Tooele City Council approves xeriscape agreement for library grounds

On Sept. 3, 2025, the Tooele City Council voted 5-0 to approve Resolution 2025-77, authorizing an agreement with Arrow Landscape Construction LLC to convert turf to xeriscaping on the north side of the Tooele Library.

Chase Randall, the library director, described the project as removing grass on the library’s north side and installing decorative rock to match existing landscaping. “This is for that grass area there... take out the grass and then put in the nice decorative rock that we’re matching that same style that we already have on the north side of the building,” Randall said. He added the change is intended to save on maintenance and water and that the plan includes space for three trees to be planted, likely next year, with drip irrigation coordinated with Parks and Recreation.

Randall said remaining turf will stay on the east and south sides of the building to preserve an area for outdoor programs. He also noted the city considered additional parking on the north side but estimated that adding parking — due to an existing drain and other constraints — would likely cost “at least a $100,000, if not $200,000.” Randall said most of the library’s parking is unused except for a peak period on Wednesdays.

Councilwoman Gochis moved approval; Councilwoman Manzione seconded. Councilman McCall, Councilman Hansen, Councilwoman Gochis, Councilwoman Manzione and Councilman Brady voted aye; the motion passed 5-0.

Randall said he is also working with the mayor’s office on possible future improvements and expects to return with a sealed-concrete proposal for another park strip area.