Council split on using class‑C road funds to powder‑coat 5,600 South light poles

The council debated whether to use Class C road funds to powder‑coat or otherwise paint about 66 new light poles installed on 5600 South. Public‑works staff said painting the poles black would cost roughly $80,000 for 66 units (about $1,200 each); the work is cheaper now while poles are mounted and before final roadway completion.

Public‑works staff described the choice as largely aesthetic. The poles are functional in galvanized finish; powder‑coating would be a “betterment” not required by UDOT and therefore would come from Class C funds (gas tax/road funds) rather than the general fund. Staff noted a timing advantage: 36 poles still on‑the‑ground could be painted more cheaply than pulling and recoating already‑installed poles.

Council discussion weighed aesthetics and pride of place (several councilmembers favored painting) against competing infrastructure priorities. One councilmember noted Class C funds are primarily for road infrastructure and cautioned about diverting them; another pointed to forthcoming water‑infrastructure projects that could require future digging and argued against spending on finishes prior to long‑term drainage/waterline work.

A nonbinding council preference emerged: three councilmembers supported painting/plating the poles now; two opposed. Staff said there is a short window to order and perform coating if the council wants it; staff will proceed according to final direction from council leadership.