Town of Mantua Council Meeting Minutes
For November 20th, 2025
Location: Town Hall, 409 North Main, Mantua, Utah
Council Members Present: Ken Jones, Matt Jeppsen, Jared Jeppsen
Absent: Mayor Terry Nelson, Karen Nelson
Recorder: Sherita Schaefer
Audience Present: Annette Ash, Don Ruhl, Scott Ross
The meeting was opened by Mayor Pro Tem Matt Jeppsen. Invocation by Jared Jeppsen.
Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayor Pro Tem Matt Jeppsen; all in attendance participated.
Minutes:
Town Council meeting minutes for October 16th, 2025- Approved (vote: 5-0).
Consideration to Pay the Bills: Jared Jeppsen made a motion to approve the bills; Ken Jones seconded.
Yes votes: Mayor Pro Tem Matt Jeppsen, Ken Jones, Jared Jeppsen
No votes: None
Abstained: None
Absent: Mayor Terry Nelson, Karen Nelson
MOTION PASSED
Public Comment: None
Discussion and Action Items
Danes Park - Tami Jeppesen
Tami Jeppesen provided updates on Danes Park, outlining plans to complete improvements with the assistance of volunteers and available funds. She reviewed the rock wall project, which was approved with a bid of $8,000 from Heavy Iron to enhance the park's stability. Additionally, she mentioned the need for turf installation, with estimates around $7,500, contingent upon assistance from the town's workers. To prevent future overspending, communication challenges in project management and oversight were also discussed. Public Works Director Marcus Abel will oversee all park projects. Tami highlighted the positive community response to the recent improvements, noting that families are increasingly using the space, reflecting the community's commitment to creating a vibrant environment.
Jared Jeppsen made a motion to approve up to $28,000.00 to finish the items on the list presented to us today, excluding the fence and rock wall. Ken Jones seconded.
Yes votes: Mayor Pro Tem Matt Jeppsen, Ken Jones, Jared Jeppsen
No votes: None
Abstained: None
Absent: Mayor Terry Nelson, Karen Nelson
MOTION PASSED
Youth Council Director
Jared Jeppsen addressed the council regarding the Mantua Youth Council director position, sharing that Lindsay Strong has approached Karen Nelson with a proposal to revive the youth council, which had not gained traction in previous years. He mentioned that she has developed a code of conduct, an application process, and a schedule for recruitment. The council discussed the eligibility for the council, which is set for grades 7 to 12.
Jared Jeppsen made a motion to appoint Lindsay Strong as the Youth Council Director for the Mantua Youth Town Council. Ken Jones seconded.
Yes votes: Mayor Pro Tem Matt Jeppsen, Ken Jones, Jared Jeppsen
No votes: None
Abstained: None
Absent: Mayor Terry Nelson, Karen Nelson
MOTION PASSED
New Business License- Graysen Thurgood (not in attendance)
Ordinances - Chief Dakota Midkiff
Police Chief Dakota Midkiff highlighted the need to update local ordinances, pointing out their lack of essential elements for effective enforcement. He proposed creating an ordinance review committee to ensure compliance and clarity in the laws. Additionally, Dakota noted that existing ordinances are often difficult for officers to access on the town's website. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the police department, the council, and the judicial branch to enhance enforcement efforts.
Public Works Overview - Marcus Abel
Marcus Abel provided updates on various public works projects. He mentioned ongoing challenges in maintaining roads and infrastructure, estimating that significant repairs could cost up to $1 million over the next decade. The Main Street project is set to begin in early spring, while issues with deteriorating water lines and the need for better communication within the department were highlighted. He emphasized the importance of regular employee meetings to improve teamwork and efficiency. Additionally, Marcus raised concerns about the need for proper safety equipment for sewer operations, as well as the necessity to replace outdated infrastructure to ensure public safety and compliance.
IT (item tabled)
Planning and Zoning:
Marcus Abel provided updates on planning and zoning matters, focusing on a conditional use building permit for a home seeking to exceed height limits. He noted that the planning commission is currently reviewing the application before deciding. Additionally, Marcus emphasized the need for caution regarding driveway construction to ensure compliance with regulations. He reported that progress is being made on the public works checklist and that preparations for winter conditions, including snow removal, are on track. In closing, he mentioned a recent meeting with Brigham City, indicating ongoing collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions.
Public Works:
Marcus Abel provided updates on planning and zoning matters, focusing on a conditional use building permit for a home seeking to exceed height limits. He noted that the planning commission is currently reviewing the application before deciding. Additionally, Marcus emphasized the need for caution regarding driveway construction to ensure compliance with regulations. He reported that progress is being made on the public works checklist and that preparations for winter conditions, including snow removal, are on track. In closing, he mentioned a recent meeting with Brigham City, indicating ongoing collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions.
Fire Department:
Matt Jeppsen reported on a productive meeting with Brigham City to discuss Emergency Medical Services (EMS). He highlighted the importance of the conversation, noting that both parties shared perspectives and discussed upcoming changes affecting their services. Matt expressed appreciation for Brigham City representatives for collaborating and providing insights that will guide the council and the fire department in their planning and decision-making regarding EMS operations moving forward.
Grants Update: (not in attendance)
Jared Jeppsen made a motion to adjourn, Ken Jones seconded.
Yes votes: Mayor Pro Tem Matt Jeppsen, Ken Jones, Jared Jeppsen
No votes: None
Abstained: None
Absent: Mayor Terry Nelson, Karen Nelson
MOTION PASSED
Adjourn
Notice of Special Accommodations (ADA)
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing auxiliary communicative aids and services for this meeting should contact the Management Services Department at 629-8701 (TTY/TDD: 711 or 888-735-5906) or by emailing town recorder at townrecorder@mantuautah.gov at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.
Notice of Electronic or Telephone Participation
Public meetings may be held electronically in accordance with Utah Code Annotated 52-4-207 to allow Council members to participate via teleconference. The anchor location for the meeting shall be held at the Mantua Town Hall 409 North Main St, Mantua Utah 84324
Other Information
Certificate of Posting
The foregoing agenda was (1) posted on the Utah Public Notice Website created under Utah Code Section 63F1-701. (2) Town of Mantua website, and (3) posted in Town of Mantua City Office on 12/19/2025 by Sherita Schaefer - Town Recorder