hear the details at summitcounty.info/cedarcrest229.

Following the applicant’s presentation, the Planning Commission continued the public hearing related to the overlay project and heard from several members of the community. Comments were mostly focused on how the proposal will impact surrounding properties, traffic and road impacts beyond Hoytsville Road, and what community benefits the project will bring the community outside of additional housing. 

Another work session and public hearing for Cedar Crest is scheduled for Thursday, March 21 at the Ledges Event Center beginning at 6 PM. More information on that meeting, including a virtual Zoom attendance option, can be found on the homepage of summitcounty.org under the News section.

And now, we’re going to take a quick break to learn about a short bit of Summit County History, from our intern, Alaina.

HENEFER, ECHO, and the PONY EXPRESS

Despite its modest size, Henefer holds a significant amount of Western history. John’s Park is a small park in the town of Henefer that serves as a historical marker of the area in which Pony Express riders once passed through. 

The new pioneer spirit drew settlers to the area, making it an ideal stopping place for goods, services, and information.

Weber Station was a multipurpose space that included a general store, blacksmith shop, saloon and jail. Its location at the mouth of Echo Canyon made it an ideal stop along the Pony Express route. 

Young Pony Express riders, William Page and George Little, would thunder past Cache Cave, and down into Echo Canyon as they headed to Salt Lake City carrying messages and goods.

URE RANCH OPEN HOUSE

On Thursday evening, Summit County hosted a second information session in Kamas about the Ure Ranch Property acquisition and gathered public input on what the community would like to see the land used for in the future. County Lands and Natural Resources Director Jess Kirby gave a short presentation summarizing findings from hundreds of public comments received at the first open house and online since late January. 

She went into detail about what a conservation easement is and the positive outlook of the county’s efforts to preserve the North Meadows for agricultural use and open space thanks to collaborative efforts with Summit Land Conservancy. The evening closed out with an engagement activity where attendees used stickers to indicate their sentiments about proposed ideas for portions of the 834-acre property.

If you would like to contact Jess and her team directly with questions about this land acquisition, feel free to email: countylands@summitcounty.org

Stay up to date on all things related to the Ure Ranch by subscribing to the project-specific email list: summitcounty.info/ureranchnews and visiting summitcounty.info/ureranch

KIMBALL JUNCTION Environmental Impact Statement

UDOT has reached the next milestone for the environmental study they’re working on for the I-80 and SR-224 area.

They published the Alternatives Development and Screening Report, which identifies criteria and measures to evaluate each multi-modal alternative (potential transportation improvements), details the screening process (how options move forward or are eliminated), and identifies which alternatives are carried forward for detailed evaluation in the Draft EIS. 

They evaluated three alternatives (presented to you last year based on the Kimball Junction Area Plan) and two are moving forward for further consideration in the EIS process.

Alternative A: a new split-diamond interchange that directs local traffic off of Interstate 80 prior to Kimball Junction, a pedestrian underpass at state Route 224

And Alternative C, extended turn lanes, lane widening, and a pedestrian underpass at SR-224.

UDOT is looking for characteristics of all alternatives for the final design and evaluation. 

UDOT is asking for Summit County residents’ help to find transportation solutions for our community by taking some time to review their report. They are looking for your input on the alternative screening process, the initial impacts analysis, the alternatives they’ll evaluate in the Draft EIS, and any new ideas you might have.

The comment period is open now through March 27, 2024. To give comment and learn more, you can visit the project website: kimballjunctioneis.udot.utah.gov/ 

You can also share your ideas with UDOT by emailing kimballjunctioneis@utah.gov or calling 435-255-3186.


February 23, 2024 – Chalk Creek Road,Dakota Pacific updates, Ure Ranch news & Work Life Balance Survey



Hey everyone! Welcome back to another week of news here on Summit in Six!

In today’s episode, we are going to cover some updates from this week’s county council meeting and the Dakota Pacific hearings. Then, we’ll wrap things up with some community engagement opportunities to keep on your radar. Let’s get into the news.

CHALK CREEK & INDUSTRIAL PARK ROAD.

In this week’s Council meeting, Council Members approved a petition request by the public to officially change the name of a section of a Summit County road from Industrial Park Road to Chalk Creek Road. Previously, the portion of Chalk Creek Road in Coalville City limits that makes a bend near the cemetery was called Industrial Park Road for approximately 630 feet, Industrial Park Road is a city-owned road that begins on the west side of the Coalville Cemetery. 

