During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing challenges and funding issues surrounding the development of Main Street Park in Sandy City. The conversation highlighted the city's struggle to comply with a HUD regulation that mandates a maximum of 150% of grant amounts in their line of credit. Currently, Sandy City is facing a line of credit that exceeds this limit, primarily due to delays in completing Phase 1 of the park, which has taken twice as long as initially anticipated.
Since 2018, the city has been saving funds for the park, but the project has encountered setbacks that have hindered progress. The city’s Parks and Recreation department has had to seek additional general fund money to help push the project forward. Officials emphasized that Main Street Park is a priority for the city, as it meets eligibility criteria for low to moderate income benefits, yet the annual decrease in funding has made it increasingly difficult to maintain the necessary financial reserves.
The meeting also included a public hearing segment, allowing community organizations to voice their perspectives. Jason Wheeler, executive director of Assist Community Design Center, was among those invited to speak, indicating a collaborative approach to addressing community needs and concerns regarding the park's development.
As the city navigates these financial and regulatory challenges, the future of Main Street Park remains a focal point for local officials and community members alike.