Planning commission approves Jordan Valley well pump house after residents raise noise concerns

The Midvale Planning & Zoning Commission on Aug. 14 approved a conditional use permit for a Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District well pump house at 987 E 7800 S, following resident concerns about noise and neighborhood impacts. Commissioner Dustin Liedtke moved approval; the motion passed unanimously.

Applicant Kevin Rubow told the commission the new pump will be used to produce water serving Midvale, Murray, Millcreek and South Salt Lake and that the existing well pump will remain for occasional winter use. Rubow said construction will include a “double wall with insulation and air gap” and that the building will be a “conditioned space” so doors need not be opened during operation. He said the new pump house “will be undetectable to the surrounding residents.”

Nearby residents raised noise and neighbor‑conduct concerns. Evan Hansen said the current facility is “very loud” and asked whether the new building would be close to property lines and how noise would be mitigated. Roger Robinson described past problems with above‑ground equipment and “disrespectful and inconsiderate” behavior by district workers. Planning staff planner Jonathan Anderson told the commission the proposed structure would sit about 30–40 feet from the nearest house.

Commissioners discussed resident concerns and the applicant’s mitigation plans; Commissioner Liedtke recommended the applicant report noise and neighbor issues back to his company’s leadership. After closing the public hearing, the commission approved the conditional use permit with the findings recommended in the staff report. The decision is final for the commission level; building permits will follow required approvals.