Sandy City Council approves $8M water infrastructure investment plan amid rising rates

Sandy City Council is gearing up for significant changes in its fiscal strategy as it previews the FY 2025-26 budget, with a strong focus on infrastructure and economic development. During the meeting held on March 18, 2025, officials highlighted the urgent need for increased funding to address the city's aging water infrastructure, which has an estimated $75 million in needs over the next decade.

The council is considering a water rate increase to fund these critical upgrades. Last year, a 6.5% increase was adopted, with plans for similar increases in the coming years. However, due to increased water sales from a hot, dry season, the council is now contemplating a more modest 5.5% increase for this year. This adjustment aims to balance the budget while ensuring that essential services remain intact.

In addition to water infrastructure, the council is also addressing stormwater management, which has not seen a rate increase in over 12 years. The stormwater master plan identifies $40 million in necessary improvements, emphasizing the need for proactive funding to prevent flooding issues that have plagued neighborhoods in the past.

Economic development remains a top priority, with discussions around reallocating administrative budgets to sustain ongoing projects as certain funding sources begin to expire. The council is also advocating for a new economic development strategic plan, the first in nearly two decades, to better align future projects with the city's strengths and community needs.

As Sandy City navigates these financial challenges, the emphasis on infrastructure and economic growth reflects a commitment to maintaining the quality of life for its residents while preparing for future demands. The council's decisions in the coming months will be crucial in shaping the city's fiscal health and service delivery for years to come.