City Council Agendas & Minutes

MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MEETING FRUIT HEIGHTS CITY 910 South Mountain Road July 15, 2025 WELCOME: Mayor John Polman called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. PLEDGE & OPENING CEREMONY: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor John Pohlman with Council Member Mark Cottrell conducting the opening ceremony by prayer. COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor John Pohlman, Council Members, Mark Cottrell, Eileen Moss, Florence Sadler, and Shon Stevenson. Council Member Gary Anderson was excused. CITY STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Darren Frandsen City Planner, Public Works Director Layne Leonard and Deputy Recorder Hailee Ballingham. VISITORS: Mary Monson, Lane Monson, Paula Stephenson, Linda Crismer, Jim Crismer, Fred Bergold, Nicole Hale, David Hale, Blake Winslow, Mason Groberg, Josh Cox. DECLARATION OF CONFILICT(S) OF INTEREST: Council Members Eileen Moss and Shon Stevenson have declared a conflict of interest regarding agenda item 5.1, which addresses the timeframe for political signs. Both individuals are currently candidates in the upcoming municipal election and, as such, have a personal interest in matters related to campaign signage regulations. TRAINING: City Council Member Steveson addressed recent fire risks and reiterated key fire prevention practices. Residents are encouraged to maintain a 30–40-foot defensible space around structures by removing dry vegetation, leaves, pine needles, and debris. Gutters should be cleared, and flammable materials kept away from homes. Open flames and fire pits should be avoided during windy or high-fire-risk days, and outdoor fires should be kept safely distanced from structures with water or fire suppression tools on hand. Fire safety is a community effort. Neighbors are urged to help each other identify and clean potential hazards. Staying informed about weather conditions—such as wind, heat, and lightning—is essential. A recent wildfire in Kaysville, caused by a lightning strike, highlights the importance of preparedness. As the Pioneer Day (July 24th) holiday approaches, residents are asked to consider avoiding personal fireworks, particularly those with high launch and drift potential, due to ongoing fire danger. PUBLIC COMMENT: Linda Crismer a concerned resident shared remarks written over the past week, expressing disappointment with recent City Council decisions and their impact on community safety and representation. Election Survey Feedback: The resident noted that, despite a majority of survey participants favoring a switch to a primary election system, the City Council voted to maintain the caucus system. This was seen as disregarding citizen input. Fireworks East of Highway 89: Several citizens and some city staff raised concerns about permitting fireworks east of Highway 89, an area identified as high-risk for wildfires. The resident thanked Council Member Mark for voting against allowing fireworks near city buildings but criticized the majority of the Council for approving them despite fire danger and public concerns. Public Safety and Fire Risk: The resident emphasized the ongoing drought, increased wildfire risk, and negative effects of fireworks, including noise, pollution, and potential home damage from embers. They shared personal impacts, including canceled homeowners' insurance due to elevated fire risk. Call for Common-Sense Governance: The resident questioned whether fireworks are a right or a privilege and urged leaders to prioritize long-term community safety over short-term entertainment. They cited the recent fire behind Mountain Road Church as a warning and called for stronger prevention efforts. Analogy and Final Appeal: Using a classroom analogy involving flicking matches in a barn full of straw, the resident illustrated the danger of allowing fireworks in high-risk areas. They concluded with a plea to ban fireworks for Pioneer Day (July 24) and all future holidays to help prevent disasters and preserve the city’s safety and insurability. PRESENTATIONS: 4.1 Youth Council Josh Cox and Mason Groberg reported on recent activities. In June, the Youth Council planned a hike with Centerville Youth Council, but due to a lack of response, only the Fruit Heights Youth Council attended. Despite that, they had a great time enjoying the outdoors and connecting as a group. They also participated in the 4th of July parade, decorating vehicles and handing out candy—an event they described as fun and successful. At their most recent meeting, the council discussed their upcoming August activity, which will include volunteering at Founder’s Day. They are also exploring the possibility of hosting a 5K. DISCUSSION ITEMS: 5.1 Timeframe of political signs City Manager Frandsen opened a discussion regarding the city’s current political sign ordinance, which currently allows signs to be posted 