City manager updates council on General Plan, infrastructure and downtown preservation plans

City Manager Katie Witt updated the Ephraim City Council on Feb. 18, 2026 about several priority initiatives tied to the city’s Strategic Plan, including the General Plan update, infrastructure planning and historic-preservation efforts.

Witt said the city is awaiting notification on a UDOT grant that would support the General Plan update; if the grant is not awarded, funding for the General Plan update would be proposed in the next fiscal-year budget. Staff will begin a community survey and stakeholder outreach as part of that update. On infrastructure, Witt reported storm-drain master planning is ongoing with an anticipated completion by the end of April, potential new water tank locations are being evaluated, and a possible electrical substation site behind the Public Works yard is under review.

On historic preservation, the Historic Preservation Board is applying for the State Main Street Program to seek grant funding for downtown building improvements and potential restoration of the Bishop Storehouse. Witt also told the council that many downtown parking spaces appear underutilized because of limited visibility; staff will explore improved signage and visual enhancements to increase awareness and use of existing parking.

Witt noted approximately $98,000 previously designated for the rodeo fairgrounds may be reconsidered during the upcoming budget retreat. She also reminded the council that a UAMPS meeting is scheduled for Feb. 20. The meeting adjourned at 7:44 p.m.