High Star Ranch resident warns council of potential 150-unit hotel development

Under the soft glow of city hall lights, the Kamas City Council convened on July 8, 2025, to address pressing community matters, including financial expenditures and upcoming developments that could reshape the local landscape.

The meeting began with a review of the invoice registry, where council members discussed costs associated with recent cleanup efforts. Notably, the cleanup service provided by Republic was highlighted, with expenses totaling approximately $36,000. This figure sparked a moment of reflection among council members, emphasizing the importance of fiscal responsibility in managing city resources.

As the meeting progressed, the floor opened for public comments, allowing residents to voice their concerns and insights. Sanford Melville, a resident of High Star Ranch, took this opportunity to address a significant development issue. He shared news of a new investor developer planning to sell the Event Barn parcel, which includes the DeJoria Center and the country store, to a third-party developer. This developer intends to construct a 150-unit hotel on the property, a project that could dramatically alter the character of the area.

Melville expressed his apprehension regarding the potential scale of the development, urging the council to closely scrutinize the developer's adherence to the existing development agreement. He emphasized the need for the council to interpret the agreement conservatively, ensuring that the project does not exceed its intended scope. His concerns reflect a broader sentiment among residents about maintaining the community's integrity amidst rapid development.

As the meeting concluded, the council's unanimous approval of the invoice registry underscored their commitment to transparency and accountability. However, the discussions surrounding the proposed hotel development signal a pivotal moment for Kamas, as residents and officials alike prepare for the implications of growth and change in their beloved town. The upcoming planning commission meeting will be crucial in determining the future of the Event Barn parcel, and the community remains watchful, eager to see how their voices will shape the decisions ahead.