Public Meetings - Sandy, Utah

The Sandy City Council met on October 20, 2026. The council received presentations on a proposed state lease of the Justice Court building and on opening preparations for the Sandy Recreation Center, approved the consent calendar, and voted to reconsider the Canyon Gate project after the developer added rental restrictions. No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based on the meeting transcript. Consent Calendar - Approved by voice vote: the Sandy Water Conservation Plan, an Extra Mile Day proclamation, a Religious Freedom Day proclamation, and the minutes of the October 13, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Henry Butters, speaking online, thanked the council and raised concerns about Councilmember DeKaiser and about the mayor, asking whether Sandy was “sweeping this under the rug.” - No public comment cards or online comments were submitted for the Canyon Gate voting items. Justice Court Lease Presentation - CAO Martin Jensen and staff presented a state judiciary proposal to lease all or most of the Justice Court building for a new district court. The building is two levels, approximately 34,000 square feet, on a 2.5-acre parcel, and was built in 1995. The state is reportedly adding roughly eight Third District judgeships. - Tentative lease terms include $25 per square foot full-service rent, a July 1 start date, 2.5% annual escalations, a five-year adjustment if operating costs rise faster than 2.5%, and a 20-30 year term. The state would handle security and its own build-out; the city would continue maintenance and pay to relocate existing tenants. - Administration projected about $650,000 net to the city before capital expenses and a 20-year pro forma of roughly $20 million in gross revenue with more than $9 million net after assumed expenses. Several council members asked for more detail on relocation costs, space utilization, and possible state assistance with front-loaded costs. - Council members raised different positions: some supported the lease as a strong use of an underutilized courthouse; others worried it could block a future public safety building or that the Think architecture assessment should not carry much weight without an RFP-based study. Some wanted to explore right-sizing the Justice Court instead. - The closure of Sandy’s Justice Court would be a separate, later decision and would take a two-to-three-year process. If it closed, residents would likely have to use the West Jordan district court. Judge Farr said the court currently uses courtrooms about three days a week and could potentially consolidate to two full days. Most current court staff could probably find state employment, though higher-level positions are less certain. - No vote was taken; administration indicated a target council vote on the lease around November 17 or the first December meeting. Sandy Recreation Center Opening Update - Parks and Recreation Director Ben Hill, Assistant Director Heidi Summers, and Center Manager Lois Stillian presented. The grand opening will be Monday, December 14, 2026, with a 10 a.m. ribbon cutting, followed by a community preview through January 3, 2027, and the full launch on Monday, January 4, 2027. Annual membership sales begin November 2. - Membership will use three pricing tiers: Sandy residents, special tax district residents, and non-residents. An interactive address map is available online to help buyers determine eligibility. - The project is on time and on budget. Recent milestones include the Sandy sign being completed and scaffolding removed, permanent power connected on October 9, gas meter connection, HVAC startup, parking lot striping, and installation of a new playground. - Council members and staff praised the project as debt-free, funded in part by a $3 million Salt Lake County grant and a $2 million contribution from the Larry H. and Gail Miller Family Foundation, plus seven years of city savings. Staff said the gas line easement was the biggest schedule risk and that there has been little rework; any budget savings may be used later for additional pool improvements. Canyon Gate Reconsideration and Votes - The council reconsidered its September 15, 2026 decision on the Canyon Gate project after the developer, the Boyer Company, agreed to add rental restrictions to the HOA’s CC&Rs. The restrictions limit rentals to no more than 20% of total units for five years after sale, allow the developer to lease up to 17 units during the sales/build-out period, run with the land, and include limited family exceptions. - Councilmember Stroud supported the revised proposal because it provides for-sale units and homeownership opportunities. Boyer representatives said they had gone further than they originally wanted but wanted to work in Sandy and agreed that homeownership is important. - Councilmember Nickel opposed the reconsideration, citing concerns about the legal process, public notice, and pressure from administration. Councilmember Sharkey questioned density language in Ordinance 26-52, saying the ordinance says up to 12 units per acre while portions of the site could reach 16 units per acre. Staff explained that 12 units per acre is the average across the 7.2-acre project and that PUD-style density is calculated on the whole site. - Votes were taken separately on the three reconsideration items: - Ordinance 26-52, the rezone: passed 5-2, with Councilmembers Nickel and Sharkey opposed. - Resolution 26-84C, approving the development agreement: passed 5-2, with Councilmembers Nickel and Sharkey opposed. - Ordinance 26-51, the general plan amendment: passed 6-1, with Councilmember Nickel opposed. Standing Reports - The next two weeks of council and agenda planning meetings are canceled; council staff will calendar any new items. - A legislative policy committee preview indicated expected new legislative efforts on property tax limits, city fund balances, and water retention basins in the Great Salt Lake Basin. - Councilmember Nickel took exception to the mayor’s comments and interruption during the voting item, saying the comments made the item more controversial. Mayor Zoltanski responded that she is not limited to mayor’s reports when weighing in on voting items. - Mayor Zoltanski wished the city’s sister city in Ukraine a happy 125th birthday, invited the public to a Public Safety Open House at Sandy City Hall from 7 to 8 p.m. the following evening, and reminded residents about vote-by-mail security, ballot drop boxes at City Hall and the Sandy Senior Center, and in-person voting.