There were a few reasons for this requested name change: 

  • There are no stop signs on this road from Coalville Main Street to the Wyoming border, which has caused issues and confusion with emergency response vehicles and package delivery services attempting to find Chalk Creek Road. 
  • All of Chalk Creek is a County Road, and Industrial Park Road is a city-owned road. except for this small portion that was in line with Chalk Creek.

We appreciate the public bringing this issue to the county’s attention.

 

DAKOTA PACIFIC UPDATES

County Council resumed discussions with Dakota Pacific Real Estate, DPRE, this past Thursday, February 22 where representatives of Dakota Pacific provided a response and counter-proposal to Council’s requested changes to the development plan.

Highlights of the counter-proposal include:

  • An increase from the Council-requested 500 total units to 695 total units
  • A decrease from the total Council-requested affordable units at or below 80% AMI from 250 to 240.
  • The number of 100-120% AMI units remained the same
  • An increase in market rate united deed-restricted to ages 55+ from 82 to 90
  • The addition of surface parking for apartments (compared to a parking structure)
  • An allocation of $2.5 M in HTRZ or other public funds in exchange for moving an additional 20 market-rate apartments to affordable.

In addition, Dakota Pacific requested changes to the phased development schedule, which would allow them to begin building Senior Care, Medical Facilities, and up to 240 affordable units within 1 year of the signed development agreement amendment, which would allow DPRE to apply for affordable housing tax credits with the state.

In Phase 2, which begins with UDOT adding State Road 224 to the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, DPRE could build the majority of their market-rate units within 3 years.

In Phase 3, which begins with the start of construction on SR 224 (or no later than June 2029) DPRE could build their final 80 market-rate units.

After a Q&A session, individual Council members provided comments and shared concerns on the updated proposal. As a next step in the project, Council and DPRE agreed to conduct a third-party financial analysis of the proposal to be paid for by the County before further discussions, including a public hearing, are scheduled.

Please note the DPRE work session item scheduled during Council on Wednesday, February 28 has been canceled. Visit https://summitcounty.info/DPRE (all caps, case sensitive) to view the most current schedule of upcoming meetings and recordings of previous work sessions.

 

UNIVERSITY OF UTAH WORK-LIFE BALANCE SURVEY

The Department of Health and Human Services is working with the University of Utah on a survey about Work/Life Balance. The purpose is to gather information to help employers know what they can do to better support low- to moderate-income families to retain employment.  

Participants are paid $25 for a 25-30 minute interview that can be done over the phone. Their goal is to find 600 participants across the state.

To participate a person must be:

  • A caregiver of a child under age 12, or a caregiver to a child 12 and older with a disability;
  • Middle to low income (annual household income of $50,000 or less);
  • English speaking

Visit https://bit.ly/uofuwlbs to sign up to participate!

 

URE RANCH OPEN HOUSE

A second information session for the community to attend and give input on the Ure Ranch property is coming up next week. Join us at the Kamas Library Building from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm on Thursday, February 29.

You may be wondering: “What’s the difference between this upcoming information session and the last one?” At the February 29th meeting there will be a short presentation by County Lands and Natural Resources Director, Jess Kirby. She will summarize the findings from the hundreds of comments received so far from the community online and in person. The presentation will dive into what a conservation easement is and what protections it provides regarding this property. 

The evening will close out with an engagement activity. If you can’t attend the presentation, you should still come for the activity and ask questions one-on-one with staff familiar with the project.

We must reiterate that no action has been taken in regard to the planning for this property. We are still in the public input stage and exploring what the community does or does not wish to see.


February 16, 2024 – Dakota Pacific schedule updates, 910 & Ure Ranch news & Basin Rec planning



Hey everyone! Welcome back to another week of news here on Summit in Six!

In today’s episode, we are going to cover some important upcoming elections info, changes to the Dakota Pacific meeting schedule, updates on last year’s 910 Cattle Ranch and Ure Ranch property acquisitions, as well as an overview of Basin Recreation’s 10-year strategic plan that was presented to council this week.

Alright, let’s get into the news!

