City Council Meetings

Please Note – These minutes have been prepared with a timestamp linking the agenda items to the video discussion. Electronic version of minutes will allow citizens to view discussion held during council meeting. PROVO MUNICIPAL COUNCIL Regular Meeting Agenda 5:30 PM, Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Council Chambers (Room 100) Hybrid meeting: 445 W. Center Street, Provo, UT 84601 or https://www.youtube.com/provocitycouncil Roll Call THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATION WERE PRESENT: Councilor Becky Bogdin Councilor Craig Christensen Councilor Gary Garrett Councilor George Handley Councilor Katrice MacKay Councilor Rachel Whipple Mayor Michelle Kaufusi Chief Administrative Officer Scott Henderson City Attorney Brian Jones Council Executive Director Justin Harrison City Recorder Heidi Allman Conducting: Chair Gary Garrett Excused: Councilor Travis Hoban Prayer – Bridger Lee Jensen Pledge of Allegiance – Councilor Handley Presentations, Proclamations, and Awards 1 Provo City Employee of the Month - May 2025 (25-007) 0:06:50 Mayor Kaufusi expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to recognize an exceptional employee whose dedication and service have positively impacted the community. She emphasized the importance of both teamwork and individual contributions within Provo City. She then invited Energy Director Scott Bunker to present the May 2025 Employee of the Month Award. Scott Bunker enthusiastically recognized Charlie Little as Provo Power’s May 2025 Employee of the Month, praising her as a tremendously talented, dedicated, and effective team member. He shared that she joined the department eight years ago after previously working for the State of Utah, and from the moment of her interview, it was clear she was the right fit. Scott highlighted Charlie’s intelligence, approachability, and exceptional problem-solving skills, particularly her focus and persistence in addressing challenges, even staying late after a recent council meeting to resolve an issue on her own. He read a quote from a colleague describing Charlie as someone who is bomb.com. She leads by example, fosters a supportive environment, and is trusted and valued by her team. Public Comment 0:14:22 Chair Garrett read the public comment preamble and opened the public comment period. Provo City Council Meeting – May 20, 2025 Page 1 of 6  Please Note – These minutes have been prepared with a timestamp linking the agenda items to the video discussion. Electronic version of minutes will allow citizens to view discussion held during council meeting. John Hale, of Provo, shared the story of a man with a difficult past who now lives in his sober living home. He said Greg was born into poverty, suffered a disabling injury as an infant, and experienced significant trauma, including a history of abuse in his family. He later committed a serious crime and served 30 years in prison, where he endured harsh treatment. Initially hesitant, John felt spiritually prompted through a series of unlikely coincidences to allow Greg into his home. While Greg has remained sober since moving in, he presents challenges as a roommate, including hygiene issues and behaviors that make it difficult for John to host guests or have children in the home. John acknowledged the discomfort and stigma surrounding people like Greg but emphasized that, despite everything, Greg is still a child of God. He concluded by quoting Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, reminding the audience that doing the right thing may be uncomfortable but is an important part of Christian discipleship. Alison Andersen, of Mapleton, introduced herself as a Utah native, wife, and mother of four, who is currently on a deeply personal and spiritual healing journey. Speaking as a devoted member of the religion of Singularism, she shared that psilocybin is not a drug to her, but a sacred sacrament used with intention and reverence. After being diagnosed with breast cancer last fall, Allison described how psilocybin ceremonies became a vital spiritual tool in her healing—helping her reconnect with the divine within, calm her anxiety, and face her diagnosis with strength and grace. She emphasized that these ceremonies are not recreational but deeply sacred experiences centered on healing and reflection. She explained that Singularism offers a framework of spiritual integrity, reverence, and accountability. She expressed her support for the proposed spiritual center, noting that it is not just about access, but about creating a safe, respectful space for healing with trained facilitators. She believes this approach could benefit others in the cancer community, regardless of their chosen treatment path. Ryan Hightower, of Vineyard and software engineer and director at a local tech company, shared that despite living a clean lifestyle, avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and even caffeine, he uses psilocybin mushrooms as a sacred practice through the religion of Singularism. He first learned about their potential in 2015 through a podcast discussing promising medical studies showing high success rates for healing mental health conditions with psilocybin. In 2023, during a difficult time in his life, Ryan participated in a psilocybin session guided by an experienced facilitator and based on established clinical protocols. He described the experience as sacred and transformative, bringing emotional healing and a renewed sense of hope in just one day. Ryan urged support for the religious freedom to worship and heal through these practices, emphasizing the deep spiritual significance and life-changing impact they have had for him and others. Jenna Bliecher, of Riverton, shared that she came to Singularism in December 2023 seeking healing and clarity. Through guided psilocybin ceremonies, she released long-held trauma and fear, finding peace and a deeper connection to herself. A key moment was confronting a deep, hidden fear in a safe, sacred setting, which changed her emotional and spiritual health. She emphasized that Singularism is not about escape but about intentional healing and self-discovery. Beyond her personal growth, Jenna has seen others in the community overcome grief, addiction, and disconnection. She believes that as individuals heal, communities become stronger and more compassionate. Bridger