Eagle Mountain
Eagle Mountain City Council Meeting
By Danielle Palmer
March 20, 2012
The Eagle Mountain City Council meeting was called to order at 7:15 p.m. Braden Harper led The Boy Scouts of America in the flag ceremony and pledge of allegiance. Mayor Jackson expressed her appreciation for their services.
Announcements
The Miss Eagle Mountain Scholarship Pageant will be held Saturday, April 7, at 7 p.m. at Vista Heights Middle School. Tickets are available now and may be purchased online or at City Hall. They will also be sold at the door.
Pony Express Days 2012 will be held May 25-June 2. The theme this year is Fostering the Community with Love. A schedule of events can be found online. Tickets to the Chris Cagle Concert & Fireworks show are on sale now and may be purchased on the city website or at City Hall during business hours. More information on any of these announcements, and other upcoming events can be found on the city website.
Public comments.
Nikki Whitman came forward to state concerns about the money being spent to promote a road she believed would never be built. Mayor Heather Jackson reassured her that the cost information Whitman had for the road was incorrect and that they do have high expectations that the road will be built.
Rod Hess came forward with concerns about traffic control on Pony Express Parkway and delays caused by stoplights. The mayor stated the city’s control is limited with this project. Traffic should only be impacted for a couple of weeks.
Sam Allen expressed concerns on utility rates. He expressed indignation about higher rates and bills. He wondered if the utilities could be sold so the rates could be managed better. Jackson later said that selling the utilities is impossible. Brian Free approached council also addressing utility rate concerns. He suggested a town hall meeting on the subject to better educate the public. The mayor stated they do intend to have a meeting in the near future.
Council member comments
Donna Burnham expressing delight caucus meetings turnouts. Some people parked at quite a distance and still cheerfully walked to meetings. It felt like a gathering of neighbors to have a conversation and she was pleased with the result.
Richard Steinkopf expressed appreciation to the Boy Scouts in attendance.
John Painter also articulated thanks to those citizens who came forward to make comments. He noted the difficulty in doing so, but reverberated a desire for participation from citizens. It is helpful to know citizen concerns while working the budget process.
Nathan Ochsenhirt restated their appreciation as his own. He hoped the lack of parking wouldn’t deter attendance to the next caucus meetings. He also reminded citizens to be responsible and cautious with the warmer weather as children may be playing in neighborhood streets.
Ryan Ireland said ditto to other comments by City Council members. The mayor did the same.
Business items.
Council Member Ochsenhirt moved to amend the consent agenda. Burnham seconded his motion. The mayor asked for a vote and it passed unanimously.
Consideration and approval of a landscape design for Bobby Wren Trailhead, presented by Chris Trusty.
The item was tabled February 21. Since, the plan was redesigned to accommodate additional parking, among other improvements, adding cost projections and a plan for timing. The trailhead would be located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Pony Express Parkway and Bobby Wren Boulevard. The project would total in about $34,000.
Jackson reminded the council of UTA’s plan for a new Front Runner bus route, eliminating the express bus. She met with them and suggested the additional bus stops. However, their plan has not yet been confirmed.
Brian Free approached the council and expressed that this project is one of Park and Recreation’s top priorities. He understands the concerns about the possibility of a future bus stop and the city’s tight budget. However, they would like to see this project acted upon sooner than later.
Painter expressed his reservations. Since this area could possibly become a bus stop in the future, he would be more comfortable waiting until plans are more set and they can clearly meet the needs presented. It’s a lot of money to pay toward dressing up an eye sore.
Donna Burnham spoke about the area never being intended as a park-and-ride even if a bus stop does get placed there, and reminded others that the first phase is already in the budget this fiscal year. She shared her perspective as a citizen who lives in the neighborhood, that the spot is not pretty. She agrees that it is a huge price tag, but something needs to be done. Mayor Jackson agreed that the area would be used as primarily a trailhead for most citizens as most bus riders would park at the other end. Steinkopf offered that a trailhead could be very inviting for the area.
