Draper City Council Meeting – September 16, 2025

The Draper City Council met on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 6:00 PM for a study session including a closed session to discuss a proposed development agreement, followed by a regular business session at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 1020 E. Pioneer Road. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by interim HR Director Pam Stagg. The council approved several resolutions, held a public hearing on a land use and zoning map amendment, and recognized fire department promotions and new hires.

Oaths of Office and Fire Department Promotions

• Fire Chief presented promotions: Michael Shanahan promoted to Battalion Chief (17 years of service, including 17 years with Draper Fire). Scott Wilson promoted to Captain (joined Draper Fire in 2017, previously with Sandy City). Josh Owen promoted to Paramedic (recently passed national paramedic exam). Steve Larson sworn in as a new Paramedic (previously served in Utah and Illinois).
• The council also administered the oath of office to Derek Orth as the new Human Resources Director, appointed by Resolution #25-48. Orth formerly served nine years at West Jordan City.

Consent Calendar

• Approved minutes from the August 13, 2025 Truth in Taxation Meeting, August 26, 2025 Board of Canvassers Meeting, and September 2, 2025 City Council Meeting.
• Approved Resolution #25-48 appointing Derek Orth as HR Director. The consent calendar was approved unanimously (5-0).

Public Comments

• No public comments were made during the general public comment period.
• During the public hearing for Goodrich Pointe, three residents spoke:
  • Leroy Larson (11553 S. 700 West) expressed concerns about traffic safety on 700 West, noting a fatal accident involving a child, lack of sidewalks, and high speeds. He also asked about an irrigation ditch through the property.
  • Sherry Schleesglee (address given) requested a pause of several months to allow her to purchase the property for equestrian use, citing difficulty finding large lots. She noted the property previously had horses.
  • Diane Brightling (near Jimson Farms) expressed frustration with increased traffic on 700 West over 25 years with no improvements, and felt the west side of Draper was neglected. She questioned the density change from 1-acre to quarter-acre lots.
  • Justin Fry (11812 Lone Ridge) spoke in favor of the project, hoping to purchase a lot for his mother to build next to him.

Discussion Items

1. Resolution #25-46 – Interlocal Agreement with Point of the Mountain State Land Use Authority (POMSLA)

Council attorney Bruce Baird presented the agreement, which provides for independent third-party review of infrastructure design and construction to ensure quality standards. The agreement includes recognized safety and design standards, QAQC processes, and arbitration for disputes. Key points: POMSLA will pay for the consultant; Draper is not obligated to build specific facilities (e.g., fire station) at a specific time; impact fees will be paid via best-efforts clause. Mayor Troy Walker noted that the land is owned by the state and has never generated tax revenue. Phase one of development includes a 5,000-seat entertainment venue and Convergence Hall, funded by $290 million in PID bonds. The agreement was approved unanimously (5-0).

2. Resolution #25-47 – Consultant Agreement with POMSLA and Methods Consulting

This companion agreement hires a development consultant to reduce the burden on Draper’s engineering staff. Also approved unanimously (5-0).

3. Resolution #25-49 – Cancellation of City Council Race

Due to a noticing error, this item was continued to the October 7, 2025 meeting. The resolution would certify Tasha Lowery and Mike Green as elected to the at-large council seats. The continuance was approved unanimously (5-0).

4. Public Hearing: Ordinances #1676 and #1677 – Goodrich Pointe Land Use and Zoning Map Amendments

Applicant Alan Allred requested changing the land use from Residential Low/Medium Density to Residential Medium Density and zoning from RA1 (1-acre minimum) to R4 (quarter-acre minimum) for approximately 7.6 acres at 11775 S. 700 West. The property currently has one residence and is part of a larger assemblage. Allred stated the proposed density would not exceed the current allowed 17 units (2 units/acre) and that the lots would be at least 13,000 sq ft. Council members expressed concerns about the drastic change from 1-acre to quarter-acre lots, lack of a development agreement to guarantee lot sizes, and consistency with the neighborhood’s agricultural character. Councilmember Tasha Lowery noted that without a development agreement, there is no guarantee of lot sizes. Councilmember Mike Green stated the zone is presumptively correct and saw no reason to change. The council voted to deny both ordinances unanimously (5-0).

Key Outcomes

• Approved Resolution #25-46 (Interlocal Agreement with POMSLA) – 5-0.
• Approved Resolution #25-47 (Consultant Agreement) – 5-0.
• Continued Resolution #25-49 (Council race cancellation) to October 7, 2025 – 5-0.
• Denied Ordinances #1676 and #1677 (Goodrich Pointe land use and zoning amendments) – 5-0.
• City Engineer Scott Cooley reported that staff is working on a plan to add sidewalks on 700 West and is addressing tree removal on Timoney Road in coordination with a state arborist, with recommendations expected in two weeks.
• The council noted receipt of a parking study from Sports City and will review.