City Council Study Meeting

MINUTES OF COUNCIL STUDY MEETING – OCTOBER 22, 2024 -1- THE WEST VALLEY CITY COUNCIL MET IN ELECTRONIC STUDY SESSION ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2024 AT 4:33 P.M. AT WEST VALLEY CITY HALL, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM, 3600 CONSTITUTION BOULEVARD, WEST VALLEY CITY, UTAH. THE MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER AND CONDUCTED BY MAYOR LANG. THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS WERE PRESENT: Karen Lang, Mayor Lars Nordfelt, Councilmember At-Large Don Christensen, Councilmember At-Large Tom Huynh, Councilmember District 1 Scott Harmon, Councilmember District 2 William Whetstone, Councilmember District 3 Jake Fitisemanu, Councilmember District 4 STAFF PRESENT: Ifo Pili, City Manager Nichole Camac, City Recorder John Flores, Assistant City Manager Eric Bunderson, City Attorney Colleen Jacobs, Police Chief John Evans, Fire Chief Nic Hales, Acting Finance Director Steve Pastorik, CD Director Layne Morris, CPD Director Dan Johnson, Public Works Director Jamie Young, Parks and Recreation Director Jonathan Springmeyer, RDA Director Sam Johnson, Strategic Communications Director Ken Cushing, IT (electronically) APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF STUDY MEETING HELD OCTOBER 8, 2024 The Council considered the Minutes of the Study Meeting held October 8, 2024. There were no changes, corrections or deletions. Councilmember Whetstone moved to approve the Minutes of the Study Meeting held on October 8, 2024, subject to correcting language on page 11. Councilmember Huynh seconded the motion.  MINUTES OF COUNCIL STUDY MEETING – OCTOBER 22, 2024 -2- A voice vote was taken and all members voted in favor of the motion. INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEES FROM SEPTEMBER 2024 John Flores, Assistant City Manager, introduced Paula Melgar, HR Director. Layne Morris, CPD Director, introduced Alison McCain, Animal Shelter Tech. Dan Johnson, Public Works Director, introduced MaKenna Breeze and Lesli Satini, Street Maintenance Workers 1. AWARDS, CEREMONIES, AND PROCLAMATIONS SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 12, 2024 A. A PROCLAMATION DECLARING NOVEMBER 23, 2024 AS "WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY" IN WEST VALLEY CITY Councilmember Harmon offered to read a Proclamation Declaring November 23, 2024 as “World Suicide Prevention Day” in West Valley City at the November 12, 2024 Regular City Council Meeting. REVIEW AGENDA FOR REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 22, 2024 Steve Pastorik, CD Director, mentioned that the Council would be considering GPZ-5- 2024 later this evening. He noted that a change had been made to the development agreement, and new items were added to Exhibit B, specifically numbers 17, 31, and 32. Item 17 stated that no basement entrances would be allowed. Items 31 and 32 reflected updates the Council approved recently for the Redwood Drive property, including a cap of 30% on the number of rental units enforced by the HOA and a rule that no more than four unrelated persons could live together, also enforced by the HOA. Mayor Lang asked why walk-out basements were being prohibited. Steve replied that this would address a concern expressed by the Council regarding boarding homes and making those types of situations more difficult. Mayor Lang asked if these standards should be incorporated into all development agreements moving forward. Steve replied that he would need to speak with the Legal Department. He indicated that his understanding is that the City can’t impose these restrictions, but an HOA can. Mayor Lang verified that the roads would be public. Steve replied yes. Mayor Lang noted that due to the narrowness of the lots, on-street parking may be difficult. Steve stated that there would likely be enough space for one car. Councilmember Harmon stated that his concern is frontage for homes on 6000 West. He indicated that he would like lots to closely match homes across 6000 West which are at  MINUTES OF COUNCIL STUDY MEETING – OCTOBER 22, 2024 -3- least 80 feet. Steve replied that, looking at the price of land and cost to redevelop, this likely wouldn’t work for the applicant if lot counts were reduced. Councilmember Harmon indicated that this is not the City’s concern. Steve stated that this is true if the Council is okay with what is currently on the property now. He indicated that these properties would not likely be able to redevelop with a reduction in lots. Councilmember Fitisemanu asked if feedback had been given by residents. Steve replied that he had received calls, but residents were fine with single family detached homes and were primarily concerned that the property would be developed as apartments or townhomes. Councilmember Whetstone asked if the City can restrict parking on 6000 West without the use of a development agreement. Steve replied yes. Councilmember Huynh stated that he believes the lots need to be larger. Councilmember Whetstone stated that what is currently existing isn’t a great fit for the neighborhood. Upon inquiry by Mayor Lang, members of the Council had no further questions or concerns regarding items listed on the Agenda for the Regular City Council meeting scheduled later this night. PUBLIC HEARINGS SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 12, 2024 B. ACCEPT PUBLIC INPUT