Public Meetings - Sandy, Utah

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The Sandy City Council held a budget priorities workshop on January 27, 2026, to review and update the council's budget priorities for the upcoming FY2027 budget. The workshop included a SWOT analysis, prioritization exercise, and discussion on key areas of focus. The council also received a legislative update and heard public comment on a recent traffic safety improvement. Public Comments & Testimony - Josh Karr, representing his community near Alta High School, thanked the Mayor, Council, and Administration for their responsiveness in installing flashing stop signs at the intersection of 110 S 10 E. He reported that a petition for safety reform had gained over 1,100 signatures (700 initially, then 400 more) and expressed appreciation for the partnership between the community and the city. He noted the intersection is now safer. Discussion Items - Budget Priorities Workshop: The council, facilitated by Matt Dixon (City Manager of South Ogden), reviewed the five budget priorities established in the previous year: Economic Development, Employee Satisfaction, Community Safety, Quality of Life, and Fiscal Health. The council conducted a SWOT analysis, identifying strengths (safe community, stakeholder relationships, outdoor recreation, strong governance), weaknesses (communication and trust issues, shared vision, aging staff), threats (state mandates, revenue loss, natural disasters, competition), and opportunities (succession planning, building trust, effective teamwork, promoting the city). - Administration Budget Preview: Shane Pace, CAO, presented the administration's priorities, noting that FY2027 will be a "hard budget." Public safety is the top priority, followed by employee compensation to retain experienced staff (over 58 employees have reached 30 years of service). He highlighted the need to complete Phase III of Public Works capital projects, prepare for the opening of the new recreation center, and noted that all departments have been asked to prepare budgets with 2% to 4% cuts. No tax increase is planned. - Prioritization and Weighting: After discussion, the council agreed on five broad priorities for the upcoming budget cycle: Economic Development, Community Safety, Quality of Life, Infrastructure, and Fiscal Health. Employee satisfaction was folded into Fiscal Health. The council conducted a dot-voting exercise to assign weights: Community Safety (33%), Fiscal Health (20%), and Economic Development, Quality of Life, and Infrastructure each at approximately 16%. Staff will draft narrative descriptions for each priority and bring them back for formal adoption. - Legislative Report: Ryan Mecham, Senior Policy Advisor, provided an update on state legislative issues. Key topics included increasing housing stock (with emphasis on "starter lots" and concern over state preemption of land use), property tax reform (multiple bills capping increases or altering notification timelines), and urban-wildland interface bills regarding vegetation removal for fire safety. The city is monitoring these bills. Key Outcomes - The council updated its budget priorities for FY2027, adding Infrastructure as a new priority and folding Employee Satisfaction into Fiscal Health. - The council assigned preliminary weights to the five priorities: Community Safety (33%), Fiscal Health (20%), and the remaining three at about 16% each. - Staff will compile a draft of the updated priorities with narrative descriptions for the council's formal adoption at a future meeting. - The council heard public testimony thanking the city for swift action on traffic safety at the Alta High School intersection. - The meeting adjourned at 8:26 PM.

