Neighborhood Districts

Neighborhood District 5 Meeting Minutes – June 18, 2025 Conducting: Neighborhood District 5 Chair Daniel Friend Attendance: 136 (95 in person, 41 on Zoom) Introduction of 2025 Candidates for Mayor Marsha Judkins introduced herself as a candidate for mayor of Provo. She expressed her appreciation for the great communities, people, and city employees in Provo. Judkins stated that she was running because she believed the city could do better and that there were pockets of the city that didn't feel as listened to. She mentioned her experience of living in Provo for over four decades, raising seven children, and having 13 grandchildren. Judkins also highlighted her previous roles as a neighborhood chair, school board member, and state legislator. Eric Mutch introduced himself as a candidate for Provo mayor. He acknowledged Provo City's recent recognition as the best-run city in the nation. Mutch emphasized that he was running because he believed fresh perspectives were good and that cycling through leadership was beneficial. He stated that his slogan, "Mutch better for Provo," was both a pun on his name and a mission statement. Mutch mentioned that he was a lifelong Provo native, had been an entrepreneur for seven years, and understood what it was like to raise a family and run a business in the area. Michelle Kaufusi, the current mayor, introduced herself as a candidate for re-election. She emphasized her focus on building strong relationships and highlighted achievements during her tenure, including park enhancements, increased public safety, and job creation. Kaufusi mentioned the new airport project, which brings in $200 million annually to the city. She also noted that since becoming mayor, over $340 million had been brought in from grants and outside funding, compared to $111 million in the 20 years prior. Kaufusi stressed the importance of exploring all funding options before turning to taxpayers. Thatcher Alain Longman introduced himself as a young candidate for mayor. He expressed his interest in the future and his belief in providing citizens with the ability to live the lives they want without feeling pressured. Longman focused on taxation and the importance of allocating funding to areas that citizens desire most. He envisioned a world that's better, cleaner, greener, and healthier for everyone, achievable through proper leadership and foresight. Introduction of 2025 Candidates for City Council District 2 A representative introduced Sally Clayton, who was not present. Clayton was described as running for Provo City Council to ensure well-rounded, qualified candidates on the ballot. Her background in the tech industry, finance operations, and nonprofit sector was highlighted. Clayton was said to be passionate about collaboration and believes in an efficient, effective government that serves all community members. Jeff Whitlock introduced himself as a candidate for Provo City Council District 2. He shared an anecdote about finding car keys in a park with a friendly note, which he felt encapsulated why he loves Provo. Whitlock mentioned his background in economics from BYU and his work experience with McKinsey and Company, where he worked on government efficiency projects. He expressed his desire to help improve the city's finances, preserve assets like Slate Canyon, and ensure the completion of recent promises made by the city. Hannah Peterson introduced herself as a candidate for City Council District 2. She emphasized her long-term residency in Provo and her involvement in neighborhood activities. Peterson highlighted her observations of effective leadership, noting that the most impactful leaders prioritize the voice of residents. She expressed her passion for that type of leadership and her desire to be a leader who listens, communicates, and collaborates. Peterson also mentioned her love for the outdoors and her passion for saving natural resources in district 2. Introduction of 2025 Candidates for City Council District 5 Sam Blackburn introduced himself as an undergraduate student at BYU studying economics. He focused on the housing issues in Provo, stating that he was tired of paying too much in rent and understood residents' concerns about noisy college students moving in next door. Blackburn emphasized the need for more housing in town, especially in areas closest to BYU. Rachel Whipple, the current City Councilor for District 5, introduced herself via Zoom. She explained that she was attending a family reunion in Tennessee. Whipple expressed her love for Provo, particularly the downtown and pioneer neighborhoods. She described her role as a city councilor as partly customer service, helping to connect residents with solutions to their problems. Whipple emphasized how residents' concerns inform her policy decisions and arguments with fellow councilors. Shay Aslett introduced himself as a candidate running for the same district. He expressed his love for downtown Provo and belief in western values. Aslett stated that following these values and being competitive in attracting families was the key to the city's future success. Tim Jafek was not present to introduce himself. Introduction of 2025 Candidates for City Council Citywide I. Katrice MacKay introduced herself as the incumbent running for the citywide position. She expressed her enjoyment of the role over the past four years and emphasized her responsiveness to citizen emails and issues. MacKay highlighted her involvement with various entities and boards, such as UDOT, UTA, MAG, and the Provo Housing Authority. She mentioned the learning curve she experienced and her excitement for a potential second term, having overcome that initial learning period. Adam Shin introduced himself as a candidate for City Council Citywide. He expressed his concern for Provo's future and his desire to help maintain a strong city for years to come. Shin mentioned his experience serving on Provo's Planning Commission and highlighted challenges such as budget, home affordability, and infrastructure. He pledged to fight for safe streets, affordable homes for families, protecting the outdoors, and a balanced long-term financial budget. Shin also emphasized his belief in individual rights and personal freedom. Tom Fifita Sitake Sr. introduced himself, mentioning that he moved to Provo from Hawaii in December 1982. He expressed his love for the city and his history of volunteering for five mayors. Sitake emphasized the importance of relationships and his respect for the other candidates. He concluded by stating his belief that Provo City will be fine and encouraged doing the best for the community. Proposed plan for 23 acres at 1095 S 500 W (Provo Towne Centre), including changes to the General Plan from Commercial to Transit Oriented Development, and changes from the Manufactured Home Park Zone and the Regional Shopping Center Zone to the Interim Transit Oriented Development Zone Justin Long from Brixton Capital introduced himself