Provo council approves agritourism overlay for Finch farm after months of review and neighborhood questions

The Provo City Council voted 7-0 Tuesday to amend the city zone map to place 2601 West 280 South in an Agriculture with Agritourism Overlay, clearing the way for the Finch family to develop an event center and agritourism activities on their farm.

The zoning change, presented by Planning Supervisor Aaron Ardmore, was adopted after several members of the Finch family described a multi-year effort to bring the proposal into compliance with city standards and after council members pressed the applicants on structures, site layout and required infrastructure improvements. Aaron Ardmore told the council that “staff has recommended approval on this as has the planning commission.”

The ordinance matters because it aims to preserve agricultural operations while permitting farm-based events and attractions that the applicants say are necessary to keep the property viable. The Finch family said the overlay would enable an event center, pony rides, a petting area and other agritourism uses while keeping the farm intact for future generations.

Barry Finch, who identified himself as the applicant, told the council the family has worked with city staff and the planning…