The Sandy City Council met on January 20, 2026, at 5:15 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered a range of topics including an annual update on the Medically Vulnerable People (MVP) Facility, a 2025 community events recap, first readings on campaign finance disclosure and elected official compensation, a public hearing on a proposed annexation, and voting items on an Automall zone code amendment, a sales tax revenue bond for the Arbor Building purchase, and interlocal agreements for an affordable housing land sale and a Housing Transit and Reinvestment Zone (HTRZ). The council also heard public comments on a recent fatal traffic accident and discussed safety improvements at the intersection of 1100 South and 1000 East. Public Comments & Testimony - Josh Karr (neighbor near Alta High School): Representing the community, he spoke about the tragic accident at 110th South and 10th East and urged the Council and Mayor to expedite safety enhancements at that intersection. He provided a petition signed by nearly 700 residents requesting immediate improvements. - Carl Lujan: Read the oath of office and discussed the pledge and fidelity of service by elected officials. - Kellie Forbes (virtual comment): Expressed disappointment regarding Item 4 (compensation limitations for elected officials) and stated she does not want the Mayor's salary or car allowance reduced. - Jude Engracia (email read into record): Expressed support for Council Member Dekeyzer's proposals on campaign finance disclosures and contribution limits. - Heather Oakeson (virtual comment): Stated she was not informed that her property was included in the Summerhays Annexation and requested the item be tabled until a title issue among property owners is resolved. She said she is not opposed to annexing but wants time to understand the impact on her property. Discussion Items - Medically Vulnerable People (MVP) Facility Annual Update (Item 26-017): Lauri Hopkins, Executive Director of Shelter the Homeless, presented the 2025 Year in Review. Key statistics: 464 individuals served (20% increase from 2024, average age 62), 57 moved to permanent housing or long-term care (double 2024), 266 volunteers serving 678 hours. Trina Taylor, Outreach Director for Fourth Street Clinic, reviewed 2025 successes and requested an amendment to the MOU to allow enhanced on-site services two days per week (instead of one day via mobile clinic). Council requested biannual updates going forward. - 2025 Community Events Recap and 2026 Preview (Item 26-019): Katie Atkinson, Community Affairs Director, reported 60 events in 2025 with an estimated 103,000 attendees, 400+ vendors, and 700+ volunteers. Sarah Dalling, new Event Manager, previewed 2026 events under the theme "Sandy Rising," including America 250 and Utah 250 commemorations and the 25th anniversary of the Healing Fields. Council discussed the Trunk or Treat event being dropped last year due to budget constraints; some council members expressed a desire for earlier input on such decisions. - First Reading: Campaign Finance Disclosure and Contribution Limits (Item 26-018): Council Member Aaron Dekeyzer proposed additions to Chapter 2-1 of the Sandy Municipal Code to require disclosure of independent expenditures and set campaign contribution limits. Council discussion revealed mixed positions: some members supported or were open to the disclosure requirement but had legal and policy concerns about contribution limits, arguing they could reduce transparency, create barriers to running for office, and disproportionately benefit self-funded candidates. Staff (Tracy Cowdell, Council Attorney) noted that while contribution limits are legal, the council must make findings about the influence of money to justify them. No vote was taken. - First Reading: Compensation Limitations for Elected Officials (Item 26-016): Council Member Kris Nicholl proposed adding a section to Chapter 4-5 of the Municipal Code stating elected officials would not be eligible for merit pay, incentive pay, spot awards, vehicle allowances, phone allowances, tuition reimbursements, and PTO. They would remain eligible for salary (set by council), COLA adjustments, and standard health/retirement benefits. Council discussion included debate over the mayor's car allowance and cell phone; some members argued these tools are necessary for the full-time mayoral role. Mayor Zoltanski stated the position is full-time (70 hours/week) and that the allowance is more cost-effective than a city-provided vehicle. No vote was taken. - Traffic Safety at 1100 South and 1000 East (Mayor's Report): Mayor Zoltanski announced the city is dedicating full resources to evaluate safety at the intersection where a pedestrian was killed by an impaired driver on January 15. Police Chief Jon Arnold reported the driver was booked for DUI, later amended to vehicular homicide. Public Works Director Ryan Kump stated the intersection has an accident rate of 0.76 