Public Meetings - Draper, Utah

The Draper City Council held a regular meeting on April 7, 2026, beginning with a closed session for pending litigation strategy, followed by an annual training on the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act. The open meeting included a proclamation, consent calendar, and two major development agreements, as well as text amendments and boundary adjustments. Councilmembers Johnson, Lowry, and Dahlin were present; Councilmember Green is deployed under Title 10 and Councilmember Lowry was out of town, but a quorum of three was maintained. Closed Session - The council voted unanimously (3-0) to enter a closed session for pending litigation strategy regarding pending and reasonably imminent litigation. No decisions were made in the closed session; the council received guidance only. Training on Open and Public Meetings Act - Tracy presented training on the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act, covering definitions, quorum, notice requirements (minimum 24 hours, posted on Utah Public Notice Website), emergency meetings, public access, and proper closure procedures. The training emphasized the importance of public trust and avoiding legal violations. Consent Calendar - Item 5A: Approval of minutes from March 24, 2026 City Council meeting. - Item 5B: Resolution 2614 appointing Joshua Best as alternate member of the Draper City Planning Commission. - Item 5C: Resolution 2615 appointing Lindsay Simons to the Community Engagement and Events Committee. - Item 5D: Resolution 2616 appointing Sandra Gonzalez to the Historic Preservation Commission. - Item 5E: Resolution 2617 approving a settlement agreement with Parcel Construction LLC (dba Builders Resource). - All consent items were approved by a unanimous vote of 3-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 6A – Open Shaw Corner Development Agreement: David York (438 Morning Ridge Circle) argued the development agreement (DA) failed to meet four conditions set by the council in December: traffic mitigation (no traffic study or mitigation plan), roadway improvements (no binding commitments), infrastructure funding (no cost allocation), and phasing (no phasing plan). He noted the DA was only released the day of the meeting, violating a promised four-month review period. Carolyn Phippin (363 Brown Farm Lane) raised concerns about traffic and landscaping, citing reduced groundwater recharge from asphalt. Christina Kessler Day (448 Brown Farm Lane) emphasized connectivity with the adjacent development and expressed frustration that the city is sacrificing neighborhoods for commercial tax revenue. Lane Lewis (13726 South Brown Farm Lane) stated the council had not represented the neighborhood, citing exceptions for lighting, traffic, and landscaping. - Item 6B – Bangeter Crossroads Development Agreement: Bob Clark (13590 South 300 East) called the traffic pattern a

A variance hearing was held on March 31, 2026, before Variance Hearing Officer Tim Pack to consider an application by property owner Chris Gardner for a variance from the city’s setback requirements for an accessory building constructed on his property. The building, approximately 400 square feet, was built by an unlicensed contractor without permits, encroaching on required setbacks. The applicant argued for the variance based on personal hardship, including PTSD, and benefits to the neighborhood, while the city maintained that the statutory criteria for a variance were not met and that the remedy should be to move or demolish the structure. Consent Calendar - Minutes from January 9, 2026, meeting: Approved by Hearing Officer Pack, who reviewed them in advance. Discussion Items - Variance Application – Chris Gardner (Applicant): The applicant, represented by attorney Chad Hutchings, sought a variance for a pre-existing accessory building that violated setback requirements. Hutchings argued that Mr. Gardner relied on a contractor who failed to obtain permits and follow code, and that requiring removal would cause significant economic and emotional hardship, particularly given Mr. Gardner’s PTSD. He noted the building mitigates flooding, is not visible from the street, and neighbors support it. The city, represented by Spencer De Sain, argued that variances are extraordinary and must be based on property characteristics, not personal circumstances. He stated the city enforces setbacks uniformly and that the building fails all five statutory criteria, especially since it exceeds 200 square feet (where relaxed setback rules apply). De Sain emphasized that future buyers might object, and that the city’s failure to enforce elsewhere does not bar current enforcement. Mr. Gardner personally addressed the board, describing his mental health struggles and his desire to maintain the building for family and neighborhood use. Key Outcomes - No decision announced: Hearing Officer Tim Pack indicated he would consider the arguments and documents and issue a written decision within the next week, to be distributed via city staff. The hearing was then closed.