2024 Elections – Ballots Mailed!

Earlier this week, the Summit County Clerk’s Office put ballots in the mail for the 2024 Presidential Primary Election, so voters can expect those ballots to hit their mailboxes by this weekend. To learn more about this year’s election cycle and what you can expect, listen to a special episode of “Summit in Six” with County Clerk, Eve Furse, out now!
Visit: summitcounty.info/elections2024 to tune in. 

Dakota Pacific Meeting Schedule Update

We want to make the public aware of some scheduling updates involving Dakota Pacific meetings:

  • There will be a meeting on February 22 at 3 p.m. at the Richins Building
  • Dates and times for a public hearing/comment and final decision by Council are all postponed and to be determined. So stay tuned here for additional updates to the schedule.

You can view the current meeting schedule and recordings of past meetings as they become available at https://summitcounty.info/DPRE (all caps).

910 Cattle Ranch Update to Council

During the Council meeting this week, County Lands and Natural Resources Director, Jess Kirby gave an update on the two properties the County entered into option agreements to purchase in 2023: The 910 Cattle Ranch near Jeremy Ranch, and the Ure Ranch in Kamas.

First let’s dive into Ure Ranch Updates and upcoming opportunities for public engagement surrounding planning for this property:

  • It has been almost a year since Summit County has come under an option agreement to purchase the Ure Ranch which is an 834-acre family farm located in the Kamas Valley. The Ure Family chose the County as the optimal owner and steward of this land for future generations. The first information session about the property was held on January 22nd. Around 150 community members attended.
  • On February 29th, there will be a second information session for the community to attend and give input on the property. It will be held at the Kamas Library Building from 5:30 pm until 7:30 pm. 

You may be wondering: “What’s the difference between this upcoming information session and the last one?” At the February 29th meeting there will be a short presentation by County Lands and Natural Resources Director, Jess Kirby. She will summarize the findings from the hundreds of comments received so far from the community online and in person. The presentation will dive into what a conservation easement is and what protections it provides in regard to this property.

The evening will close out with an engagement activity. If you can’t attend the presentation, you should still come for the activity and to ask questions one-on-one with staff familiar with the project.

It’s important that we reiterate that no action has been taken in regards to the planning for this property, we are still in the public input stage and exploring what the community does or does not wish to see.

Now we will shift gears to updates regarding the nearly 9,000-acre 910 Cattle Ranch located in Jeremy Ranch which the County entered into an option agreement to purchase in August 2023. The property is one of the last contiguous mountain ranches privately held by a single landowner in western Summit County and the Snyderville Basin area.

Since August, County staff has been:

  • Focused on gathering data on what wildlife are present in the area
  • Creating a volunteer Ambassador Program
  • Taking into consideration information from a USU extension capstone project on the “Prospects and Constraints for a Recreational Fishery on East Canyon Creek”

During the presentation, an update on funding for the property was given. So far $15 million has been secured and $40 million in pending grants, most of which should be announced in the spring.

You can stay up to date on information about this property at: summitcounty.org/910ranch

Basin Recreation Updates

Director of Basin Recreation, Dana Jones, presented to council this week on a 10-Year Strategic Plan and a 5-Year Trails Plan for the special service district.

The strategic planning process began in August 2022 and included extensive public engagement, an analysis of existing facilities and resources, feedback from stakeholder groups, and more.

For some background: Basin Recreation manages over 2,700 acres of open space and over 170 miles of paved, soft surface and natural surface trails. Like many mountain communities, Summit County has experienced significant growth over the last decade. This rapid population growth has surpassed the capacity for much of the existing recreational infrastructure provided by The District and surrounding recreation providers creating a shortage of facility space.

During their presentation to council, Basin Recreation staff also reviewed their 5-Year Trails Plan. Some of the key takeaways from that plan include:

  1. Providing high-quality trail experiences
  2. Developing a connected network of trails
  3. Providing and supporting a diversity of trail experiences
  4. Developing a sustainable and environmentally responsible trail system
  5. Develop an all-season trail network
  6. Provide programs to build a community culture of trail use

The plans will be finalized and released this spring, so stay tuned for updates at basinrecreation.org

Reminders…

Summit County Nonprofit Tax Exemption

We are going to close out today’s episode with a few reminders. The first reminder concerns Summit County nonprofits. The deadline to submit applications for tax exemption is March 1, 2024. This is for all renewal applications and new exemptions.