crashes per million vehicles and that a roundabout is currently funded for 2030, but the city will immediately engage WFRC to accelerate funding for either a roundabout or a traffic signal. Council member Houseman requested to be on a working group for this issue. - Arbor Building Purchase and Bond Parameters (Item 26-020): Brian Kelley, Administrative Services Director, presented Resolution 26-05C to authorize up to $8 million in sales tax revenue bonds to finance the purchase of the Arbor Building ($12 million purchase price, with $5 million from the RDA). The city has a contract with a due diligence deadline of February 19, 2026, and a closing date of March 2, 2026. Council discussion included amending the bond parameters to increase the project area to include Council Chambers capital improvements. The maximum principal amount was amended to $9 million. Key Outcomes - Table Summerhays Annexation (Item ANX1118202): Council voted 7-0 to table the proposed annexation of 2935 E. Dimple Dell Road after a title dispute among property owners was raised. The council urged the parties to resolve the issue and return quickly. - Adopt Automall Zone Land Use Amendments (Item CA09232025-0007044): Council voted 7-0 to adopt Ordinance 26-01, amending Title 21, Chapter 8 of the Land Development Code to revise the list of allowed uses in the Automall Zone. - Adopt Bond Parameters Resolution 26-05C (Item 26-020): Council voted 6-1 (Sharkey opposed) to adopt Resolution 26-05C as amended, authorizing up to $9 million in sales tax revenue bonds for the Arbor Building purchase and Council Chambers improvements. The final vote was 6-1, with Council member Cyndi Sharkey voting no. - Adopt Interlocal Agreement for Land Sale Near America First Field (Item 26-012): Council voted 7-0 to adopt Resolution 26-03C, approving the interlocal agreement for the sale of approximately one acre of city-owned land to the RDA for an affordable housing project. - Adopt Interlocal Agreement for HTRZ Tax Increment Conveyance (Item 26-013): Council voted 7-0 to adopt Resolution 26-04C, approving the interlocal agreement for conveyance of tax increment to the RDA consistent with the HTRZ Act. - RDA Meeting: Council recessed to convene as the RDA and voted 7-0 to adopt RD 26-01 (land sale interlocal) and RD 26-02 (HTRZ interlocal). - Consent Calendar: The minutes note that the consent calendar was not separately listed; however, routine approvals and reports were handled without objection. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 10:16 PM.

The Sandy City Planning Commission convened on January 15, 2026, to consider two major items: the Summerhays annexation of approximately 5.77 acres and site plan review for a new headquarters building for Architectural Components. The commission also discussed committee assignments and administrative updates.

The Sandy City Council convened on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, for a meeting featuring updates from the Wasatch Front Waste and Recycling District, public comments on housing and tax referendums, a detailed presentation on office space needs and the Arbor Plaza acquisition, and a vote to appoint a new Parks and Recreation Director. The meeting concluded with an RDA session regarding an interlocal agreement for affordable housing and various administrative reports. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the August 5, 2025, and November 18, 2025, RDA meetings. - Approved the consent calendar items without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - Erin Dixon (Resident): Expressed full support for dense development and increased housing supply in Sandy, specifically advocating for the overturned development on Sega Lilly and 13th. She argued that growth is inevitable and that more housing is a necessity for working families. - Rebecca Collie (Tax Referendum Volunteer): Expressed strong opposition to the Sandy City government's denial of a reasonable accommodation request for a paraplegic to gather signatures for a county tax referendum. She characterized the city's action as an obstacle put up to discourage citizens from informed consent regarding a near 15% property tax increase. - Mr. Butters (Resident/Truck Driver): Expressed concern regarding parking enforcement for semi-truck drivers on side roads, requesting a 48-hour grace period. He also voiced concern regarding the prohibition of camper parking on side roads for individuals experiencing homelessness and expressed frustration over the lack of a scheduled appointment with the Mayor. - Charlotte Jordan (Sister City Director): Provided an update on the RESA Sister City program, announcing that a conductor and principal trombone player from the Risa Symphony will visit Sandy in late June. She requested that the city council support rescheduling the Pops concert date to accommodate these visiting musicians. - Doug Wismer (Resident): Expressed support for increased housing density, aligning with