Residents urge creation of open‑space preservation committee for Mose Valley

During the public‑comment portion of the April 7 meeting, a series of residents and user‑group representatives urged St. George officials to form an open‑space preservation committee or liaison to protect Mose Valley and other nearby recreation areas.

"As local recreationalists and open space users, we deeply appreciate the city working on establishing a committee to do what it can to protect the greater Mose Valley area," said one commenter speaking for a coalition of local groups. Tyler Webb invited councilmembers to participate in an upcoming Mose Valley Climbing Festival on March 28 and suggested the city appoint a liaison to meet monthly with user groups. Freddie Dunn of the Backcountry Horsemen described his chapter as a service organization with roughly 100 local members ready to volunteer on trail maintenance and other projects.

Speakers stressed that preserving open spaces supports public health, local businesses and community quality of life. One longtime resident said, "Access to trails and parks and open spaces prevent chronic diseases," and urged the council to authorize meaningful, not merely advisory, engagement with user groups. Council members acknowledged the comments and said staff is working on a framework for a committee that aims to be effective rather than symbolic.