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 Redevelopment Agency Governing Board Stormwater Service District Regular Meeting Agenda 5:30 PM, Tuesday, June 03, 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 Travis Hoban Councilor Rachel Whipple Deputy Mayor Isaac Paxman Chief Administrative Officer Scott Henderson City Attorney Brian Jones City Recorder Heidi Allman Conducting: Chair Gary Garrett Excused: Councilor Katrice MacKay Prayer – Hannah Petersen Pledge of Allegiance – Councilor Christensen Presentations, Proclamations, and Awards 1 A ceremony for the pinning of firefighter badges. (25-007) 0:11:48 Chief Headman expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities within the Provo Fire Department this year, noting that eight new firefighters had been hired. He introduced the first five, explaining that although they were already trained as firefighters and EMTs, they completed an additional eight-week recruit camp led by Training Battalion Chief Ryan Risky to become familiar with Provo’s specific procedures and operations. He noted that the remaining three firefighters were hired as laterals, meaning they came with prior fire service experience, and all were certified paramedics. The firefighters recognized were Statler Bascom, Todd McMillan, Hunter Thomason, Daniel Sanchez, Zach Stopper, Brandon Kuhlman, Scott Beardall, and Jeff Wise. Heidi Allman, City Recorder, administered the oath of office to the group. 2 A presentation regarding the FY 2026 Provo City Citizens Budget (25-025) 0:26:30 Megan McMillan, Council Intern, presented the 2026 Citizens Budget, which is based on the tentative fiscal year 2026 budget. She explained that the document summarizes key budget highlights and will be shared on the Council’s website and social media after final adoption. She noted that total projected revenues and transfers in are nearly $307 million, with explanations provided for major revenue sources, including taxes, fees, and transfers. Sales tax revenues are projected at approximately $27 Provo City Council Meeting – June 3, 2025 Page 1 of 8  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. million for FY 2026. On the expenditure side, total projected costs and transfers out are around $348 million, with the general fund accounting for $89 million—primarily allocated to police, fire, and parks. Capital projects are budgeted at $78.53 million, with the largest investments going to energy, the airport, and wastewater. Featured projects include the rebuilding of the substation transmission system. Megan also highlighted cost-saving efforts across departments, such as reduced travel, grant use, policy changes, and AI integration. A new section highlights city achievements and how this year’s budget supports long-term financial goals. The final page lists contact information for the Mayor and Council Members, outlines the budget adoption process, and links to the full tentative budget. Chair Garrett expressed appreciation for the Citizens Budget, noting that it makes important financial information more accessible and understandable for Provo residents. He reminded the group that the first public hearing on the budget would take place that evening, with a second hearing scheduled for two weeks. He also noted that the Council had tentatively approved the budget two weeks prior and would take a final vote at the second hearing. Public Comment Chair Garrett read the public comment preamble and opened the public comment period. John Hale, of Provo, shared a comparison between the response to migrants in Martha's Vineyard and attitudes he perceives among some residents in Provo. He described how initial support for sanctuary policies shifted once migrants were physically present in the community, suggesting a parallel with how some individuals in Provo may express compassion for those struggling with addiction—so long as it does not impact their own comfort or neighborhood. He illustrated this point through a satirical prayer, highlighting the tendency to want virtue without hardship and to help others at a distance. He concluded by referencing both federal and spiritual obligations: under the Fair Housing Act, local governments must provide reasonable accommodations for sober living homes unless it creates an undue burden, and spiritually, quoting Thomas S. Monson, he emphasized the importance of seeing people not as they are, but as they may become. Gregory Weffer, of Provo, introduced himself as a resident of a sober living house and expressed gratitude for the support he has received from John Hale, noting that John has played a significant role in helping him improve his life. He encouraged the Council to support John’s efforts, stating that doing so would also benefit him personally. Chair Garrett closed public comment. Action Agenda 3 A resolution appointing Ryan York to the Metropolitan Water Board. (25-031) 0:36:57 Motion: An implied motion to approve Resolution 2025-24, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. Gordon Haight, Public Works Director, shared the Metropolitan Water Board allows Provo City to designate a representative responsible for overseeing the city’s water supply and distribution. He enthusiastically recommended Ryan York for this role, noting that Ryan has served the city for 28 years and is currently the Water Superintendent. Gordon praised Ryan’s leadership in maintaining Provo’s Provo City Council Meeting – June 3, 2025 Page 2 of 8  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. high-quality water system—recognized as the third best in the United States—and added that Ryan is aiming for the top spot. He formally recommended Ryan York as the city’s designee to the Metropolitan Water Board. Councilor Bogdin asked why Mr. York decided to step up for this job. Mr. York expressed his willingness to serve on the Metropolitan Water Board, stating that his predecessor, who taught him everything he knows about water, had served on the board for many years. Following his predecessor’s passing, Ryan felt a personal responsibility to carry on that legacy. He noted that the position was later filled by the former Public Works Director but has remained vacant since their departure. Ryan shared that he was happy to step in and fill the role. Chair Garrett called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, Hoban, and Whipple in favor. 