Erin Dixon's comments. He voiced opposition to protectionism and disinformation regarding the gondola project, specifically disputing claims of a $1,200 line item bill for taxes. He expressed concern that Sandy's ongoing legal status with the gondola might negatively impact UDOT's decision to discontinue bus service to the Big Cottonwood Canyon base. Discussion Items Wasatch Front Waste and Recycling District Update - Evan Tyrrell (Executive Director) presented a robust report on district operations, highlighting a district-wide waste diversion rate of 18.8% with the Sandy service area performing above average at 19%. - Marcy Houseman (Councilmember): Expressed strong approval for the district's strategic emphasis on efficiency and the intentional reallocation of human resources. - Chris Nickel (Councilmember): Asked about new measures regarding recycling contamination. Evan Tyrrell explained that while the district is currently using "oops" tags for education, they are preparing to implement a recycling contamination fee and the potential removal of containers for repeat offenders in 2026. He stated this approach is designed to influence behavior without the immediate high cost of physically removing and returning containers, which can cost upwards of $70 each. - Cost Recovery Initiatives: The district outlined new 2026 fee structures, including a $25 late set-out return pickup fee, potential fines for repeat contamination offenders, and incentives for ACH payments to reduce credit card transaction fees. Office Space Needs: Arbor Plaza Proposal - Dan Nelson & Brian (City Staff) presented a analysis of the city's 41,000 square foot office space deficit, comparing four alternatives: a Post Office building, Crescent View Middle School, Justice Building expansion, and the Arbor Plaza Office Building. - Financial Analysis: Staff presented scenarios showing that purchasing the Arbor Plaza for $12 million would be self-financing through existing and future tenant leases over a 20-year bond term, avoiding immediate impacts to the General Fund. - Flexibility vs. Occupancy: Council debated the trade-off between the Arbor Plaza's flexibility and the reality that the city would only be able to occupy approximately 34% to 40% of the building in the short-to-medium term while debt is serviced. - Brooke D'Souza (Councilmember): Expressed significant concern that placing the Police Department in a building with mixed office tenants could negatively impact the ability to lease space or renew leases with other tenants, potentially jeopardizing the financial model. She sought assurance regarding departmental placement strategies. - Consensus Strategy: The Council agreed that the Arbor Plaza offers the greatest flexibility compared to the other options. Council decided to move forward with a bond parameters resolution to allow staff to proceed with financing, while retaining the ability to cancel the process up to the due diligence deadline (February 19) or closing date (March 2) if terms are not satisfactory. Parks and Recreation Director Appointment - Ben Hill was introduced as the candidate for the Parks and Recreation Director position. - General Sentiment: Various speakers, including Alison Stroud, expressed high praise for the Parks and Recreation Department, stating they are "unsung heroes" who are essential to the community's quality of life and deserve more recognition. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed: The Council voted 7-0 to adopt Resolution 26-02C, giving advice and consent to the appointment of Ben Hill as the new Sandy City Parks and Recreation Director. - Budget/Space Action: The Council voted in favor of a parameters resolution for the Arbor Plaza building to initiate bond financing. This allows the city to move forward with the acquisition while retaining the right to terminate the process before the due diligence period ends on February 19. The Council acknowledged the risk of limited immediate occupancy but prioritized the flexibility and financial structure of the deal. - RDA Meeting: The Council recessed to convene an RDA meeting. During this session, the RDA discussed an interlocal agreement to sell a 1.1-acre parcel adjacent to America First Field to the RDA for $20.37 per square foot (approx. $978,000). The intent is for the RDA to subsequently develop this property into an affordable housing project (specifically a proposal for 18 town homes by the Gardner Group/Boyer Group), though the RDA retains the flexibility to adjust the sale price to make the development viable. - RDA Approval: The RDA voted to approve the minutes from their August and November meetings. - Administrative Updates: City staff noted upcoming legislative sessions, local officials day, and a public safety fair for the Historic Sandy community on January 22, 2026. Mayor Zeltanski highlighted the UDOT announcement for enhanced canyon bus service and praised the police department's community policing efforts.

