General Information

Government Type

Municipality

Entity

Blanding

Public Body

City Council

Notice Information

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Notice Title

City Council Minutes 10.28.2025

Notice Type(s)

Meeting

Event Start Date & Time

October 28, 2025 07:00 PM

Description/Agenda

CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Mayor Trevor Olsen Mayor Pro Tempore Cheryl Bowers Council Member Chris Ewald Council Member Charlie Taylor Council Member Erik Grover Council Member Kellen Nielson October 28, 2025 - 7pm - City Council Meeting 50 West 100 South Street, Blanding Utah 84511 Meetings live streamed when available at: https://meet.google.com/ymf-jwqo-rjs POLICY MEETING Call to Order Roll Call A Prayer was offered by James Francom The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance. Consent Agenda / Oct. 14 City Council Minutes Approval Councilmember Ewald made a motion to approve the consent agenda and minutes from October 14, 2025. Councilmember Nielson seconded the motion. Mayor Olsen repeated the motion and asked for discussion or questions. Hearing none, he called for a vote. Those voting aye: Councilmember Taylor Councilmember Nielson Councilmember Grover Councilmember Ewald Councilmember Bowers Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Olsen declared the motion carried. Declaration of Conflicts of Interest - None Public Hearing - B3 Zoning Amendment Application Councilmember Grover made a motion to enter a public hearing for the B3 zoning. Councilmember Ewald seconded the motion. Mayor Olsen repeated the motion and asked for discussion or questions. Hearing none, he called for a vote. Those voting aye: Councilmember Taylor Councilmember Nielson Councilmember Grover Councilmember Ewald Councilmember Bowers Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Olsen declared the motion carried. Bill Knowlton, one of the owners of Real Estate Development, and his partner Tyler Howland, are the applicants for a low-income housing development project. Knowlton presented examples of similar two-story, energy-certified, low-income housing tax credit projects built by them in Utah and Arizona, which cater to demographics such as elderly women and veterans, and have high occupancy rates. Knowlton explained that the LIHTC program provides tax credits to the developer, acting as equity leveraged with the bank to fund construction, which allows them to offer lower rents, such as two-bedroom units starting around $450 per month. Knowlton clarified that this is not Section 8 housing, and tenants must qualify as low-income. The developer is required to own the property for 15 years and is subject to multiple annual audits by federal, state, and investor parties, with failure to comply resulting in a nationwide ban from the program. Knowlton noted that LIHTC projects cost 17% to 18% more to build than market-rate products due to higher standards for insulation, windows, sound attenuation, and fire suppression, as dictated by the program's requirements. They also highlighted that their projects require sourcing 100% of materials from the United States. Jim Hunt of JL Hunt Properties submitted an email opposing the zone change, citing concerns about long-term negative impacts on the city's image and tourism, increased traffic congestion and accidents due to ingress and egress onto the highway and Main Street, and the placement of high-density low-income housing in a commercially designated area. Hunt also raised concerns about potential requests for exemptions from R2 parking requirements, which Ben Muhlestein, city staff, noted had not yet arisen in discussions. Bill Knowlton addressed the egress concerns, assuring the council that the design process, including hiring a traffic engineer, would ensure compliance with all transportation regulations and minimize impact on traffic flow, with most of their projects having at least two points of ingress. Bill Knowlton addressed the opposition to the location, stating that this was the only commercially zoned property they were able to find, despite efforts. Knowlton countered common objections, claiming that their projects increase surrounding property values and tax bases. Kendall Laws added that they had attempted to meet with neighbors who received certified letters about the project, including Mr. Hunt, but none wished to meet. The applicants clarified that their contract includes a provision where the zoning change to R2 is contingent upon the project going through, meaning if the project fails, the property will revert to commercial zoning, addressing a concern raised by Mr. Hunt. The council confirmed that the B3 zoning amendment application is not a voting item for the current meeting, but will likely be on a future agenda, with an additional public hearing scheduled for the November 13th