30 days before an election. He noted that multiple residents—not just candidates— have requested an extended timeframe, citing concerns that early voting and mail-in ballots are often distributed before signs are allowed under the current ordinance. Key Points from the Discussion: Current Ordinance: Political signs are permitted 30 days before an election. The ordinance includes a separate section specifically for political signage, distinct from commercial or other types of signs. Concerns Raised: Signs are often posted after mail-in ballots have already been sent out, reducing their effectiveness. Consistency is important; rules should remain the same for both public and private property to avoid confusion. Suggestions from the Council: Extend the sign period to 45 Or 50 days to better align with mail-in ballot timing, which typically begins three weeks prior to the election. Maintain consistent regulations across all properties. Ensure that any changes apply only to political signage, not commercial advertising. City Manager Frandsen asked the City Council whether staff should begin drafting proposed ordinance adjustments. The Council expressed interest in moving forward. Staff will now prepare a draft reflecting the extended timeframe and bring it to Council members for review and feedback. 5.2 E-Bikes and motor vehicle The increasing safety concerns related to e-bikes and other motorized vehicles, particularly among youth in Fruit Heights and surrounding communities. City Manager Frandsen contains inconsistencies, making enforcement difficult. Children often ride without helmets, proper supervision, or awareness of traffic rules. Existing laws for off-road vehicles require helmets for minors, adult supervision for those under 16, and completion of a safety course. Farmington City has implemented a more aggressive policy allowing officers to impound e-bikes for violations. Parents must retrieve the bikes at the police station and face escalating consequences for repeat offenses. Other cities like Layton and Centerville are also exploring or adopting similar approaches. If Fruit Heights were to adopt a similar policy, impounded bikes could be stored at City Hall, with space available in the basement if needed. Council members generally supported moving forward, with an emphasis on community safety and education, not heavy-handed enforcement. Officers and city staff would work closely with parents, ensuring clear expectations and accountability. Several council members and staff shared personal observations of unsafe e-bike behavior. Council Member Steveson expressed the need for a balanced approach, he emphasized—addressing safety without overregulating or discouraging healthy outdoor activity. Parents must also take responsibility, both legally and in educating their children on safe operation. City Manager Frandsen will continue working with surrounding cities and local law enforcement to explore policy options and develop a consistent, countywide approach to e-bike and motorized vehicle safety. A draft policy tailored for Fruit Heights will be brought forward for further discussion and consideration. 5.3 Bid for 2025 street maintenance project A bid for road work on Hilda, James, Cherry, Homestead, and Jost was presented. The project includes a two- inch mill and overlay, with full pavement replacement. The roads are currently in poor condition and need maintenance. The bid was prepared by Jones and Associates. The recommendation is to award the construction contract to Granite Construction, a company the City has worked with previously and had positive experiences. They are known for their quality work and reliability. 5.4 Auditing services City Manager Frandsen provided an update on the City's auditor selection process following the retirement of the previous auditor earlier this year. The City issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) and received interest from nine firms. Of those, three submitted bids by the deadline, while two expressed interests but declined due to current workloads. City Manager Frandsen and Staff thoroughly reviewed the proposals and contacted multiple references for each company. All references were highly positive, with no concerns raised. Each firm also reviewed Fruit Heights' previous audits to understand the City’s financial structure and budget process. After evaluating the proposals, Darren recommended selecting Gilbert & Stewart as the City’s new audit firm based on the following: They offered the lowest cost for a standard municipal audit. Their pricing remains fixed over a five-year period. Their references and responsiveness were excellent. ACTION ITEMS: 6.1 Approve/Deny Awarding the bid for 2025 street maintenance project Council Member Eileen Moss made a motion to award the contract for the street maintenance project to Granite Construction company with their bid of $374,159.70. Council Member Mark Cottrell