The Sandy City Council met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 5:15 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a public hearing on the draft 2026 Water Conservation Plan, discussion of the Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District's proposed bulky waste program, and unanimous approval of the consent calendar. Council members also gave updates on community events and city services. The meeting adjourned at 6:11 PM. Consent Calendar - Determination of Impracticability for Station Area Plans (Item 26-463): The Council approved Resolution 26-92C, declaring it impracticable to prepare station area plans for Sandy City's portions of the Kimballs Lane and Draper Town Center station areas, as permitted under Utah Code. - Police Property Transfer (Item 26-464): Resolution 26-94C was approved, authorizing the interdepartmental transfer of certain property from the Police Department Evidence Room to the Sandy Police Patrol Unit. - Approval of Minutes (Item 26-465): The draft minutes from the October 6, 2026 Council meeting were approved. All consent items were approved by a unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - General Citizen Comment: Henry Butters addressed the Council, expressing frustration that public officials should own up to their mistakes. He referenced a DUI incident involving a council member (unnamed) and questioned the city attorney's role in pressing the county for answers on a mayoral matter. He also noted that a police officer was courteous when he was pulled over for a broken blinker. No other public comments were received in person or online. - Public Hearing on Water Conservation Plan: No members of the public testified during the public hearing for the draft Water Conservation Plan. Discussion Items - Presentation on Draft 2026 Water Conservation Plan (Item 26-466): Myrna Groomer (Public Works Business Services Manager) introduced consultants Rochelle Plaizier and Keith Larson of Bowen Collins & Associates, who presented the required five-year update to the city's Water Conservation Plan. Key points included: - Sandy's current water use is 200 gallons per capita per day (gpcd), with a baseline average of 217 gpcd (2015-2019). - Proposed conservation goals: 14% reduction from baseline by 2030, 21% reduction by 2040, and 28% reduction by 2065. - The plan includes a long-term indoor water use target of 45 gpcd for residential users by 2065. - Conservation efforts since 2000 have saved the average household approximately $440 per year in avoided water system costs. - New programs to achieve further reductions will rely largely on existing staff and resources, with only a $20,000 cost for a water rate study (rates schedule expires in 2029). - The plan must be submitted to the state by December 31, 2026; adoption is expected after this public hearing. - Council members asked about breakdowns of indoor vs. outdoor conservation and the realism of further reductions. The consultants confirmed that both indoor and outdoor conservation are factored into the goals. - Wasatch Front Bulky Waste Program: CAO Martin Jensen reported that the Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District proposed a new bulky waste program that would duplicate Sandy's existing bulk waste service for the approximately 2,200 parcels (annexed or in the district) within city boundaries. Council members discussed: - The preference to ask Wasatch Front to exempt Sandy residents from their new bulky waste program and rely solely on Sandy's program. - The expectation of a corresponding fee reduction for Sandy residents if the service is eliminated. - Concerns about customer confusion, legal liability, and the complexity of having two service providers on scattered parcels. - Council consensus was to send a letter requesting exemption and fee reduction, reflecting the input that the district has publicly acknowledged cost savings from this change. - Council Member Reports: - Council Member Kris Nicholl noted low attendance at Crescent View Bond open houses, but said attendees had good questions. - Council Member Cyndi Sharkey reported from the Convention Facilities Advisory Board: the Utah League of Cities and Towns (ULCT) Fall 2027 conference will be held at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy. The Salt Palace ranked 1 in sustainability among 50 convention centers, and the Expo Center ranked 3. She also noted a comparison of medical incidents: FANEX (130,000 attendees) had 2 incidents, while a recent Sandy concert (35,000 attendees) had 11 incidents. - Council Member Brooke Christensen reminded that the Sandy Arts Guild production of Tuck Everlasting runs through the weekend at Mt. Jordan Middle School. - CAO Reports: - Storm response: Hurricane Rachel remnants brought rain, but the storm drain system worked as designed with no significant flooding. A sandbag station was well-used. - Breakaway Concert: City staff met with America First Field staff to discuss lessons learned and best practices for future concerts; the meeting was positive. - Newcastle Fence: Replacement of a fence on city property along Newcastle Road began today; a contractor will notify affected homeowners. Council expressed interest in possibly gifting the property to homeowners to avoid future city maintenance. - Public Safety Open House: Scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 7 PM at City Hall to educate residents about crime prevention programs. - Council Office Director's Report: Dustin Fratto announced small group meetings with Council members to discuss the Chamber remodel concept plans. He also noted that Council meetings on October 27 and November 3 are cancelled due to the ULCT conference and the election. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Approval: The consent calendar (three items) was approved by voice vote. - Public Hearing Held: The public hearing on the Water Conservation Plan was opened and closed with no public testimony. The plan is expected to be brought back for formal adoption at a future meeting. - Direction on Wasatch Front Bulky Waste: Council members expressed support for sending a letter to the district requesting exemption of Sandy residents from the new bulky waste program and a corresponding fee reduction. The CAO will finalize the letter reflecting Council feedback. - Meeting Adjourned: The Council unanimously voted to adjourn at 6:11 PM.