Painter reminded the council that there is also a trailhead a couple miles away among others in the area. Ireland stated his concerns with moving ahead with phase one of the project and then having UTA come in and tearing it out again to create the bus stop along the side of the road. He clarified that the timing is the problem.
Ochsenhirt agreed that they don’t want to start something they can’t finish. He wanted further explanation as to what the project would really be. A trailhead is a good idea and a bus stop makes sense, but if that’s the case then more parking may be needed. We need more purpose then just something to look at as we drive by. He doesn’t want the project to become a waste, as they don’t have the budget to be doing things twice.
Burnham stated that she would like the project to be done. Jackson asked for a motion to be put on the table. Painter moved to deny the item. Ireland seconded his motion. As further discussion, Ochsenhirt asked if they were killing the project altogether. Painter clarified that there is still an opportunity to do something about the area and it would be dishonest to turn their backs on that, but he didn’t feel this was the plan to go for. The time element is the biggest issue. He would want to improve the area, but the plan doesn’t address everything so he can’t wholeheartedly go for it.
Ireland asked what would happen to the money budgeted for the project. Painter said the topic could be revisited. The money could be rolled over to the next fiscal year. Ireland added they need to know what UTA will do. Even if UTA says no, he was concerned about where the project belongs in the plan for overall improvements to the City Center area. Many things need improvements and $25,000 only goes so far.
The mayor added there is a plan where all parks and trails are prioritized and this is not the next project on the list. Donna Burnham added that this particular project wasn’t on the prioritization plan for Parks and Recreation because the plan was made before the damage was done to the area. Ochsenhirt added he needs a clearer vision and a more perfected plan for the area.
Burnham added her concerns about the motion. If the item was denied, the money could go anywhere and she doesn’t want the project to be forgotten completely. She restated her concerns by using the past tennis court plan for the City Center that fell through the cracks and will now never happen. Steinkopf stated that until they know what will happen with the UTA they can’t make a decision. That is needed first.
The mayor called for a vote to deny the consideration and all voted yes (Burnham stated her vote via the mayor’s counsel), except Steinkopf, who voted no. The motion carried and the landscape design for the trailhead was denied.
Consider a motion to classify a “private record” and a “protected record.”
Donna Burnham moved to release as record, it was seconded, and all voted yes.
Consideration and approval of a classified “separation agreement and release.” Ochsenhirt moved to approve, Burnham seconded and vote was unanimous to pass.
The consideration and approval of an employment contract for the position of city administrator.
Ifo Pili, assistant city administrator, will fill the position of city administrator when John Hendrickson retires. Jackson told the public that Hendrickson has been working with them for many years and would like to retire as of approximately July 1, 2012. The employment contract is now being presented so as to provide a smooth transition when the time comes.
Jackson also read an email from a past council member, Eric Cieslak, expressing appreciation to John Hendrickson for his longtime loyalty and service to the city. The letter also stated the decision to take on Ifo Pili, is a great choice.
Ochsenhirt motioned to approve the employment contract. Burnham seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous. It will take effect as of the date of Hendrickson’s retirement. Hendrickson expressed tremendous pleasure in working with the city and stated he would say more at his last meeting, but added that he concurs with the action that was made.
Ochsenhirt motioned to adjourn and it was seconded. The meeting ended at approximately 8:35 p.m.
Eagle Mountain settles with former mayor
Eagle Mountain recently agreed to a six-figure settlement with former mayor Brian Olsen. Public Information Director Linda Peterson states, “Eagle Mountain City followed the mandate of the court and paid a settlement to former mayor Brian Olsen in the amount of $100,412.72.”
Olsen was elected mayor of Eagle Mountain in the November 2005 election, but stepped down less than a year later when he was accused of mishandling the city’s money. It was suggested that Olsen was using city funds to be reimbursed for travel he was doing on behalf of city business, but that he wasn’t actually doing said business.
A Utah County attorney quickly filed seven charges against Olsen, all third-degree felonies for the misuse of public funds. In 2008, after a four-day trial, a jury found Olsen to be not guilty of the charges.
Once deemed not-guilty, Olsen attempted to regain his legal financial losses by suing the City of Eagle Mountain. Eagle Mountain tried to get the case dismissed, but the judge sided with Olsen, leading Eagle Mountain to appeal to the state supreme court, who also sided with Olsen. Now five and a half years later, the litigation with Olsen will end upon payment of the settlement.
The $100,412.72 settlement is at least $30,000 short of what Olsen was trying to be reimbursed. Eagle Mountain’s City Council unanimously agreed to the settlement.
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Eagle Mountain City Council Meeting, February 21, 2012
By Danielle Palmer
Eagle Mountain City Council held a policy session on February 21, 2012, at 7 p.m. An earlier work session took place from 4 to 6 p.m. in which the consent agenda was discussed and the city administrator provided information to the City Council for informative purposes. The items were for informative purposes and did not require immediate action by the City Council.
The policy session was opened with a prayer by Tyler Westfall, member of the Boy Scouts. Mayer Heather Jackson called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m. Then Christian Bowman led the Boy Scouts in the flag ceremony, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayer Jackson expressed her appreciation for their presence and willingness to perform the flag ceremony, as she would like to have it more often.
Those attending the meeting included Mayor Heather Jackson and Council members Donna Burnham, John Painter, Richard Steinkopf and Ryan Ireland. City Council member Nathan Ochsenhirt participated over the phone speaker from North Dakota. Also present was Fire Chief Rand Andrus, City Engineer Christ Trusty, Planning Director Steve Mumford and Assistant City Administrator Ifo Pili.
Items of information announced included: The Eagle Mountain Mobile Application is now working. You can search for the app to download on your cell phone by searching “Eagle Mountain.” They are working out the bugs, so if you come across anything in need of attention, email Linda Peterson.
The sports program survey is still taking place and will be used in the decision on what activities should be added to accommodate the growing Eagle Mountain population.
Youth Baseball late registration will be from February 28 through March 6. You can find more information on the city website. If you register three or more children, a discount will be added. The ability to use this discount is now available online as well.
Youth Bowling is now available through Jack and Jill Bowling in Lehi. Registration is open now and you can find more information on the city website.
Woman of the Year nominations are also being taken now. If you know a woman in Eagle Mountain who has done service in their home, schools, and/or community, nominate them for the 2012 Woman of the Year Award. Nominations are due by March 1. This will be kept a secret until the announcement after the Miss Eagle Mountain Pageant on April 7, 2012, so be sure you have a way to potentially get your nomination to be present at the pageant. Nomination forms are available in the News section on the city website.
After all the announcements were made, time was given to allow any public comments, and there were none. Mayor Jackson then took the opportunity to announce that the interview process for their intern has been completed and she introduced Lauren Jackson as their intern. She will begin working in May and stay throughout the summer and they are excited to have her.
Donna Burnham then reminded the public about the approaching caucus meetings. The Democratic Caucus meeting will be Tuesday, March 13, and the Republican Caucus meeting will take place Thursday, March 15. She encouraged all to come participate in the meeting, and affirmed that if you want to have any influence on votes or other political matters of importance, the caucus meeting is where you can have that influence. The locations and times for these meetings will also be available in the city newsletter.
Richard Steinkopf pointed out a new map has been made for the area, including Lehi and Saratoga Springs. He advises to pick one up.
John Painter welcomed and thanked the scouts for helping out and providing the flag ceremony. He then reminded the public that the budget meetings are open and you are encouraged to get involved. They want to hear from anyone as they go over the local budget because they want citizens to be included in the decisions that are made.
Jackson added that two April work session meetings at 4 p.m., before the policy sessions, will be focused on the budget and anyone is invited to attend. She went on to announce that she had the opportunity recently to go visit the New Community Education Resource Center and find out more information on the PERC (Parent Educational Resource Center) program. It has been in Orem for a couple years. It is a completely volunteer and non-profit program providing education resources to youth. The center in Orem had 50 extra boxes of items and as there was a citizen of Eagle Mountain attending the program, these boxes have now been donated to Eagle Mountain via this citizen. So this program is now up and running in Mountain Trails Elementary School, and is open for use in the school district. It is currently only open on Tuesdays from 10-12 a.m. as it is run completely by volunteer work and there is only one volunteer at this time. They are in need of volunteers to help. It is basically a library where you can check out games and other educational resources centering on subjects like math and science among other things. More information will also be included in the city newsletter.
