Public Meetings - Syracuse, Utah

The Syracuse Planning Commission held a regular meeting on August 4, 2026, to consider a zoning amendment request, conduct a public hearing, and discuss upcoming agenda items. The meeting included a public hearing on a proposal to rezone 0.684 acres from R2 to A1, followed by a work session. Consent Calendar - Meeting agenda adopted as posted by unanimous vote. - Regular meeting minutes from July 24, 2026, adopted by unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Deborah Wood (2938 South 1550 West) expressed no problem with the rezoning. - Michael Shampton (applicant, 2961 South 1550 West) stated he currently has nine pygmy goats and plans to keep only goats. - Letters read into record: - Michael Wolsey wrote in support, noting the goats are not a nuisance and provide emotional support. - Todd and Sarah Lunscog wrote in support, citing emotional support and assistance maintaining the retention pond. - No public comments on non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Staff presented the rezoning request for 0.684 acres at 2961 South 1550 West from R2 to A1. The property has 47 animal points under A1 zoning, allowing farm animals. The current owner has pygmy goats, which are not permitted under R2. The property is adjacent to other A1-zoned land and includes a detention basin. - Commissioners discussed the animal point system, the presence of goats in other neighborhoods, code enforcement history, and the potential for isolated A1 pockets. Staff clarified that the property meets the minimum half-acre requirement and that the rezoning is a downzone (less intense) and consistent with the general plan. - The commission was generally supportive, noting neighbor support and no opposition at the hearing. Key Outcomes - The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the rezoning request to the City Council. Work Session - City Council representative reported no specific items; City Attorney had no report. - Upcoming agenda items include: commercial subdivision at 2700 South and 2000 West (still pending); potential small annexation in south-west area; Grayson Ridge subdivision addition (six lots); a rezone application for 2207 West 1700 South to light commercial; and a zoning code amendment to allow drone delivery. - Commissioner welcomed back Mike Kerswell. - Meeting adjourned to work session and then adjourned.

The Syracuse City Council held a work session on July 28, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM, followed by a special business meeting. The agenda included public comment, a request from Syracuse High School representatives, a pre-application for the Shoreline subdivision, amendments to municipal code, discussion of Economic Development Area (EDA) funds, drone delivery regulations, ambulance procurement, protective headgear for e-bikes/scooters, and the sale of city-owned property. All items were discussed and several actions were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Wilson (via email): Expressed support for the proposed Shoreline subdivision's open space and trails but urged careful evaluation of traffic, school capacity, emergency access, and long-term maintenance, noting the increase from 16 to 39 homes as a significant density change. Discussion Items - Syracuse High School Request (Street Painting, Banners, Signage): Senior class president Emily Skidmore proposed a temporary spirit week street painting on 700 South near the school for the 20th anniversary. Council expressed support, with conditions: design must not interfere with traffic markings, must be positive and non-offensive, and requires staff approval. Council also discussed banners on streetlights and adding a "Titan Way" sign to 700 South. The mayor noted that the city already has a "Titan Way" designation on some signs and will work to add more. - Shoreline Subdivision Pre-Application: Brandon Wood (Northwood Group, representing the school district) presented a plan for 39 single-family lots on the former Davis School District property (currently entitled for 16 lots under the existing development agreement). The proposal includes 26% open space, trails, and a playground. Council feedback: prefer minimum lot size of 7,000 square feet (the higher density rung) and 20% open space, rather than mixed lot sizes. The school district will revise the plan and possibly market it with these parameters. If no developer is found, the property may remain undeveloped. - Amendments to Municipal Code: - Final Plat Approval (Section 8.20.140): To comply with state law, final plat approval will shift from the Planning Commission to a staff team (city engineer, planner, fire marshal). Council supported moving this to the consent agenda for the next business meeting. - Zoning Reversion (Section 8.20.70): Proposed ordinance to automatically revert zoning to its previous classification if no substantial progress is made within 18 months, with a possible 1-year extension for good cause. Council discussed the term "substantial progress" and agreed to bring the ordinance to the next business meeting with a suggested 18-month initial term and 1-year extension. - Economic Development Area (EDA) Fund Discussion: The EDA (expiring 2028) has generated funds for potential projects. Options presented: 1. Trail connecting the power corridor to the business area. 2. Small roundabout at 1000 West and 2700 South (estimated cost $1 million). 