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Daggett County commissioners debate dark‑sky designation, weigh tourism gains against enforcement concerns
Summary
Commissioners and residents discussed pursuing a dark‑sky designation that proponents say would boost off‑season tourism and advertising; others warned it could impose new zoning enforcement burdens and affect ranching, rodeos and safety lighting. Staff will seek more information before deciding.
Kathy (Speaker 4), a resident who asked to speak during public comment, told the Daggett County Commission that several constituents asked her to draft "an ordinance to use dark skies," opening a broad discussion of whether the county should pursue an International Dark Sky designation.
Proponents told the commission the designation could draw visitors in fall, winter and spring and would reduce the county's advertising burden. "If we could make that designation, that does 90% of our advertising for us," Speaker 7 said, arguing the status would bring more off‑season tourism and help local businesses. Supporters also described volunteer‑led programs and past Forest Service outreach at Red Canyon.
Opponents and some commissioners pressed for caution, saying a formal designation could add layers of planning and…
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