Organizations can complete their annual renewal or submit an application for a new exemption using the online application system. The system will allow an organization to apply online and submit all necessary documentation. Access the online system at summitcounty.info/exemptnpo

President’s Day: Lastly, we want to give a reminder that County offices are closed on Monday, January 19th in observance of President’s Day and we open our doors again on Tuesday, February 20.


February 9, 2024 – Dakota Pacific Council Meeting and Community Engagement Surveys



TODAY, WE COVER…

  • This week’s Dakota Pacific-related work session.
  • University of Utah Work/Life Balance Survey
  • Summit County Mental Health Survey

DPRE MEETING RECAP 

On Wednesday, Council continued discussion regarding the Dakota Pacific Project in terms of Inclusionary Housing review and how it relates to the current proposal.

Before discussion begins there are some definitions to keep in mind. The first being Area Median Income (AMI). In simple terms, AMI is the median family income in a given region. The Summit County AMI for a family of four (4) is estimated at $148,600. 

When we look at AMI growth since 2017, there has been a 43.7% increase in AMI, which means that the median family income in Summit County has grown from $98,000 to $148,600 in the last six years (published annually so 2024 hasn’t been recorded).

The next term is Median Household Income which is income of households generated in the past 12 months, including the income of the householder and all other individuals 15 years old and over in the household, whether they are related to the householder or not. Because many households consist of only one person, median household income is usually less than median family income. The Summit County Median Household Income is estimated at $131,916.

An important term used often in these discussions is Affordable Unit Equivalents (AUEs). An “AUE” is defined as a “two (2) bedroom unit with nine hundred (900) square feet of net livable space, measured exterior wall to exterior wall”. Multiple smaller units together may constitute one AUE, or fewer larger units, according to the Snyderville Basin Development Code. 

For new commercial development, or expansion of existing commercial development, DPRE is required to develop or ensure the development of affordable housing to meet twenty percent (20%) of the employee housing demand generated by the new development. 

The proposed Plan C that Dakota Pacific is proposing includes 510 market rate units and 217 affordable units, totaling up to 727 units. There are an additional 20 units from the 510 Mark Rate Units that would be deed restricted “attainable” between 100%-120% AMI. 

There are different types of units that are being proposed in Plan C for affordable housing. The current plan proposes:

  •     9 Studio units
  •     87 1 bedroom units
  •     98 2 bedroom units
  •     17 3 bedroom units
  •     6 4 bedroom units

Commercial Development in the current proposed plan includes:

  •     26,000 SQ/FT of Commercial and Retail space
  •     85,000 SQ/FT of low intensity, including, but not limited to, utilities, education, medical offices, light industry, and research parks
  •     150,000/SQ/FT of medium intensity, including, but not limited to, banking and professional services
  •     5,000 SQ/FT of restaurant/bar 

Based on calculations this area’s workforce will have an opportunity of offering housing to about 163 employees.

Senior housing is being proposed but is not going to be considered under “affordable housing” as it is intended for market rate housing, deed restricted by age but not by income. 

According to the Summit County Economic Development Office there is an existing housing unit deficit that Plan C aims to address. There is a projected need for about 3,928 – 5,523 total units of housing. And In Summit County there is an existing need for housing with:

  •     Surplus/Deficit @60% AMI -142 Units 
  •     Surplus/Deficit @50% AMI -484 Units 
  •     Surplus/Deficit @30% AMI -725 Units 

Based on Wednesday’s presentations, Council review the proposal and came to a general consensus of changes they were looking for in the current Plan C, which they shared in  Thursday’s meeting. It includes:

  • A total of 500 housing units
  • Half of those units to be deed-restricted affordable housing.
    • Out of the 250 affordable units, 1/3 would be dedicated to 40% AMI or below
    • 1/3 would be 60% or below AMI
    • And 1/3 would be 80% or below AMI
  • Of the 250 market-rate housing units, 1/3  would be deed restricted for seniors and 20 units would continue to be available at 120% or below AMI.

Additional stipulations included no nightly rentals or fractional ownership allowed within the project, the same commerical density already existing in Plan C, a private-public partnership for a parking structure to serve residents of the development and commuters utilizing the Kimball Junction Transit Center, a requirement for a Continuing Care Retirement Community, and associated medical facilites.