and the project. He explained that Brixton Capital is a private real estate group focused on commercial properties with experience in retail, multifamily, office, and hospitality sectors. Long mentioned that Brixton Capital has owned Provo Town Center since 2016 and highlighted recent changes, including the addition of a full-service Target store. Long discussed the secular shift in shopping habits away from indoor malls to outdoor-oriented retail environments, which accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the growing demand for mixed-use developments that promote walkability and proximity to transit centers. Robert Schmidt from PEG Companies introduced himself and the company, mentioning their 22-year history in Provo and previous developments in the area. Schmidt explained PEG's philosophy of reimagining communities and building properties with resort-style amenities. The presenters then outlined the proposed plan for the redevelopment: ● Over 80 townhomes for sale ● 1300 apartment units ● Development in 5 phases over approximately 8 years ● 9% of units affordable at 80% Area Median Income (AMI) level ● 3% of units affordable at 60% AMI level ● Retention of Target, JCPenney, and Cinemark as anchor tenants ● Reduction of commercial space from approximately 1 million square feet to 600,000 square feet ● Creation of a central plaza and community-focused environment ● Improved vehicular, pedestrian, and bike access The presenters showed renderings and a site plan of the proposed development, emphasizing the creation of gathering spaces, the integration of residential and commercial areas, and the importance of creating a sustainable, mixed-use project. Following the presentation, residents asked questions and expressed concerns about various aspects of the project: ● Green space and seating areas: A resident suggested including more trees and seating throughout the open spaces to make them more inviting for people to spend time in, rather than just pass through. ● Construction timeline and impact: Questions were raised about the timing of construction in relation to the University Avenue bridge project and how it might affect traffic flow. ● Housing and Transit Reinvestment Zone (HTRZ): Concern for future property taxes being returned to the property owner and not going to the schools. The developers confirmed they were requesting to apply for the HTRZ, a state-run program that provides tax incentives for qualifying projects. ● Mobile home park residents: Concerns were expressed about the fate of current residents in the mobile home park, which would be replaced by townhomes in the proposed plan. The developers acknowledged the impact and stated they would work with each tenant individually, following state regulations regarding notice periods. ● Affordability and local businesses: Questions were raised about maintaining affordability for both housing and commercial spaces, and how local businesses might be affected by the redevelopment. ● Traffic and parking: Residents expressed concerns about the proposed roundabout in the central area and its impact on pedestrian safety and community feel. The developers explained their approach to balancing vehicular access with pedestrian-friendly design. ● Family-friendly amenities: Several residents emphasized the need for more family-oriented spaces and amenities, particularly for children. ● Indoor spaces: Some residents expressed disappointment about the loss of indoor mall space, particularly for winter activities and community gatherings. ● Environmental considerations: Questions were raised about water usage and sustainability measures in the project. ● Integration with surrounding neighborhoods: Residents asked about how the new development would connect with and impact nearby residential areas. The developers addressed these concerns, emphasizing that the project was still in the early stages and that many details were yet to be finalized. They expressed willingness to consider residents' feedback as they move forward with the planning process. Neighborhood Coordinator Rachel Breen explained the next steps in the development process: ● The developers are still going through the review process with city staff. ● Once the plans pass review, the proposal will go to the Planning Commission and then to the City Council to approve the General Plan Map and Zone Map amendments. ● Residents can make public comments at the Planning Commission and City Council hearings. Residents can also email the Planning Commission at dspublichearings@provo.gov, the City Council at council@provo.gov, or submit feedback online at www.opencityhall.provo.org. ● If the Zone changes and General Plan amendments are approved, the developers will then submit a Project Plan application, which will go before the Planning Commission for more public feedback. Proposed Matching Grant The chair introduced a proposal for a matching grant to install a solar-powered "Your Speed" radar sign on 100 North between 900 West and 500 West for westbound traffic. The cost of the sign was $3,186, which would use about half of the available grant money for the year. After some discussion about the effectiveness of such signs and the process for approving the grant, a vote was called. The motion passed with 9 votes in favor and 2 opposed. Traffic Study Requests The chair introduced three requests for traffic studies: ● 200 North and 400 East ● 500 North between 900 West and 500 West ● 100 South between 900 West and 500 West It was noted that the neighborhood is limited to five traffic studies per year, and two had already been conducted. After some discussion about the potential impact of student traffic and upcoming construction projects, a motion was made to reconsider these requests at the next meeting (September 17, 2025). The motion passed unanimously. Public Comment During the public comment period, several residents raised concerns and made suggestions: ● A resident inquired about the lack of nightlife on Center Street, noting that many businesses close early, especially on weekdays. ● Another resident emphasized the importance of community involvement and enforcement of existing laws, particularly regarding occupancy limits in rental properties. ● A resident provided information about Katrice MacKay's newsletter, which informs residents about weekend events in Provo. ● Concerns were raised about new developments being built very close to existing structures, potentially disrupting neighborhood cohesion. ● A code enforcement officer introduced himself and discussed the unique challenges of District 5, encouraging residents to stay involved and report issues. ● A resident suggested the need for more integrated and family-friendly development as the city prepares for potential growth related to the upcoming Olympics. Adjournment The chair thanked everyone for their participation and adjourned the meeting. Next Neighborhood District 5 Meeting will be Wednesday, September 17, 2025.