Orem City Council considers rezoning proposal for Wilkerson Farm property

A significant discussion unfolded during the Orem City Council meeting on May 13, 2025, focusing on the rezoning of a property originally annexed in February 2015. The property, spanning 227 acres, was designated as a mixture of light industrial, community commercial, low-density residential, and professional services, and was placed in an Open Space 5 (OS 5) zone as a transitional holding area.

City officials emphasized that the OS 5 designation was never intended to be permanent. The council reviewed various zoning options presented during the annexation, ultimately selecting a low-density residential plan. This decision aligns with the current proposal to rezone the contiguous Wilkerson Farm property to a low-density residential zone, which would allow for 53 homes, significantly fewer than the 76 homes that could be built under previous approvals.

The council highlighted the importance of treating this property similarly to other recent rezones in the area, which have included commercial and residential developments. The applicant's request for the RA zone was supported by city staff, who confirmed that it meets all necessary requirements for traffic, engineering, and utilities.

As the meeting progressed, council members were urged to consider the historical context of the property’s zoning and the community's vision for low-density residential development. The outcome of this discussion could shape the future of housing in Orem, reflecting the city’s ongoing efforts to balance growth with community needs.