Summit County Council approves formation of new housing authority

The Summit County Council convened on December 11, 2024, to address several key issues, including elected officials' salaries, the establishment of a housing authority, and updates on behavioral health services.

The meeting began with a discussion on the annual review of elected officials' salaries. Council members expressed the need to ensure that compensation for elected officials aligns with the general salary increases for county employees, which are set at 3%. Concerns were raised about the lack of merit increases for staff, with suggestions that this oversight should be rectified. The council agreed to address these salary adjustments during an upcoming public hearing on executive pay.

Following this, the council transitioned to the Board of Equalization, where they reviewed 44 items, with one significant adjustment highlighted in the packet. Chase provided an overview of a $3 million credit adjustment related to property values for ski resorts, which was based on an outside appraisal. The council unanimously approved the recommendations from the Board of Equalization.

The meeting then moved to the Behavioral Health Local Authority, where Ryan provided an update on a contract with Huntsman Mental Health Institute. This contract aims to provide services to individuals enrolled in Medicaid, with a focus on those who do not qualify for other assistance. The council acknowledged the importance of this contract, which requires a 20% county match, amounting to approximately $375,000 annually.

The final major agenda item was the proposed creation of a housing authority in Summit County. Jeff Jones presented a resolution declaring the need for this authority, emphasizing the existence of unsafe housing conditions and a shortage of affordable accommodations for low- and medium-income residents. The council discussed the structure and governance of the proposed authority, with suggestions for appointing commissioners and establishing a strategic plan. The council expressed a desire to ensure that the authority operates independently while maintaining a collaborative relationship with the county council.

After thorough discussions, the council moved to adopt the resolution to create the housing authority, with plans to follow up with a governing ordinance in early 2025. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing housing needs and ensuring effective mental health services in the community.