The Sandy City Council met on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 5:15 PM in the Council Chambers. The agenda included an informational item on station area plan impracticability, approval of a consent calendar, a redevelopment agency meeting, standing reports, and public comments. Key topics included a determination of impracticability for two Draper station areas overlapping Sandy, an update on the Breakaway Festival noise complaints, and the recreation center construction progress. Consent Calendar - Approved the appointment of Jan Wangsgard to the Community Development Block Grant Committee. - Adopted an ordinance dedicating a portion of Centennial Parkway between 10200 South and Mall Ring Road. - Approved draft minutes from September 22, 2026, and September 29, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Butters (in-person): Expressed frustration with Council Member DeKaiser regarding a prior conversation, alleging a threat. Also criticized the Mayor for a DUI incident, calling for accountability. - Senator Kathleen Reeby (in-person): Thanked the council for their work on the Crescent Middle School bond issue and the recreation center. Welcomed new Police Chief Nyber. - Young resident (in-person): Raised concerns about the use of Flock cameras (ALPR), arguing they infringe on Fourth Amendment rights and have accuracy issues. Requested assistance in understanding how to address the issue. - Thomas Fennity (virtual): Thanked Sandy Water for proactively notifying him of a water leak while he was on vacation, preventing damage. Discussion Items - Determination of Impracticability for Station Area Plans: Jake Warner, Long-Range Planning Manager, presented a recommendation to exempt Sandy from adopting station area plans for the Kimballs Lane and Draper Town Center stations, as the city’s portions are largely built out with no redevelopment opportunities. This is due to state code HB 462. The council asked clarifying questions. The item was informational; a resolution will be brought back for action next week. - Redevelopment Agency Meeting: The council recessed as the City Council and convened as the Sandy City Redevelopment Agency. They approved minutes from the RDA meetings of May 26, 2026, and June 23, 2026, by voice vote. The council then reconvened as the City Council. - Breakaway Festival Noise Complaints: Mayor (via online participation) reported that the first major concert at America First Field on October 2–3 resulted in 36 noise complaints on Friday and 6 on Saturday after adjustments. Police responded to public intoxication incidents; 11 people were transported to hospitals. An after-action review is underway, and the council will be kept updated. - Recreation Center Construction: Mark Hill provided an update on the recreation center (opening December 15). Key milestones: middle panel completed, main entrance concrete poured, parking lot graded, gas line installed, pool waterproofing ongoing, lockers installed. Power connection expected by October 9. A more detailed discussion on opening plans is scheduled for the October 20 meeting. - Council Member Business: Council discussed concerns about unmet operation and maintenance needs for the Crescent Middle School bond, chamber remodel timeline, and a hazardous concrete repair issue on High Mountain Drive where trees were saved. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously by voice vote. - Redevelopment Agency minutes approved. - Staff will return with a resolution on impracticability at the October 13 meeting. - The mayor and staff are working with America First Field to mitigate noise for future events. - Recreation center construction on track; power expected October 9. - Public comment period held before and after 6:00 PM; council listened but did not respond.