The Community Engagement and Events Committee met on March 25, 2026, at 1:00 PM (MT) to approve minutes, review committee rules, and discuss upcoming events including America 250, the Mayor's Bike Ride, Cinco de Mayo, and Draper Days. The committee also addressed a donation proposal for a fire hose art bench and assigned initial volunteer roles. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the February 25, 2026 meeting: Motion by Amitaba, second by Ben, passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Committee Rules and Roles: David Wilkes read the Draper City ordinance governing volunteer committees, emphasizing advisory roles, attendance requirements (three unexcused absences in 12 months may lead to removal), and the prohibition of committee members speaking on behalf of the city without authorization. The committee's charter was also reviewed. - Fire Hose Art Bench Donation: Amitaba proposed donating a bench made from decommissioned fire hose and steel, created by a friend, to the fire department. Council member Catherine Ballin suggested coordinating with the fire chief and presenting at a city council study session. Mark Vincent agreed to contact the fire chief. - Mayor's Bike Ride (May 16, 2026): The event is part of the Golden Spoke Bike Ride. Draper City will host a rest stop at Rotary Park from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, needing two volunteers to hand out refreshments. Ben Passon volunteered to help. - Cinco de Mayo (date not specified, but typically May 5): The event runs 6-8 PM with entertainment, food trucks, and a face-painting booth. The committee needs a bilingual MC to introduce acts. Mark will check with Melanie Morris about returning as MC. The event is the signature event for the committee. - America 250 Potluck (July 5, 2026): A statewide potluck dinner celebrating America's 250th anniversary, hosted at seven Draper City park pavilions (including Suncrest, Smith Fields, Galena, Draper Park, etc.). The city will provide drinks/desserts; volunteers are needed to facilitate each location. Mark will send a list of locations and offered to take Suncrest. He also proposed creating a birthday card for attendees to sign. - Draper Days Event Staffing: David Wilkes reviewed volunteer needs for multiple events: - Parade lineup (6-11 AM, needs 8 people) - Parade grandstand announcer (8:45 AM-noon) - Day barn (air-conditioned, snacks and meals for volunteers, all three days) - Information booth (Thursday 6-8 PM, Friday/Saturday noon-9 PM) - Car show (Thursday, needs help parking cars and interacting with sponsors) - Children's bike parade (decorating bikes, walking in parade) - Pie baking contest (new America 250 award for best all-American apple pie) - Bingo (free, 250-300 attendees, need a caller and sponsor recognition) Key Outcomes - Minutes approved: February 25, 2026 meeting minutes are official. - Volunteer sign-ups: - Ben Passon for Mayor's Bike Ride rest stop. - Mark Vincent for Suncrest America 250 potluck location. - Several members expressed interest in Draper Days events, but formal assignments will be made at the next meeting. - Follow-up actions: - Mark Vincent will contact the fire chief regarding the fire hose art bench. - Mark will send the America 250 potluck location list to committee members. - David Wilkes will update the event staffing sheet with times and circulate it. - Next meeting agenda: Will include event staffing updates and finalizing volunteer assignments. - Meeting adjourned: Motion by Stefania, second by Ben, all in favor.

The Draper City Council held a study session and regular meeting on March 24, 2026, starting at 6:00 PM. The study session included a report from the South Valley Chamber of Commerce and a discussion on a proposed monumental sculpture at the Corner Canyon trailhead. The regular meeting featured public comments, consent agenda approvals, and public hearings on three development agreements, all of which were approved with conditions. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (4-0): Meeting minutes of February 17, 2026, and March 3, 2026, and an assessment in lieu for Stony Brook Homes at 997 East 13450 South. Public Comments & Testimony - Eddie Turpin (1120 East 13400 South): Expressed concern about the potential opening of 13400 South, requesting curb, gutter, and speed bumps to prevent speeding. Suggested opening a different locked gate instead. - Tyler Ashby (1116 East 132nd South): Raised safety concerns about an unsafe intersection created by a developer, citing an over 8-foot sign in a prohibited location that blocks visibility for pedestrians and cyclists. Stated he provided photo evidence. Discussion Items - South Valley Chamber of Commerce Report: Jay Francis presented the annual report, highlighting 573-579 members, 11 ribbon cuttings in Draper in 2025, and strong committee participation. Key statistics: 27 graduates from Leadership South Valley, 14 from Business Accelerator, 127 attendees at boot camps, over 1,200 attendees at Women in Business events, and 41,000 room nights from sporting events yielding $66 million economic impact. The Chamber views its relationship with the city as a partnership. - Monument Statue Design: Local artist Trevor Goth, supported by childhood friend Ryan, proposed a monumental (hero-sized) bike sculpture to be placed at the Andy Valor Arena trailhead. The project would be privately funded via grassroots fundraising through the Corner Canyon Trails Foundation, requiring no city funds. Council discussed liability, safety, and attraction nuisance concerns. Council members expressed support, with a consensus to allow fundraising and placement subject to a safety review by the city engineer. The council also noted potential for future art pieces (e.g., hiker, paraglider) as part of America 250 celebrations. - Closed Session: A motion was made and seconded to enter closed session to discuss pending and potential litigation against the city. No further details were provided. - Public Hearing 5A – Single Event Permit for Peak Pickleball Club: City staff confirmed qualifications. No public comments. Approved unanimously (4-0) to provide local consent for a single event permit for HVPC LLC DBA Peak Pickleball Club. - Public Hearing 5B – Kimballs Lane Junction Development Agreement Amendment (Edge Homes): Staff reported a