The Utah County Commission convened on November 8, 2023, to discuss a significant proposal aimed at supporting wounded veterans through a new development project. The meeting featured Nicole Caudle from the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA), who presented the initiative alongside her team members, Ashley Burr and Richard Caton.

Caudle outlined MIDA's mission, established in 2008, to foster economic development that benefits military installations and active-duty service members, including veterans. The authority has previously focused on projects around Hill Air Force Base and has expanded its reach to include developments in Tooele and Wasatch County.

The proposal discussed involves the construction of a 62-room inn at Sundance, designed to be ADA accessible and specifically tailored for the Sundance Veterans Program, which serves wounded veterans and their families. This program, modeled after a successful initiative in Vail, Colorado, aims to provide a restorative environment for veterans transitioning from rehabilitation facilities.

The proposed project area spans approximately 2,600 acres, but the development will occupy just one acre. Caudle emphasized the need for accessible lodging at Sundance, which currently lacks such facilities. The project is positioned as a public-private partnership, with MIDA facilitating the development while Utah County retains land use authority and municipal services.

The timeline for the project includes a resolution from the county commissioners to invite MIDA into the local system, followed by the gathering of private development partners and discussions with the MIDA board scheduled for December 19. The meeting concluded with Caudle expressing gratitude for the opportunity to present the proposal and highlighting the positive impact it could have on veterans and their families.

Overall, the meeting underscored Utah County's commitment to supporting veterans through innovative development initiatives, with the potential for significant community benefits.