On October 1, 2026, the Sandy City Planning Commission met to discuss station area plan exemptions, an update on the adopted ADU ordinance, and three land use applications. Commissioners unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a detached garage, a one-lot subdivision, and a property consolidation and road dedication for a county trailhead. No consent calendar items were considered. Public Comments - Steve Van Marin (Draper resident, attending online) asked about the ownership and maintenance of the Badger Cove road and trailhead. Staff clarified that the property is currently owned by Sandy City, will be conveyed to Salt Lake County, and the county will maintain the road and snow removal. Discussion Items - Station Area Plan Exemptions: Staff presented a resolution to certify impracticability for two Draper rail stations (Kimballs Lane and Draper Town Center) whose half-mile radii barely extend into Sandy City. Combined, Sandy City’s portions total 110 acres with minimal development opportunities (a detention pond, a school, a park, and a steep hillside). The resolution will go to the city council for adoption and submission to WFRC by year-end per state code. Commissioners agreed with the staff recommendation. - ADU Ordinance Update: Staff reported that the city council adopted the ADU ordinance on September 15, 2026, with modifications: maximum height limited to 18 feet (story and a half), total floor area capped at 2,000 square feet, parking reduction near transit removed, and two internal ADUs allowed on lots 20,000 square feet or larger (only if no detached ADU). The council requested a review in one year. Staff is tracking inquiries and developing public information materials. Commissioners noted it is a starting point. Key Outcomes - Prescott Detached Garage Conditional Use Permit (10887 S Prescott Dr): Approved unanimously (7-0) based on three findings and six conditions. The 1,700 sq ft garage exceeds the 1,500 sq ft maximum by 195 sq ft (15%). - Nyat High One-Lot Subdivision (65 E 1100 S): Approved unanimously (7-0) based on two findings and four conditions. The applicant plans a single-family home; right-of-way dedication and sidewalk installation are required. - Badger Cove Subdivision (1650 E Badger Cove): Approved unanimously (7-0) based on three findings and three conditions. The city-owned parcels will be consolidated into one and conveyed to Salt Lake County, with a private road dedicated for access to the trailhead and a residence.

The Sandy City Council met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 5:15 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included informational presentations, unanimous approval of the consent calendar, a withdrawn voting item, public comment, standing reports, and a closed session. The meeting adjourned immediately after the closed session. Informational Items - Interview for CDBG Committee (Item 26-445): Council Member Brooke Christensen introduced Jan Wangsgard for appointment to the Sandy City Community Development Block Grant Committee. Ms. Wangsgard shared her background and answered council questions. Council members expressed support, but no vote was taken; the appointment will return for consideration at a future meeting. - Centennial Parkway Street Dedication (Item 26-453): City Attorney Lynn Pace explained that in 2021 the council vacated a portion of Centennial Parkway for a project that has since changed. To maintain the property as a public street, the council must re-dedicate it. A resolution will be brought for a vote at a subsequent meeting. Consent Calendar - A motion to approve the Consent Calendar passed unanimously by voice vote. The Consent Calendar included: - Approval of the September 1, 2026 draft minutes. - Approval of the September 15, 2026 draft minutes. - Resolution 26-88C: an Interlocal Agreement with Salt Lake County for a special bond election. Public Comments & Testimony Three members of the public spoke during the general citizen comment period, which opened at approximately 5:56 PM and concluded after 6:01 PM: - Carol John expressed concern about speeding vehicles on her street (9738 South). She stated that the police department told her there are only two speed boards in the city, both reserved for the next few months, and recommended the city acquire more speed trailers. - Steve Van Maren suggested that the council should require any property seeking a rezone to first correct existing code violations, stating it would reduce neighborhood impacts. - Henry Butters raised two issues: a question for Council Member Aaron Dekeyzer regarding alleged impairment during a prior council meeting, and a concern that the mayor may not be held accountable for having a dog off leash, contrasting with enforcement against other residents. Discussion Items - Withdrawn Voting Item (Item CA02132026-0007114): The applicant requested to withdraw amendments to Title 21 of the Land Development Code related to building height. Council Chair Houseman confirmed the withdrawal, and the item was not heard. - Standing Reports: - Dustin Fratto (Council Director) reminded members to respond to small group meeting options, asked about interest in a January budget priorities workshop, and noted the upcoming ULCT conference. - Council Member Cyndi Sharkey reported touring the Delta Center with Smith Entertainment Group, attending a Listening Tour where constituents raised traffic on 1300 East, affordable housing, flock cameras, and data centers, and celebrating BD Medical’s 70th anniversary in Sandy, presenting a plaque and conveying the council’s congratulations. - Council Member Brooke Christensen promoted the Sandy Arts Guild fall musical “Tuck Everlasting” (October 2–17). - Council Chair Marci Houseman reported that the Wasatch Front Waste and Recycling District board is exploring a bulk waste program modeled after Sandy’s, projecting a cost savings of $682,785 in 2026 by switching from dumpsters. - Council Member Alison Stroud thanked Public Works for rapid response to a resident’s concern about sidewalk and tree work. - Council Member Aaron Dekeyzer noted conservation efforts are going well at the Public Utilities Advisory Board and that a utility rate increase (including stormwater) is expected to be presented soon. - CAO Report: Martin Jensen thanked Mearle Marsh and the amphitheater team for a successful summer concert series (last concert October 8) and reported that the Recorder’s Office processed over 70 passport applications at Passport Palooza. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved unanimously. - Building height amendment withdrawn by the applicant; no action taken. - Closed session convened after public comment and standing reports. A motion to convene a closed session to discuss character, professional competence, or physical or mental health of an individual and to adjourn the council meeting immediately following passed by roll call vote (6-0; Council Member Aaron Dekeyzer was excused). The meeting adjourned after the closed session. - No other votes or decisions were taken; informational items and the re-dedication resolution will return at future meetings.