3. Incentivize facade improvement for US Cold Storage expansion. 4. Rent subsidy for commercial buildings (not recommended as previous incentives were unused). 5. Parking lot for Syracuse Arts Academy (SAA) to alleviate event parking. 6. Road overlay on E-shift (estimated $600,000). Council prioritized: 1) roundabout, 2) parking lot, 3) road overlay. They declined the rent subsidy and facade incentive, noting alternative grant funding for murals. - Drone Delivery Ordinance: Discussion of a proposed ordinance to allow drone delivery (by Wing, for Walmart) within city limits. Council expressed strong support and directed staff to expedite the ordinance for the next meeting. - Ambulance Purchase: Fire Chief Aaron requested authorization to order a replacement ambulance now (12-18 month lead time) for the next fiscal year, locking in the price. Council agreed to place it on the next business meeting agenda. - Protective Headgear for E-bikes/E-scooters: Discussion of an ordinance requiring persons under 21 to wear helmets on city property (trails, parks, sidewalks) where state law does not apply. Council supported the ordinance, citing safety and enforcement benefits, and moved it to the consent agenda. - Real Estate Purchase Contract: City-owned property at 508 West 2700 South was offered for sale. After 12 offers, the highest and best was from the LeBairn family at $376,000 (netting $353,734 after fees). Council determined the sale is in the public interest and approved the contract in a subsequent special business meeting. Key Outcomes - Syracuse High School Request: Council approved the concept of street painting (with conditions), banners, and enhanced signage (Titan Way). The school will submit designs for approval. - Shoreline Subdivision: Council provided guidance for 7,000+ sq. ft. lots and 20% open space. The school district will revise the plan and may market it accordingly. - Final Plat Approval Amendment: Moved to consent agenda for the next business meeting. - Zoning Reversion Ordinance: Will be placed on the next business meeting agenda with 18-month initial term and 1-year extension. - EDA Projects: Staff will begin planning for the roundabout, parking lot, and road overlay, with possible grant funding to supplement. - Drone Delivery Ordinance: Staff to draft ordinance for introduction at the next meeting. - Ambulance Purchase: Resolution to authorize ordering will be on the next business meeting agenda. - Protective Headgear Ordinance: Moved to consent agenda for adoption. - Real Estate Sale: Unanimously approved the purchase contract with the LeBairn family for $376,000.

The Planning Commission convened on July 22, 2026, to discuss and vote on three main agenda items: a recommendation to amend the zoning ordinance regarding rezone expiration and extensions, a text amendment to align final plat approval authority with state requirements, and a site plan for electric vehicle charging stations at a Walmart location. The meeting also included a public hearing, a work session, and liaison reports. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the two public hearings (one for the rezone expiration amendment and one for the final plat text amendment). Discussion Items - Rezone Expiration and Extension Policy: The commission debated a proposal to require that rezones expire if a building permit is not obtained within a set period. Key points included: - Staff proposed a three-year period, but commissioners discussed reducing it to two years with a possible one-year extension. - Concerns were raised about rezones that do not involve building permits (e.g., for animals, agro-tourism, or bringing a house into compliance). Commissioners suggested exempting such non-project-based rezones and instead requiring

The Syracuse City Council held a business meeting on July 14, 2026, addressing public concerns, approving several ordinances and resolutions, and handling a special Redevelopment Agency meeting. The meeting included public comments on noise from a park-and-ride lot and traffic issues, recognition of a fire captain, consent agenda approval, a public hearing on stormwater management, and votes on site plan review, town center overlay, recruitment and retention policy, and park-and-ride regulations. The council also discussed the sale of city-owned property and authorized a real estate purchase for the RDA. Public Comments & Testimony - Pete Petrowski (3235 South Fork Lane) complained about excessive noise from commercial trucks parking at a park-and-ride lot near his home, stating it is unbearable and that the lot is being used for commercial purposes despite being public land. He expressed frustration with the lack of action. Mayor clarified that the city does