4 A resolution to place a 1.029 acre parcel located adjacent to South Fork Park in South Fork Canyon on the surplus property list and authorize the mayor to dispose of the property. (25-061) 0:39:59 Motion: An implied motion to approve Resolution 2025-24, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. Tara Riddle, Property Administrator, presented a proposal to deed a one-acre parcel adjacent to South Fork Park to the Giles family, following a 2017 property trade agreement. The City had originally entered into a 99-year lease with the family, with the understanding that the property would be deeded upon request—which has now been made. The parcel has been reviewed and approved for surplus by all relevant departments, with easements retained for pedestrian use and City access. Hikers will be encouraged to use a new trail system under development in Bunnell Fork, and those parking horse trailers will be directed to nearby designated parking areas. Councilor Christensen asked if the plan would accommodate horse trailers. Ms. Riddle acknowledged that some parking could be allowed near the property but reiterated that the City plans to encourage users to park elsewhere. She mentioned the possibility of marking a designated area for horse trailers, though ideally, users would utilize the equestrian park, which offers ample parking. Chair Garrett invited Doug Robins, Director of Parks and Recreation, to speak about the plans. Mr. Robins stated that James Cornaby had visited the site and assessed a proposed trail alignment that would use the existing bridge and follow the natural contours of the terrain into the canyon, minimizing the need for new trail construction. He noted that there are no current plans to add horse trailer parking across the creek and acknowledged that the existing parking along South Fork Road is already congested and poses safety concerns. He clarified that the trail plan does not include a large parking area and is primarily focused on trail development rather than expanded parking. Provo City Council Meeting – June 3, 2025 Page 3 of 8  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 invited public comments. Catherine Giles, a longtime Provo resident, shared that her family has owned the ranch property near the trail area for generations. She expressed surprise at the suggestion that horse trailers are commonly parked near the site, stating that to her knowledge, only her family has ever done so. While she acknowledged that many cars park in the area for hiking and often leave behind garbage, she emphasized that horse riders are typically respectful and do not contribute to such issues. Catherine added that the horse community she knows has always parked down in the park and rides from there. She questioned who had raised the concern about horse trailer parking and noted that a small group of horseback riders used the trail last year and had a great experience. With no other comments or council discussion, Chair Garrett called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, Hoban, and Whipple in favor. 5 A resolution approving the 2025-29 consolidated plan, and funding recommendations to the first year action plan. (25-051) 0:47:54 Motion: An implied motion to approve Resolution 2025-24, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. Melissa McNalley, Redevelopment Director, presented. She highlighted the CDBG Entitlement Amount and the HOME Entitlement Amounts. She also mentioned this marks the end of the public hearing period. Chair Garrett opened public comment. With none, and no council discussion, he called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, Hoban, and Whipple in favor. 6 A resolution appointing Danny Mitchell as Provo City Constable to serve a six-year term. (25-042) 0:52:05 Motion: An implied motion to approve Resolution 2025-24, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. John Borget, Director of Administrative Services, presented. He informed the Council that Bob Connor, who has served as Provo City’s constable since the opening of the Justice Court, has requested to step down from the role. He commended Mr. Connor for his excellent service. In response, the City initiated the process of selecting a new constable by establishing a nominating commission, which included Councilor Rachel Whipple, Brian Jones, Judge Steve Schreiner, Judge Rick Smith, and Chief Troy Beebe. A request for proposals was drafted, reviewed by the commission, and posted on Bonfire, the state- approved electronic bidding system, for two weeks. Two bids were received. After reviewing the submissions and qualifications, the commission recommended Danny Mitchell as the new Provo City constable. Mr. Borget noted that the recommendation was discussed earlier that day during the Council Provo City Council Meeting – June 3, 2025 Page 4 of 8  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. work session, where Danny Mitchell was present and had the opportunity to answer questions. He concluded by recommending the Council approve the appointment. Chair Garrett opened public comment. With none, he closed public comment and invited a council discussion. Councilor Whipple reflected on the discussion held during the earlier work meeting and expressed appreciation for the thorough selection process. She noted that the City issued a request for proposals for constable services and received two vastly different responses, which gave the nominating commission confidence in their recommendation. She stated that she had the opportunity to speak with Danny Mitchell, the recommended candidate, as well as with individuals who have worked with him, and feels confident in his qualifications. She also shared that the Council explored the alternative of having Provo’s police department provide court services but determined that it was not feasible. Chief Beebe indicated that the department does not have the staffing capacity to take on the role and that it would be more costly to use sworn officers than to continue with contracted services. Councilor Whipple pointed out that many constables are retired law enforcement professionals who bring valuable experience and efficiency, which contributes to the cost-effectiveness of the contract model. She concluded by emphasizing that the Justice Court has had a positive experience working with Danny Mitchell and looks forward to continuing that relationship. Chair Garrett called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, Hoban, and Whipple in favor. 