proposed 21-acre development with up to 27 units per acre, including condos and townhomes, with deviations from code (e.g., alley widths of 20 ft instead of 26 ft, driveway lengths of 18 ft, open space reduction from 30% to 25%). The applicant argued deviations were necessary to achieve approved density and product mix. Council expressed concerns about compactness but recognized trade-offs. Planning commission recommendations were incorporated. Approved unanimously (4-0) with inclusion of staff-proposed changes. - Public Hearing 5C – Fratto Farms Development Agreement (Troy Dana): Proposal for 14 single-family homes on 2.03 acres, with zoning change from RA2 to residential high density. Planning commission had recommended denial due to concerns about park permanence, driveway lengths, lot count, and amenities. After public comments, the council and applicant negotiated conditions. Council approved unanimously (4-0) with conditions: maximum 14 lots, permanent park, no ADUs, and maximum livable area of 3,000 square feet per home. Key Outcomes - Consent items approved 4-0. - Single event permit for Peak Pickleball Club approved 4-0. - Kimballs Lane Development Agreement approved 4-0 with staff revisions. - Fratto Farms Development Agreement approved 4-0 with conditions (14 lots, permanent park, no ADUs, 3,000 sq ft limit). - Monument statue given informal approval to proceed with fundraising and placement, subject to safety review. - Closed session held for pending litigation. - Reconsideration of wall encroachment at Third East and Pioneer: Council declined to reconsider, maintaining that the wall should be removed while allowing landscaping irrigation under a maintenance and liability agreement.

The Draper City Preservation Commission met on March 19, 2026, at 6:12 PM. The meeting covered a range of topics including a reconnaissance-level survey update, walking tour proposals, historical society coordination, Juneteenth article progress, and demolition permits. Commissioners also received updates on the Akagi family history research, the widowmaker plaque project, and inventory efforts. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the February 18, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. - A motion was passed to move agenda items 3D and 3E after 3A to allow Commissioner Nancy to leave early. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded during the meeting. Discussion Items - Reconnaissance Level Survey Phase 2 Kickoff: Kirk Huffbaker of Preservation Strategies presented the methodology for Phase 2 of the city's reconnaissance-level survey. The survey will evaluate 423 properties built before 1975 across Draper. Fieldwork is planned through the end of April 2026, with a draft report due by June 30, 2026. The survey will document architectural style, form, materials, and integrity from the public right-of-way, with no access to private property. Properties may be skipped if not visible or if gated. No opt-out is available. The survey will not impose restrictions on property owners. - Kimball's Station Walking Tour: Nancy proposed adding homes in the Kimball's Lane area to the walking tour program. She conducted preliminary research with the historical society and identified several potential properties, including the station master's house and homes with historical stories (e.g., a property reportedly struck by a meteor). The group discussed creating a separate tour for the area. Commissioner noted the reconnaissance level survey data would provide construction dates. - Historical Society Coordination: Updates from the historical society meeting included contact with a descendant of Ebenezer Brown, plans for a banquet (likely in June or July) with period music possibly from a private music school, and a status update on a $3,000 oral history grant which is on hold. Inventory dates were discussed: a next inventory is scheduled for March 30, 2026, from 6-8 PM. - National Register of Historic Places: Chapel by the Wayside was officially placed on the National Register. A contract with Coral for two new nominations is being finalized. - Juneteenth Article: Commissioner Wendy is working on an article about George Bankhead and enslaved people in Draper for Draper Forward. The article is currently 1,200 words, but the publication only allocates 500 words. The group agreed to publish a shortened version in print and the full article on the city website, allowing for more images and future updates. Research is ongoing to determine if Bankhead brought his children to Draper. - Akagi Family History Research: Commissioner David Van reported renewed contact with Mike Akagi, who is recovering from surgery. Akagi has given permission to scan his photo albums but has not yet decided whether to donate the originals to the historical society. The group discussed documenting the tithing house on the former Akagi farm, as previous efforts to get the owner interested in the National Register stalled. - Widowmaker Plaque Update: A signed agreement with the county was obtained. Public works and parks departments will handle installation in-house. The commission approved a bid for the mounting plate costing $830. A dedication ceremony is planned once installed, possibly involving the Kimball family. - Demolition Permits: Edge Homes has demolition permits for four homes near the Kimball's FrontRunner station, including Lynn Kimball's house. Three permits are active. The building at 11611 South 900 East is not historical. The commission noted that documentation via photos and the reconnaissance survey is sufficient. - Historic Bricks: Sherry Smith of one of the Smith historic homes on Reliance Street is offering historic bricks from the Carlisle home in Alpine for sale to support preservation work. No CLG grants were awarded this year. Key Outcomes - The bid for the widowmaker plaque mounting plate ($830) was approved to order. - Nancy will attend the next historical society meeting to relay updates. - Commissioner will share the document on Kimball's area homes with the commission. - Annie will coordinate the next inventory day with the historical society. - Krista will attend the America 250 meetings. - Wendy will continue working on the Juneteenth article for Draper Forward and the website. - David will scan the Mike Akagi photographs and work on the Tembo history.