not lease the lot from UDOT but is in the process of taking ownership, and noted that park-and-ride regulations were on the agenda for the evening. - Eric Willison (emailed comment): Thanked the council for transparency, supported the town center overlay standards but urged flexibility to avoid discouraging investment, and encouraged clear communication on the Paisley property purchase and sale of city-owned property. - Eric Shaw (emailed comment): Raised concerns about speeding and noise on 2000 West near Parkview Drive and Trailside Park, citing safety risks for pedestrians and children. Suggested traffic calming measures such as a roundabout, traffic light, or speed feedback signs. Also requested enforcement of the city's 80-decibel noise limit for vehicles. Recognition - Fire Captain Colt Cottrell was awarded the Utah Supervisory Fire Officer designation, recognizing hundreds of hours of training and dedication. The fire chief praised the department's leadership in the state program. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from June 9th (regular business, special RDA, special MBA meetings), June 23rd work session, and June 29th special business meeting (fireworks order). - Adopted the following consent items: - Proposed Ordinance 2026-13: amending section 8.10.170 on building permits. - Proposed Ordinance 2026-14: amending sections 4.5.10, 4.5.22, and 10.92.40 to adopt a single-stream recycling program for multifamily residential communities. - Authorization to execute a 2026 interlocal cooperation agreement between Davis County Cities and the Davis County Stormwater Coalition. - Proposed Resolution R26-29: proclaiming commitment to volunteerism in Syracuse City. Public Hearing - Resolution R26-30: Authorizing the adoption of the 2026 Stormwater Management Program. No public comments were offered, and the council approved the resolution unanimously. Discussion Items - Proposed Ordinance 2026-16 (Site Plan Review): Amending section 10.20.090. No further discussion; passed unanimously. - Proposed Ordinance 2026-15 (Town Center Overlay Zone): Amending section 10.100. Councilmember clarified that drive-through restaurants would not be prohibited but could not have the drive-through between the building and the sidewalk; they must have a front entrance facing the corner. The purpose is public safety and a walkable town center. Passed unanimously. - Proposed Resolution R26-31 (Recruitment and Retention Policy): Brody explained two key issues: (1) capping merit increases at 3% in a normal year and 2.5% in a constrained budget year to ensure predictability and affordability; (2) defining a "significant tax increase" as anything above 9% (approximately $5.25 per month for the average homeowner) to allow the city to hold the property tax rate steady without triggering a significant increase designation. Council expressed support for the clarity. Passed unanimously. - Proposed Ordinance 2026-17 (Park-and-Ride Regulations): Amending sections 11.20.060 and adopting 11.20.075. Key provisions: prohibit vehicles over 26,000 pounds or 24 feet in length, no recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, or construction equipment; no parking over 48 hours; no overnight camping or sleeping. The ordinance will take effect approximately 10 days after approval. Council noted the city will have enforcement authority once the property transfer from UDOT is finalized. Passed unanimously. - Discussion on Selling Property at 546 West 2525 South: The city purchased this property for road expansion and now needs to sell it. The previous process for a similar property (508 property) required a 30-day waiting period before accepting offers, which caused interested buyers to walk. Council agreed to change the process for this property to allow offers to be considered as they come, capturing the best price. No formal vote was taken; consensus was reached. Special Redevelopment Agency Meeting - Authorized Mayor to Execute Real Estate Purchase Contract for the "Paisley" property at approximately 2500 West and 1650 South. The purchase will use funds from two RDAs; the available cash is about $3 million, and one RDA generates $500,000 annually. The property will be used for economic development, and proceeds from future sale will replenish the RDA. Passed unanimously. - Adopted Resolution RDA 26-02: Approving bylaws for the Syracuse City Redevelopment Agency. The mayor is a voting member in the RDA (six voting members total). Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Ordinances approved: 2026-13, 2026-14, 2026-15, 2026-16, 2026-17. - Resolutions approved: R26-29, R26-30, R26-31, RDA 26-02. - RDA purchase authorized: Mayor to execute contract for Paisley property. - Policy change: For the sale of 546 West 2525 South, the city will accept offers without a 30-day waiting period. - Next steps: Park-and-ride regulations will be enforced after the 10-day waiting period and property transfer from UDOT. The city will continue to accept applications for youth court and reminded residents to contact mosquito abatement district.