This transcript records the 2026 Oath of Office Ceremony held by the Sandy City Council, featuring three re-elected council members: Brooke Christensen, Chris Nickel, and Brooke D'Souza. The event included introductory remarks by City Council Clerk Cindy Sharkey, a prayer by a pastor, the presentation of colors by the Sandy City Fire Department, and the national anthem performed by Kate Barnes of the Jordan High School Madrigals. Following the ceremonial opening, each member-elect delivered remarks on their philosophy for the term before taking the oath administered by Judge Farr. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items or routine approvals are recorded in this transcript; the session was dedicated entirely to ceremonial functions. Public Comments & Testimony - Pastor: Offered a prayer expressing hope that the city continues to grow and prosper, stating, "Lord, we just pray that this would uh continue to be a city that grows and that prospers." - Cindy Sharkey (Clerk): Welcomed the three members back, emphasizing the gravity of the oath as "promises to be kept" and noting the council's legislative and budgetary authority. - Kate Barnes (Jordan High School Madrigals): Performed the national anthem, receiving praise from the chair for her performance ("Kate, you killed it"). Discussion Items - Brooke Christensen (District One): Shared her philosophy of focusing on "small and simple things" to achieve progress. She explicitly listed six commitments: (1) listening to understand, (2) being available, (3) considering all perspectives including residents and employees, (4) treating everyone with respect regardless of differences, (5) working hard, and (6) being kind even during difficult conversations. She expressed commitment to serve alongside Mayor Zoltanski and existing council members. - Chris Nickel (District Three): Expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him, attributing his support system to his family (including his firefighter husband, parents-in-law, and friends). He emphasized his commitment to "careful stewardship and problem solving," "open communication," "safe neighborhoods," and serving with "humility and integrity," vowing to keep listening and being accessible. - Brooke D'Souza (At-Large): Stated her focus on making "informed decisions," "weighing impacts," and "exercising fiscal stewardship" with a "long view in mind." She expressed humility and gratitude for the voters' trust, emphasizing the importance of working with city staff and council colleagues. She noted the potential impact of having experienced members continue for the next two years until the next election. Key Outcomes - Swearing In: Brooke Christensen, Chris Nickel, and Brooke D'Souza were formally sworn in as the District One, District Three, and At-Large City Council members, respectively, by reciting the oath to support the U.S. Constitution, the Utah State Constitution, and Sandy City laws. - Confirmation of Identity: The transcript notes a minor discrepancy where speakers and the judge occasionally mispronounce the name "Brooke D'Souza" (heard as "Brooke DeSUSA" or "I broke a SUSA"), though the intent to swear in Brooke D'Souza is clear. - Next Steps: The Council members were officially invited to the subsequent City Council meeting scheduled for the following evening (January 7, 2026) at 5:15 PM for their first official session in their new terms. - Logistics: Refreshments were offered in the multi-purpose room, and photo opportunities with Judge Farr and the new members were facilitated.

The Sandy City Council convened on January 6, 2026, for its first meeting of the year, welcoming new council members and conducting organizational elections. The meeting featured a standing report on the Recreation Center construction, an interview and recommendation for the new Parks and Recreation Director, mandatory training, and the assignment of committee liaisons. Public comment addressed concerns regarding budget voting alignment and signature gathering obstacles. The meeting concludes with a transition to a closed session for real property and personnel discussions. Consent Calendar - None. Routine items such as the election of chair/vice chair and director appointment were handled as specific discussion items or separate agenda items rather than routine consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Rebecca Collie (Citizen): Expressed strong support for constituents over lobbyists, special interest groups, and the mayor. She voiced opposition to council members voting in "lockstep" with the mayor's budget against public opinion, characterizing it as potential loyalty to a donor rather than representation. She further opposed the city attorney's decision to deny the right to gather petition signatures in the city hall atrium for a tax referendum, arguing that such a denial constitutes choosing a side against citizens. She supported alternatives such as eliminating duplicate programs and reducing administrative overhead instead of raising taxes. Discussion Items Election of Chair and Vice Chair - The council conducted a ballot election per policy for the 2026 term. - Outcome: