Planning Commission approves Dixie Power's yard expansion for emergency response trailers

St. George City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing emergency response capabilities by approving a zone change request for Dixie Power during their meeting on May 1, 2025. The council's decision will allow the utility company to expand its storage yard and create designated parking pads for on-call employees, ensuring they can respond promptly to incidents.

The expansion plan includes the addition of pads where employees can park trailers or RVs while on duty. This initiative aims to address the challenge of response times, particularly for workers who live outside the immediate area. By providing a space for these employees to stay close to their work, Dixie Power hopes to maintain a response time of 20 to 30 minutes during emergencies.

The Planning Commission previously reviewed the request and recommended approval, with no public comments raised during the discussion. The proposed site will feature limited utilities, similar to those found in RV parks, including sewer, water, and power connections. The council discussed the potential implications of this decision, particularly regarding the length of stay for employees using the trailers. While there is currently no formal policy in place, the council is considering a stipulation that the trailers can only be used while employees are on call or working.

This decision not only supports Dixie Power's operational needs but also raises questions about the precedent it sets for other businesses with on-call employees in the area. The council acknowledged the importance of addressing housing challenges for workers and the potential for similar requests from other companies in the future.

As the city moves forward with this initiative, it highlights the ongoing efforts to improve emergency services and support the workforce in St. George. The council's approval marks a proactive approach to ensuring that essential services remain responsive and effective in the community.