seconded the motion. It was unanimously approved by the Council (0:26) 6.2 Approve/Deny Auditing services Council Member Mark Cottrell made a motion to approve the auditing services for Fruit Heights City to Gilbert & Stewart; CPA’s Council Member Florence Sadler seconded the motion. It was unanimously approved by the Council (0:27) 6.3 Approve June 17, 2025, City Council Minutes Council Member Eileen Moss made a motion to approve June 17,2025 City Council Minutes with the recommended changes Council Member Shon Stevenson seconded the motion. It was unanimously approved by the Council (0:27) TABLED ITEMS: None CALENDAR: 8.1 July 22, 2025, Planning Commission Meeting 8.2 August 5, 2025, City Council Meeting 8.3 August 19, 2025, City Council Meeting PAST DISCUSSION ITEMS: Firework Map Discussion – June 3, 2025, Council Meeting The Firework Restriction Map was previously discussed during the June 3, 2025, City Council meeting. Council Member Moss made a motion to bring the map forward for discussion. The motion was seconded by Council Member Stevenson, and the motion passed unanimously, with all members in favor. The City Council revisited the discussion on fire safety and fireworks use, particularly in light of a recent fire believed to have been caused by illegal fireworks in an illegal location. Smoke from the fire was visible and noticeable to residents, highlighting the increased wildfire risk. The city is experiencing worsening drought conditions, as confirmed by updated state data. Council members emphasized the growing danger, especially with the upcoming Pioneer Day (July 24th) holiday. The council discussed the Davis County Fire Restriction Map, which would prohibit fireworks east of Highway 89, Nicholls Park, and along the Gailey Trail. The map aligns with recent updates from the state’s Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) assessments and boundary changes. Council members Stevenson agreed the map should be recognized and enforced for the remainder of 2025, rather than adopted indefinitely. This allows flexibility for future adjustments based on drought status and updated fire data. Staff will actively inform residents about the restrictions through printed maps and outreach, especially to neighborhoods within the restricted zones. Council Moss also emphasized the need to communicate that open flames (e.g., fire pits) are also discouraged during high fire danger periods. The City Council addressed concerns about where residents could be directed to safely use fireworks, particularly since fireworks are no longer allowed at the city building or in high-risk areas east of Highway 89. The city owns very limited public land. Other than Ellison Park, which itself poses fire safety concerns due to surrounding grass, structures, and lack of water access, there is no city-owned property appropriate or safe for launching fireworks. As a result, the city cannot provide or recommend a designated location for firework use Fruit Heights. Council Member Mark Cottrell Made a motion to recognize and enforce the map from Davis County and the State for Fireworks and open flames restrictions. Council Member Florence Sadler seconded the motion. It was unanimously approved by the Council (0:36) CITY COUNCIL REPORTS: Council Member Cottrell reported on a recent meeting with newly appointed Fire Chief Shelby Willis, who visited City Hall just five hours into her new role. She emphasized her commitment to building strong relationships with the city. A fire truck is assigned to Fruit Heights two days before and after the holidays. Chief Willis has continued coordination with City Manager Darren Frandsen regarding fireworks-related issues. The department responded effectively to a recent fire incident, arriving on scene within five minutes. Mayor Pohlman expressed appreciation for the increased fire presence, especially throughout 1800 North, and looks forward to maintaining a strong relationship with the fire department. Preparations for Founder's Day are progressing well. This year’s theme will be "Celebrating the Old West", which will be reflected across event activities and décor. Decor & Equipment Displays: Antique farm equipment and vintage vehicles, the Entertainment: will include a mechanical bull suitable for all ages (with insurance and signed waivers). Lasso practice stations, hay bales with saddles, and photo opportunities including Wanted Posters and a painted buffalo. Promotional materials and advertising will begin rolling out the week of July 22. Due to its popularity, the quilt show will return, and a silent auction of two quilts and other items will run from August 11 through Founder's Day. Council Member Cottrell expressed appreciation for Karen and the City staff for their creativity and effort in refreshing this year’s event. Council members were encouraged to offer their support— particularly on event day—to help with setup, participation, and cleanup. Council