Lee Jensen, of Provo and founder of Singularism, addressed the Mayor and Council, expressing gratitude for their service and sharing his deep personal ties to Provo—having grown up there, attended local schools, served on the Provo City Youth Council, and graduated from BYU. Despite suggestions to start his faith community elsewhere, he chose to establish Singularism in his hometown, believing in its mission and constitutional protection. He emphasized that Singularism is helping people safely, Provo City Council Meeting – May 20, 2025 Page 2 of 6  Please Note – These minutes have been prepared with a timestamp linking the agenda items to the video discussion. Electronic version of minutes will allow citizens to view discussion held during council meeting. effectively, and spiritually. Bridger invited council members to visit and tour the center, noting that transparency is central to their practice and encouraging open dialogue and understanding. Brandi Lee, of Kaysville, Brandi Lee, a Kaysville resident who works in Provo, shared her deeply personal journey of loss and healing. After losing her father and brother and going through a divorce in a short span, she spiraled into severe grief and depression, even contemplating suicide. Traditional therapies and medications did not help—until a trusted friend introduced her to psilocybin therapy through Singularism. Brandi described the guided sessions as lifesaving, offering her deep healing, spiritual clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose. Now working at Singularism as a facilitator, she helps others on their healing paths. She emphasized that psilocybin therapy is not about escape, but about meeting life with courage and compassion. She concluded by affirming that they are not criminals, but healers, guides, and survivors defending something sacred and necessary. Chair Garrett closed public comment. Action Agenda 2 A resolution approving a mayoral board appointment. (25-031) 0:28:47 Motion: An implied motion to approve Resolution 2025-24, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. Mayor Kaufusi recommended the reappointment of Mario Markides to the Airport Board for a one-year term, ending June 30, 2026, and submitted the recommendation for the Council’s advice and consent. With no questions from the Council, Chair Garrett called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, MacKay, and Whipple in favor. 3 An ordinance amending the zone map classification of real property, generally located at 3185 West 550 South, from the agricultural (A1.5) zone to the airport industrial (AI) zone. Provo Bay neighborhood. (PLRZ20250011) 0:30:36 Motion: An implied motion to approve Ordinance 2025-34, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. Aaron Ardmore, Planning Supervisor, presented a proposal discussed earlier in the study meeting regarding a property near the airport. He reviewed maps showing the property's aerial view, current zoning, and general plan designation, all of which align with airport-related activity. The proposal involves removing an existing home and developing office and warehouse space under the Airport Industrial Zone. He noted that the plan matches adjacent uses, aligns with the general plan, and is located on a dead-end road (550 South) leading to the airport. Staff supports the proposal and recommends City Council approval. Joel Pilling, applicant, shared that the properties are used as flex warehouse spaces and are currently fully rented, primarily by online retailers. He mentioned having interest in selling part of the new Provo City Council Meeting – May 20, 2025 Page 3 of 6  Please Note – These minutes have been prepared with a timestamp linking the agenda items to the video discussion. Electronic version of minutes will allow citizens to view discussion held during council meeting. development if approved. Joel clarified that all tenants are e-commerce businesses (for example, Binky Bros, Bella Lash, Ionic Metals), not industrial trades like cabinet shops or construction. He noted that the new building will match the existing ones in appearance and be governed by the same HOA bylaws. The development will be consistent with the other two buildings that are already there. Chair Garrett opened public comment. With none, he invited a council discussion. Councilor Whipple commented that she often bikes past the property and has noticed how well maintained it is, with attractive buildings and well-kept grounds. She expressed her support for the proposed expansion, saying she appreciates seeing good people invest in the community in ways that make it more useful and beautiful for everyone. With no other comments, Chair Garrett called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, MacKay, and Whipple in favor. 4 An ordinance amending the zone map classification of real property, generally located at 2000 N Canyon Road, from the one-family residential (R1.8) zone to the one-family residential (R1.6) zone. Pleasant View neighborhood. (PLRZ20250097) 0:35:00 Motion: An implied motion to approve Ordinance 2025-35, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. Nancy Robison, Planner, presented a request to rezone the property from R1-8 to R1-6 to allow for 19 additional single-family building lots at roughly the same elevation as Canyon Road. She explained that grading the hillside would make it possible to extend utilities from nearby parcels, which aligns with the Public Works Department's preferences. Staff support the request, noting that Provo needs more single- family housing and that the proposed subdivision would benefit the area. With direct access to Canyon Road, the project would not impact surrounding neighborhoods. Chair Garrett asked what geotechnical work has been completed so far for the proposed development and what additional studies or evaluations would be required before any permits could be issued. Ms. Robison responded that, while she is not an engineer, the applicant has submitted a geotechnical report that has been reviewed by the city's engineering staff. The report indicates the soil is stable, and reducing the elevation of the hill at the front of the property would not pose a problem for surrounding properties. She also referenced a visual diagram showing the current and proposed elevation changes. Councilor MacKay asked how many feet there are