General Information

Government Type

Municipality

Entity

Blanding

Public Body

City Council

Notice Information

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Notice Title

4.14.2026 City Council Minutes

Notice Type(s)

Meeting

Event Start Date & Time

April 14, 2026 06:00 PM

Description/Agenda

CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Mayor Trevor Olsen (absent) Mayor Pro-Tempore Charlie Taylor Council Member Chris Ewald Council Member Kellen Nielson Council Member Chad Moses Council Member Jesse Grover April 14, 2026 6:00 PM - Work Session April 14, 2026 7:00 PM City Council Meeting 50 West 100 South Street, Blanding Utah 84511 Meetings live streamed when available at: https://meet.google.com/xxg-uefm-yut Work Session FY 2027 Budget Discussion - Capital Projects Mr. Redd introduced the process for reviewing 2026 capital projects, which included revisiting items approved but unfunded in the previous year's budget. They emphasized that the current session is for feedback, ranking, and adding projects, not for making final decisions, and noted that they also plan to review general fund budgets. The agenda includes cost estimates, potential grants, and the local funding required for each project. The West Apron rehab at the airport was approved the previous year, but grant funding prioritization for the fuel system delayed it. The project is largely funded by the FAA, with the city paying for a portion. The work involves additional taxiway and better ramp-up areas, and it has been part of the general plan for a few years. The police equipment request included new computers and a proposal from the police chief to use GoPros for dash cams in an effort to save costs. A significant concern was raised about using GoPros due to issues with video storage, security, sharing data, and managing records, emphasizing that improper handling of police video can lead to significant liability. Axon handles data management and redaction, making the upfront cost of Axon preferable to the long-term liabilities and managerial overhead of GoPros. The cost of Axon dash cameras, including a 10-year contract for six cameras, was estimated at $120,000. It was agreed that using the correct, professional equipment is essential. The police equipment budget also included funds for rebuilding rifle tops and purchasing five lightweight, rifle-rated bulletproof vests, which cost around $1,500 to $1,700 each and last about four to five years. It was suggested that body armor should be rotated every five years, that the department establish a rotation schedule to buy one or two vests annually. It was emphasized that deviating from the manufacturer's recommendation on vest replacement, which is often around five years, creates a potential liability. Significant maintenance is required at the visitor center, where $10,000 worth of maintenance should have been performed over the past seven or eight years. The back siding needs replacement and cosmetic repair, and gutters and a replacement door with framing are needed for the basement entrance to address water drainage issues. Mr. Redd proposed removing a tree and redoing the concrete in the courtyard to eliminate tripping hazards and prevent water from running toward the building's basement. A total budget of $120,000 was suggested for the visitor center repairs, including exterior cosmetics and potentially contributing to HVAC costs. It was suggested that the siding repair could wait until next year, but the drainage work and concrete replacement, which are critical for preventing ongoing water damage and mitigating public safety concerns, should be prioritized this year. Mr. Redd stated that they could handle the projects internally. The proposal for a concrete and asphalt bike pump track was approved the previous year but did not receive grant funding. The project is contingent on securing grant funding. Concerns were raised that the track is not maintenance-free, so that cost must be determined before proceeding. The typical budget for roads and streets is $250,000, which can be adjusted depending on priority and partnerships with the county and transportation district. Current projects considered included the loop road near Tri-Hurst to address drainage issues. There are funds also designated for general crack sealing and asphalt patching. The availability of funds allows flexibility for projects as they arise. The airport typically budgets between $15,000 and $20,000 for standard projects, but this year it was increased to $30,000 to help partner in the purchase of a replacement fuel truck. The current fuel truck is from the 1970s, and parts are becoming obsolete, making replacement a priority. Councilmember Ewald stated that the Airport Board is focusing on several low-cost renovations to attract more back-country pilots, who are a major customer base. Key amenities under consideration include setting up a system for automotive gas, providing camp spots for dry camping, and possibly adding a dirt runway adjacent to the paved one. He also talked about the option of developing shade hangers to resolve the hanger waiting list. The replacement of the current fire truck, which is 22 years old and has a ladder that only reaches 20 feet, is a top priority for this year or next. It is anticipated that finding grant funding for a new fire truck will be possible, especially as a rural area. There is an interest in proceeding with the lighting project for the baseball and softball fields at Centennial Field to allow for games at cooler times and better utilization of the facilities. The project could potentially include grant funding. The padding at the base of the pool slides, which is necessary for safety, is deteriorating and needs replacement. Although expensive, the specialty padding lasts about 10 years, and David has secured a quote they are comfortable with. A $10,000 budget has been allocated for security upgrades, specifically for the main administrative building and the fire department. The plan is to install keyless entry systems. The fire department did not secure the grant this year to acquire 10 new breathing apparatuses, and they still need at least six more to be fully equipped. The strategy is to use the budgeted $20,000 to acquire two units and then secure an additional $80,000 in grant funding to purchase the remaining six. Mr. Redd stated that electrical, storm water, sewer, and natural gas budgets will be reviewed in a subsequent meeting. POLICY MEETING Call to Order Roll Call A Prayer was offered by Councilmember Ewald The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance. Consent Agenda & City Council Minutes Approval - 03.24.2026 Meeting Councilmember Ewald made a motion to approve the consent agenda and minutes from March 24, 2026. Councilmember Moses seconded the motion. Mayor Pro Temp Taylor 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 Moses Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Pro Temp Taylor declared the motion carried. Declaration of Conflicts of Interest - None Public Input - None Reports Mayor N/A City Council Councilmember Ewald said that they had an airport meeting yesterday and they discussed a lot of good things and hope to make some improvements, some of which are listed above in the work meeting. Councilmember Taylor wants the other council members to drive by the new elementary school and look at the fence that is around the retention pond. He stated that it does not meet our codes. It