The Syracuse City Planning Commission convened on July 7, 2026, at 7:00 PM (approximate) for a regular meeting. The agenda included a public hearing on a text amendment to engineering standards for utility installation and a plat amendment for Syracuse Arts Academy. Commissioners also discussed upcoming items and heard reports. The meeting was adjourned to a work session. Consent Calendar - Agenda adopted unanimously. - Minutes of the regular meeting and work session of June 16, 2026, were approved unanimously (with one abstention from a commissioner who was absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public comment period for items not on the agenda. - No public testimony was offered during the two public hearings. Discussion Items - Text Amendment: Engineering Standards for Utility Installation – Staff presented a proposal to clarify that natural gas and electric utilities must be installed to every building lot within a subdivision before a building permit is issued, in compliance with city engineering standards. The amendment addresses a gap where a development previously chose not to install gas lines. Commissioners discussed whether the language should specify that the requirement applies to main lines in the street adjacent to the lot, not laterals stubbed to the property. They also noted that references to utility providers (e.g., "Utah Power") should be updated to generic terms. The commission voted to recommend the amendment to city council with direction to include these clarifications. - Plat Amendment: Syracuse Arts Academy Subdivision – Staff explained that the city originally acquired land from UDOT and later negotiated a trade with the school, but UDOT restrictions prevented dedicating the land to a private party. The proposed amendment keeps the roadway in city ownership but dedicates it as a public right-of-way, with a maintenance agreement requiring the school to plow, landscape, and maintain the non-standard road. The road meets fire access requirements. The commission approved the plat amendment. Key Outcomes - Text Amendment (Utility Installation): Motion to recommend to city council approval of the ordinance change, with instructions to clarify that the requirement applies to main lines in the street adjacent to the lot and to update utility provider references to generic terms. Passed unanimously (all in favor). - Plat Amendment (Arts Academy): Motion to approve the plat amendment to dedicate the land as a public right-of-way, with the city retaining ownership and the school responsible for maintenance. Passed unanimously. - Upcoming Items: Staff noted that final plats are no longer under planning commission jurisdiction per state code change; an ordinance amendment will be brought forward. Also pending: Westlake Landing subdivision, Rocky Mountain Wellness Project, Holiday Oil, EV charging stations at Walmart, a zoning expiration ordinance, and drone delivery regulations. - Commissioner Reports: Chair thanked Kayla for her service on her last meeting and welcomed a new commissioner. A question was raised about city-designated safe exchange zones for private transactions; staff noted that the police department has two stalls for safe exchanges, and that selling items at city parks without a permit is prohibited.

