Roy City Council approves zoning change to allow 10-story buildings downtown

The Roy City Council meeting on March 18, 2025, focused on significant discussions regarding urban development and zoning regulations in the downtown area. A key topic was the proposed amendment to the building height restrictions, with council members debating whether to allow structures of up to 12 stories or to limit them to 10 stories.

Council members expressed the need for increased revenue generation for the city, particularly in light of the impact of state highway projects on local property taxes. The discussion highlighted the importance of developing vacant land currently owned by the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) to enhance economic growth. Mayor Bob emphasized the urgency of modernizing downtown Roy to attract businesses and improve community amenities, including sit-down restaurants that residents have long requested.

The council considered the implications of allowing taller buildings, with some members advocating for flexibility in height to attract developers. The conversation included concerns about community sentiment towards high-rise buildings, as previous surveys indicated hesitance among residents regarding increased elevation. However, the potential for economic development was a driving factor in the discussions.

Ultimately, the council reached a compromise, agreeing to propose a limit of 10 stories for new developments in the downtown area. This decision aims to balance the need for economic growth with community concerns. The council plans to revisit the height regulations in the future, allowing for adjustments based on market conditions and developer requests.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the ordinance reflecting the new height limit, which passed with a majority vote. This decision marks a significant step towards revitalizing downtown Roy and addressing the city's financial needs through increased development opportunities.