Commission approves Empowering You adult-day conditional use permit for basement space at 11339 South 700 East

The Sandy Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for Empowering You to operate an adult day program serving people with developmental disabilities at 11339 South 700 East, with conditions recommended by staff.

Jane Dauphin, presenting on behalf of Empowering You, described the program’s operations: “Our services will be Medicaid waiver funded,” she said, and added the group planned to start with “2 to 3 individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral needs” with hopes to expand to about 15–20. Dauphin said services would run Monday–Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., include structured activity spaces such as a sensory room and music room, and provide transportation to and from group homes by van.

A remote resident, Steve Van Maran, expressed concern that locating a handicapped-access program in a basement could present safety issues in an emergency: “I’m not sure handicap belong in the basement. I’m sure they can get in, but the elevators have to be shut down in case of a fire. I’m a little anxious about that.” Staff and commissioners responded that fire-department inspections and building-code requirements — including an area of refuge — address those concerns and that first responders can assist in evacuations. Planner Sarah Stringham confirmed parking would not be strained, saying the original site plan required 74 parking spaces and “the site has just over 100 parking spaces.”

Commissioner Danny Schoenfeld moved to approve the conditional use permit with the stated findings and conditions (with a wording modification noted from “department” to “division” for the services-for-persons-with-disabilities reference). Commissioner David Hart seconded; the motion carried unanimously with five votes in favor.