The Syracuse City Council held a special business meeting on June 29, 2026, to discuss the governor's executive order regarding fireworks and to decide whether to allow personal fireworks discharge within the city for the July 4th holiday. The meeting included an invocation, pledge of allegiance, factual clarifications from the mayor, public comments from residents and interested parties, and a council discussion. The council ultimately decided to lift the ban in lower-risk areas, subject to restrictions based on a map prepared by the fire chief and staff. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Willison (via email): Expressed support for a cautious approach allowing fireworks only in areas sufficiently separated from open fields and combustible areas, and emphasized clear communication and proper disposal. (Position: Support for partial restrictions) - Mary Dean (via email): Opposed allowing personal fireworks, citing numerous fires and the risk to firefighters' lives. (Position: Opposed to allowing fireworks) - Sharon Watson (1765 West 2770 South, Syracuse): Advocated for a common-sense approach, noted Syracuse's low historical fire risk, and emphasized freedom and agency. (Position: Support for allowing fireworks) - Devin Alred (1258 South 4465 West, Syracuse): Supported allowing fireworks, noted that Richfield (near active fires) is allowing them, and argued for freedom and personal responsibility. (Position: Support for allowing fireworks) - Unnamed speaker (last year in community): Described personal tradition and opposition to government overreach, emphasizing safe use and history. (Position: Support for allowing fireworks) - Jeremy Berry (3421 West 2280 South, Syracuse): Expressed concern about aerials and debris, particularly in dry conditions, but did not explicitly call for a total ban. (Position: Concerned, but not outright opposition) - Dan (1982 South 800 West, Syracuse): Supported allowing legal fireworks with common sense, noting that illegal fireworks are already prohibited. (Position: Support for allowing fireworks) - Unnamed speaker (2115 South 1300 West, Syracuse): Emphasized personal responsibility and that illegal fireworks cause problems, not legal ones. (Position: Support for allowing fireworks) - Kyle (North Ogden, fireworks industry) : Noted that Utah's regulations are reasonable and that current weather conditions are mild compared to past years. (Position: Support for allowing fireworks) - Steve Ross (850 West 350 South, Syracuse): Supported the governor's ban but asked that common sense be considered, noting that most users are responsible. (Position: Leaning toward allowing with restrictions) - Scott (Draper, not a Syracuse resident): Thanked the council for the opportunity to speak, supported allowing fireworks with adjustments to restricted areas. (Position: Support for allowing fireworks) Discussion Items - Mayor's Opening Remarks: Provided factual clarifications: fireworks are still sold legally; discharge is not legal until July 2nd; professional shows unaffected; governor's order does not allow cities to change discharge dates; Syracuse has never qualified for a historical fire danger ban; most open lands are outside city limits; farm fields remain high-risk; governor's order only extends through July 5th. The council had three options: uphold the ban, lift in lower-risk areas, or lift blanketly. - Fire Chief Aaron Byington Presentation: Reviewed surrounding communities' decisions (most are allowing fireworks with restrictions). Drove the city over the weekend to identify high-risk areas: agricultural fields, heavy vegetation, homes under construction, unkempt properties. Supported two options: restrict areas with high risk, or uphold the ban. Noted that historically, Syracuse has had fireworks-caused fires, but they are manageable. Staffing and safety plans are in place: extra fire and police staffing, a brush truck, and code enforcement for weed abatement. - Council Comments: - Councilmember Brett: Supported a restricted plan if fire chief deems risk manageable and staffing adequate. (Position: Support for restricted allowance) - Councilmember (unidentified): Initially leaned toward restriction but after consideration chose freedom over safety, willing to support partial restriction. (Position: Support for partial restriction) - Councilmember (unidentified): Favored option B (partial restriction) per the packet, expanding restricted areas based on fire chief's recommendations. (Position: Support for partial restriction) - Councilmember (unidentified): Agreed option two is reasonable, trusts citizens to do the right thing. (Position: Support for partial restriction) - Councilmember (unidentified): Noted low historical fire risk, green lawns from watering, freedom of choice, and well-prepared fire department; favored lifting the ban entirely. (Position: Support for full lifting) - Mayor's Presentation of Map: Presented a draft map showing restricted areas: near farm fields 1 acre, county lands (already banned), parks, churches, schools, large commercial spaces, and a neighborhood near unkept wild spaces. Estimated 85-95% of residential neighborhoods would be open for fireworks. Emphasized that the map is not final and that the decision is to lift the ban in lower-risk areas, not to ban in other areas. Key Outcomes - Decision: The council reached consensus to lift the fireworks ban in lower-risk areas, with restrictions on high-risk areas as shown on the map. The fire chief will finalize the map with the mayor's input. - Next Steps: The city will release an official map and communications by 5:00 PM the following day (June 30). The council directed staff to emphasize that fireworks carry inherent risk and that residents should be cautious and respectful of neighbors. - Vote: No formal vote was recorded; the mayor stated the decision was made by consensus of the council, with the fire chief's support. The meeting was adjourned after the discussion.

