Council approves consent items, sidewalk inspection program and ADU permit; bills and minutes passed

At its March 4 meeting Far West City Council approved routine consent items — including the Feb. 19 minutes and bills dated March 4 — after staff answered questions about a contract with Weber County Animal Services and a payment to a contractor for storm‑drain work. Council asked staff to follow up with Weber County and provide billing details at the next meeting.

Council then spent extended time on a Sidewalk Management, Maintenance and Inspection Program (SMMIP) requested by the city’s insurance provider. Staff described the program as an inventory, inspection and scoring process that would standardize inspections, enable resident reporting, and improve ADA compliance. Council discussed whether public works can perform the program’s tasks or whether outside contractors would be required for larger repairs, how to capture inspection data (GIS, photo attachments and a web form), and whether homeowners remain financially responsible for sidewalk damage (chapter 12 of the municipal code places repair responsibility on the homeowner, utility or contractor). Council voted to adopt the SMMIP.

During business items council approved a conditional use permit for a detached accessory dwelling unit at 3112 North Pelican Drive. The planning commission had already approved the ADU and staff (Nate) inspected the structure to confirm it meets code. The council noted the applicant, Denise Mclofflin, is bringing the existing structure into compliance and commended her for applying for the permit.

Motions to approve the minutes, bills, SMMIP and the ADU passed on recorded voice or roll‑call votes as noted in the meeting.