Sandy City Council Meeting: Budget Presentations and Communications Ordinance First Reading - May 13, 2026

This meeting, held on May 13, 2026 (though the transcript indicates May 12, 2026), included departmental budget presentations for administrative services, police, fire, community development, and the Redevelopment Agency (RDA). The council also held a first reading of an ordinance to define the functions and duties of the Communications Division, approved the Lakai 2 annexation, and adopted the CDBG annual action plan. No public comments were made during the general citizen comment period or on specific agenda items.

Consent Calendar

• The consent calendar was approved by a voice vote with no opposition.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were made during the general citizen comment period or on any agenda items.

Discussion Items

• Budget Departmental Reports: The council received presentations from Administrative Services (Brian), Police (Chief Jeff Nober), Fire (Chief McConaughey), Community Development (James), and RDA (Casey). Key points included:
  • Administrative Services: Proposed a net decrease of $112,000 in general fund, including elimination of a software project manager position and underfilling the treasurer position. Proposed reallocating savings to restore training and travel budgets.
  • Police: Requested a $100,000 increase in training budget, $127,000 for drone upgrades, and additional funding for ammunition, dispatch, and the South Valley Enforcement Team. Chief Nober emphasized the importance of compensation to retain officers, stating that staff is prioritized over equipment.
  • Fire: Requested funding for part-time front desk personnel, increased medical transport costs, and an ambulance replacement. Chief McConaughey supported the proposed 2% market adjustment compensation increase, noting it is critical for retention.
  • Community Development: Proposed a $1,000 increase for planning commission meetings, $2,000 for equipment maintenance, and $55,000 for a vehicle replacement. The department also highlighted the success of the administrative law judge process for junk vehicle removal.
  • RDA: Presented a budget with a 4% reduction, noting the expiration of the Civic Center South project area. Discussed plans for a small business loan program and the need to use fund balances before deadlines.
• First Reading of Communications Ordinance (Item 2): Councilmember Houseman introduced an ordinance to define the functions and duties of the Communications Division, including requirements for an annual strategic plan, periodic performance reporting, and advice and consent for the director. She noted that the draft had been revised based on feedback and would be brought back for a second reading. Several council members expressed support, with discussions on notification timing and the importance of transparency.
• Lakai 2 Annexation (Item 3): A public hearing was held for the annexation of eight parcels owned by Kevin Gates. The proposed zoning includes R-140 and Community Commercial. The council approved the annexation, with the understanding that a separate SD zone could be developed later for the property's uses.

Key Outcomes

• Lakai 2 Annexation Approved: Motion passed 6-0 to approve the annexation and zoning (R-140 and CC).
• CDBG Annual Action Plan Approved: Resolution 26-56C was approved 6-0, authorizing the use of Community Development Block Grant funds for housing and public service projects.
• RDA Resolution Approved: Resolution RD 26-05 (with Option B, including a right of first refusal) was approved 6-0 for the omnibus agreement.
• RDA Minutes Approved: The minutes from March 10, 2026, were approved.
• Consent Calendar Approved: Approved by voice vote.
• Communications Ordinance: Will be brought back for a second reading after further refinement and legal review.
• Next Steps: The council will continue budget discussions with remaining departments next week. The communications director position will be posted.