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Senate pauses constitutional amendment after heated debate over city powers and utilities
Summary
Senators debated SJR 5, a proposed constitutional amendment to enumerate county powers and clarify city roles; opponents warned it would give cities constitutional authority over utilities and condemnation without sufficient legislative oversight. The Senate 'circled' the resolution for further consideration.
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Senate on Feb. 3 engaged in a prolonged debate over SJR 5, a proposed constitutional amendment from the Constitution Revision Commission that would explicitly enumerate county powers, clarify the status of special districts and define certain city authorities.
Senator Nielsen, speaking for the measure, said the amendment would “bring” counties into the constitution and clarify the powers of cities and special districts after years of overlapping jurisdictions. He said the change is designed to provide clearer authority and coordination for counties, cities and special districts throughout the state.
Opponents concentrated their objections on language in the measure (identified on the…
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