City Council

Minutes of the Mfflcreek City Council January 13, 2025 6:00 p.m. Work Meeting 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting The City Council of Millcreek, Utah, met in a public work meeting and regular meeting on January 13, 2025, at City Hall, located at 1330 E. Chambers Avenue, Millcreek, UT 84106. The meeting was recorded for the City's website and had an option for online public comment. PRESENT: Council Members City Staff Jeff Silvestrini, Mayor Francis Lilly, Assistant City Manager Silvia Catten, District 1 Elyse Sullivan, City Recorder Thom DeSirant, District 2 Rita Lund, Cornrnunications Director Cheri Jackson, District 3 John Brems, City Attorney Bev Uipi, District 4 Kurt Hansen, Facilities Director Lisa Dudley, HR-Finance Director Aimee McConkie, Millcreek Common Executive Director Lacy Gill, Community Life Business Development Manager Attendees: Rick Hansen, Aubrey Reichert, Laura Renshaw, Lt. Lovato, David Grow, Gene Hayes, Amy Mills, Conrad Reichert WORK MEETING - 6:00 p.m. TIME COMMENCED: 6:00 p.m. Mayor Silvestrini called the work meeting to order. 1. Public Market Review; Aimee McConkie, Millcreek Common Executive Director and Lacy Gill, Community Life Business Development Manager Aimee McConkie reported on the city hall public market from 2024. The market vision was to provide opportunities for local businesses and artisans to showcase and sell their products and develop and enhance connection between local business and the comi'nunity. She showed a news clip on the market from Fox 13 News. The vendor gross sales totaled $160,257. Millcreek's revenue (fees and consigninent) totaled $66,484. Council Member Catten asked if some of the same markets would come back. McConkie said yes and noted they use a corni'nittee of experts for each market for vendor selection, market organization, and grand opci'iiiig dctail. Tlicy do collalyorations witli otliet cutities. Tlit; cuiibigninen'l inodel works wi'th Millcreek City Council Meeting Minutes 13 January 2025 Page 2 of 6 a 75/25 model which allows Millcreek to cover operating expenses and is favorable to vendors (based on comparative markets). Layering with events on the Common complements the market. The first year was challenging but the Community Life Department knows how to improve for the market's second year. The Mercantile, a non-rotating store front, will open on January 24111. There may be long-term options for the remaining four store fronts, such as a pro shop. A pro shop could have skate equipment and assist with gear fittings. McConkie is looking for more collaborations/partnerships. She presented the proposed 2025 market calendar. Mayor Silvestrini said numerous cities and entities have toured city hall and enjoy what Millcreek is doing. Council Member Uipi asked if other chambers were going to be involved in the Black Chamber Market. McConkie said the Utah Black Chamber Market would be during Black History Month. Other chapters would not be involved in this event, but some had their own events in the summer, such as Pacific Islanders. Council Member Uipi appreciated the Big Boom Bash on New Years Eve. 2. New Annual Conffict of Interest Form for Elected Officials; John Brems, City Attorney John Brems said per H.B. 80 in the 2024 legislative session, municipalities and counties are required to post conflict of interest disclosure statements online, regardless of budget. Officeholders are to complete a written statement per guidelines (UCA 20A-1 1-1604(6)). These statements are due between January 1-31 of each year in which the office holder holds office. No later than 10 business days after the day on which the elected officer submits the written disclosure statement the recorder shall post an eIectronic copy of the written disclosure on the municipality's website and provide the Lt. Governor with the link to the webpage. The written disclosure must remain posted until the elected officer leaves office. Brems then provided the council with the fornn to fill out. Council Member Catten asked if the elected officer had to refile the statement if something changed throughout the year. Brems said they would update it the following January. The council asked some clarifying questions about the fom. 3. Update on the Comprehensive Code Update; Francis Lffly, Assistant City Manager Francis Lilly gave an overview of the comprehensive code update timeline, which started in 2022 with code assessment, initial interviews, and survey. In 2022-2023 there were stakeholder committee evaluations. In 2023-2024 individual chapters were reviewed by public bodies. In 2023 there was neighborhood outreach on R-1 and R-2/RCOZ updates. In 2025 there was neighborhood outreach on recodification. He reported that 18 code chapters were reviewed individually by community councils, the planning commission, and the city council. Early adoption of landscaping, parking, subdivisions, R-1/RCOZ updates, Forestry Recreation Estate Zone, signs, and Village Center Special Districts had already taken place. Most property owners received at least two mailed notices (about 43,000 pieces of mail total). The code update was published in five printed city newsletter articles. Online there was a link to each proposed chapter which included a summary, the proposed text, and a link to the staff report. The new code amendments for Millcreek bring significant improvements to zoning, application procedures, and plaru'iing standards. The number of commercial zones will be reduced firom three to two, and the number of FR zones will decrease from five to one. The Millcreek City Council Meeting Minutes 13 January 2025 Page 3 of 6 RCOZ and FCOZ zones are being eliminated, although their standards will remain in place, and the complexities of overlay zones, including the airport overlay zone, are being removed. A major change includes the clarification of application procedures, creating consistent and user-friendly guidance for 24 different planning application types, supported by easy-to- understand tables. Additionally, every use referenced in the code is now clearly defined as either proibited or permitted, a previously absent feature. The building envelope requirements for R-I, AG, and R-2 zones have been made more adaptable, considering different lot sizes and circumstances, addressing feedback from the community. Changes to the landscape ordinance also help residents take advantage of the Utah Water Savers Grant Program. In the Forestry Recreation Estate Zone, a new five-acre lot size minimum will protect buildable sites. The Village Center Special District ordinance has advanced the city's economic development goals, while improved sign standards may reduce the number of billboards. Subdivision standards have been updated to ensure compliance with state statutes, and parking standards have been revised to support affordable housing development. These standards include a new parking category for affordable housing and specific requirements for studies and plans. The code has been modernized with clearer tenninology and more accessible tables, ensuring greater transparency, and efficiency in planning and development. Lilly reported the proposed code had about 24,000 fewer words that the existing code. Some chapters that have not been reviewed by public bodies included: general provisions, most definitions, temporary uses and structures, nonconformities, floodplain hazards mitigation, outdoor lighting, animal regulations, and special business land use regulations. In most cases, proposed standards were significantly the same as current standards. Approval of the recodification of the zoning and subdivision code would start with the community councils and plaruiing coini'nission in February and move to the city council in March. Mayor Silvestrini asked when the fee schedule amendments would take place. Lilly anticipated the budget would be amended in April. Lilly asked the council and elaborated on the following policy questions: a Should we exempt existing dwellings from our lighting standards? a Should we consider a maximum impervious surface coverage for residential parcels? What about 2 driveways? Are there areas in CCOZ, such as across from existing cominercial uses, where a stepback may not be necessary? Should we exempt existing dwellings from our lighting standards? Should we consider a maximum impervious surface coverage for residential parcels? What about 2 driveways? Are there areas in CCOZ, such as across from existing cominercial uses, where a stepback may not be necessary? Lilly thanked John Brems for his efforts. Mayor Silvestrini and Council Member Uipi thanked Lilly for his work. Lilly said his team did a good job with presentations. Council Member Catten asked if the policy questions would be asked of the community councils and planning cornrnission. Lilly said yes. 4. Staff Reports There were none. Millcreek City Council Meeting Minutes 13 January 2025 Page 4 of 6 5. Discussion of Agenda Items, Correspondence, and/or Future Agenda Items Council Member Jackson moved to go into closed session at 6:43 p.m. under Utah Code section 52-4-205(a) discussion of the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health of an individual. Council Member Catten seconded. The Recorder called the vote. Council Member Catten voted yes, Council Member DeSirant voted yes, Council Member Jackson voted yes, Council Member Uipi voted yes, and Mayor Silvestrini voted yes. The motion passed unanimously. Council Member Jackson moved to go back into the public meeting at 6:52 p.m. Council Member DeSirant seconded. The Recorder called the vote. Council Member Catten voted yes, Council Member DeSirant voted yes, Council Member Jackson voted yes, Council Member Uipi voted yes, and Mayor Silvestrini voted yes. The motion passed unanimously Council Member Jackson moved to adjourn the work meeting at 6:54 p.m. Council Member DeSirant seconded. Mayor Silvestrini called for the vote. Council Member Catten voted yes, Council Member DeSirant voted yes, Council Member Jackson voted yes, Council Member Uipi voted yes, and Mayor Silvestrini voted yes. The motion passed unanimously. REGULAR MEETING - 7:00 p.m. TIME COMMENCED: 7:01 p.m. 1. Welcome, Introduction and Preliminary Matters 1.1 Pledge of Allegiance Mayor Silvestrini called the meeting to order and led the pledge of allegiance. 1.2 Proclamation of WGU Day in Millcreek Mayor Silvestrini said Western Governors University (WGU) is a leader in teacher education and provides valuable contributions to society by preparing teachers who play a vital role in shaping future generations. The university's innovative approach to online learning has made higher education more accessible, affordable, and flexible for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including working professionals, parents, and lifelong learners. As of November 2024, WGU serves nearly 9,500 active students in Utah, with a median student age of 32, highlighting its role in supporting those balancing work, family, and education. Three-quarters of students are pursuing graduate degrees, and the university offers degrees in high-demand fields such as business, healthcare, IT, and teaching. Additionally, WGU helps bridge workforce gaps by preparing graduates for critical roles in these sectors. A