Before moving on to the consent agenda, Ryan Ireland moved for item #15, on Parks and Recreation as pertaining to the Trailhead Park Plan, to be moved out of the consent agenda so it would be open for discussion. John Painter seconded the motion and it carried. A vote was then taken to accept the consent agenda, which included the minutes from council meeting on February 7; a Bond Release entering into warranty for the Mid Valley Road and Dry Utilities; a Bond Release existing warranty for Willow Springs in Phase 4; an Incubator program application for the Disaster Professionals – Residential and Commercial Remediation and Restoration, and Inception Builders; and a development agreement for Valley View Ranch North, Plat A-1.
Discussion then began about the Trailhead Park Plan. Chris Trusty presented the plan to the council. The plan was to change the configuration of the road and improvement of a park area. Improvements would include grass and trees in the northern part of the area, a trail being added, and more parking added. The park would be extended south to include more grass and trees and a drinking fountain and bench. The budget portion already agreed upon is $25,000.
Ireland expressed concerns about having only six or seven parking spots in this area. He explained that in the future, a UTA bus stop may be placed near the park and more parking would then be needed. He suggests more parking in the back west portion of the park with a bike rack and other accommodations.
Chris Trusty defended the plan and clarified that two additional parking lots are nearby for use to park and ride. But Ireland still insisted that 20 stalls be more sufficient as people would park to use the bus during bad weather. He stated that it was too premature to know what the UTA will do. If it becomes a bus stop, there will be concerns in parking.
Jackson explained that she met with the UTA that afternoon and was given the info about a plan in December to open a new front-runner service to Provo. At the moment, there is an express that runs from Nolen Park in Eagle Mountain to Salt Lake. When this front-runner opens, the express will no longer run. She explained the plan for the new bus route in detail and explained that riders in Eagle Point would most likely be the only ones that wouldn’t walk to the bus stop.
Ireland still expressed his concerns about moving forward with this plan for only seven parking spots if we may need more parking in the future. He would like a plan to fulfill all the needs.
Burnham then voiced her concerns about the area becoming too crowded by cars in a parking lot. The use of the area for a park being turned into a park and ride lot could yield an angry subdivision. It was stated that they could enforce people to use other parking spots for park and ride purposes. Again, it was clarified that the majority of people riding would walk.
Painter stated that they really don’t know what is best to put here as it is not a top priority and funds should be put toward top priorities first. He asked, rhetorically, should these funds be put toward paying for a nice bus stop? Burnham pointed out that the money had already been approved in the budget. Painter then added that being budgeted does not mean they must spend it.
Ryan Ireland then motioned for the item to be tabled. Painter seconded the motion, after which Burnham asked why it needed to be tabled. Ireland expounded that they should talk more with the UTA and that it was premature to make a decision on the subject now. He did not feel comfortable with the plan as it stands. Painter added that it could be a good idea but the funds could be put toward other opportunities if needed.
Burnham expressed her understanding but then elucidated that she lives in this sub division and the area has been messed up. After digging the area up, it has become an eyesore, and something needs to be done about the area soon.
The vote to table the item was then taken and all votes were yes.
Next item to be discussed was an ordinance about sign regulations. The ordinance is a consideration and adoption of an ordinance in Eagle Mountain, amending the Eagle Mountain Development Code Chapter 17.80 on sign regulations and sign permits. Steve Mumford presented the information on this item. The proposed code amendment modifies the regulations concerning off-premises ladder signs and allows signs for home-based businesses with certain restrictions.