Council member Sharkey was elected Chair; Council member Stroud was elected Vice Chair. A motion to accept the results passed by voice vote. Standing Report: Recreation Center Construction - City Administrator Shane Pay provided a status update. Construction of footings and foundations is 75-80% and 20-30% complete, respectively. - Project Status: Rocky Mountain Power has removed the old transformer from the building footprint, allowing construction to resume. Pouring is scheduled for Wednesday and Friday. - Note: A council member added that concrete was poured on Christmas Eve due to weather conditions. Appointment: Parks and Recreation Director (Ben Hill) - Mayor Monica Sultansky recommended Ben Hill, citing his 20 years of experience, master's degree, and CPRE certification, noting his previous success in opening new centers. - Ben Hill (Candidate): - Expressed support for Sandy's maintenance standards and a desire to mentor staff. - Positions on Trail Connectivity: Expressed a strong commitment to urban trail connectivity, referencing his advisory role in Cottonwood Heights and a passion for creating safe walk-sheds connecting community facilities. - Management Style: Stated a commitment to serving as a "sponge" to learn from existing staff before making changes, valuing collaboration and open communication. - Golf Course Management: Acknowledged gaps in direct supervision of golf courses and cemeteries but expressed willingness to learn and rely on existing professionals. - Water Conservation: Expressed support for water-wise landscaping (xeriscaping) but opposed the idea of removing all turf, arguing that grass parks are essential for community gathering and mental health, suggesting a balanced approach using native plants for non-functional areas. - Council Member Housman: Expressed support for connectivity and inquiry into grant access; stated a strong commitment to trail connectivity as a priority. - Councilmember Nickel: Inquired about management style; stated support for hiring an external candidate with a collaborative approach. - Councilmember Stroud: Highlighted the candidate's resume as highly qualified; asked about first steps and expressed support for the candidate's vision of being known for energy and passion like a previous director. - Councilmember Sharkey: Inquired about the reporting structure separation between the city and the special district; asked what aspects of the job description were new or unfamiliar. - Councilmember DeKeiser: Requested information on continuing education requirements for certifications; asked about relationships with state entities for grants; stated a commitment to expanding tree shed and support for the candidate's vision. - Councilmember Sharkey (Follow-up): Questioned the challenge of transitioning from a separate service area to a city department. Committee Liaisons Appointment (Item 4) - The council held an open dialogue to fill liaisons for external and internal committees for 2026. - External Committees Decisions: - Association of Municipal Councils: Councilmember Houseman confirmed support to continue; Councilmember DeKeiser will serve as alternate. - South Valley Chamber: Councilmember Christensen and Councilmember Housman (alternate) appointed. - COG (Council of Governments): Councilmember D'Souza (primary) and Councilmember Stroud (alternate) appointed; Councilmember Nickel expressed interest but was not selected for the primary slot due to schedule constraints. - Jordan River Commission: Councilmember DeKeiser appointed (primary) after Councilmember Stroud (who has scheduling conflicts with children's activities) expressed inability to commit despite interest in the committee's work. - Convention Facilities Advisory Board: Councilmember Sharkey appointed (primary) and noted the long-term commitment required. - Waste and Recycling District: Councilmember Housman appointed. - SLC Public Utilities Advisory Board (PUAB): Councilmember DeKeiser appointed (primary) and Councilmember Christensen appointed (alternate) after Councilmember D'Souza declined due to school schedule. - Healthy Sandy: Councilmember Stroud appointed. - Internal Committees Decisions: - LPC (Legislative Policy Committee): Heated discussion occurred. Councilmember Housman expressed strong support for retaining Councilmember Sharkey due to her detailed reporting and district representation. Councilmember DeKeiser expressed opposition to Sharkey remaining and advocated for himself, citing his attendance and relationship building, though Housman argued his representation felt lacking to her district. Ultimately, Councilmember Sharkey was elected primary, and Councilmember Nickel was elected to the second position by roll call vote. - Alta Canyon Advisory Committee: Councilmember Sharkey offered to step down to allow re-invigoration of the committee given construction needs. Councilmember Housman appointed to re-energize the group. - Youth Council: Councilmember Stroud appointed (primary); Councilmember D'Souza appointed (alternate). - Sandy Service Ambassadors: Councilmember Nickel appointed (primary) after admitting scheduling conflicts; Councilmember Christensen