The Syracuse City Council met on June 24, 2026, to discuss a variety of topics including a victim advocate report, a pre-application consultation for a development proposal, amendments to building permit practices, a recycling program for multifamily housing, a utility easement vacation, stormwater agreements, park and ride regulations, a just serve city designation, a transportation utility fee, and a senior employee retention plan. Public comment opened with a presentation about a new community art event. Consent Calendar - The council agreed to move the following items to the consent agenda for the next business meeting: - Proposed ordinance requiring recycling programs for multifamily residential communities (already passed through planning commission). - Resolution to pursue the "Just Serve City" designation, recognizing volunteerism. Public Comments & Testimony - A community member announced a free, monthly "hot luck style ART event" at the Syracuse Library, inviting residents to showcase two pieces of their art (described as "Instagram 2.0 in real life"). No other public comments were received. Victim Advocate Report (Celeste) - Celeste, the victims' advocate for Syracuse, Clinton, and Sunset City, presented the semi-annual report covering FY25 and the current FY26. - Victims served: Syracuse saw an increase in victims served compared to FY25. A small overall decline in total victims served across all three cities is attributed to fewer cases in Sunset City due to low crime. - Services provided: There was a dramatic increase in the number of services provided per victim (information/referrals, emotional/safety support, criminal justice assistance). This indicates victims are receiving more intensive support. - Syracuse-specific data: Domestic violence remains the top victimization category, followed by stalking/harassment and child physical abuse/neglect. One victim may be counted in multiple categories. - Celeste shared a positive story about a domestic violence survivor who brought her red roses as thanks after a long ER visit, highlighting the emotional impact of the work. Discussion Items - Pre-application Consultation (Blocks Development): A developer proposed a multifamily project on the northwest corner of the city (Shiners Bluff golf course and 193, near the West Point border). The property spans both cities. The council members stated they have no appetite for more high-density housing. Mayor expressed reluctance to engage in boundary changes, citing a painful previous experience. The developer was encouraged to submit a formal application. - Building Permit Issuance Practices (Code Amendment): The council reviewed a proposal to require gas and electric utilities to be installed before building permits are issued. After discussion about requiring utility infrastructure (not necessarily connection to each home), the council directed staff to send the amendment to the planning commission with a suggested addition: require natural gas and power to be available to the subdivision (at street level). - Multifamily Residential Recycling: The council considered an ordinance requiring existing multifamily complexes to provide recycling containers, label them, and educate tenants by January 1, 2027. The ordinance had already passed planning commission. Council members expressed approval; no opposition was voiced. - Utility Easement Vacation (Floyd Hamblin): A request to vacate a 20-foot utility easement no longer used by the sewer district or the city. Neighbors were in favor. Staff noted state statute requires a process (possibly a hearing), so it will be brought to a future meeting. - Stormwater Coalition Interlocal Agreement: Renewal of a five-year agreement with Davis County cities to jointly meet EPA stormwater permit requirements. A public hearing will be scheduled. - Stormwater Management Program Update: A draft update to the city's five-year stormwater management program, also requiring a public hearing. Council approved moving forward. - Park and Ride Parking Regulations: A lengthy discussion on regulating parking at the two park-and-ride lots (3000 West and 2000 West). Key points: - Prohibit commercial vehicles, recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers. - Prohibit overnight habitation. - Consider a special use permit system for residents with large vehicles (e.g., trade trucks) that may need overnight parking. - Enforce a 48-hour time limit for personal vehicles. - On public streets, commercial vehicles must be actively loading/unloading; otherwise, they are restricted. Oversized vehicles that block visibility are a safety concern. - The council reached a consensus to move forward with drafting an ordinance based on these preferences. - Transportation Utility Fee: Discussion continued on implementing a fee to fund road maintenance. Council preferred a system based on traffic-impact categories (low, medium, high, industrial) rather than