The concessions agreement includes a limit of 30 maximum ladder signs, all consistent in color and design, intended for licensed businesses. It used to be for model homes only, but now it is to be opened up for more uses. They are hoping for the concession agreement to be complete soon and are anticipating it to be complete in a year time frame. After one year, if one party decides to change, they may do so.
Home business signs would be allowed that currently are not. The hope is to provide opportunities to promote business without sacrificing the atmosphere of the neighborhoods. There have been studies taken on 24 cities in Utah on what they allow for signs for small businesses within their communities. The proposed signs for Eagle Mountain would be four square feet maximum and be placed on the front of the principal dwelling. This sign would be used more for identification of the business then for advertising purposes. On the question of height, no codes include that info, but a distinction could be added.
The item was then opened for public comment. Dan Ford from Valley View Lane spoke of his fondness for the plan, as it would allow businesses to advertise for some who have really struggled getting their names out. He liked that it would benefit these small businesses. There were no more comments so public comment time was then closed.
Donna Burnham asked about how home-based businesses would be notified of the changes. It was discussed that there would be no problems in notifying businesses that are interested. The mayor expounded that it would be included in the annual news broadcasting. They would provide the notification during the renewal process for these businesses as well.
John Painter then asked about what businesses would get preference to these signs or if anyone would have access to use them. The mayor noted that the prioritization would go to those standing in commercial zones first. Then the home-based licensed businesses in Eagle Mountain would be next and then if there were signs remaining it would go to others. Mumford then explained about how the agreement also clarifies the process for moving the signs and clears the subject of separation and distance between the signs.
Painter then laid out what he called an “unfair summary” of what has happened on the subject of signs and the limitations. He talked about how the signs were used and then seized and the rules have been changed and it leads to questions on the proper role of the government in these affairs on private property.
Jackson responded by stating that in all the meetings held where they discussed the signs (which has been at least three times, possibly more like six), none of the sign owners have shown up at the meetings to make comments on their concerns. If there were an issue, people would come for the discussions on the subject and make their comments.
Steinkopf asked for clarification on the home business signs being kept on the first floor of the homes. He reiterated that he wanted to protect Eagle Mountain businesses, and motioned that they accept the development code amendment with the amendment to the home businesses, with the signs being placed at the first level of the house. Burnham seconded the motion.
Ryan Ireland then indicated that the amendment doesn’t truly address the true need for businesses, which is to place signs off private property. This plan makes it difficult to give attention to the issue that should be addressed.
Jackson expressed understanding to his concern and recapped that business owners have not come forward to ask for this yet. There could be a good long-term plan to get there, but for now this is a good step in the right direction. Painter then asked Ireland why he perceived the plan to make it more difficult to move forward in that direction.
Ireland responded that his concern is that after accepting this amendment, it would be assumed that enough had been done and that nothing more needs to be done for the next ten years, when the issue really should be addressed again. Burnham agreed that she sees the need to do more as well.
The mayor then spoke about letting the market drive the decisions and when the market requests more to be done, they will move forward to do more. She stated that she thought it would be foolish not to move forward with this ordinance when it is a step in the right direction. Painter asked what else could be done at this time, if we are not satisfied. The mayor added that advertising on streets in neighborhoods would require billboard-size advertisements in order to be seen and do any good for the business. This is not feasible as most businesses wouldn’t be able to afford the sign, and it wouldn’t help draw many more people anyway. It would not make sense at the moment for roadside advertising.
Painter asked Ireland to expound more on what he wants to do. Ireland expressed that he does not want billboard signs, but that they need to be carefully sure that they don’t end up like Orem State Street, which is what he called the “poster child” of what Eagle Mountain should not become. He just wanted more in the conversation to be happening now and not in 10 years time.
Mayor Jackson conceded that it will take time, so she is hesitant not to be moving forward with what they have at this time. The vote is then taken (Ireland voted no, while all others voted yes) and the motion to accept carried.
