Senate extends life of townships in Salt Lake County, orders study on annexation

Sen. Wadipes described the first substitute to House Bill 40, which would repeal a scheduled sunset for townships in Salt Lake County or extend the sunset to 2010 as a compromise crafted with the county mayor, county council, the Utah Association of Counties, and the League of Cities and Towns.

Wadipes listed townships in Salt Lake County (Copperton, Emigration Canyon, Magna, Kearns and Mill Creek) and said the bill helps protect township identity and prevent commercial annexation that could erode township borders. The substitute also requires Salt Lake County and adjacent cities to conduct a survey by July 1, 2008 of residents and property owners within each township to determine their preferences regarding annexation.

Supporters from affected areas described townships as instruments of self-determination and local control. Sen. Walker, who represents an area that incorporated from a township, urged citizens to plan proactively; Sen. Maine and Sen. Hale emphasized the need to protect township revenue bases and community identity. Some senators noted the substitute applies only to first-class counties.

Sen. Wadhams summarized the intent language and the study deadline in closing remarks and moved the question; the substitute passed on the floor (27–0 with 2 absent) and will proceed to third reading as scheduled.

The substitute leaves a 2008 study requirement intended to give communities time to plan for annexation choices and for counties and cities to evaluate long-term service and revenue implications.