During a recent government meeting, the Lehi City Council discussed Ordinance Number 642024, which proposes a General Plan Amendment for a 5.18-acre property located at 9861 West, 96100 North. The amendment seeks to change the land use designation from Very Low Density Residential Agriculture (VLDRA) to Low Density Residential (LDR). The applicant, Corey Bowden, was notably absent from the meeting, prompting council members to consider how to proceed without his presentation.

Council members expressed a preference to hear public comments despite the applicant's absence, emphasizing the importance of due process. Several residents voiced their concerns regarding the proposed amendment, highlighting potential negative impacts on the character of the neighborhood.

Candace Haymore Jones, a local resident, argued that the proposed LDR designation would not align with the existing land uses and zoning of surrounding properties, which predominantly feature half-acre lots. She pointed out that the Development Review Board had previously recommended against the amendment, citing concerns about increased density and the lack of dedicated green space. Jones contended that the change would primarily benefit the developer financially while diminishing the quality of life for current residents.

Ashley Frampton, another resident, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for a variety of lot sizes in the community and raising concerns about existing traffic issues in the area. She argued that the infrastructure was already struggling to keep up with current development, and adding more homes would exacerbate these problems.

Mark Platt, a newcomer to the area, expressed his dissatisfaction with the potential for smaller lots, stating that he chose to move to the neighborhood specifically for its half-acre properties, which offer more space for families to grow.

The council is expected to deliberate further on the ordinance, weighing the residents' concerns against the proposed changes. The absence of the applicant has raised questions about the future of the amendment and its implications for the community.