7 A resolution approving a lease agreement with PNC Bank for 80 electric golf carts over 5 years. (25-066) 0:56:40 Motion: An implied motion to approve Resolution 2025-24, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. Brett Watson, Golf Professional, presented. He said the resolution would allow the City’s golf course to transition from a fleet of gas-powered carts to electric carts. He explained that the change would come at no additional cost in the first year, with a gradual, incremental implementation over the next five years. Chair Garrett opened public comment. With none, he invited a council discussion. Councilor Handley expressed support for the transition to electric golf carts, reiterating comments he made during the earlier work session. He emphasized that electrifying the fleet is a positive step that will improve air quality and likely enhance customer satisfaction by providing a quieter and less polluting experience. He described the change as a great move forward. Chair Garrett called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, Hoban, and Whipple in favor. Provo City Council Meeting – June 3, 2025 Page 5 of 8  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. 8 A resolution approving a lease agreement with Zion’s Bank for golf course maintenance equipment over 5 years. (25-067) 0:58:44 Motion: An implied motion to approve Resolution 2025-24, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. Mr. Watson explained that this resolution would not only allow the replacement of an aging fleet of maintenance equipment but also accelerate the transition to an all-electric fleet. He stated his belief, as mentioned in the work session, that the City could achieve full electrification in less than five years. By the fifth year of the lease agreement, he hopes the turf maintenance fleet will be both fully electric and autonomous. Chair Garrett opened public comment. with none, and no council discussion, he called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, Hoban, and Whipple in favor. 9 A resolution regarding year-end appropriations in the Airport Fund, General Fund, and Justice Court Fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. (25-063) 1:00:09 Motion: An implied motion to approve Resolution 2025-24, as currently constituted, has been made by council rule. Andrea Wright, Budget Analyst, presented. She reviewed five proposed appropriations for the Council to consider as part of the year-end budget reconciliation process, originally presented at the May 20 work meeting. The first appropriation is $267,000 in the General Fund for police and fire wages. The second is a corresponding $267,000 appropriation to the General Fund to allow reimbursement from the airport for those costs. The third is an $80,000 appropriation for police protective equipment and ammunition. The fourth is $75,000 for unanticipated utility costs related to park maintenance. The fifth and final recommendation is $20,000 for unexpected indigent defense expenses. Chair Garrett opened public comment. With none, and no council discussion, he called for a vote. Vote: The motions passed 6:0 with Councilors Bogdin, Christensen, Garrett, Handley, Hoban, and Whipple in favor. 10 A public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Provo City Budget (25-025) 1:02:25 Mr. Borget explained that the purpose of the public hearing was to give residents an opportunity to share their opinions on the City’s proposed budget. He stated that the total budget is approximately $326.4 million and encouraged residents to view the full document electronically by visiting the City’s website. He also highlighted the Citizens Budget as a helpful resource for a simplified overview. Finally, he confirmed that proper notice for both the current and upcoming public hearings was issued in accordance with state requirements. Provo City Council Meeting – June 3, 2025 Page 6 of 8  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 asked if residents could find the two reports on the same webpage on our site and suggested they be in the same location. He opened the public hearing. With none, he closed the public hearing. He reminded the audience that the next hearing will be on June 17. 11 ***CONTINUED*** An ordinance amending Provo City Code regarding covered parking structures on historic landmark properties. (PLOTA20250179) With no objections, the Provo Municipal Council adjourned and reconvened as the Stormwater Service District Governing Board of Provo City with Chair Garrett conducting. Stormwater Service District 12 A public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Stormwater Service District Budget (25-025) 1:05:27 Ms. Wright stated that the purpose of the public hearing was to provide citizens an opportunity to share their opinions regarding the Storm Water Service District budget for fiscal year 2026, which totals $377,755. She noted that this hearing was noticed at the same time as the public hearings for the City and Redevelopment budgets. As with those hearings, there will be two opportunities for public comment—one at the current meeting and another in two weeks. Councilor Bogdin asked if the submitted corrections had been made since the previous meeting. Ms. Wright said the updated and correct version is available online. Chair Garrett opened public hearing. With none, he closed the public hearing. With no objections, the Stormwater Service District Governing Board adjourned and reconvened as the Redevelopment Agency Governing Board of Provo City with Chair Whipple conducting. Redevelopment Agency of Provo 13 A public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Provo City Redevelopment Agency Budget (25-025) 1:08:02 Ms. Wright explained that the purpose of the public hearing was to allow citizens to provide input on the Provo City Redevelopment Agency budget, which is set at $1,480,791 for fiscal year 2026. She noted that the hearing was properly noticed, along with the public hearings for the City and Storm Water budgets, and that there would be a second opportunity for public comment in two weeks. Chair Whipple opened public hearing period. With none, she closed the public hearing. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent at approximately 6:34 PM. Provo City Council Meeting – June 3, 2025 Page 7 of 8  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. 8th day of July, 2025 Provo City Council Meeting – June 3, 2025 Page 8 of 8