Council also requested a phased approach to the project tied to a UDOT fix of SR 224.

1/3 of the project would be allowed to begin, pending funding for 224 being granted and an HTRZ correction from the state legislature. This deal would be irrevocable, meaning if funding gets pulled, then the construction would need to stop. This first third of the project would also need to include affordable housing.

The remaining 2/3 of the project would proceed once the 224 project is completed.

Dakota Pacific representatives expressed concern related to Council’s wishes related to the structure of the phasing, the economic viability, and the timeline to update their proposal before the State Legislative session ends.

As a result, the public hearing scheduled for 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 15 at Ecker Hill Middle School has been postponed to a later date. The public meeting scheduled at 3:30 p.m. on February 15 has tentatively moved from Ecker Hill Middle School to the Richins Building at Kimball Junction.

At this time, additional public meetings to negotiate changes will likely be added to the schedule. For the most up to date meeting schedule, including recording of past meetings, visit summitcounty.info/DPRE.

UNIVERSITY OF UTAH WORK-LIFE BALANCE SURVEY

The Department of Health and Human Services is working with the University of Utah on a survey about  Work/Life Balance. The purpose is to gather information to help employers know what they can do to better support low- to moderate-income families to retain employment.  

Participants are paid $25 for a 25-30 minute interview that can be done over the phone. Their goal is to find 600 participants across the state.

To participate a person must be:

– A caregiver of a child under age 12, or a caregiver to a child 12 and older with a disability;

– Middle to low income (annual household income of $50,000 or less);

– English speaking

Visit https://bit.ly/uofuwlbs to sign up to participate!

MENTAL HEALTH SURVEY

The Mental Health Survey closes next week. Please fill out the survey so we can improve the mental health of all Summit County residents. We also ask that you please share this survey with anyone you know. This is our chance to make a positive impact on the future of our community and help make a healthier community for all. Visit https://summitcountyhealth.org/survey/ today. 


February 2, 2024 – Dakota Pacific Public Meetings, Cline Dahle Property, Subdivision TZO & Parking Needs Survey



TODAY, WE COVER…

  • This week’s Dakota Pacific-related work session.
  • Cline Dahle Visioning Exercise
  • Temporary Zoning Ordinance for Subdivisions
  • Parking Assessment Survey

DPRE MEETING RECAP 

On Thursday, February 1, the County Council held a special session to continue discussions with Dakota Pacific Real Estate regarding their property at Kimball Junction. After a look at traffic impacts and the Kimball Junction I-80 interchange last week, this week’s session focused on residential density.  As part of this discussion, Council Members reviewed the types of housing and the number of units Dakota Pacific is proposing as part of their Plan C proposal. The conversation centered around the ability for Dakota Pacific to potentially adjust the types of housing offered, such as affordable housing, and senior living, as well as the potential number of cars this would add to the area. 

For full replays of each special session and a look at the upcoming schedule, visit summitcounty.info/dpremeetings

CLINE DAHLE VISIONING EXERCISE 

At this week’s County Council meeting, the Council and the Summit County Community Development Department participated in a visioning exercise for the Cline Dahle property. 

For some background, the Cline Dahle property is approximately 30 acres of land just past Jeremy Ranch Elementary along the Rasmussen frontage road. Summit County closed on the property on January 31, 2017. 

So, on Wednesday, the Community Development Department presented the Council a site overview; context analysis; zoning/land use assessment; opportunities and physical constraints study; and an examination of potential use options for the Council’s consideration related to the property. 

The council moved through a series of six poster boards and were asked to share their thoughts about what makes a place great, what types of housing and neighborhood designs they might like to see on this property, what kinds of amenities, public gathering spaces, and open spaces would be preferred, and more. 

To be clear, this exercise was just to have the council define a list of priorities they have for the site that could be incorporated into future design concepts. This was just step number one! 

From here, staff will take all of the comments made at this week’s meeting and come back to council with a more refined vision for the property. After that, the public will be engaged to give their feedback and input for the property. We’ll be sure to keep our listeners informed with each step in this process as it moves forward. In the meantime, you can read more about this history of the property and listen back to this initial visioning session at summitcounty.info/clinedahle.