Planning and Zoning meeting. Councilmember Nielson made a motion to exit the public hearing. Councilmember Taylor seconded the motion. Mayor Olsen repeated the motion and asked for discussion or questions. Hearing none, he called for a vote. Those voting aye: Councilmember Taylor Councilmember Nielson Councilmember Grover Councilmember Ewald Councilmember Bowers Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Olsen declared the motion carried. Public Input - None Reports Mayor None City Council Councilmember Grover has had some health issues and he is still trying to get them figured out. City Manager The November City Council meetings will likely be consolidated to one long meeting on the 18th to canvas election votes, as November 11th is Veterans Day and the 25th is Thanksgiving week. Mr. Redd updated the council on the initial Community Development Block Grant meeting. The city is looking for projects, such as purchasing 12 additional breathing apparatuses for the fire department to supplement the four already purchased, reducing the overall cost of the needed 16 apparatuses. Council Member Taylor raised a concern about staggering the purchases of apparatuses, which cost about $10,000 each, to avoid large expenditures every few years. Mr. Redd discussed the possibility of raising the spillway at the recapture reservoir to add capacity, noting that it needs to be done promptly to capture any spring runoff. He stated that Jones & DeMille has done some research and surveying for this project. The council also reviewed road improvements around Blanding Elementary School, noting recent patching and replacement work. Concerns were raised regarding truck traffic and subsequent road damage, requiring extensive tar crack sealing, and the need for improved drainage areas. There was concern about the amount of crack sealing being done on the roads and the efficiency of the way it's being done. It was questioned whether or not an air compressor is being used to blow out the cracks or just a leaf blower. Mr. Parsons explained that crack sealing is a short term fix to extend the life of the pavement. He stated that we have a one year warranty for the road repairs. Mr. Parsons also mentioned that the city is purchasing AI software to analyze road conditions via vehicle-mounted cameras to gather historical data, which will help address concerns and prioritize deterioration from construction traffic and compare pre- and post-construction road conditions. Business Items - Mr. Redd discussed a need for additional funds for signage at the visitor center to direct people to the swallow nest area. They explained that a large sign near the front of the building would direct people to a smaller sign in the back, where a plaque already explains the importance of the nest. The estimated cost for the first sign is $896.85, and the Daughters of Utah Pioneers are donating $422 toward it. Nancy Kimmerle and Bev Black explained what the size and placement of the signs would be. Pratt Redd also noted that the city is seeking approximately $500 in additional funds to cover the cost of both signs, with the intent to simply pay for and order both signs. They discussed grant money and different possible avenues of funding to help with some projects. Nancy also said that they are working on making a display in the visitor center about Albert R. Lyman, Walter C. Lyman and more about the founding of Blanding. Council gave advice and consent to give the amount needed for the signs. Operational Budget Report - James Francom Mr. Francom addressed the operational budget, pointing out a new fund, fund 25 municipal building authority, which was created during the audit process; it looks like a new expense, although the money was already in the general fund. City Engineer/Water Report - Patrick Parsons Mr. Patrick (also referred to as Mr. Water) presented September's data, marking the end of the water year, noting that the city ended at 17.8 inches of accumulation compared to a 28-inch median. He is looking forward to next month's report and he hopes the water year continues to be positive. Mr. Parsons also mentioned that city well production was shut down for the season due to lower demand and complications with blending water. Mr. Parsons provided updates on current projects, confirming that the crack sealing operation is a three-person team, although they will follow up to verify the presence of an air compressor. They also announced that UDOT approved a project for Main Street, funded 100% by UDOT, to address missing and damaged sidewalk sections and driveways, with the city providing project oversight and traffic control. Furthermore, the deep well building work has broken ground, with substantial completion expected by mid-January, excluding the entryway paving. Returning Business Items Ordinance 2025-26 Establishing a