The Draper City Planning Commission met on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 1:45 PM UTC (evening session) to consider five agenda items: a development agreement and zoning request for Fratto Farms, a text amendment for private schools, a site plan and parking deviation for High Point Office Building 2, a development agreement amendment for Kimball's Junction, and a boundary adjustment with Alpine City. The meeting included public hearings and resulted in recommendations to the City Council. Public Comments & Testimony - Fratto Farms: Multiple neighbors spoke in opposition. Dave Hansen requested no zone change, citing developer profit and lack of neighborhood engagement. Kimberly Henry asked for no zone change to avoid a precedent and noted nearby high-density Edge Homes provide sufficient housing. Jim Duncan (adjacent property owner) criticized the proposed 35-foot height, stating it exceeds existing structures and his house is only 20-22 feet. Jerry Thomas expressed concerns about driveway encroachment on public right-of-way and traffic, preferring 8 homes. Cindy Romero raised traffic and parking issues, suggesting 12-14 homes. Ralph Broderick opposed high density and noted his own nearer-to-transit property would face pressure. Lois Duncan cited privacy invasion from height and traffic concerns. - Juan Diego Text Amendment: Five students (Ava Wagner, Riley Logan, Olive Kiger, L. Breen, Camilla Morales) spoke in favor of the farm-to-table project, describing educational benefits, a $7,500 grant, and plans for a garden and greenhouse. - High Point Office Building 2: No public comments. - Kimball's Junction: Denise Smith, a neighbor, expressed concern about traffic and smaller dimensions (alley widths, driveway depth), suggesting fewer units. - Alpine/Draper Boundary: David Whitbeck explained a county recording error misplacing the boundary by 20 feet, requesting correction through municipal agreement. Discussion Items Fratto Farms Development Agreement, Zoning Map, and Land Use Amendments - Staff Presentation: Nick Whitaker presented a proposal to change 2.03 acres from RA-2 (residential agricultural, 20,000 sq ft lot minimums) to RM-2 (multifamily, 12 du/acre), with a land use designation change from residential medium to high density. A development agreement would limit the project to 15 detached single-family homes (down from a potential 24 units), 35-foot max height, and design standards including frontage toward 800 East. The site is within a half-mile of the Kimball's Lane station area plan but not specifically addressed in it. - Commissioner Concerns: Commissioner Nixon raised issues about the lack of guarantees on home size, use of a park area (lot 15) that could later become a home, driveway encroachment on public right-of-way (lots 10, 11, 15 with only 15-foot depth), and whether the city gains adequate benefits (curb and gutter already required by code). Commissioner Nixon noted the development agreement reduces units from 24 to 15, which is a benefit. Commissioners debated the appropriateness of high density given adjacent commercial and single-family homes. Commissioner Adams noted that without a zone change, four homes at 35 feet could be built, but the site's location next to commercial makes expensive single-family homes unlikely. The architect confirmed homes would likely be under 2,500 sq ft and no permanent park is guaranteed. - Vote: Motion to forward a negative recommendation (denial) for the land use map amendment (finding it not harmonious with existing development) passed 4-1 (Laura no). For the zoning map amendment (denial based on findings 1-3 in staff report) passed 4-1 (Laura no). For the development agreement (denial based on staff findings and commissioner concerns) passed 4-1 (Laura no). Juan Diego Zoning Text Amendment - Staff Presentation: Jen Destrempski presented the request to add private schools as a conditional use in all residential zones. Staff recommended an alternative: allow only in R-3, limited to sites ≤1 acre ancillary to an existing private school campus, with building coverage ≤2,000 sq ft and height ≤25 ft. The applicant is Skaggs Catholic Center, which owns property in R-3. - Applicant Testimony: Joe Colosimo explained they want to use a 0.45-acre lot for a farm-to-table program and greenhouse for their school. They support the R-3 limitation and conditional use. - Commissioner Discussion: Commissioners favored the limited scope to avoid widespread impacts. Terms like "ancillary" require definition. Legal counsel confirmed the commission can recommend policy changes. Students presented a compelling case. - Vote: Motion to forward a positive recommendation as proposed by staff (R-3 only, with conditions and a definition of "ancillary") passed unanimously (5-0). High Point Office Building 2 Site Plan and Parking Deviation - Staff Presentation: Todd presented a new office building (25,806 sq ft) on 1.02 acres at 193 E Highland Drive. The site has existing parking (310 spaces). The applicant needs a parking deviation because code requires 349 spaces (with 10% natural deviation = 315; they have 310 – a gap of 5 spaces). A parking study (ITE) shows peak demand of 283 stalls (excluding reception center), leaving a 27-stall surplus. Staff recommended condition 4 requiring the reception center to operate only after 6 PM to offset peak use, plus condition 3 assessing future tenant parking. The applicant argued condition 4 conflicts with an existing lease and is unnecessary given ample parking data. - Applicant Testimony: Greg Goffin (owner's rep) corrected staff's classification of medical service vs. personal care, showing the code gap is only 5 stalls (1.6%). Actual usage observed is 155 stalls average, 291 on busiest day – well under supply. He requested removal of condition 4. - Commissioner Discussion: Commissioner Nixon agreed condition 4 is problematic for an existing tenant but noted the parking study relied on that restriction. Commissioner Adams noted the site is overparked. Staff clarified that without condition 4, future tenants could be managed under condition 3. Commissioner Nixon moved to approve the parking deviation and site plan with removal of condition 4. - Vote: Parking deviation approved 4-1 (Susan no). Site plan approved 4-1 (Susan no). Kimball's Junction Development Agreement Amendment - Staff Presentation: Jen Destrempski presented the amendment to set design standards and concept plan for 21 acres at 632 E Kimball's Lane (RM-2 zone). The original development agreement (2025) set density 25-27 du/acre, workforce housing (30 units), and required this amendment. Proposed changes: building heights up to 54 feet (code 35), reduced sidewalk standards, 20-foot alleys (code 26), 18-foot driveways (code 20), 10-foot road setbacks, 25% open space (code 30%), and other deviations. Staff recommended three conditions: 1) clarify street dedication and public improvements, 2) ensure compliance unless modified, 3) require a half cul-de-sac at 119th South for emergency/turnaround. - Applicant Testimony: Paxton Guiman (Edge Homes) emphasized this is a for-sale project with workforce housing, responding to state pressure. He argued the half cul-de-sac addresses a pre-existing issue and should be offset via impact fee credits or cost-sharing, but agreed to negotiate with City Council. He also committed to a canal trail and agreed to add language in the agreement. He noted the design achieves density with functional layouts. - Commissioner Discussion: The half cul-de-sac was debated; the commission felt it was out of their scope for negotiation. The canal trail language was strongly recommended by Commissioner Nixon. Commissioners accepted the reduced driveway depth (18 ft) and alley widths as acceptable given no on-street parking. Traffic impacts will be studied at site plan stage. - Vote: Motion to forward a positive recommendation with the three staff conditions plus addition of mandatory canal trail installation and dedication passed unanimously (5-0). Alpine/Draper Boundary Adjustment - Staff Presentation: Todd (stand-in) explained the city-initiated request to remove 0.45 acres from Draper's land use and zoning maps due to a municipal boundary adjustment with Alpine City. The property is at 16001 S 3500 E, currently in RR-22 zone with hillside overlay. The correction stems from a county recording error. - Applicant Testimony: David Whitbeck (lot owner) explained the error subtracts 20 feet from his property; all parties (Alpine, Draper, county) are cooperating. - Vote: Motion to forward positive recommendations for both the land use and zoning map amendments passed unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - Fratto Farms: Negative recommendation (denial) on land use map amendment (4-1), zoning map amendment (4-1), and development agreement (4-1). Commissioner Laura dissented on all three. The project will go to City Council for final decision. - Juan Diego Text Amendment: Positive recommendation (5-0) to allow private schools as conditional use only in R-3 zone, limited to ≤1 acre, ancillary to existing campus, max 2,000 sq ft building coverage, max 25 ft height, with a definition of "ancillary" to be added. - High Point Office Building 2: Parking deviation approved (4-1) and site plan approved (4-1), both with condition 4 (reception center hours) removed. Commissioner Susan voted no. - Kimball's Junction Development Agreement Amendment: Positive recommendation (5-0) with added conditions: three staff conditions (street dedication, compliance, half cul-de-sac) plus requirement for canal trail installation and dedication to the city. - Alpine/Draper Boundary Adjustment: Positive recommendation (5-0) for both land use and zoning map amendments. Meeting adjourned at approximately 10:45 PM UTC after training.