SUBDIVISION TZO 

Also at this week’s County Council meeting, a public hearing was held related to a temporary zoning ordinance (or TZO) that would amend the requirements for certain subdivisions in both the Snyderville Basin and Eastern Summit county development codes. 

In short, the TZO puts stricter timelines on review and response for subdivision applications for single family, two family, and townhome development applications. There would be up to four review cycles of 20 days allowed. It also changes the final land use authority for these subdivision applications. For applications 3 lots or less on the East Side and 9 lots or less in the Snyderville Basin, the final authority would become the Community Development Director; for applications 4 lots or larger on the East Side and 10 lots or greater in the Snyderville Basin the County Manager would become the final authority.  

The purpose of the ordinance is to bring the Snyderville Basin and Eastern Summit County Development Codes into compliance with the changes to state code made in Senate Bill 174 during the 2023 legislative session. The bill required that the County have the amendments in place prior to yesterday February 1, 2024.

So is there a reason it’s temporary? 

Yes, the reason staff pursued a temporary zoning ordinance is because they expect that legislation passed in the current 2024 Utah State Legislature General Session will change what is required. 

We will keep our listeners updated on the outcomes of this years legislative session and how it affects the subdivision process moving forward. 

PARK AND RIDE SURVEY 

Let’s talk about parking, Summit County! It’s no surprise to any of us that the majority of the Summit County workforce commutes into Park City and Kimball Junction from other cities, and Park City alone welcomes over half a million tourists annually. 

These transportation demands, combined with tourism, recreation, and special event visitors, contribute to significant congestion on the gateway corridors, SR-224 and SR-248.

During high-congestion times, drivers look for alternative routes through neighborhood streets, reducing the safety and comfort for pedestrians and cyclists. While the community has several park and ride lots, a comprehensive strategy integrated with public transit and active modes has never been identified.

So, Summit County and Park City are conducting a regional parking needs assessment and policy review of the park-and-ride facilities across the region. 

And, they want to hear from YOU! A survey has been developed to help gather YOUR comments and concerns about park and ride facilities, transportation, and parking. 

Take the survey today through Friday, February 9, 2024 at summitcounty.info/pnrsurvey.


January 26, 2024 – Dakota Pacific Public Meetings, Ure Ranch Open House Recap, Community Planning Lap Application Window, Mental Health Survey & Radon Awareness Month



TODAY, WE COVER…

  • Dakota Pacific public meetings
  • Ure Ranch Open House Recap 
  • Community Planning Lab Application Deadline Extension 
  • Mental Health Survey
  • Radon Awareness Month

DAKOTA PACIFIC DISCUSSIONS

On Tuesday, County Council resumed talks with Dakota Pacific Real Estate as part of a 6-month pause in litigation. Discussions on Tuesday and Thursday centered around transportation and traffic in the area.

UDOT’s study of the I-80 and SR-224 interchange at Kimball Junction and SR-224 from Kimball Junction through Ute Boulevard and Olympic Parkway were a main focus of the conversation, including the following proposals to the area:

  • Alternative A: split-diamond interchange and intersection improvements
  • Alternative B: grade-separated intersections with one-way frontage roads to the I-80 interchange
  • Alternative C:  intersection improvements with pedestrian enhancements
  • Other reasonable alternatives (if identified during the EIS process)

Alternative A would include a split-diamond interchange and intersection improvements. Some key characteristics highlighted by UDOT include: splitting traffic coming off I-80 so vehicles could exit earlier (near the outlets at landmark drive) or continue on frontage roads to stay on SR 224. The roundabout on landmark drive would become a traffic signal, and, finally, there would be a midblock undercrossing between Ute and Olympic for pedestrians who want to cross 224. This alternative would reduce traffic on 224 by serving the activity centers on the west side of 224. Alternative A is estimated to cost roughly $90M. 

Alternative B would include grade-separated intersections with one-way frontage roads to the I-80 interchange. Some key characteristics highlighted by UDOT include: having through lanes from I-80 go underneath the Ute and Olympic intersections while frontage roads provide access to businesses on each side of 224. The deck cover/park was removed from previous alternative B to accommodate the new design. Finally, moving the pedestrian undercrossing south down SR 224. This alternative would see the best travel speeds along the corridor. Alternative B is estimated to cost roughly $162M. 