The next item to discuss is was a concert proposal to have Chris Cagle perform for Pony Express Days. The contract for the artist was $20,000 including the booking agent fee among other necessary things. If approved, they would advertise tickets to be $7 each. The expected revenue for this event is about $21,000. In the past they estimated higher in hopes of selling more, but this year they have become more realistic. Last year the total expenses were $79,479 and this year it is $39,707. The biggest difference in expenses are in the main artist and opening act, which were $55,000 and $2,100 last year, and this year only $20,000 and $1,700.
Painter asks why they are only using $20,000 when they budgeted for $35,000. Angie Ferre responded it was because of the artists available at the time, and what they could get through the agencies. Mayor Jackson expounded upon this that they were looking for family friendly entertainment and many artists would not agree to this.
Ireland expressed a need for clarification on the ticket prices for children. It was stated that all tickets would be the same amount this year. Steinkopf motioned to accept as per the contract, setting the price per ticket at $7, allowing children who are two and under to come free of charge. Burnham seconded the motion.
Painter added his concern about the future of this tradition. He stated, “We have things before us to vote on now and so we do, and then every year we have a concert. Every vote we make will bring us further into a tradition of having a concert every year.” Jackson inserted that community celebration is very important to Eagle Mountain. Painter expressed a need to define the importance.
The mayor then expounded on the importance of community celebration, stating that it has been defined. These are things that were chosen as most important to the community. Ifo Pili agreed with her that the city celebration is a very important item and brings a good community feeling.
Painter granted that it makes a great place to live, but the taxes are going toward it and it is expensive. It is nice to have these celebrations, but we are pinching pennies and we need to weigh its importance in comparison to other things. Mayor Jackson expressed that the concert has been budgeted for and they are pinching pennies and making cuts for everything.
Ireland added that it is important as we move forward to account for each individual event item in Pony Express Days and so we can see the actual revenues for each individual event. It would help for future decisions in fulfilling the responsibility to the public in making decisions on what to do with the local tax dollars. The mayor acceded and articulated that they have been working on this. Ferre added that the report will be put together and they will track the sponsorships individually. Burnham expressed her agreement that this will help with that concern to make better future decisions.
Jackson explained that they would be making cuts and evaluating each event for Pony Express Days to find which is best to keep. Vote was then taken and all voted yes.
Consideration and award of the bid for the temporary seating for the Pony Express Days Rodeo was removed from the agenda and will be brought back for discussion in the next meeting. Time was then opened for any final comments to be made.
Steinkopf announced that there will be a library open house on February 27 at 6:30-8:30 and encourages everyone to attend it. They will be introducing the newest established additions to the library and explaining some of the changes that have been made.
Ochsenhirt then said thanks for letting him be a part of the meeting even when he is not present and expressed his desire to be present for the next meeting. He motioned to adjourn and Burnham seconded the motion. All voted yes and the meeting was adjourned.
February 7, 2012
Eagle Mountain City Council held a policy session on February 7, 2012. During the work session from 4 to 6 p.m., the 2012-2013 budget was discussed. The final budget is to be adopted completely by May or June of this year.
At 7:07 pm, Mayor Heather Jackson called the policy session of the City Council meeting to order. All in attendance at the meeting included Councilmembers Donna Burnham, Nathan Ochsenhirt, John Painter, and Richard Steinkopf. Council Member Ryan Ireland attended by phone from his home, as he was feeling under the weather.
The following information items and upcoming events were announced by Mayor Jackson.
The city mobile application will be available in the Android and IOS markets beginning Monday, February 13. The mobile application will provide smartphone users easy access to city departments, businesses, parks and recreation, and more. The service request feature allows users to report problems such as potholes or street lights out using your phone. They are very excited about this new feature.
A sports program survey will be available on the city website through February 29. It will only take a couple of minutes to complete.
Youth baseball registration is open and will be open until February 27. There will be late registration from February 28 through March 6. Registration is available on the city website or in person at city hall.
Youth bowling is now available. The city has partnered with Jack and Jill Bowling in Lehi to offer a youth bowling instruction program. Registration is open now and information and registration is available on the city website.