Member Sadler expressed appreciation for the efforts put into the 4th of July celebrations, noting it was a fun and successful event. The City’s involvement with the breakfast fundraiser (in partnership with Kaysville and Fruit Heights City Councils) was well received. Councilmember Sadler noted it’s a strong tradition and shared that generous donations were received—including $100 bills in support of the "Star" donation fund. The parade was a fun and engaging event for the community. She thanked the Mayor for representing Fruit Heights at the July 4th devotional. Appreciation was shared by Mr. Hallows, described as a humble unsung hero. Council Member Sadler concluded by thanking all involved and highlighting the importance of community engagement in these events. Councilmember Moss shared resident feedback on garbage volume reduction due to increased recycling efforts. A suggestion was raised to explore the option of offering half-sized garbage cans (as done in Ogden), which could help households with less waste saving money. Preliminary estimate: residents could save approximately $6/month by switching to a smaller black can. The idea aims to encourage recycling and better match container size to actual usage, particularly for two-person households. Staff were asked to research feasibility and the costs of offering multiple can sizes. Council Member Moss acknowledged work by Lisa Ward, who shared fire prevention tips on Facebook as part of the City's ongoing wildfire awareness efforts. Discussion followed about how residents and the City can actively reduce wildfire risk, especially in high-risk zones: Participation in community wildfire prevention programs helps cities maintain favorable insurance and hazard classifications. Actions like yard maintenance, removing vegetation, and clearing defensible space are critical. She encouraged a Ridge Runner article to educate residents about: How their efforts support the City's fire mitigation rating. How some residents have received better homeowners’ insurance rates due to participation. September was suggested as a good time to promote volunteer service projects, particularly focused on fire mitigation. Council Member Moss referenced a resident comment by Mr. Burgold regarding deadwood accumulation on the Gailey Trail. Past service projects have included chainsaw crews and debris removal, and there was interest in reviving or organizing a similar effort. Staff were asked to evaluate whether another community clean-up project could be organized for the trail area. MAYOR REPORT: Mayor Pohlman expressed gratitude to City staff for their hard work and behind-the-scenes efforts that keep the city running smoothly. Special recognition was given to: Farmington Fire Department: Commended for their continued dedication and swift response. He applauded the visibility and activity of the brush truck patrolling the city, offering reassurance to residents that fire safety is being proactively managed. And to the Public Works Department: Thanked for their consistent efforts and commitment to city services and maintenance. CITY STAFF REPORTS: Public Works Department Leonard: reported All city parks, including Ellison, Creekview, and Green, are now equipped with Beehive smart irrigation timers. This upgrade is part of the city’s water conservation efforts and will help manage water use more efficiently. E-Bike Damage to Parks - Mr. Leonard reported ongoing issues with e-bike riders causing damage to city parks, particularly by breaking sprinkler heads. Currently, 3–4 sprinkler heads are being replaced weekly, each costing approximately $80, amounting to $240–$320 in weekly repairs. Nichols Park and City Hall were identified as the areas experiencing the most damage. City Manager Frandsen reported a recent increase in vandalism across several cities, including Fruit Heights. Public restrooms and tunnels have been primary targets, with the Fruit Heights Tunnel suffering significant damage over the weekend, including graffiti and physical damage. The Davis County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating these incidents. In one case, a juvenile was caught vandalizing the tunnel and was issued a $300 penalty by the court. However, Mr. Frandsen emphasized that this amount is insufficient, as repainting the tunnel typically costs the city approximately $750 in materials alone. To better align restitution with actual expenses, Frandsen has requested that future court-ordered penalties consult the city’s Consolidated Fee Schedule to ensure full cost recovery for repairs and maintenance. CLOSED SESSION: ADJOURNMENT: Council Member Eileen Moss made a motion to adjourn the meeting with Council Member Shon Stevenson seconding the motion. It was unanimously approved by the Council. (7:51) Not approved until signed. /S/: _____________________________ Hailee Ballingham, City Deputy Recorder Date approved by City Council: August 5, 2025