Alternative C has similar characteristics to Alternative A. C would include intersection improvements with pedestrian enhancements. It would add more lanes in each direction along SR 224 and include dual left turning lanes for all signal approaches, and, finally, it would include a pedestrian midblock undercrossing between Ute and Olympic. Alternative C would create the least amount of traffic queuing onto I-80 which is dangerous for travelers. The estimated cost for Alternative C is roughly $35M. 

Council asked UDOT to come back to the table with an explanation of what Alternatives A and C combined would look like. The Council also felt as though Alternative B had too large of a footprint, too much pavement added, and the crossing at Ute was too far. County staff are interested in working with UDOT to redesign Alternative B to narrow its footprint.  

The Kimball Junction process is still ongoing. We will have a public comment period in late spring to hear what the community thinks. Our listeners can learn more about what happens moving forward and about these proposed alternatives at https://kimballjunctioneis.udot.utah.gov/. 

The Dakota Pacific Public meetings resume next week on Thursday, February 1 at the Richins Building, tentatively scheduled for 3 p.m. The topic of that meeting will be a recap of Transportation followed by Residential Density. Visit summitcounty.org for the Zoom link and updated times and topics for all Dakota Pacific meetings as they become available.

URE RANCH RECAP

On Monday, January 22nd, the County Lands and Natural Resources Department hosted an Open House for the Ure Ranch Property. Over 130 attendees read about the purchase and contributed their ideas and feedback in this first round of public input. For those who missed the in-person event, there is an online opportunity to contribute thoughts through an interactive map at: summitcounty.info/ureranch. On that same site, you can subscribe to stay up to date on future community engagement events related to this land use planning project.

COMMUNITY PLANNING LAB APPLICATION DEADLINE

There’s still time to apply for the SPRING 2024 Community Planning Lab, a 10-week course that can help YOU understand the processes that drive local planning and land use policy decisions here in Summit County.

The deadline to apply has been extended to Wednesday, February 7. Learn more and apply at summitcounty.org/planninglab.

MENTAL HEALTH SURVEY 

Every two years, the Summit County Health Department asks the community to complete a mental health assessment. The results of the assessment help guide efforts to improve the healthcare of our residents. Have your voice and needs heard by filling out the survey today at summitcountyhealth.org/survey. The deadline to participate is February 16.

RADON AWARENESS

In case you missed it, January is Radon Awareness Month! Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is produced from the breakdown of Uranium in the soil. Radon enters the air of homes through cracks, pipes or ventilation.

The Summit County Health Department is offering $10 radon test kits for you to sample the air where you live. The more people that participate, the better  Summit County can track high areas of radon in our community. 

Visit any Summit County Health Department location in Kamas, Coalville or Park City to pick up your test kit today! If you have questions, contact the Health Department at 435-333-1511 or visit summitcountyhealth.org


January 19, 2024 – Dakota Pacific Litigation, State Legislature’s General Session, 2024 Work Plan and more!



Today we cover…

  • Dakota Pacific Litigation
  • 2024 Legislative Session
  • 2024 Work Plan for Summit County
  • Ure Open House
  • Summit County Mental Health Survey
  • Radon Awareness Month

DAKOTA PACIFIC  

Back in December of last year, we reported that the Utah State Legislature had reached out to Summit County and Dakota Pacific separately to ask if each party was willing to pause the ongoing litigation and resume discussions. The County Council agreed to do so. The agreement effectively paused proceedings where they are and allowed for a 6-month period to continue discussions outside of the courtroom. 

At this week’s County Council meeting, representatives from Dakota Pacific were back in front of the Council to discuss key objectives of their Plan C proposal and some changes to the proposal that have been made. 

Some of the key objectives of Plan C include:

  • Reducing full-time resident population, overall density, and traffic impact. 
  • Maintaining a high percentage of affordable housing; 
  • Increasing ratio of very low/low income units relative to higher AMI thresholds.
  • Increase open space, community amenity opportunities, commercial/office uses, and housing opportunities for seniors.