The Sandy City Council met on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 5:15 PM in the Council Chambers. Council Chair Marci Houseman presided. Six members were present (Brooke Christensen, Alison Stroud, Kris Nicholl, Marci Houseman, Cyndi Sharkey, Brooke D'Sousa); Aaron Dekeyzer was excused. The meeting included informational items, a public hearing and public meeting on a proposed $30 million general obligation bond for the Crescent View Middle School property, and standing reports. Key discussions covered the Fire Department's wildland mitigation grant, a proposal to move up the Police Department management study, and a request from the Mayor to reconsider a housing development. The meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - General Citizen Comment: Henry Butters alleged that Mayor Zoltanski lied to an animal control officer about an off-leash law and called for body cameras on animal control officers. Utah State Representative Tracy Miller thanked the Council and Administration for their service and offered assistance during the upcoming legislative session. - During the Bond Public Hearing (Item 5): Pat Jones spoke against the bond, arguing that the property acquisition was not an essential city necessity, that residents' resources are limited, and that only 1.35% of the population (1,229 responses) expressed feedback; she stated she would have supported taxes for essential services like public safety. Paul Godot spoke in support, stating that government should provide community benefits when the market does not and that the core question is what kind of community residents want. - During the Bond Public Meeting (Item 6): Paul Gadot argued that voting for the bond aligns with the Mayor's vision and that government provides services believed to benefit the community. Steve Van Maren appreciated the argument against the bond but expressed concern about its formatting and font, urging that voters decide. Discussion Items 1. Interlocal Agreement for Special Bond Election – Wendy Downs presented Resolution 26-88C to authorize the County to administer the 2026 Special Bond Election at a good faith cost of $14,448. This informational item will return for a vote. 2. Fire Department Deployment and Wildland Mitigation Update – Chief Ryan McConaghie reported on a three-year, $486,500 grant for mitigation projects including fuel breaks, defensible space, and evacuation signage. He summarized deployments to Oregon and Washington and noted that deployment reimbursements funded $150,000 of a $250,000 brush truck. The department is fully staffed due to prior council support and management study recommendations. Council expressed appreciation. 3. Metropolitan Water District Board Vacancy – Justin Sorenson formally notified the council; applications are due by October 30th, with interviews scheduled for November. 4. Proposal to Amend Management Studies Schedule – Council Member Houseman proposed moving the Police Department management study from the next year to December/January. Chief Jeff Nigbur supported an earlier study, citing the opportunity of new leadership to evaluate staffing, structure, fleet, policy, and facility needs. Council members discussed timing: some preferred to wait for the Think Architecture facilities assessment (due November) and allow the Chief more time, while others supported planning and identifying funding. Consensus emerged to set aside funding (possibly from carryover) and draft an RFP, with the study timeline contingent on the facilities assessment. Staff will bring funding recommendations. Bond Election Public Hearing and Public Meeting - Purpose (Items 5 and 6): The city held a public hearing on issuing up to $30 million in General Obligation Bonds for the potential purchase of the Crescent View Middle School property, and a public meeting to hear arguments for and against the ballot proposition. Administrative Services Director Brian Kelley stated that the estimated impact on the average home would be $5 per month (or $9.09 for commercial property) over up to 21 years, subject to market rates. - Arguments Read into Record (read by Executive Director Dustin Fratto): The Argument FOR the bond emphasized preserving 17 green acres, community control, and the success of past bond-funded amenities, and noted that two private developers offered the same $17 million purchase price. The Argument AGAINST cited appraisals of $8.5–$10 million versus the $17 million asking price, ongoing operating costs of at least $465,000 per year with no identified funding, duplication of existing facilities, and insufficient public outreach. Rebuttals were also read. - Following the readings, additional public comment was taken (see above). Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on informational items; the interlocal agreement will come back for council action. - The council generally supported planning and funding for a Police Department management study, with the launch date to be determined after the facilities assessment is delivered. - The public hearing and public meeting for the $30 million general obligation bond were completed; the bond proposition will appear on the ballot for voter decision. - Mayor Zoltanski asked the council to reconsider the rejection of the Canyon Gate development (86 townhomes) and negotiate with the developer. - The meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM. Council Member Business & Reports - Council Member Sharkey reported on the Heritage Festival, the Legislative Policy Committee (property tax caps, license plate readers, AI in plan reviews), and requested follow-up on allegations made by Mr. Butters. - Council Member Christensen shared positive resident feedback about city staff responsiveness. - Council Member Stroud updated the CDBG committee, praised the Heritage Festival and Police Banquet, and congratulated Detective Pomeroy as Officer of the Year. - Council Member D'Sousa also noted resident appreciation and thanked staff for the autism community event. - Chief Administrative Officer Jensen announced Passport Palooza on Friday and a Dolly Parton movie event. - Parks & Recreation Director Ben Hill updated Recreation Center construction progress, including exterior metal panels, sidewalk, outdoor pool renovations, tile work, and power scheduled for October 5th. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn.

