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Sandy Journal

Sandy City Council Meeting Recap: April 14, 2015

Apr 24, 2015 10:42AM ● By Megan Mahajan
Brian Kelley presented information about proposed property tax increases. Information was presented with different scenarios represented, as well as a comparison between Sandy’s property tax rates and those of other cities.

The proposed increase is 4% each year for 5 years, for a total increase of 20%. This increase would result in an additional $1.9 million dollars in funds for the city over that five-year period. The majority of other cities in Utah have increased their property taxes; Kaysville just experienced an increase of 99%. The budget also reflects a major need for increased tax revenue.

A great deal of time was spent on this topic, and Mayor Dolan expressed that he would prefer to see an increase in sales tax revenue as opposed to property tax increases. The city’s tax revenue was negatively impacted by the opening of the new Costco store in South Jordan, which decreased sales tax at the Sandy location. The move of the Toyota and Nissan car dealerships also created a major loss for the city. 

Mayor Dolan expressed that we need increased population, buildings and jobs: this would bring more people, and therefore more tax revenue, into Sandy.

Korban Lee issued a brief update on the proposed “no-kill” shelter. He expressed that they were expecting several proposals, but had received only one. He expects to have more information and proposals to present within two weeks, and the proposition should come back to the Council on April 28. 

Mike Reberg and Tahlia Butler from  Salt Lake County Animal Services, and Sandy Nelson from Best Friends Animal Society, were presenting at the meeting, and Mr. Reberg briefly expressed his gratitude that the city is considering moving to a “no-kill” philosophy. 

Rick Smith presented information regarding the 8000 South connection. He came prepared with answers to a list of 22 questions the Council had presented to him. He made clear that the city had planned this connection and desired to move forward with it. 

Councilman Cowdell proposed a one-way street in lieu of the connection, and Councilman Tenney expressed his strong opinion against the connection. Councilman Fairbanks stated that the Council should “rely on the people we have hired to give us their professional opinion.”

Mike Applegarth reminded the Council that, up until the public hearing on March 17, the Council had always been in favor, and had indicated approval of, the proposed connection. The project was funded in full over two budget periods. He expressed that definitive action was absolutely necessary: either approve the connection as originally intended, or withdraw the funding.

Mike Wilcox presented information and proposed changes regarding the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).