Utah County appoints Claudia Barillas to shelter advisory committee, commissioners emphasize no full-time county shelter

The Utah County Commission on Aug. 6 adopted a resolution appointing Claudia Barillas to the Shelter Counties Advisory Committee, saying the advisory body will provide quarterly recommendations to the state homelessness board.

Commissioners discussed the county's stance on sheltering during debate over the appointment. One commissioner stated, "We will not have a shelter in Utah County," and the presiding speaker echoed that the county does not desire a full-time shelter but supports participation on an advisory panel to ensure the county's interests are represented. Another commissioner said they wanted the county to prioritize elected-official representation rather than staff if possible.

The commission's discussion established that the advisory committee meets quarterly and will advise the state-level homelessness board. Commissioners and staff raised concerns about ensuring commissioners receive timely updates from any committee discussions; one commissioner asked that any robust conversations or decisions be relayed back to the county so actions do not later appear in the press without prior notification.

A motion to appoint Barillas was made and seconded; the commission approved the appointment by voice vote after an "All in favor, say aye" call. No roll-call vote or numerical tally was recorded in the public transcript portion of the meeting.

The commission also adjusted its agenda earlier in the meeting, holding one consent item and continuing another regular agenda item to Aug. 27; commissioners praised recent county fair volunteers and noted upcoming projects including the Lehi Shadow Ridge Bike Park and the Latino Americano Festival.

The meeting moved to closed session after the public comment period opened and no members of the public came forward.