Orem City Council votes down rezoning proposal near train tracks

In a heated session at the Orem City Council meeting on May 13, 2025, council members grappled with a contentious proposal to rezone farmland for residential development. The atmosphere was charged as residents voiced their concerns over the potential impact of new homes being built near active train tracks.

One council member passionately recounted their own experiences living near the tracks, describing the relentless noise and vibrations that made life unbearable. “Every sound barrier we've ever built exists for a reason because sound pollution is real,” they stated, emphasizing the health risks associated with constant exposure to train noise, including stress and sleep disorders. This personal narrative underscored the broader implications of the proposed development, which would place 16 of the planned 53 homes directly adjacent to the tracks.

The council member argued that the existing open space serves as a crucial buffer, protecting families from the disruptive sounds of trains and industrial activity. “To remove that buffer is to deliberately expose people to noise, risk, and stress,” they warned, questioning the necessity of sacrificing farmland for a relatively small number of new homes in a community already boasting 25,000 residences.

As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that public sentiment was overwhelmingly against the rezoning. Over a thousand residents had expressed their opposition, while only a handful supported the project. “This isn’t our vote. We are the stewards of this community, not just for today, but for tomorrow,” the council member declared, urging their colleagues to consider the long-term health of Orem over short-term gains.

In a decisive moment, a motion was made to deny the rezoning proposal, which was met with a mix of votes. Ultimately, the council voted to reject the ordinance, reflecting the community's desire to preserve its values and protect its residents from the potential hazards of living too close to the tracks.

As the meeting wrapped up, the council's decision resonated with the audience, leaving many hopeful that Orem would continue to prioritize the well-being of its citizens over development pressures. The outcome serves as a reminder of the importance of community voices in local governance and the ongoing struggle to balance growth with quality of life.