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Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Property Rights & Jiffy Lube / Relief in Sight for Little Valley

February 20 Council Meeting created a lot of public interest. Property Rights and building of a JIFFY LUBE….. In close proximity to residential housing and the Virgin River proved to be the main topic of interest. The Chamber was filled to capacity…..Those living close to the intersection of River Road and 1450 South gathered their forces in hope of seeing the new council….. Which many helped to elect …..Make a decision in their favor….. To DENY the request for approval a Jiffy Lube….. Which many believed would place Property Rights in direct conflict with the will of a selected few. 

However, prior to this important issue being addressed ….. A positive and bright light was shinned on the city budget. We were all happy to hear that City Revenue was exceeding expenditures and the GOOD news was that sales tax revenue was up 6.25%.

The second piece of good news was that the council approved the 2nd phase of 3000 East….. A most important thoroughfare for Little Valley residents who find themselves, suffering from inadequate roadways, jammed tightly behind the uncontrolled growth taking place. The approved expenditure of $853,292.50 was below estimate and reflected a savings of $40,000.

(Perhaps, enough to warrant expenditure of funds for Air Quality Monitoring Equipment and addressing Health Issues).

The third piece of good news was council approval for completion of the Hela Seegmiller Park- Little Valley. This project has been on the drawing boards for a number of years and has slowly, step by step moved forward, designed to reflect the pioneer spirit. In keeping with appropriate period design Mayor Pike suggested that paved parking be eliminated and appropriate fencing be installed. Trails are to include access for those with disabilities.

Forth, the expenditure of $740,307 for Little Valley road improvements was cited. 4 way stop signs on Little Valley Road intended to slow speeding traffic and provide greater child, pedestrian traffic safety…..Even widening for Horse Traffic concerns and slowing of traffic in area of Gooch-Iverson homes was discussed.

Councilwoman Arial expressed her understanding of the growing pains taking place and cited the need for Builders and Residents to be considerate of each other as the city moves forward to improve public safety issues.

City Manager brought attention to the large amount of money approved for road improvements (15 million for this fiscal year) which included the Mall Drive Bridge and asked the public to be patient as completion was expected by August 1st. This caused a gasp to be heard from the mayor and council who suggested that he at least give the city until the end September as a completion date. The bottom line is that progress is being made.

FINALLY….. The issue of approving a Zone Change from R-1-10 to Planned Development Commercial on 0.66 acres north of River Road and 1450 South was to be heard. Jiffy Lube located next to Maverick Gas Station? As both sides of the issue paraded their position before the council it was time for a vote. Councilwoman Randall clearly stated “I agree with Property Rights” and then proceeded to vote for

(Homeowner Property Rights) and those who brought her to the dance by voting NO for Jiffy Lube. Councilman Bowcutt…..true to his principles voted YES for (Business) Property Rights…..He was joined by Hughes and Almquist and Arial voted with Randall.
BUSINESS Property Rights questionably won the day….. BUT…., THE RIGHTS OF HOME- OWNERS…… To have, equal consideration given to protecting their Rights….. TO, KEEP….. Property Values/Quality of Life from plummeting….. Due to vacillating Zoning Laws and Failing Code Enforcement….. Remains muddled, although being an intricate part of the equation.

ZONING means nothing when in RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES you are allowed to rent (Day by Day or less than Monthly) often times to 4 or more unrelated occupants…..To have WORKERS/DELIVERIES coming to residential homes where Construction/Repairs, Storage of Appliances/Equipment etc. is taking place.

WHERE DOES ONE PERSONS PROPERTY RIGHTS BEGIN, AND HIS/HER NEIGHBORS ENDS? DOES THE CITY HAVE A DUTY to act RESPONSIBLY or are we to continue with arbitrary/selective enforcement. Should Ordinance Work be HASTENED? Please forward your comments.
 
Thank You, Ed


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