appointed (alternate). - Survey Approval Team: Councilmember DeKeiser appointed (alternates/roles clarified per city code). Open and Public Meetings Act (OPMA) Training - The council viewed a video covering state requirements for open meetings, closed session protocols, notice requirements, and minute/recordkeeping standards to fulfill annual training mandates. Mayor's Report & Legislative Session Prep - Mayor Sultansky: - Announced a survey of 859 residents (382 responses) regarding legislative priorities. - Reported that 82% of respondents support city government making zoning/tax decisions. - Reported that 55% support matching housing costs to income ranges. - Reported top priorities: Local land use authority (66%), opposing fees for past capital water projects (64%), and transportation in Little Cottonwood Canyon (56%). - Announced a prioritized budget workshop scheduled for January 27th with an external consultant to review past priorities. Standing Reports - Executive Director (Dustin Pratt): Noted the need for a new council photo and updates on the Wasatch Front Waste and Recycling District GM introduction. - Councilmember Housman: Proposed a "One Word" initiative to guide the council in 2026. - Councilmember Christensen: Echoed appreciation for the swearing-in event. - Councilmember DeKeiser: Requested a recap of the previous housing workshop, specifically regarding ADUs, expressing a desire for Sandy to lead housing initiatives rather than waiting on state legislation. Key Outcomes - Elected Chair and Vice Chair: Council member Sharkey (Chair) and Council member Stroud (Vice Chair) by voice vote. - Director Appointment: Council advised and consented to the appointment of Ben Hill as Sandy City Parks and Recreation Director in a future meeting following the interview. - Committee Assignments: Resolution 26-01C adopted by roll call vote (7-0), assigning liaisons to various committees. Specific contentious assignments (LPC) were resolved via roll call vote. - Closed Session: Motion to hold a closed session to discuss the purchase/exchange of real property and the character/competence of an individual passed (7-0). Attendees will include Dan Nelson, Casey Dunlavey, Martin Jensen, Brian Kelly, and City Attorney Lynn Pace. - Budget Workshop: Scheduled for January 27, 2026, to conduct a recap of priorities and plan for 2026.

The Sandy City Council, led by Acting Chair Cindy Sharkey, convened on January 5, 2026, for a formal Oath of Office ceremony welcoming three returning council members. The event included an invocation by Pastor Derek Philly of Sandy Ridge Church, the presentation of colors by the Sandy City Fire Department, and a rendition of the national anthem by Kate Barnes of the Jordan High School Madrigals. Following remarks from the inductees, Judge Farr administered the oath to confirm their positions for the upcoming term. Consent Calendar - No routine administrative business or consent calendar items were discussed or voted upon during this ceremonial proceeding. Public Comments & Testimony - Brooke Christensen (District One): Expressed a commitment to listening to understand rather than to respond, being accessible, considering all perspectives, treating everyone with respect regardless of differences, working hard, and showing kindness. She emphasized her dedication to serving all residents of District One. - Chris Nickel (District Three): Expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him by the voters and his family. Reaffirmed a commitment to careful stewardship, problem-solving, open communication, and maintaining safe neighborhoods. He explicitly promised to continue listening, be accessible, and serve with humility and integrity. - Brooke D'Souza (Citywide): Expressed humility and gratitude for the continued trust of the voters. Stated a focus on making informed decisions, weighing impacts, exercising fiscal stewardship, and governing with a long-term perspective. She acknowledged the importance of working collaboratively with city staff, council colleagues, and the community. Discussion Items - Welcome and Transition Remarks: Council members and the public acknowledged the transition back to office. Acting Chair Sharkey emphasized the unique form of government in Sandy where legislative and budgetary authority lies with the Council. - Remarks on Governance: The three returning members shared their guiding principles for the new term, focusing on community service, accessibility, fiscal responsibility, and collaborative governance. - Logistical Updates: The Chair announced the start of the subsequent city council work session scheduled for the following day at 5:15 PM. Key Outcomes - Administration of Oaths: Three council members successfully took the Oath of Office before Judge Farr: 1. Brooke Christensen re-confirmed as District One City Council Member. 2. Chris Nickel re-confirmed as District Three City Council Member. 3. Brooke D'Souza re-confirmed as At-Large (Citywide) City Council Member. - Future Scheduling: The Council officially invited all attendees to the next work session the following evening, followed by refreshments in the multi-purpose room.

