Town Council discusses high-density housing options for Highland Maines area

The City Council Work Session held on July 8, 2025, in Highland, Utah, focused on several key topics, primarily concerning housing development and community planning.

The meeting began with a review of ongoing discussions about the Town Center and the Highland Maines area. Council members confirmed interest from property owners in exploring different housing options similar to those proposed for the Town Center. The conversation highlighted the potential for mixed-use developments that would combine residential units with commercial spaces.

A significant point of discussion was the 10 700 development, which is set to include two commercial buildings with retail on the ground floor and office space above. Council members expressed concerns about the viability of the current plan, noting that the developers have struggled to attract tenants for office spaces. The council debated whether to maintain the existing plan or consider adjustments to accommodate more residential units, with suggestions of increasing the number of condominiums above retail spaces.

The council acknowledged the changing market conditions, suggesting that a mixed-use approach might be more successful in the current economic climate. Members discussed the possibility of allowing more residential units, potentially between 40 to 60, to enhance the area's appeal and support local businesses.

Another topic raised was the idea of Highland obtaining its own zip code. Council members discussed the potential benefits of this change, including increased tax revenue. It was suggested that incorporating the pursuit of a zip code into the general plan could be beneficial for the community.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's ongoing efforts to adapt housing and commercial development strategies in response to market demands. The discussions will continue as the council seeks to finalize plans that align with community needs and economic realities.