Sandy council adopts updated transportation SDC methodology and raises single-family SDC to $9,716

The Sandy City Council voted to adopt an updated transportation system development charge (SDC) methodology and a separate resolution that raises the single-family transportation SDC to $9,716, city staff said.

Tyler, the city staff member who presented the reports, told the council the methodology update reflects the recently revised Transportation System Plan and work completed by the FCS Group. Tyler said the increase responds to a project list of medium- and high-priority capital needs and that, if adopted, the new rate would take effect Oct. 1, 2024. "Staff recommends adopting resolution 20 24 dash 21 updating the transportation system SDC," Tyler said in his recommendation.

During the hearing, online resident Kendall Pelkin opposed raising SDCs before the city updates other development charges. "I'm opposed to any further rate increases until you have all your SDCs together," Pelkin said, expressing concern about affordability for seniors and homeowners. Councilors asked staff when water and wastewater SDC updates would be completed; Tyler said work on the water SDC is underway and wastewater depends on a facilities plan amendment before a method can be finalized.

Councilors closed the public hearings and approved both resolutions by voice vote. Staff clarified that the SDC is a system development charge paid at the time a building permit is pulled for new construction, not a utility rate charged to current residents. Council members noted the council can revisit SDCs later once water and wastewater methodologies are finalized.

The council's action updates the city's methodology and sets a higher transportation SDC aimed at funding future capital projects in the street and transportation fund. The city manager and staff will bring further updates and any additional rate adjustments back to the council as other SDC work is completed.