The Sandy City Council convened on December 17, 2025, for a holiday meeting marked by the conclusion of the calendar year and the formal farewell to outgoing Councilmembers Zach Meekham and Ryan Robinson. The session featured public gratitude, updates on major city construction projects, personnel changes, and emotional speeches of appreciation from the Mayor, incoming members, and the outgoing councilmembers themselves. The meeting concluded with the presentation of Sandy street signs to the departing members and a motion to adjourn. Consent Calendar - The Consent Calendar was adopted unanimously via a motion with a second, resulting in a voice vote where no members opposed (Aye: [Unanimous]). Public Comments & Testimony - Scott Earl (Resident of Grand Peak Drive): Expressed overwhelming gratitude to the City Council, Mayor, and staff for their hard work and achievements, specifically citing the new Fire Station, Public Works facility, and the Recreation Center (funded without a tax increase) as major accomplishments. He stated he views the new recreation center as the final piece that completes the Parks and Rec vision. - Henry Butters: Expressed frustration regarding an interaction with the Mayor. He stated, "You don't come barking at me and telling me I can't say how I feel," emphasizing that he wants the right to criticize council members without being ordered otherwise. While expressing gratitude for the Mayor's willingness to talk and resolve issues, his position was a firm refusal to accept restrictions on his ability to speak his mind. He affirmed, "I'll be on your side if you work with you." Discussion Items - Recreation Center Update: Councilmember Jeddah reported that the building permit was obtained, a major concrete pour of footings (approx. 15 trucks) was completed the previous Friday, and formwork for foundation walls is underway. He noted he hopes the weather holds to allow more concrete pouring. - Year-End Reports: Councilmember Dustin noted this was the final meeting of the year, with the next meeting scheduled for January 6. He expressed appreciation for Councilmembers Meekham and Robinson. - Sandy Ambassadors: Councilmember Robinson shared feedback from the Sandy Ambassadors group, noting a desire to bridge a disconnect between the group and the Council. He recommended the incoming appointee take a more active role in facilitating communication. - Community Partnership: Councilmember Robinson highlighted "Soap to Hope," a 501(c)(3) non-profit supporting victims of homelessness and sex trafficking, encouraging council and public support and noting they collect data now required by the state. - Youth Council: Councilmember Allison reported on the Youth Council's final meeting of the year, highlighting their preparation to meet legislators in January and presenting 25-30 students. - Historic Committee & Legislative Breakfast: Councilmember Allison noted the Historic Committee's ongoing work on structure tiers and praised the Legislative Breakfast for fostering direct one-on-one contact with representatives. - Housing Workshop: Councilmember Aaron thanked the planning group for the final housing workshop completed in July, expressing anticipation for council action in the new year. - Police Department: Councilmember Aaron praised police safety messaging and shared his positive experience attending a "Coffee with a Cop" meeting with outgoing Chief Greg Severson and looking forward to working with Interim Chief Arnold. - Public Works: Councilmember Cindy praised the Public Works Department for their continued work (tree trimming, ceiling cracks) despite the lack of snow. - Mayor's Report: Mayor Zoltanski announced a Menorah lighting event in Draper, the retirement of the Health Center Theater debt 10 years ahead of schedule, and a new organizational role in the Mayor's office for Katie Atkinson. He also announced a retirement celebration for Parks Director Dan Medina. - Outgoing Member Tributes: Mayor Zoltanski and Councilmembers delivered farewell remarks honoring Zach Meekham and Ryan Robinson for their service, highlighting accomplishments like the Fire Station, Public Works facility, and Alta Canyon project. Zach Meekham expressed gratitude for the eight years of service, acknowledging the difficulty of the work and the support of staff and colleagues. Ryan Robinson thanked the community for their trust, emphasized the importance of compromise in governance (using a Czech Republic historical anecdote), and expressed deep gratitude for the team's unity. - Street Sign Presentation: The Council presented custom Sandy street signs to Councilmembers Meekham and Robinson as a token of appreciation for their long-standing service, with a plan for a group photo in the overflow room. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Adoption: The consent calendar was adopted unanimously. - Personnel Change: Katie Atkinson was confirmed to transition to a new position as Community Affairs Director in the Mayor's office, creating a vacancy for the Community Events Director role. - Upcoming Events: A legislative survey will be sent to the community to gather input for representatives due to scheduling conflicts preventing a traditional pre-legislative breakfast. The debt retirement for the Health Center Theater was officially finalized with a transfer scheduled for December 17 at 2:00 PM. - Honors: Councilmembers Zach Meekham and Ryan Robinson were formally honored with Sandy street signs for their service. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned upon a motion and second, with no opposition.