Woman of the Year recommendations are now open. If you know a woman in Eagle Mountain who has done outstanding service in their home, community or school that you think deserves recognition, be sure to nominate them for the 2012 Woman of the Year award. Nominations are due March 1, 2012. This award is to be kept secret, even to the winner, until the presentation at the Miss Eagle Mountain Pageant on April 7, 2012. Nomination forms are available in the News section on the city website.
After the upcoming events were announced, time was opened for public comments. There were no comments given so the meeting continued on to the consent agenda.
The consent agenda included that Daniela Camacho would be filling the Planning Commission term vacated by Bonnie ElHalta for a 1 year term; the minutes from the January 24, 2012 City Council Meeting, a settlement agreement for the ratification of Brian Olsen, and the reimbursement agreement for the UDOT Waterline installment across SR 73 to incorporate future availability of water for commercial purposes to the north side of SR 73.
Mayor Jackson proposed for the Bid Award – Consideration and award of bid to Powell Electrical Systems Inc. for purchase of a 15 kV metal clad switchgear for the south substation to be included in the consent agenda. Councilmember John Painter moved and Councilmember Ochsenhirt seconded the motion. The bid award has to do with the construction of the new south substation.
There was no discussion on the consent agenda, so they proceeded to vote unanimously to approve all items within.
Consideration to award the bid to Great Western Park and Playground Company for the construction of seating for the rodeo arena.
It was motioned and seconded to deny the award of this bid. The vote was unanimous in agreement to deny this award.
As per discussion during the earlier work session on the budget, the proposed bid for the construction of a permanent seating structure for the rodeo arena was rejected as the staff had reviewed all the options available to the city for a bleacher system on the rodeo grounds. After discussion, there was found to be less costly alternatives for at least a 10-year time frame that would enable the city to more fully evaluate and plan for a permanent facility, including arena seating. For now, seating for rent has been located for about $40,000 less than what was in the budget. Less costly permanent seating is also being explored for future use.
City Council then was open for comments for further discussion. There were no comments given. Mayor Jackson expressed her appreciation to the many people who attended to the meeting, as there is not usually as many as there were in attendance at this meeting.
She also noted that she expects to see rate studies this year on basically all of utilities. These will become available for public review before it comes under City Council for a vote.
The meeting was then adjourned at 7:17 p.m. There was time recorded on the agenda for the continuation of discussion on the budget, however they had completed discussion during the previous meeting and had no more comments.
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Eagle Mountain Community Safety Program
Eagle Mountain has been involved in building a safety program since 2010. This community safety program teaches about preparing for emergencies, provides CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training which teaches civilians how to be first responders in an emergency situation, helps to locate missing children, notifies and helps during disasters, and provides Neighborhood Watch to help keep neighborhoods safe.
The meetings are usually held at the Public Safety building. Subjects of concern such as drug abuse in the community and learning the signs of drug abuse are sometimes discussed. Neighborhood Watch meetings are held regularly, and anyone interested in getting involved is encouraged to attend.
Other classes such as the Basic Heartsaver CPR classes and Babysitter CPR classes are held at the fire stations. Another service held at the City Center Fire Station was when the Utah County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control hosted a vaccination and licensing clinic to help provide a service to protect our furry friends.
Right now would be a great time to get involved with the Safety Program, as Eagle Mountain is hoping that all of its neighborhoods will get involved with an upcoming disaster drill. If you live in Utah, you may know that this is Earthquake country, and residents have been advised to be ready for “The Earthquake.” Officials have stated that it’s not “if” but “when” (as “The Earthquake” is inevitable).
The city is hoping to have all of its neighborhoods participate in the Great Utah Shakeout on April 17, 2012. Many of the city’s neighborhoods have no representatives, and your help is needed. If you would like to get involved, contact Alicia at 801-789-6712.
The Great Utah Shakeout is a statewide earthquake drill, which will take place at 10:15 a.m. on April 17, 2012. Hundreds of thousands of Utahns will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in our largest earthquake drill ever. All schools are encouraged to take part in the drill. Eagle Mountain’s goal is to prevent a major earthquake from becoming a catastrophe in the community.
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