Temporary Moratorium Mr. Redd introduced Ordinance 2025-26, establishing a temporary moratorium of no longer than 180 days to update zoning regarding mobile homes. They clarified that during the moratorium, pre-1976 mobile homes remain prohibited, and any switch-outs require planning and zoning approval with a $1000 fine if done without permission and approval. Councilmember Bowers' concern about the duration was noted, and it was agreed that the moratorium could be undone as soon as the work is completed. WHEREAS, the City of Blanding regulates the placement and development of mobile (singlewide) homes under Title 10.5 of the Blanding City Code; and WHEREAS, the City has experienced increased inquiries and requests related to the installation and relocation of mobile homes, specifically within existing mobile home zones, raising concerns regarding infrastructure capacity, neighborhood compatibility, and compliance with current standards; and WHEREAS, the Blanding City Council desires to review and update the City's standards for mobile home zoning districts to ensure consistency with modern housing, safety, and design standards; and WHEREAS, the proposed updates will include but are not limited to: Fencing and screening requirements; Maintenance and upkeep standards for lots and shared areas; Alignment with current HUD definitions of 'mobile home,' 'manufactured home,' and 'modular home'; Fire, safety, and utility connection standards; Site layout, circulation, and drainage requirements; and Basic design and appearance standards to preserve neighborhood character without creating barriers to affordability; and WHEREAS, Utah Code Ann. §10-9a-504 authorizes municipalities to enact a temporary land-use regulation (moratorium) for up to 180 days when necessary to protect the public interest while land-use regulations are being studied or revised; and WHEREAS, the Blanding City Council finds that a short-term moratorium is necessary to prevent incompatible or substandard development during this review period and to allow for a comprehensive update to the City's Mobile Home Zone standards; Councilmember Ewald made a motion to approve Ordinance 2025-26 establishing a temporary moratorium on mobile homes. Councilmember Grover seconded the motion. Mayor Olsen repeated the motion and asked for discussion or questions. Hearing none, he called for a vote. Those voting aye: Councilmember Taylor Councilmember Nielson Councilmember Grover Councilmember Ewald Those voting nay: Councilmember Bowers Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Olsen declared the motion carried. Resolution 10.28.2025-1 Approval of Defense Council Contract WHEREAS, Blanding City is required under Utah Code § 77-32-301 et seq. to provide legal representation to indigent defendants appearing before the Blanding City Justice Court; and WHEREAS, Blanding City issued a Request for Proposals seeking qualified legal counsel to provide indigent defense services for Justice Court matters; and WHEREAS, Stevens & Gailey, PLLC submitted a proposal dated October 13, 2025 outlining their qualifications, experience, staffing, and proposed fee structure; and WHEREAS, Stevens & Gailey, PLLC has demonstrated extensive experience in criminal and indigent defense, currently serving as public defender for the Cities of American Fork, Ogden, Orem, and Payson, and maintains attorneys in good standing with the Utah State Bar; and WHEREAS, the proposal provides that Vincent T. Stevens, Managing Attorney of Stevens & Gailey, PLLC, will serve as the primary attorney for Blanding City, supported by additional firm attorneys as needed to ensure continuous coverage; and WHEREAS, the firm's proposal offers an annual flat fee of Thirty-Nine Thousand Dollars ($39,000.00) for regular indigent defense services, including two court sessions per month (with at least two in-person annually) and related preparation, consultation, and administrative work; and WHEREAS, additional in-person hearings beyond two annually will be billed at $200.00 per diem, and if the total number of hearings exceeds twenty-four (24) per year, such excess time shall be billed at $150.00 per hour, with a four-hour minimum, consistent with the terms stated in the proposal; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that retaining Stevens & Gailey, PLLC will ensure continued access to competent and ethical legal representation for indigent defendants, fulfilling statutory and constitutional obligations of the City. Councilmember Bowers questioned the number of cases that he will cover and the cost associated with that or if he should go over 24 cases. Mr. Redd clarified her questions. Councilmember Taylor made a motion to approve Resolution 10.28.2025-1 approval of the defense council contract with Stevens and Gailey, PLLC. Councilmember Nielson seconded the motion. Mayor