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Council reviews UDOT bike-trail proposal, sidewalk program, driver policy and drought pricing; staff to return with recommendations
Summary
During its June 3 meeting the Ephraim City Council heard a UDOT proposal for a Manti–Ephraim bike trail, reviewed a new Sidewalk Management Program, discussed a Driver Qualification Policy and considered drought pricing; in each case staff were asked to gather more information or seek legal review before the Council takes final action.
The Ephraim City Council discussed several items on its study agenda on June 3 and directed staff to gather additional information before making final recommendations.
Recreation Director Jordan Howe presented a UDOT proposal for a Manti–Ephraim bike trail that UDOT would fund and construct as part of the Utah Master Trail Network; the city, Manti and Sanpete County would share long-term maintenance responsibilities. Council members raised concerns about maintenance costs, the potential for motorized use, interaction with future road widening, and whether local residents would see sufficient benefit; staff were asked to consult neighboring jurisdictions and return with more details.
City Manager Katie Witt presented a proposed Sidewalk Management Program motivated by recommendations from the Utah Local Governments Trust. The program would establish an inventory, inspection schedule, risk classifications and a prioritization framework for repairs to reduce liability and improve public safety.
City Recorder Candice Maudsley reviewed a Driver Qualification Policy required by the Utah Local Governments Trust, which sets standards for acceptable and unacceptable driving violations and requires regular motor vehicle record checks. Councilmember Bud Powell asked that the policy consider language addressing DUI charges (not only convictions); the Council asked legal counsel to review that suggestion.
Witt also described current drought conditions, reporting flows near 50% of normal, and presented a proposed drought pricing structure that would increase water rates by 25% across usage tiers during drought. Councilmember Powell urged public education and voluntary conservation before implementing punitive rate changes, and staff were asked to expand outreach and provide more information on large-user reductions and incentives.
No final policy changes were adopted on these items at the June 3 meeting; staff will return with additional information, legal review or draft ordinances as requested by the Council.