blocks the line of sight at the intersection. There was concern about the flow of traffic, congestion, signage, crosswalks etc. Pratt Redd City Manager Report Mr. Redd reported they are following up on the timeline for the crack sealing project, which they anticipate should be completed before October. UAMPS awarded two $2500 scholarships to local students. Ethan Francom and Tyler Jacobson. The first draft of the San Juan School District facility use agreement has been completed and will be sent for review, with the goal of having input and potential signing by the next meeting. The planned pickleball tournament that was being put on by the youth city council has been postponed due to a lack of sign-ups and the loss of five or six volunteers who needed to attend a track meet. The search for a new Public Works Utility Director is ongoing, with six current applicants, five of whom are local, and the position has been advertised more broadly on municipal and association websites. Interviews are tentatively scheduled to begin on April 27th, though the position will remain open until the right person is hired. Court Report: Total court cases for January: 27 February: 44 March: 129 Finance Report - James Francom Mr. Francom has the expense report and the operational budget available for the council members. He asked if anyone had any questions. No one did at this time. Police Report - Police Chief JJ Bradford The Chief stated that we are a little over a full month into our Field training program with the two new officers and things are going well. The new officers are getting a good variety of calls and cases to look into. If training continues as expected, they will be on their own the next time I stand here. The vehicle traffic has greatly increased with the warm weather and people starting to travel more. The new officers are in the shadowing phase. They are in their own cars and are basically being followed around and being backed up on traffic stops and cases by other officers. They have been getting some good experience and exposure to different cases. Councilmember Ewald asked how they liked the trucks. Chief Bradford stated that they are good for hauling dog traps around. They are a little harder to make a quick turn in. But they are good for what they are good for, although Chief Bradford feels that the SUVs are more suitable for patrol duties. The officers with trucks have been encouraged to get window tinting for enhanced privacy and to protect the equipment inside. Discussion Items SEEN & ELF Program Review - Bayley Hedglin Bayley Hedglin gave a report on the SEEN and ELF programs. It aims to support economic mobility in San Juan County. It is designed to fill business service gaps. The Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, (ELF) is similar to the revolving loan fund but specifically tailored for startups, expansion, and established businesses. The loan terms include a local decision-making process, a 10-year term, and a 4% interest rate under prime. The loan fund is new and money will be disbursed on a first-come, first-served basis as there is a set amount available. It is hoped that the funding, which also covers the Carbon and Emory areas, will help businesses with things like expansion, equipment purchase, and property acquisition. Visitor Center HVAC Bid Review - Pratt Redd The discussion moved to the visitor center, which currently uses swamp coolers, and an RFP was put out for an HVAC solution. The sole proposal, from Red Mechanical, initially came in at just under $92,000. A less expensive solution was requested, resulting in a second bid for just under $60,000. This option involves a heat pump for the north end of the building and ductless mini-splits for the south end, including the gift shop and lobby. The project is considered a 'should do' and is likely to only increase in cost if delayed. The cheaper, second option is more practical and easier for the city team to maintain. There was a discussion about whether to pay for the project now or split the cost between two fiscal year budgets. Since the cost remains the same regardless of the payment schedule, Mr. Redd will bring back a resolution for the full payment at the next meeting. Business Items Resolution 04-14-2026-1 Approval of an Appointment for UAMPS Member Representative WHEREAS, the City of Blanding is a member of Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems ('UAMPS'); and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Blanding finds it necessary and appropriate to appoint a representative to act on behalf of the City in matters relating to UAMPS; And WHEREAS, the City Council desires to replace Logan Monson as the City's appointed representative to UAMPS and appoint Pratt Redd in his place. Councilmember Nielson made a motion to approve Resolution 04-14-2026-1, approval of an appointment for UAMPS member representative. Councilmember Grover seconded the motion. Mayor Pro Temp Taylor 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 Moses Councilmember Ewald Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Pro Temp Taylor declared the motion carried. Resolution 04-14-2026-2 Renewing BLM Right-of-Way for Natural Gas Pipeline WHEREAS, Blanding City owns and operates a municipal natural gas utility system that provides essential public utility service to residents, businesses, and other customers in the Blanding service area; and WHEREAS, a portion of the City's existing underground natural gas distribution pipeline crosses federal land under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management; and WHEREAS, the existing pipeline extends from northeast of Monticello, Utah, to Blanding, Utah, is approximately 32 miles in length, with approximately 3 miles located on BLM lands, and operates continuously to provide year-round natural gas service; And WHEREAS, Blanding City desires to renew the federal authorization for the continued use and occupancy of the affected federal land for this existing natural gas pipeline; and WHEREAS, the City has prepared an application for renewal through Standard Form 299 for filing with the Bureau of Land Management, Monticello Field Office; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that continued operation of the existing natural gas pipeline is necessary for the public health, safety, and welfare of the community and is in the best interest of Blanding City. Councilmember Ewald made a motion to approve Resolution 04-14-2026-2accepting the renewal of the BLM right-of-way for the natural gas pipeline. Councilmember Moses seconded the motion. Mayor Pro Temp Taylor 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 Moses Councilmember Ewald Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Pro Temp Taylor declared the motion carried. Adjournment Councilmember Nielson made a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Ewald seconded the motion. Mayor Pro Temp Taylor repeated the motion. He asked for discussion or questions. Hearing none, he called for a vote. Those voting aye: Councilmember Taylor Councilmember Grover Councilmember Nielson Councilmember Ewald Councilmember Moses Those voting nay: None Constituting all members thereof, Mayor Pro Temp Taylor declared the motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 7:40pm.

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

May 13, 2026 10:18 AM

Notice Last Edited On

May 13, 2026 10:18 AM

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