The Draper City Tree Committee met on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at approximately 8:00 a.m. The meeting included review of committee roles, a presentation on the new water element of the General Plan, updates on street projects, and discussion of tree planting specifications and removal policies. The committee also began planning for Arbor Day. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the February meeting were approved by unanimous vote. Discussion Items - Committee Roles (Rhett): Rhett reviewed the committee's roles as an advisory body, noting that members are appointed by the mayor for four-year terms, and that the committee advises on city property trees and landscaping. Discussion included whether the committee's purview should be expanded to include water-wise landscaping and education, as the current code limits focus to city property. Members expressed interest in updating the code to reflect the committee's broader activities, such as public education and partnerships. - Water Element Presentation (Jen): Jen presented the new water element adopted by the city council in 2025. The element includes goals and strategies to reduce water use, such as creating a water conservation team, updating ordinances, promoting water-wise landscaping, and leading by example on city properties. Jen noted that implementation is up to the city council, and the committee could help with education and outreach. - Pioneer Street Update (Darren): Darren reported on the widening of Pioneer Street from 7th to 13th. Survey results are in, and concepts are being developed. Park strips up to 10 feet wide will allow tree planting, but not along the entire corridor. The plan is to use the street tree guide and vary tree species to avoid monoculture. - Tree Planting Specifications (Rhett): Rhett updated on the tree planting spec that was developed to avoid planting trees in road base. The city attorney advised against making it part of the adopted tree guide by resolution, but it will be posted on the website as a recommended standard. Several members argued that developers should be required to follow the spec via code, but the attorney noted that code changes could take three years. The committee will continue to seek ways to make the spec mandatory. - Tree Removal Policy (Michelle): Michelle presented research on tree removal policies from Salt Lake City and Sandy, including guidelines for root protection, tree risk assessment, and replacement requirements. The discussion was prompted by sidewalk damage from tree roots. Members noted that the city currently lacks a formal removal policy, and there is no requirement to replace removed trees. The committee will consider developing a policy that includes replacement ratios. - Arbor Day Planning: Arbor Day is scheduled for April 24, 2026 (Friday). The committee discussed planting a tree at Draper City Park to commemorate America's 250th anniversary. The mayor's availability is being checked for either April 24 or 25. The tree species will be an elm, with the specific variety to be determined based on location and nursery availability. Key Outcomes - The committee will continue to explore updating the code to expand the committee's role to include landscape and water-wise topics. - The tree planting specification will be posted on the city website as a recommended standard, not as a mandatory requirement. - The committee will prepare a draft tree removal policy for future discussion, including replacement requirements. - Arbor Day plans: The committee will coordinate with the mayor and nursery to plant an elm tree at Draper City Park on April 24 or 25, 2026, in celebration of America's 250th anniversary.

The Draper City Council met on March 3, 2026, to receive updates from public works, parks and recreation, and the fuels crew, hear public comments, approve a consent calendar and a public hearing ordinance, and discuss legislative developments. Key topics included infrastructure projects, wildfire mitigation, a rocket complaint, a potential amphitheater event, and state legislative updates on property tax, homelessness, and election changes. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes for the February 10, 2026 City Council retreat. - Approved Resolution 2612, certifying authorized individuals to access state investment funds. - Approved Resolution 2613, a vote center agreement with Salt Lake County for the 2026 elections. - All approved unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Mike Lund (652 Webb Circle) expressed concern about model rockets launching from Galena Park onto his property, noting he has found debris 40-50 times in 20 years. He stated that police cannot enforce because no ordinance specifically prohibits rockets. He requested council action to address safety hazards to his horses and property. - Michelle Polish (12249 South Placer Street) spoke in support of hosting a free, non-political America 250 event at the Draper Amphitheater, organized by Americans for Prosperity. She stated the event would include a drone show and a country singer, with all costs covered by the organization, and requested council approval. Public Hearing - Ordinance 1706 & 1707: Public hearing on amending the official land use map and zoning map to remove approximately 0.25 acres at 16199 South 3300 East from Draper City maps as part of the Highland Boundary Adjustment. The planning commission unanimously forwarded positive recommendations. No public comment was heard, and the council voted unanimously (4-0) to approve the ordinances. Discussion Items - Public Works Update (Scott) : - Completed: New signal at 12150 S State Street, a high-T intersection to improve safety; sidewalk repair program (zone 4, fourth year of five-year program, approximately $2 million