Parowan panel recommends leaving annexation growth-line unchanged for council review

The Planning & Zoning Commission on Dec. 17 recommended that City Council proceed with the annexation policy plan update without changing the map’s interim or ultimate growth lines.

Staff explained that the annexation policy plan is a long‑range planning tool used to size utilities, roads and other infrastructure, and that while the City Council may later propose changes, any modifications would require additional notice and a second public hearing. The commission majority concluded there was no technical justification to alter the map based on current infrastructure and circulation analysis.

Commission discussion noted recent annexations (staff cited more than 200 acres annexed in the past year) and legislative proposals being discussed at the state level that could affect annexation authority. Commissioners suggested additional targeted notice to residents outside the existing boundaries before council consideration.

A motion to forward a positive recommendation on the annexation policy plan (with no map changes) passed by voice vote.