between the existing homes at the top and where the hillside would be cut. Ms. Robison said she did not have that exact information but emphasized that this stage is only for the re-zone. She noted that city engineers would still review all necessary measurements to ensure safety. Councilor MacKay clarified that the proposal would not come back to the Council after this, and Ms. Robison confirmed that it would not. Provo City Council Meeting – May 20, 2025 Page 4 of 6  Please Note – These minutes have been prepared with a timestamp linking the agenda items to the video discussion. Electronic version of minutes will allow citizens to view discussion held during council meeting. Councilor Christensen asked how concerns related to the nearby water canal and related issues are being addressed as part of the proposed development. Ms. Robison explained that the applicant is aware of the issues related to the water canal and would be responsible for addressing them, either by piping or rerouting, based on the direction of the Canal Company or Provo Public Works. The Canal Company conducts its own engineering review and has the final say on how the irrigation water is protected. Public Works would be involved with other grading- related matters, but decisions regarding the canal fall under the authority of the Canal Company. Chair Garrett invited the applicant to add anything to the discussion. Tyson Reynolds, applicant, explained that the canal runs through the property and will be redirected to follow its current general path, with adjustments made to accommodate the development. Each lot will have access to pressurized irrigation, and sufficient water shares are available to be allocated to future homeowners. He confirmed they are waiting for final design approval from the Canal Company. He clarified that the request to rezone from R1.8 to R1.6 is due to the land’s topography. While the current zoning would typically allow for about 21 lots on flat ground, the slope and grading challenges make that impractical. The rezone would allow for more suitable lot shapes and a more aesthetically pleasing layout. Councilor MacKay asked if there would be an HOA, if the homes would all be sold, and if there would be homeowner occupancy required within the HOA. Mr. Reynolds confirmed that there would be an HOA and that all of the homes would be sold. He addressed concerns about rental restrictions, stating that he does not support imposing such limitations on single family homes. While he understands their place in apartment or condominium settings, he believes restrictions would be a burden on homeowners and could limit who is able to live there. He added that the higher price point of the homes, due to land and development costs, will likely deter issues related to rentals, as the homes will be geared toward owner-occupants. Councilor MacKay asked what the price point would be for the homes. Mr. Reynolds said they are looking at close to $1 million per home. Chair Garrett asked if they were intending to market and sell the lots or build the homes and sell them. Mr. Reynolds stated that he plans to build most of the homes himself and then sell them, noting that due to costs and market conditions, this approach makes the most financial sense. However, he is open to allowing individuals to purchase a specific lot and use their own home plan and builder if desired. Councilor Whipple asked for clarification about a small 2,000-square-foot section, which had been briefly discussed earlier in the work meeting. She wanted to know what the plan is for that specific piece of land. Mr. Reynolds said he is considering using the small 2,000-square-foot area as a community amenity, such as a playset or picnic gazebo, maintained by the HOA. He agreed it would serve well as a buffer between the new development and the nearby apartment complex. Provo City Council Meeting – May 20, 2025 Page 5 of 6  Please Note – These minutes have been prepared with a timestamp linking the agenda items to the video discussion. Electronic version of minutes will allow citizens to view discussion held during council meeting. Chair Garrett opened public comment. Matt Wheelright, of Provo representing District 1, spoke on behalf of neighbors in the area affected by the proposed development. He commended the developer for their continued engagement and noted that, overall, residents are pleased with the direction of the plan and supportive of the zone change. He acknowledged that earlier versions of the project caused significant concern, especially due to proposed retaining walls. However, after reviewing the updated grading plan at the Planning Commission, much of that anxiety subsided. He noted there is still some lingering concern about hillside stability and suggested a bond or similar assurance for landscaping and potential impacts to nearby homes. Overall, he conveyed that the community views the current plan as a major improvement and is generally supportive. Paul Evans, of Provo, praised the progress made on the proposed development, especially the shift toward creating multiple single-family lots, which aligns with the community's goal of increasing residential opportunities in Provo. He noted that the location is well-suited for this type of housing. However, he also raised a concern based on recent trends in the neighborhood, where homes are purchased by parents and deeded to student children, who then live in the home and rent out additional space—essentially turning single-family homes into multi-unit student rentals. He warned that while the current plan is positive, there is a long-term risk that these homes may not remain owner-occupied. He concluded by commending Mr. Reynolds for his continued engagement and dedication to the project. Chair Garrett closed public comment and invited a council discussion. Councilor MacKay expressed strong support for the development, commending the developer for building high-end, single-family homes in a suitable location. She said she is confident the homes will sell well and emphasized that this type of housing is much needed in the community. Chair Garrett called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, MacKay, and Whipple in favor. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent at approximately 6:15 PM. 3rd day of June, 2025 Provo City Council Meeting – May 20, 2025 Page 6 of 6