Olsen repeated the motion and asked for discussion or questions. Hearing none, he called for a vote. Those voting aye: Councilmember Taylor Councilmember Nielson Councilmember Grover Councilmember Ewald Councilmember Bowers Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Olsen declared the motion carried. Resolution 10.28.2025-2 Monticello Building Inspection Contract WHEREAS, Blanding City and the City of Monticello are municipal corporations organized under the laws of the State of Utah; and WHEREAS, both cities are authorized under the Utah Interlocal Cooperation Act (Utah Code Ann. §11-13-101 et seq.) to enter into agreements for the joint performance of services and the sharing of resources for the mutual benefit of their citizens; and WHEREAS, Monticello City periodically requires backup or emergency building inspection and plan review services due to workload, staff absence, or scheduling limitations; and WHEREAS, Blanding City employs qualified building inspection personnel capable of providing such emergency and backup services on an as-needed basis; and WHEREAS, the proposed Interlocal Cooperation Agreement establishes the scope of services, fees, and terms under which Blanding City will provide these services to Monticello City, including inspection scheduling, invoicing, and payment procedures; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that participation in this cooperative agreement promotes efficiency, strengthens intergovernmental coordination, and serves the best interests of the residents of both communities. Councilmember Bowers made a motion to approve Resolution 10.28.2025-2 approval of the Monticello building inspection contract. Councilmember Grover seconded the motion. Mayor Olsen repeated the motion and asked for discussion or questions. Hearing none, he called for a vote. Those voting aye: Councilmember Taylor Councilmember Nielson Councilmember Grover Councilmember Ewald Councilmember Bowers Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Olsen declared the motion carried. Discussion Items Curb Cutting Policy Review Mr. Redd initiated a discussion on a potential city curb cutting policy to ensure ADA accessibility and proper curb standards, which is necessary for future infrastructure projects. The policy would likely require a permit fee of around $150 to cover staff inspection and administrative time. The council plans to move forward with the discussion and potential approval in the December meeting, as they consider the proposal a great idea. Rainmaker Cloud Seeding Project Mayor Olsen presented information on a proposed project that the county is looking to implement. It is a cloud seeding project using drones. There was a packet provided with all the pertinent information. Mayor Olsen stated that the county is attempting to collect up to $50,000 for the $250,000 project. For Blanding to commit and participate, they would have to invest $5,000. He said that they ran this by the water conservancy district and they are in favor of the effort. They discussed the pros and cons of the project. The council raised questions regarding the correlation between seeding and moisture, the potential for floods, and the need for quantifiable ROI or post-performance pay models from the company. There are a lot of unknowns at this point. The packet does answer a lot of FAQs. Mr. Parsons stated that compared to the past attempts in cloud seeding, technology has advanced and has better capabilities in quantifying and measuring the contribution. The mayor asked that all the council members do their own research and come back with their own opinions. Adjournment Councilmember Grover made a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Nielson seconded the motion. Mayor Olsen repeated the motion and asked for discussion or questions, hearing none, he called for a vote. Those voting aye: Councilmember Taylor Councilmember Grover Councilmember Nielson Councilmember Ewald Councilmember Bowers Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Olsen declared the motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 8:48pm.

Notice of Special Accommodations (ADA)

In compliance with the ADA, individuals needing special accommodations during this meeting may call the City Offices at (435) 678-2791 at least twenty-four hours in advance. Every effort will be made to provide the appropriate services.

Notice of Electronic or Telephone Participation

One or more Council Members may partcipate electronically.

Meeting Information

Meeting Location

50 W 100 S
Blanding, UT 84511
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Contact Name

Pratt Redd

Contact Email

predd@blanding-ut.gov

Notice Posting Details

Notice Posted On

December 16, 2025 11:09 AM

Notice Last Edited On

December 16, 2025 11:09 AM

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