During a recent government meeting, council members discussed a range of pressing issues, with a focus on housing and community development. One of the primary topics was the potential regulation of secondary residences, particularly in light of the growing rental market in Sandy. A council member proposed exploring the idea of a rental registry, similar to the successful management of short-term rentals in the city. This initiative aims to address the challenges posed by the conversion of existing structures, such as barns, into living spaces known as barndominiums, which have gained popularity in rural areas.
The council emphasized the importance of public engagement in the decision-making process. A robust outreach strategy, including town halls and public meetings, was deemed essential to gather feedback from residents. The council member expressed optimism about community support for these discussions, highlighting the need for residents to be informed and involved before any decisions are finalized.
In addition to housing concerns, the meeting included a public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Staff presented the 2024 annual action plan for the allocation of CDBG funds, with a reminder for organizations wishing to speak to submit their requests. This annual review is a routine part of the council's agenda, aimed at ensuring effective use of community development resources.
Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing housing issues while fostering community involvement in the planning process.