Midway City leaders propose universal sewer service requirements at HVSSD meeting

The Midway City Council convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding land use and wastewater management in the region. The meeting focused on the implications of increased density in development projects and the necessary steps to ensure adequate wastewater services.

The council began by addressing the need for a "will serve" letter from the Heber Valley Special Service District (HVSSD) for any new development applications. This letter is essential for developers to secure the necessary approvals and to ensure that the wastewater treatment facilities can handle the projected effluent from new projects. The discussion highlighted the importance of understanding the current capacity of the wastewater system and the potential impact of new developments on existing entitlements.

Council members expressed concerns about the implications of existing recorded lots that have not yet pulled permits. They debated the legal and capacity issues that could arise if the sewage district determines it cannot accept additional waste due to capacity constraints. The conversation underscored the need for a comprehensive study to assess the current and future capacity of the wastewater treatment facilities.

A significant point of discussion was the need for a universal approach to wastewater management that would apply to all municipalities within the region. Council members emphasized that while Midway City can enforce its own requirements, it cannot control the actions of neighboring jurisdictions. They proposed that the HVSSD should adopt a consistent policy for all developments, ensuring that no new applications are approved without confirming wastewater capacity.

The council also discussed the potential long-term implications of the ongoing study regarding wastewater capacity. They acknowledged that if the study reveals insufficient capacity to handle current entitlements, it could necessitate significant investments in infrastructure or land acquisition by the county.

In conclusion, the Midway City Council meeting highlighted the critical intersection of land use planning and wastewater management. The council's proactive approach aims to ensure that future developments are sustainable and that the city is not left vulnerable to legal challenges stemming from capacity issues. The next steps involve further discussions with the HVSSD to establish a universal approval process for wastewater services, with a follow-up planned in two months to assess progress on these initiatives.