spent so far); underground storm drain detention basin at 17th East (city property, developer partnership); pump station 3 upgrades (adding two pumps, pressures over 400 PSI). - 2026 planned projects: Pavement maintenance ($3 million/year, slurry seals and crack seals); Pioneer Street resurfacing (asphalt replacement, storm drain, curb/gutter); 14600 S and Highland dual left-turn lane (funded by gravel tax); 700 West sidewalk improvements (west side from 114th to 123rd South); 134 South connection (two phases, opening roadway with asphalt); sidewalk gap on Manfield Way near Draper Elementary; City Hall parking lot expansion; Suncrest detention basin repair; pressure reducing valve (PRV) replacements in Suncrest (proactive measure). - 2027 projects: Lone Peak Parkway (12650 to 123rd South, eliminating sharp curve, widening, federally funded, approximately $12 million, city share $2 million); 700 East and 114 South dual left-turn lanes (federally funded, city share $135,000); Fort Street from Pioneer to 132nd South (federally funded, major project, will affect parade route). - Parks and Recreation Update (Rhett) : - Completed: Storage area and trails/open space garage behind parks and rec building. - Ongoing: Jensen Farm Phase 3 (athletic field, restrooms, retaining wall, completion expected by May or June); Porter Rockwell Trail bridge expansion (delayed due to incorporating two parcels, bridge expected this summer); donated trail easement project (contractor to start soon); Sunrise and Inauguration parks combined into one park (irrigation, sod, playground); bridge over drainage span on final shoreline trail (construction starting soon); connector trail to Woods Hollow; new trail in Red Rock area (hand-cut, spring completion); two flyover trail intersections (vertical and levitate, Maple Hollow and Hands) requested for future budget funding, potentially supported by Utah outdoor recreation grants. - Fuels Crew Update (Parker) : - Completed projects: Rocky Knoll (resident insurance saved), Maple Hollow (fuel break finished), Mike Weir roadside thinning (proven effective in a car fire that stayed minimal), Mercer Hollow fuel break (35 acres, strategic advantage for Suncrest), Upper Hog Hollow thinning. - Grant funding: $120,000 grant supported crew; $200,000 grant for chipper and catch truck to enhance community chipper program. Exceeded state cooperative agreement commitment ($55,000) by $37,000, lowering this year's commitment to $21,000. - Fire danger rating signs installed; crew assisted on five national wildfire incidents (including Palisades fire) and multiple local brush fires. - Planned: robust chipper program, targeted at homes in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) area; coordination with communications for notifications; maintain Firewise USA recognition. - Discussion on HB48: Requires county assessments for high-risk homes; county has not yet defined plan, but city aims to be proactive with mitigation assessments. - Council Discussion : - Tree committee: Council member reported committee is open to updating rules and duties, possibly adding landscaping responsibilities. Committee will meet with council member and staff to review point by point. - Historic plaque: Historic Preservation Commission developed a plaque for the Widowmaker Trail, to be installed at Salt Lake County's flight park. Council expressed support for signing an interlocal agreement with the county for installation and maintenance. - Rocket ordinance: Council agreed to add a clear ordinance prohibiting rockets in city parks and to post signage at Galena Park, addressing the public comment. - Amphitheater rental: Council discussed the request for a free America 250 event. Concerns raised about lack of rental policy, potential discrimination, neighborhood impact, and cost recovery. Council consensus: do not rent without a formal policy; consider city-sponsored events with partner organizations. Staff will develop a policy for future consideration. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved (4-0). - Ordinances 1706 and 1707 approved (4-0), removing the boundary adjustment property from city maps. - Direction to staff: Add ordinance prohibiting rockets in parks and post signage at Galena Park. - Direction to staff: Develop a policy for renting the Draper Amphitheater before approving any rental requests. - Council support for signing an interlocal agreement with Salt Lake County for the Widowmaker Trail plaque installation. - Legislative update (Mayor): - Homeless shelter bill: Non-shelter cities will face a 15% one-time increase in monthly payment (from $16,000 to $22,000), funding shelter cities. Passed. - Property tax/fund balance: Proposed cap on property tax increases and interest clawback were negotiated down to a five-year sliding scale fund balance cap (25% for larger cities). City will retain interest earnings. Bill still pending. - Vote by mail: Bill requiring poll watchers at drop boxes and driver's license verification died in Senate committee. - Partisan municipal elections: Bill died in committee 7-3. - Flight park airport designation: Bill died after committee, but mayor noted it may return. - Transportation bill (Rep. Calvin): Creates low-interest loans for infrastructure to spur housing; also restructures UTA to a seven-member commission, with a new fund for transit expansion. Bill still pending. - Gas tax bill: Lowered tax by 4 cents/gallon for 180 days, but cities held harmless. Bill died in Senate committee, but may be revived. - Alcohol bill: Allows cities to waive proximity requirements for restaurants/hotels near libraries, parks, playgrounds under certain conditions. Passed. - Point bill: City will receive 75% of property tax value from the Point development; other changes on development agreements. Passed.