REGARDING APPLICATION ZT-11-2024, FILED BY WEST VALLEY CITY, REQUESTING A ZONE TEXT CHANGE TO SECTION 7-6-301 TO ALLOW TATTOO ESTABLISHMENTS AS A PERMITTED USE IN THE BRP, MXD, CC, C- 1, C-2, C-3, AND LI ZONESAND TO REMOVE THE PROHIBITION ON TATTOO ESTABLISHMENTS IN ALL OVERLAY ZONES Mayor Lang informed a public hearing had been advertised for the Regular Council Meeting scheduled November 12, 2024, in order for the City Council to hear and consider public comments regarding Application ZT-11-2024, Filed by West Valley City, Requesting a Zone Text Change to Section 7-6-301 to Allow Tattoo Establishments as a Permitted Use in the BRP, MXD, CC, C-1, C-2, C-3, and LI Zone sand to Remove the Prohibition on Tattoo Establishments in all Overlay Zones. Proposed Ordinance 24-44 related to the proposal to be considered by the City Council subsequent to the public hearing, was discussed as follows: ACTION: ORDINANCE NO. 24-44, AMEND SECTION 7-6-301 TO ALLOW TATTOO ESTABLISHMENTS AS A PERMITTED USE IN THE BRP, MXD, CC, C-1, C-2, C-3, AND LI ZONES AND TO REMOVE THE PROHIBITION ON TATTOO ESTABLISHMENTS IN ALL OVERLAY ZONES Steve Pastorik, CD, discussed proposed Ordinance 24-44 that would amend Section 7-6-301 to Allow Tattoo Establishments as a Permitted Use in the BRP, MXD, CC, C- 1, C-2, C-3, and LI Zones and to Remove the Prohibition on Tattoo Establishments in All Overlay Zones.  MINUTES OF COUNCIL STUDY MEETING – OCTOBER 22, 2024 -4- Written documentation previously provided to the City Council included information as follows: City staff is proposing this change at the direction of the City Council. Currently, tattoo establishments are only allowed in the Manufacturing (M) zone where there is no overlay zone. Permanent cosmetics are allowed in the Mixed Use (MXD), City Center (CC), Neighborhood Commercial (C- 1), General Commercial (C-2), Transitional Commercial (C-3), and Manufacturing (M) zones. In December of 1997, the City Council adopted Ordinance 97-65 that made tattoo establishments a conditional use in the C-3 zone and a permitted use in M zone. In March of 2017, the City Council adopted Ordinance 17-10 that removed tattoo establishments as a conditional use in the C-3 zone. It is unclear how tattoo establishments were handled prior to December of 1997. The following definitions are helpful background information from Section 7-1-103:  “Tattoo Establishment” means any location, place, area, Structure, or business used for the practice or instruction of Tattooing or Body Piercing, excluding Permanent Cosmetics Establishments.  “Tattoo” means a mark or design made on or under the skin by a process of pricking or ingraining an indelible pigment, dye, or ink in the skin, excluding Permanent Cosmetics.  “Body Piercing” means the act of piercing any part of the body of an individual, excepting the ears, for the purpose of allowing the insertion of earrings, jewelry, or similar objects into the body.  “Permanent Cosmetics” means a mark or design made on or under the skin by a process of pricking or ingraining an indelible pigment, dye, or ink in the skin for masking discolorations or cosmetically enhancing facial features which shall follow the natural line of the feature. “Permanent Cosmetics” are limited to eyeliner, eyebrows, and lip coloring procedures. The City Council will consider Ordinance 24-44 at the Regular Council Meeting scheduled November 12, 2024 at 6:30 P.M. COMMUNICATIONS  MINUTES OF COUNCIL STUDY MEETING – OCTOBER 22, 2024 -5- A. AIRSOFT GUN DISCUSSION Colleen Jacobs, Police Chief, stated that a young woman had previously presented on airsoft guns, and a communication item had been requested. The police department has responded to over 90,000 calls so far this year, 43 of which involved airsoft guns. Thirteen of the 43 calls were related to juveniles. Chief Jacobs stated that the use of airsoft guns violates city ordinance 21-3-104, classifying them as projectile weapons and making it a Class B misdemeanor. She noted that Parks and Recreation reported that airsoft guns were commonly used in parks but often went unreported. To address this, suggestions included educating employees to report incidents, posting signs in parks, and spreading awareness on social media. Chief Jacobs emphasized that airsoft guns look very realistic, affecting public safety perceptions. While the city ordinance addresses many concerns, it does not cover the removal of the orange tip, a safety feature. Chief Jacobs stated that in one incident, the orange tip had been removed. She noted the difficulty law enforcement faced when responding to calls, as fake guns could look identical to real guns, and in some cases, real guns were painted to resemble toys. Councilmember Nordfelt asked if Chief Jacobs had any recommendations. She replied that she would suggest an ordinance that would forbid removing the orange tip. Councilmember Harmon stated that he doesn’t believe there are enough incidents to implement an ordinance at this time. Councilmember Whetstone stated that he would support signs that forbade airsoft guns in parks. Mayor Lang suggested education efforts. She indicated that a single incident of an officer injuring or killing someone for possession of an airsoft gun would be detrimental. Eric Bunderson, City Attorney, suggested taking the issue up with the legislature. Councilmember Fitisemanu stated that he would prefer looking at this