building square footage. Staff will update the study to support this approach, with an estimated 90-day timeline. Goal is to bring back a refined proposal for a vote. - Senior Employee Retention Plan (Compensation): Staff presented a proposed policy to change wage scale benchmarks: from average of top 3 cities for all positions to average of top 3 for non-supervisory and average of top 4 for supervisory. This is projected to save $90,000 in normal years and $200,000–$250,000 in constrained years. Fiscal projections suggest the city could return to a balanced operating budget by FY29 without additional tax increases. Council members expressed support and gratitude for staff's work. - Zone Change Expiration Dates: The mayor suggested exploring an ordinance that would give rezonings a time limit (e.g., 18–24 months) after which the zoning reverts to the original. The council agreed to send this to the planning commission for review. Key Outcomes - The recycling ordinance for multifamily and the Just Serve City resolution will be placed on the consent agenda for the next business meeting. - The building permit amendment will be sent to the planning commission with a direction to require gas and power infrastructure at the subdivision level. - The transportation utility fee study will be updated to use traffic-impact categories; the fee proposal will return to council. - The park and ride parking regulations will be drafted into an ordinance consistent with the council's consensus. - The senior retention plan will likely be voted on at the next council meeting. - A discussion on zone change expiration dates will be initiated at the planning commission.

The Syracuse City Council held a business meeting on March 11, 2026, to discuss a variety of items including appointments, code amendments, a commercial lease, wastewater reporting, and a potential federal grant application for road widening. All votes were unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Lauraen (1595 South Bluff Road) inquired about the council's stance on flagpole lots, noting her property is landlocked. The mayor noted that flagpole lots are currently not allowed by code and that the topic was discussed and denied within the last two years, but offered to poll the council about placing it on a future agenda. Consent Calendar - Motion to adopt the agenda – Unanimously passed. - Resolution R26-13 – Appointed Dylan Marchant and Gage Thomas to the Syracuse City Planning Commission for unexpired terms. Unanimously passed. - Approval of minutes from the February 10, 2026 council business meeting. Unanimously passed. - Items of common consent (5A–5D) – Including ordinance amendments for government records retention (26-05), appointments of local districts (26-06), personnel policy manual updates (26-11), and a zone change at 2600 West Blail/Quail Bluff Drive from R1 to Professional Office (26-07). Unanimously passed. - Item 6 – Lease agreement with Antelope BMX – Authorized administration to execute a lease of city property for commercial use as a public-private partnership. Unanimously passed. - Resolution R26-12 – Authorized submittal of the 2025 Municipal Wastewater Planning Program Annual Report to the Utah Division of Water Quality. Public Works Director Robert reported no sewer overflows or backups. Unanimously passed. Discussion Items - Item 8 – Letter of support for Congressional Community Funding Projects – The council discussed applying for a federal grant to accelerate the widening of Antelope Drive, a state road. The grant would cover 80% of costs; the 20% match would need to come from other sources (e.g., UDOT, Davis County, Wasatch Front Regional Council). Key points: - UDOT currently has no funding until 2040, but the project could be accelerated. - Matching funds might be obtained from multiple sources; city funds would be a last resort. - If awarded but matching funds cannot be secured, declining the grant could affect future eligibility. - Estimated city match would be $500,000 to $1 million if necessary, but not expected imminently. - Council members expressed support, noting the project would relieve congestion on a road serving over a million visitors annually to Antelope Island. - A motion to authorize the administration to issue the letter of support was unanimously passed. Mayor and Council Reports - Councilmember Abe – Reported a positive planning commission meeting. - Councilmember Andrea – Reported that the Sewer Board has completed the first round of applicants for the plant director position and interviews will occur the following week. - Announcement – Miss Syracuse royalty is hosting a letter-writing event for first responders and teachers on March 20, 2026, from 5–7 p.m. at the Syracuse Community Center. Key Outcomes - All items were approved unanimously. - The council voted unanimously to move into closed session pursuant to Utah State Code to discuss a real estate matter.