The Sandy City Council met on September 15, 2026, at 5:15 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included special recognition awards, a joint informational session with the Planning Commission on the Land Development Code update, public comments, and voting on rezoning, general plan amendments, and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) code changes. The council voted to deny the Canyon Gate rezone and development agreement, and adopted ADU amendments with several modifications. A closed session was held for security discussions. Special Recognition - The Council presented the Sandy City Council Civic Engagement Award to Rebekah Cowdell and the Noal Bateman Lifetime Service Award to Steve Fairbanks for their contributions to the community. Informational Items - Blueprint for Progress, Land Development Code Update: Chris Hupp of Psomas presented a summary of the assessment and best practices report for the comprehensive update to the Sandy Land Development Code. Key goals include making the code easier to understand, improving planning, expanding housing choices, enhancing community design, and streamlining processes. The update aligns with the 2025 Pace of Progress General Plan. Next steps include drafting in stages, public review, and public hearings. Council and Planning Commission members asked questions about the relationship between the general plan and the code, and the need for better tools for transit-oriented development and missing middle housing. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from August 18 and August 25, 2026, by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Hagan Road Rezone (Item 5): Several residents spoke in opposition, citing concerns about lot size, noise, rats, and that the area is not farm country. Matthew Grant, the applicant, argued for equal zoning rights as neighboring properties. A written comment from Steve Van Maren was read opposing the change. - General Citizen Comment: Longo Tukitoa presented her nonprofit providing home health care to low-income seniors. Henry Butters criticized the mayor for not admitting a mistake. Grant Howarth urged the council to designate January 16 as Freedom of Religion Day. - ADU Amendments (Item 8): Julie Hepworth supported ADUs on smaller lots for multi-generational living. Emma Glendie, a city planner, asked for separate ADU size rules rather than using accessory structure tables. Adele Clark supported less restrictive ADU rules to house her disabled veteran son. Discussion Items - Hagan Road Rezone (Item 5): Council debated whether to rezone three parcels (1.79 acres) from R-1-20 to R-1-20A. Some members supported it as consistent with the neighborhood and property rights; others opposed it because a prior council deliberately removed the agricultural designation and it would change expectations for neighboring homeowners. The motion to adopt Ordinance 26-56 failed on a 3-3 tie. - Canyon Gate General Plan Amendment and Rezone (Items 6 & 7): The council considered a request to change the land use designation on 7.2 acres from Institutional to Medium Density Neighborhood and rezone from R-1-8 to PUD(12) for a townhome project (86 units) with a development agreement. The development agreement allowed up to 20% rentals (17 units) but no deed restrictions on future rentals by individual owners. Council members expressed concerns about rental percentages and the lack of deed restrictions. The motion to deny all three ordinances and resolution passed 4-2. - ADU Amendments (Item 8): The council considered amendments to Title 21 to allow detached ADUs per state law (effective October 1, 2026). Multiple amendments were voted on individually: - A motion to cap height at 15 feet failed (3-3). - A motion to set maximum height at 1.5 stories or 18 feet passed (4-2). - A motion to cap total gross square footage at 2,000 square feet passed (4-2). - A motion to eliminate parking reduction near transit passed (4-2). - A motion to allow two internal extended living areas (ELAs) if no external and lot ≥20,000 sq ft passed (6-0). - A motion to allow ADUs on 10,000 sq ft lots failed (3-3). - The final motion to adopt Ordinance 26-55 with all approved amendments passed (4-2). Key Outcomes - Hagan Road Rezone: Motion to adopt Ordinance 26-56 failed (3-3: Yes – Nicholl, Sharkey, Christensen; No – Stroud, Houseman, Dekeyzer; Excused – D'Sousa). The rezone is denied. - Canyon Gate Project: Motion to deny Ordinance 26-51 (GPA), Ordinance 26-52 (Rezone), and Resolution 26-84C (Development Agreement) passed (4-2: Yes – Stroud, Nicholl, Sharkey, Christensen; No – Houseman, Dekeyzer; Excused – D'Sousa). The project is denied. - ADU Ordinance 26-55: Adopted with amendments as described above (4-2: Yes – Stroud, Nicholl, Sharkey, Christensen; No – Houseman, Dekeyzer). The ordinance must be adopted prior to October 1, 2026. Council indicated openness to future adjustments. - Closed Session: Motion to convene closed session to discuss security systems passed (5-0). Meeting adjourned following the closed session at approximately 9:17 PM.

