The Summit County Council and Park City Council held a joint meeting on November 14, 2023, focusing on collaborative efforts in housing and land use. The discussions highlighted the need for a proactive approach to housing development, with an emphasis on maintaining community integrity and addressing local needs.
One key topic was the potential for joint ventures between the city and county, where both entities would contribute land or funding for housing projects. However, concerns were raised about the authority of an independent body managing these developments. Council members expressed a desire to retain control over zoning and planning decisions, emphasizing that these responsibilities should remain with the county and city to ensure accountability and alignment with community goals.
The meeting also addressed the current housing landscape, noting that both Park City and the surrounding basin are nearing full build-out. As redevelopment becomes a priority, the councils acknowledged the urgency of planning for future housing needs. Specific projects were mentioned, including a proposal for 1,600 units at a site referred to as Your Ranch and a potential 5,000 units at Cedar Crest. The councils recognized the rapid growth expected on the eastern side of the county and the importance of strategic planning to manage this development effectively.
Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to collaborative planning while ensuring that local governance retains authority over critical housing and zoning decisions. The councils agreed to continue focusing on these issues in future discussions, aiming to create a balanced and sustainable community.