The Draper City Planning Commission met on Thursday, February 26, 2026, for three public hearings. The meeting included a site plan and cross-access deviation for a proposed bar, a home occupation conditional use permit for a lawn mowing business, and a city-initiated boundary adjustment with Highland City. Public Comments & Testimony - Shalise Benjamin (resident across from Jones property) expressed support for Jones Lawn Mowing, stating the dumpster is not noisy or smelly and that the applicant has been a good neighbor. - Sean Benjamin (resident at 192 East Browns Loop Way) echoed his wife's support, noting the dumpster noise is comparable to regular garbage trucks and that the applicant operates responsibly. - Mary Ann Norling (resident in The Cottages) raised questions about Highland City's purchase of the boundary adjustment parcel (potential trail use), the Suncrest development agreement, the Hillside Sensitive Overlay, appropriate city contacts, and signage visibility. The commission and staff noted her concerns and provided answers or offered to follow up. Discussion Items 1. The Break Site Plan and Cross-Access Deviation (Applications 2024-0356-SP and 2025-0271-VAR) - Applicant: Gary Knapp (JZW Architects) and Mike Colligan (Aspen General Contracting) representing LM Restaurant Group LC for a bar at approximately 12240 South 700 East. - Site Plan Details: 1.02 acres, 38 parking stalls (code requires 35-42), 22% landscape coverage (code requires 20%), parking lot landscape at 8% (code requires 7%). - Non-Compliant Items: The north property line buffer is 18-19 feet with a proposed 6-foot fence; staff recommended an 8-foot masonry wall. Light pole color was not specified (must be black) and maximum illumination ratio was 9.7:1 and 11.5:1 after hours, far exceeding the required 2.5:1. - Cross-Access Deviation: Sought due to a significant grade change (exceeding 12% slope) along the south property line; staff verified the slope exceeds the maximum. The adjacent property was not previously designed for reciprocal access. - Staff Conditions: Eight-foot fence, black light poles, revised photometric plan, property consolidation, and other standard conditions. - Commission Discussion: Clarified that garage doors in an older rendering have been removed. The slope was confirmed by staff to exceed 12%. 2. Jones Lawn Mowing LLC Home Occupation Conditional Use Permit (Application 2025-0273-USE) - Applicant: Naaman Jones, operating a lawn mowing service from his residence at 191 East Browns Loop Way. - Operations: Equipment stored in third-car garage (including a trailer), two non-resident employees meet at the home, business administration done from a small home office, and a 4-cubic-yard dumpster for grass clippings emptied four times per week. - Staff-Identified Issues: Driveway width exceeds 30 feet at the sidewalk (condition to reduce); dumpster must be screened and maintained without nuisance; trailer storage condition needed clarification. - Commission Concerns: The dumpster frequency (4 times per week) and early morning noise complaint (6:30 AM during a swap-out) were major sticking points. Applicant could not confirm off-site dumpster relocation immediately but proposed to investigate. - Neighbor Testimony: Two neighbors living across the street expressed no issues with noise or smell. - Modifications to Conditions: Strike conditions 8 and 9 (dumpster-related). Add condition: dumpster removed from property by April 1, 2026, and no dumpster used onsite thereafter. Add trailer to condition 7 (storage in third-car garage). Modify condition 5 to limit non-resident employees at the home to a maximum of two. 3. Highland Boundary Adjustment – Land Use and Zoning Map Amendments (Applications 2026-0017-MA and 2026-0018-MA) - City-Initiated: Removal of approximately 0.25 acres at 16199 South 3300 East from Draper City's zoning/land use maps due to a municipal boundary adjustment with Highland City. - Staff Presentation: The parcel is a narrow sliver purchased by Highland City, likely for future trail access. The Hillside Low Density land use and A-5 zoning with Sensitive Lands Overlay will be removed from Draper's maps. - Public Comment: Mary Ann Norling asked about the purpose, Suncrest development agreement applicability, and the Hillside Sensitive Overlay. Staff noted the parcel may be excluded from the Suncrest agreement and that additional questions could be directed to Todd Draper. - Next Step: The commission's recommendation will be forwarded to the city council hearing on March 3, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Key Outcomes - The Break Cross-Access Deviation: Approved unanimously (5-0) based on findings in the staff report and criteria E2 D1 (grade change and lack of prior reciprocal access). - The Break Site Plan: Approved unanimously (5-0) subject to six conditions including an 8-foot fence on the north, black light poles, and revised lighting plans. - Jones Lawn Mowing Conditional Use Permit: Approved unanimously (5-0) with modified conditions: dumpster removed by April 1, 2026; trailer included in equipment storage; non-resident employees at home limited to two. - Highland Boundary Adjustment: The commission voted unanimously (5-0) to forward a positive recommendation to the city council for both land use and zoning map amendments.