On Thursday, September 10, 2026, the Sandy City Board of Adjustment held a regular meeting at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers, preceded by a field trip and an executive session. The board heard a single public hearing item—a variance request for 10156 Majestic Canyon Road—approved it with modified conditions, and elected officers for the upcoming year. Four members were present (Burke Staker, Jim Edwards, Matt Hale, Josh Chandler); three were absent (Bruce Bryner, Brian Jones, Tyler Brown). Public Comments & Testimony - Sharon Orlando, 10165 S Majestic Canyon Road, stated that neighbors were not informed about the development and expressed opposition, citing safety concerns on the steep, unbuildable lot and potential road undermining. - Barbara Luiten, 10174 S Majestic Canyon Road, raised four questions: whether the buyer knew the lot was not buildable, whether the builder is coordinating with the city, whether the recently overhauled storm drain needs further work, and whether the wildlife corridor is being considered. - Daniel Rino, 10104 S Majestic Canyon Road, expressed concern that if the house slides down the hill, it would endanger his child’s yard. Discussion Items - Variance Request (BOA0804202) – Porter Rappleye, the applicant, requested variances to build a single-family home on a lot with slopes exceeding 30% (some areas 50% or steeper), a reduced front setback (5 ft to property line, 10 ft to sidewalk), and a driveway partially in the public right-of-way over a storm drain easement. The lot is a legal plat from 1978 in the R-1-10 zone with a sensitive area overlay. - Staff Presentation – Melissa Anderson, Zoning Administrator, recommended approval with nine conditions. Staff noted the lot lacks a 5,000 sq ft area with less than 30% slope, making development impossible without variances. A geotechnical report showed adequate stability with a factor of safety even under the house weight. The utility easement includes a 30-inch storm pipe requiring upsizing from a 15-inch corrugated metal pipe. Travis Ackerman, city engineer, confirmed the engineering conditions address slope stability and road temporary shoring during construction. - Board Deliberation – Members questioned slope safety, precedent (a prior variance on Wasatch for a 40-50% slope), and the responsibility of engineers (liable if designs fail). The driveway over the easement requires a retaining wall and upsized concrete pipe; the homeowner would replace driveway if utilities need access. Condition 6 originally limited the footprint to 1,885 sq ft, but the architectural plans show 1,932 sq ft (including garage, front porch, and rear balcony). The board agreed to modify the condition to 1,955 sq ft to allow the porch. The board also discussed the lack of a backyard (applicant cited proximity to ski resorts), wildlife corridor concerns (no prescribed corridor, but easement restricts fencing to black/brown/green chain link), and visual impacts (single-story home likely does not block views of neighbors). Key Outcomes - Variance Approval – A motion by Burke Staker, seconded by Matt Hale, to approve the variances based on the nine findings and nine conditions in the staff report, with a modification to Condition 6: the home’s total footprint (including garage, front porch, and rear balcony) shall be no larger than 1,955 square feet. The motion carried 4-0 (Staker, Edwards, Hale, Chandler voting yes; Bryner, Jones, Brown absent). - Election of Chair and Vice Chair – The board elected Brian Jones as Chair and Tyler Brown as Vice Chair for the upcoming year, both absent but voted in unanimously (4-0). - Adjournment – The meeting adjourned by unanimous vote.

