Council agrees to continue talks with prospective sauna operator, schedules work session

Kaitlin Poulter and Grant Stanley presented a proposal June 24 to lease a 20-by-40-foot pad north of Town Hall for a near‑private, automated sauna aimed at locals and visitors. The applicants described session-based bookings (one hour and 15 minutes, online booking), electric heaters capable of 180F+, and plans for a small cold plunge. Their materials emphasized a low-footprint, automated operation and potential visitor traffic from nearby recreation areas.

Council asked whether the proposed use generates town sales tax and whether saunas are permitted in the C‑1 zone. Councilmember Sandy Hunter recommended the applicants consult with property owners and Jake Songer about tree replanting and site landscaping. "She suggested Matthew talk to Steve or Jake Songer to get ideas for what trees to plant," the minutes record. The council said it was not prepared to approve a long-term lease or permanent structure on the site without further study.

TCM Sandy Hunter moved to proceed with talks to explore leasing the property to Ogden Valley Sauna LLC and to schedule a work session the week of July 7 to address zoning and site placement; Bruce Ahlstrom seconded and the motion passed unanimously. The council asked staff to confirm zoning, utility needs (240V/120V and water), parking impacts and tax implications before returning with a formal lease. The applicants also offered a proposed timeline and revenue model for seasonal operation and passes.