County Commission Considers Controversial Density Increase Proposal

In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around infrastructure improvements tied to a proposed residential development, specifically the addition of three townhomes to an existing project. Mark Miller, an inspector, reported that the required improvements, including repairs to a roundabout and road, had been completed. However, he noted that a previous agreement had led to the removal of the roundabout, raising questions about the current state of the road, which has shown signs of deterioration.

The planning staff recommended approval for a total of 25 residential units, leaving the decision on the additional three townhomes to the county commission. The projected increase in traffic from these additional units was deemed negligible, with estimates suggesting only 12 additional trips per day.

Concerns were raised regarding the implications of increasing density and whether the developer would be required to overlay the road to meet county standards. The commission discussed the potential for negotiating additional density in exchange for further infrastructure improvements, specifically road repairs.

Skylar Gardner from Gardener Development clarified that the company had exceeded the original requirements of the development agreement by investing significantly in road improvements, including a complete rotomilling of Cottonwood Canyon Road, which was not initially mandated. This work, completed in 2021, cost approximately $546,000 and included the installation of a pedestrian trail, which has since become a popular route for local residents.

The meeting underscored the complexities of balancing development needs with infrastructure maintenance, as well as the ongoing dialogue between developers and county officials regarding community standards and requirements. The county commission is expected to deliberate further on the proposal, weighing the benefits of additional housing against the need for continued road improvements.