core mission of WGU is to create opportunities for first-generation college students, with 70% of Utah students being the first in their families to attend college. The university also supports military-connected individuals, with 10% of Utah students having military ties. WGU serves both urban and rural communities, with a growmg impact on Utah's educational landscape. Since its inception in 1997, WGU has awarded over 400,000 degrees nationwide, with more than 25,000 degrees granted to Utah residents, making a lasting difference in individuals' lives and in the broader cominunity Millcreek City Council Meeting Minutes 13 January 2025 Page 5 of 6 WGU exemplifies a modern educational model that addresses student debt concerns while providing flexible learning options for busy students. The university's contributions to education and workforce development are deeply appreciated, and their continued efforts are celebrated today. The mayor proclaimed the following: WHEREAS, Western Governors University (WGU), the nation's largest nonprofit private university, is headquartered in Millcreelc, Utah, with executive offices and a state-of-the-art nursingsimulation jab, providingnearly 1,000 jobs and drivingsignificanteconomic impact; and WHEREAS, Millcreek and WGUhave recently partnered to create pathways for professional development and successfor City ofMillcreek employees,including exclusive scholarship opporttmities at WGU; and WHEREAS, in 2021, the State of Utah partnered with WGUto expand affordable, high-quality postsecondary opportunities for residents ofMillcreelc, SaltLake County, and Utah; and WHEREAS, WGUaddresses critical workforce needs by offering degrees (!72(/certificates in business,health, teaching, and IT - fields essential to Utah's local and statewide economy; and WHEREAS, WGU's online, competency-basedmodel empowers midcareer professionals and traditionally underserved populations to advance their education while living and worlcing in Millcreek and surrounding communities; and TVHEREAS, more than 9,400 Utahns are currently enrolled at WGU - including nearly 3,000 in SaltLake County and over 450 inMillcreek - earning riew knowledge and skills and helping ensure their community remains a great place to live, worlc, arid raise families; and TVHEREAS, WGUhas awarded nearly 30,000 degrees across Utah - including more than 9,200 in SaltLake County and over 1,300 in Millcreek - producing business leaders, nurses, teachers, and IT professionals who fitel the state's economic growth. NOW, THEREFORE, BE ITKNOWN, I, Jeff Silvestrini, Mayor ofMillcreek, with the City Covmcil concurring, do hereby proclaim January 15, 2025, as "WGUDay." IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have set my hand and caused to be affixed the seal ofMillcreek this day I 3"' day ofJanuary 2025. Gene Hayes, Senior Vice President of Regional Operations, said WGU's mission was to change lives for the better by creating pathways to opportunity. They provide high quality, affordable education. David Grow, Chief Operating Officer, commended Millcreek for the new city hall and for the partnership with WGU. He appreciated the city's support and thanked the council for the recognition. 1.3 Public Comment Laura Renshaw, Millcreek Library Manager, shared that the Salt Lake County Library system was recently recognized as one of the top ten circulating libraries in the entire country. Over 12.5 million items were circulated last year, the Millcreek branch had about 600,000 items. She announced new initiatives at the library and mentioned the A-Z databases. Amy Mills, Aubrey Reichert, and Conrad Reichert promoted the Technology Student Association STEM Niglit on Fcbruaiy 20fll from 6-8:30pm at Evcrgreeii Juuioi Higli Millcreek City Council Meeting Minutes 13 January 2025 Page 6 of 6 School and invited the council to attend. Mayor Silvestrini noted he had attended the prior year and said the event was fun. 2. Reports 2.1 Mayor's Report Mayor Silvestrini reported the city council would be having a strategic meeting with the department directors on January 15'. 2.2 City Council Member Reports Council Member Catten reported the Central Wasatch Commission Symposium was held at Millcreek City Hall. The South Salt Lake Vally Mosquito Abatement would likely increase property tax rates this year. The last increase was in 2002, and it decteased in 2009. The increase would be about $1 per year. Council Member Uipi noted that Jed Jensen, Millcreek Common Zamboni driver, recently passed away. 2.3 Staff Reports There were none. 3. Consent Agenda 3.1 Approval of December 16, 2024 Work Meeting and Regular Meeting Minutes Council Member Jackson moved to approve the minutes from December 16, 2024. Council Member Uipi seconded. Mayor Silvestrini called for the vote. Council Member Catten voted yes, Council Member DeSirant voted yes, Council Member Jackson voted yes, Council Member Uipi voted yes, and Mayor Silvestrini voted yes. The motion passed unanimously. 4. New Items for Subsequent Consideration There were none. 5. Calendar of Upcoming Meetings * City Council Special Mtg. 1/15/25 8:00 a.m. * Planning Commission Mtg. 1/15/25 6:00 p.m. * City Council Mtg. 1/27/25 7:00 p.m. ADJOURNED: Council Member Uipi moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:31 p.m. Councn Member Jackson seconded. Mayor Snvestrini called for the vote. Council Member Catten voted yes, Council Member DeSirant voted yes, Council Member Jackson voted yes, Council Member Uipi voted yes, and Mayor Silvestrini voted yes. The motion passed unanimously. APPROVED: Date /,,,L 2,CZS' Jeff Silvestrini, Mayor Attest: Efmn, City Recorder