Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Heber City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
20 issues with critical priority
North Fields Agricultural Protection MOU
Heber City and Wasatch County partnered to update their MOU, cementing protections to keep the North Fields agricultural and zoned at Ag-20.
Communications Policy
The council restricted elected officials from writing individual op-eds for the city newsletter without majority approval, sparking debate over free speech.
Riverhawk Road Annexation
The city is considering annexing 3.38 acres of roadway around the new Deer Creek High School to ensure police and maintenance jurisdiction falls fully within Heber City. This clean-up annexation brings the street in front of the school under unified city management.
Mill Road and 1200 South Intersection Safety
Despite emotional testimony from long-time residents and business owners about land loss and business disruption, the council voted to move forward with engineering designs for a new roundabout at 1200 South and Mill Road.
Main Street Park Development
Residents and council members debated what to include in the Phase 2 redesign of Main Street Park, balancing the desire for open green space and trees against proposed amenities like a skate ribbon, splash pad, and commercial buildings.
Justice Court Consolidation
With the local judge stepping down, the city explored whether to recruit a new judge or combine operations with Wasatch County, ultimately deciding to pursue consolidation.
Cell Tower Height and Location Standards
The council reviewed proposed zoning code changes to allow taller cell towers up to 80 feet with stricter setbacks to encourage shared infrastructure and improve coverage.
Wildland Urban Interface Map Amendment
Updating the WUI map impacts building requirements and safety standards in fire-prone areas around Heber City.
Carl Malone Group Zoning Amendment
Heber City is debating whether to let a 65-foot cell tower go up in a residential area. Neighbors are worried it’ll be a total eyesore and tank their property values, while the city tries to balance that against the need for better reception.
Property Tax Increase
The city council tentatively adopted a $72 million budget that includes an option for a 5.2% property tax increase to cover rising operational and inflationary costs. Residents heavily criticized the proposed tax hike during public comment, pointing to cumulative tax increases and cost-of-living pressures.
Mayflower Views Residential Development
Heber City is getting a new luxury development called 'The Slope,' which is set to shake up the local housing market and change the town's vibe. It’s a major project that could put a serious strain on our current roads and infrastructure as the area grows.
Animal Shelter Expansion
The shelter is looking to expand its facilities to better serve the community. They are currently working on a design plan and figuring out how to pay for it.
Proposed Property Tax Increase
The city is considering a 5.2% tax hike to cover rising costs for city services like police, roads, and parks. This would add about $19 a year to the tax bill for an $850,000 home.
Affordable Housing Development
UVU students and housing consultants presented survey data and proposals to address Heber's housing affordability gap, focusing on single-family starter homes and regional collaboration.
Fireworks Safety Restrictions
Battalion Chief Troy Morgan presented extended Stage 1 firework restrictions due to extremely dry conditions, and the council emphasized public outreach and signage.
Water Restrictions Rescinded
In response to severe drought conditions and low snowpack, the council adopted Level 2 of the water shortage plan. The city will increase public outreach and encourage voluntary conservation across agricultural, municipal, and residential sectors.
North Village Stormwater Master Plan & Dam Safety
City engineers revealed that proposed upstream retention and debris basins for North Village stormwater management may be classified by the state as high hazard dams. This classification significantly increases engineering requirements, construction costs, and municipal liability.
Airport Ground Lease Standardization
The city is reviewing airport lease terms, fees, and potential capital improvement acceleration for the 2034 Olympics to ensure the airport remains entirely self-sustaining without relying on general fund subsidies.
Tax Increment Financing
Heber City is considering a $20 million tax break for a new mixed-use development. It’s a big deal because that’s money that won't be going toward our roads, schools, or other city services for a while.
Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Priorities
Staff reviewed the upcoming fiscal year's operating and capital budgets, including ongoing runway and infrastructure projects.