Some of the changes they highlighted included: 

  • Pulling about a third of residential units out (34%) and increasing the ratio of affordable & workforce housing from 31% to 33%. 
  • Reducing overall square foot density by 430,000 square feet (-25%)
  • Removing full-service hotel to maximize on affordable housing
  • Reducing tallest building heights by 10 feet and revised plan to preserve view corridors
  • Increase of privately owned residences from 12% to 25%
  • Addition of a 2-acre “Central Park” community amenity and retail opportunity
  • Incorporating some deed restricted senior housing
  • Addition of 75,000 square feet of commercial space to promote economic diversity

From here, the Council will have a series of public meetings to discuss publicly the issues they see as outstanding, including traffic, HTRZ, residential densities, and more. Public meetings are beginning next week. Please visit summitcounty.org for the most up-to-date list of meeting dates, times, and locations. Please note that these are work sessions. Public comment will be taken at dedicated public hearings in the coming weeks.

LEGISLATIVE RECAP 

Earlier this week, on Tuesday, January 16, the Utah State Legislature General Session began. It will run until Friday, March 1. At this week’s County Council meeting, Deputy County Manager, Janna Young, gave the Council a preview of this year’s session and what it might entail. She shared that Summit County is particularly concerned about policy issues surrounding: transportation, childcare, EMS funding, and Olympics Planning. 

She also shared that there is no surplus money in the budget this year, so we are expecting a flat state budget. This means extra appropriations/funding requests from communities will be tough to get funded. We can expect the legislature to fund priority projects around education, transportation, water, energy, affordable housing, and tax cuts. Energy policy will also be a big topic this session. Legislative leadership is looking at a standard for what constitutes “green” energy so those sources can be promoted without impacting jobs. They are not interested in shutting down base power until there are substitute options. Summit County will be watching the debate around this issue closely as it could impact our 100% net renewable energy goals and work with Rocky Mountain Power to advance the Community Renewable Energy Agency (CREA). And, finally, we can expect that Affordable Housing will also continue to be a dominating topic this session as in past sessions. 

Over the next 45 days, Summit County’s internal legislative working group will track activity at the State Capitol and provide weekly updates to the County Council and to the public at Council meetings. Our listeners can also expect Janna to join Summit in Six for a special recap episode after the general session concludes. Stay tuned! 

WORK PLAN 

Every year, the County Council adopts an official work plan as a way to focus staff hours and align their work with the budget. It basically is a blueprint for what work Summit County will accomplish in the coming year. The 2024 Work Plan was approved. to Council at this week’s meeting. 

If our listeners would like to review the Work Plan and see what the County will be up to this year, please visit: summitcounty.info/workplan24.

URE OPEN HOUSE  

In March 2023, Summit County entered into an option agreement with the Ure family to acquire their farm in the Kamas Valley that is approximately 834-acres. To fund the purchase, Summit County will combine 2021 GO Bond (or Open Space) funds with funds from Summit Land Conservancy, limited development opportunities, state and federal grants, and other open space partners.

A Community Open House will be held THIS COMING MONDAY, January 22nd, from 6 pm to 8 pm at the Kamas Services Building located at 110 N. Main St. in Kamas, to learn about and contribute ideas and feedback on possible land use. Childcare and light dinner will be provided. All are welcome to attend.

While no decisions have been finalized for the property use yet, the County is committed to preserving the majority of the wet meadows as protected agriculture and open space.

The remainder of the property is being considered for historic preservation, education space, community gathering venues, recreation opportunities, continued agriculture/ranching production, and community housing or local family businesses.

So mark your calendars for January 22nd from 6pm to 8pm at the Kamas Services Building. We hope to see you there!

MENTAL HEALTH SURVEY 

Every two years, the Summit County Health Department asks the community to complete a mental health assessment. The results of the assessment help guide efforts to improve the healthcare of our residents. Have your voice and needs heard by filling out the survey today at summitcountyhealth.org/survey.

RADON AWARENESS

In case you missed it, January is Radon Awareness Month! Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is produced from the breakdown of Uranium in the soil. Radon enters the air of homes through cracks, pipes or ventilation.

 

The Summit County Health Department is offering $10 radon test kits for you to sample the air where you live. The more people that participate, the better  Summit County can track high areas of radon in our community. 

Visit any Summit County Health Department location in Kamas, Coalville or Park City to pick up your test kit today! If you have questions, contact the Health Department at 435-333-1511 or visit summitcountyhealth.org.