The Syracuse City Council held a meeting on February 11, 2026, to receive a deep dive presentation from the police chief on the department's annual report, key performance indicators, crime statistics, staffing challenges, and future considerations. The chief presented data on training, response times, case clearance, community engagement, and staffing levels. Council members discussed retention, crossing guard needs, and the impending dispatch service cost increase. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter closed session, which was approved. Police Department Presentation - Chief delivered a detailed presentation covering annual reports, KPIs, and statistics for 2025. - Training: 100% of employees exceeded state-mandated 40 hours; sworn officers averaged 109 hours. 77% of supervisors received 15 hours of supervisor-specific training (target 100%). - Response Time: 81% of urgent calls responded to within target time frame (goal 85%); average response time for priority one calls was 5 minutes 58 seconds. - Case Resolution: 900% of cases assigned to investigators were resolved within target time frame (the chief explained that resolved includes arrest, inactive, or exceptional clearance). (Note: The 900% figure appears to be a transcription error but is preserved as stated.) - Community Engagement: Logged over 220 self-initiated community-oriented policing details in 2025. 70% of sworn officers have valid crisis intervention training certification, expected to exceed 80% by May 2026. - Complaints: Rate of sustained external complaints per 1,000 was 0.003%. - Staffing: Current sworn strength 26 out of council-approved 31; two frozen positions. Officer turnover rate in 2025 was 25%, with reasons including retirement, career changes, and departure to another agency. 60% of patrol schedule was at risk of dropping below minimum staffing. - Call Volume: Total police activity decreased 8% from 16,700 in 2024 to 15,300 in 2025. - Crime Statistics: Person crimes consistent; property crimes saw a spike in false pretense/swindle (cybercrime) from 37 to 69 incidents. - Officer per Population: Syracuse has 0.8 sworn officers per 1,000 population, compared to state average of 1.6–1.7. - Mutual Aid: In 2024, Syracuse received less aid than it provided; in 2025, the inverse occurred. Chief noted this as a trend to monitor. - Future Considerations: New elementary school will require five additional crossing guards at an estimated $9,000 each, total $45,000 annually. Council member urged recruitment of crossing guards and noted legislative outreach to share costs with school district. - Five-Year Projection: Assuming 5% annual population growth, maintaining 0.8 officers per 1,000 would require additional sworn officers. - Organizational Proposal: Chief presented a proposed 2031 structure including a record supervisor (eliminating part-time position), two additional patrol sergeants (offset by eliminating master officer positions), a third detective, and a dedicated crossing guard coordinator (identified as an immediate need). - Top Three Priorities: Chief requested (1) retain existing officers through current recruitment and retention policies, (2) create a crossing guard coordinator position, and (3) create a records supervisor position. Dispatch Services Discussion - Council discussed the impending closure of the Davis County dispatch service and the need to join a new dispatch center. The only viable contiguous option is Leighton, which would result in approximately a 3x cost increase over current payments. - Council member noted that neighboring cities have considered forming a special service district, but that option would be even more expensive than joining Leighton. The legislature may need to act to allow alternative solutions. - Council expressed concern about the impact on both police and fire dispatch. Key Outcomes - Council received the police department's annual report and presentation, with no formal votes taken on the proposals. - Council acknowledged the need to address staffing retention, crossing guard coordination, and records management. - A motion to enter closed session was made, seconded, and approved by voice vote (all in favor). - Council members expressed appreciation for the chief and the department's culture and performance.