The Sandy City Council met on September 1, 2026, beginning at 5:15 PM. The meeting included a special recognition, informational presentations on public utilities and fraud risk, discussion of a rezone application and code amendments for accessory dwelling units, approval of the consent calendar, a vote on an argument in favor of a general obligation bond for the former Crescent View Middle School property, selection of the 2026 Civic Engagement Award recipient, and a closed session. The meeting adjourned around 10:29 PM after the closed session. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously by voice vote: Resolution 26-89C to cancel the October 27, 2026 Council meeting; Resolution 26-86C authorizing an individual to manage PTIF accounts; and approval of the August 4, 2026 draft minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Henry Butters expressed concerns about an issue involving the Mayor and her use of county property. - Adele Clark opposed the proposed rezone of three parcels on Hagan Road from R-1-20 to R-1-20A, stating she does not want to live next to a farm and that the property should not receive agricultural rights. - A written comment from Steve Andrus was read into the record, expressing concerns with traffic noise and dangerous motorists near his property, stating that the issue has not been resolved by police. - During the voting item on the bond argument, a written comment from Jason Nicholl was read, encouraging the Council to reconsider the bonding for the purchase of Crescent View Middle School and questioning why the City was paying almost double the appraised value. He listed several reasons for opposition. Discussion Items - Special Recognition (Item 1): Barbara Tagoa’i, Sandy City Deputy Recorder, was recognized by the Utah Municipal Clerks Association for earning her Certified Municipal Clerk designation, which requires over 100 hours of education and years of experience. - Public Utilities Management Study (Item 2): Matrix Consulting Group presented the 2026 General Management and Operations Study of the Sandy City Public Utilities Department. The study reviewed three functional areas and included 57 recommendations. Key priorities included full adoption of Cityworks asset management software, updating policy manuals, completing a public-facing dashboard, adopting cost-of-service methodologies, and addressing project management capacity for the five-year capital improvement plan. Council members expressed appreciation for the study and staff. - Fraud Risk Assessment (Item 3): Brian Kelley, Administrative Services Director, presented the annual State Fraud Risk Assessment. Sandy City scored 355 out of 395 points, ranking as Low Risk, one point away from Very Low. Council noted that management studies commissioned by the Council could help further lower risk. - Hagan Road Rezone (Item 4): Jake Warner presented a rezone application for three parcels (1.79 acres) from R-1-20 to R-1-20A to allow farm animals. The Planning Commission forwarded a positive recommendation. Council members expressed varying views: Council Member D'Sousa opposed due to potential nuisance for neighbors; Council Member Christensen supported, viewing it as a value add. The applicant, Matthew Grant, spoke in favor, stating the request brings consistency with the neighborhood and provides education for his children. This was an informational item and will return for a decision on September 15. - Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Code Amendments (Item 5): Melissa Anderson presented proposed amendments to Title 21 of the Land Development Code to comply with SB 284, effective October 1, 2026. The state requires cities to allow detached ADUs on residential lots of 11,000 sq ft or larger. Staff recommended a maximum of one detached ADU per lot, with owner occupancy required, setback and height limitations, and parking requirements. The Planning Commission made several recommendations, including reducing the minimum lot size to 10,000 sq ft and allowing breezeway connections. Council members debated: some favored starting with state minimums and revisiting later (Stroud, Sharkey), others supported more flexibility (Houseman, Dekeyzer). Council provided feedback and staff will bring back a revised ordinance for a future meeting. - Standing Reports and Council Member Business: Council Member Sharkey updated on the Convention Facilities Advisory Board (discussion of expanding the expo center by 25,000 sq ft) and the Legislative Policy Commission (20% new legislators, topics include starter homes, data centers, AI, and small lots). Council Member Christensen expressed condolences to a family who lost a child in a tragic accident and thanked fire and police. Council Member D'Sousa requested an update on occupancy and vacancy in the Arbor Building. - Mayor's Report: Read by Susan Wood: The Mayor directed River Oaks Golf Club to remove all Callaway merchandise after a company advertising campaign that used violence against women as a hook. The city seeks a refund and hopes for accountability and meaningful change from Callaway. - CAO Report: Martin Jensen confirmed all Callaway merchandise was removed and thanked Council for attending Chief Nigbur's swearing-in. He also thanked staff for response to recent monsoon flooding. - Recreation Center Construction Report: Ben Hill provided an update with photos showing brick, windows, insulation, and tile installation. He invited Council to tour the site. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously by voice vote. - Resolution 26-90C – Argument in Favor of GO Bond for Crescent View Middle School: After extensive discussion and line-by-line edits, the Council voted 6-1 to approve the resolution (with Council Member Sharkey voting no). The argument in favor will be submitted to the city elections official, who will select between two submitted arguments. Council directed staff to provide recommended changes to the Voter Information Pamphlet, including adding a sentence about ongoing operation and maintenance costs, and other minor edits. - Resolution 26-85C – 2026 Civic Engagement Award: The Council selected Rebekah Cowdell as the recipient. The resolution passed 6-0 (Council Member Dekeyzer excused). - Closed Session (Item 11): The Council voted 6-0 to convene a closed session at 10:29 PM to discuss the purchase, exchange, or lease of real property or the character/professional competency of an individual. The meeting adjourned immediately following the closed session.