Commission extends hearing on ordinance to protect canals, ditches and drain tiles to solicit more public input

The Box Elder County Planning Commission agreed on Aug. 14 to extend the public hearing on ordinance text amendment Z25-011, which would regulate treatment of existing water conveyance facilities (canals, ditches and drain tiles), for up to 60 days to increase public comment and seek feedback at the County Fair.

Commission staff explained the idea originated after a commissioner raised concerns based on personal experience and conversations with adjacent farmers. Planning Commissioner Brandon East said the draft language was developed in consultation with the general manager of the Bear River Canal Company and was written to align with Utah Code 73-1-15.5. "It requires the property owner to have the pipeline engineered and also leaves opportunities for the facility owner to review the engineering and make reasonable suggestions," Commissioner East said, explaining the draft aims to preserve an operator's ability to maintain conveyance facilities and reduce liability if adjacent development impedes access.

Public commenters supported protective language. Lee Summers said fences and development can hamper maintenance, and Lloyd Wood urged the commission to address subdivision debris and weeds that can clog ditches: "Prevent all the weeds and debris coming from subdivisions blowing into the ditches and plugging them up," Wood said. After discussion, Commissioner Bonnie Robinson moved to extend the public hearing on the ordinance for up to 60 days; Commissioner Jared Holmgren seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.