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Manti holds hearings on annexation and subdivision rule changes; water calculations draw council attention
Summary
City staff presented an annexation policy update and proposed subdivision ordinance changes June 3. Planner McKay Muhlestein said the city does not actively pursue annexations; the subdivision update aligns code with state law requiring water calculations based on a five‑year average, prompting council and resident discussion about conservation and development types.
City Planner McKay Muhlestein briefed the Manti City Council on two land‑use items during the June 3 meeting: an update to the annexation policy and proposed revisions to the subdivision ordinance.
On annexation, Muhlestein said Manti’s policy is generally not to actively pursue annexations and that requests typically originate with property owners. He and councilmembers discussed whether the annexation planning horizon should match the general plan and noted a correction for a referenced 20‑year period.
On the subdivision ordinance, Muhlestein described a package of changes intended to clarify lot splits, establish an administrative land‑use authority, distinguish minor from major subdivisions, update improvement and fee language, add or refine definitions, and remove a referenced appendix that does not exist. Staff emphasized a state law change requiring that water calculations be based on a five‑year average by use type rather than a flat one acre‑foot per house. Council members raised questions about water rights and availability, secondary water infrastructure, xeriscaping and conservation measures, potential landscaping restrictions, tiered rates, and sewer capacity in future growth areas.
During public comment, resident Susan Manning recommended clustered subdivisions that preserve open space and noted septic systems as an option in outlying areas, while resident Heather Weiss urged stronger water conservation measures and recommended limiting water‑intensive uses such as golf courses and data centers.
McKay Muhlestein also briefed the council on the National Register of Historic Places process, explaining listing options and that federal listing does not, by itself, restrict private property use but could make owners eligible for tax credits and grant programs. Councilmembers expressed interest in obtaining more information about tax implications and possible grant support.