on a City level first. After discussion, the Council requested an ordinance change drafted by Legal that would address the concerns mentioned. The Mayor and Council had no further questions or concerns. B. COUNCIL REQUESTED FOLLOW UP Sunset Hills Traffic Enforcement Eric Bunderson, City Attorney, explained that there is a process by which a private road can receive a quasi-public designation, allowing the police to enforce traffic laws on it. This process involves the Homeowners Association (HOA) holding a majority vote—not just from the board, but from the actual residents. Once the majority of the HOA agrees, they present the results to the city. Eric recommended that the HOA handle the voting process themselves. Once they return with proof of majority support, the city could easily pass an ordinance, following a public  MINUTES OF COUNCIL STUDY MEETING – OCTOBER 22, 2024 -6- hearing, to allow enforcement on those streets. The main challenge, he noted, would be for the HOA to secure the necessary vote. Ifo Pili, City Manager, emphasized the importance of managing expectations with residents regarding police enforcement on private roads. He clarified that while the police would enforce laws if present, they do not have the resources to permanently station officers in private areas. He expressed concern that residents might expect continuous police presence, which the city cannot provide. Ifo explained that enforcement would occur as it does throughout the city—officers would respond if needed, but not on a permanent or preferential basis. He highlighted that even on public roads, many residents already request more traffic enforcement. The goal was to ensure that the process was clear and that expectations were properly communicated to avoid misunderstandings. Councilmember Whetstone asked if this would apply to snow removal as well. Ifo replied no and stated it would only apply to traffic enforcement. Councilmember Fitisemanu asked if they could request speed bumps. Mayor Lang stated that this should possibly be their starting point within their community. Councilmember Nordfelt stated that there may be unforeseen issues. Councilmember Fitisemanu suggested that staff reach out and encourage them to try other things within their HOA before taking this step. The Mayor and Council had no further questions or concerns. C. COUNCIL CALENDAR Mayor Lang referenced a Memorandum previously received from the City Manager that outlined upcoming meetings and events. Mayor Lang informed the council about public hearing opportunities for the proposed regional park along the Jordan River. The primary hearing for the Redwood area conflicted with a council meeting, but four other sessions were available for participation. Postcards with the relevant information were available in the administration office and would be distributed to the cultural center and fitness center for the public to pick up and attend if interested. Mayor Lang wanted to ensure everyone was aware of these opportunities. Members of the City Council had no further questions regarding the Council Update. NEW BUSINESS A. POTENTIAL FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS  MINUTES OF COUNCIL STUDY MEETING – OCTOBER 22, 2024 -7- Nichole Camac, City Recorder, mentioned that she had sent an email regarding a potential tour of the Decker Station Apartments, and it appeared that most of the council members were interested. She suggested scheduling the tour on a Tuesday without meetings, proposing November 19th at 4:30 PM as a possible date. She noted that Steve would need to coordinate with the management company to ensure that the timing worked for them as well and wanted to confirm if the proposed date and time were convenient for the council. The Mayor and Council agreed. B. COUNCIL REPORTS COUNCILMEMBER HARMON- FIRE DEPARTMENT RIDE ALONG AND MY HOMETOWN Councilmember Harmon stated that he and his son did a ride along with the Fire Department. He stated that Station 72 was a great host and they had a good time. He also added that he participated in a My Hometown Interfaith event and noted it was great to be part of. COUNCILMEMBER WHETSTONE- HOMELESS TASK FORCE, COMMUNITY COUNICL MEETING, FALLFEST Councilmember Whetstone stated he attended a homeless task force meeting and is very impressed with the coordination by all departments in the City. He also indicated that he attended a community council meeting at Gerald Wright Elementary and Fallfest. COUNCILMEMBER FITISEMANU- INVITATION Councilmember Fitisemanu extended an invitation to the council for a community meeting being hosted by the athletic directors and administrators of Hunter, Granger, Cyprus, Kearns, and West Jordan schools. The meeting, scheduled for the next evening at 7 PM at Hunter High, was initially intended for state legislators to discuss the impact of House Bill 415 on sports teams and their budgets, which has made sports programs unaffordable for many. The organizers have invited city council members, as the issue also affects their constituents. MOTION FOR CLOSED SESSION Councilmember Harmon moved to adjourn and reconvene in a Closed Session for discussion of pending litigation. Councilmember Nordfelt seconded the motion. A voice vote was taken and all members voted in favor of the motion. Councilmember Fitisemanu Yes Councilmember Whetstone Yes Councilmember Harmon Yes  MINUTES OF COUNCIL STUDY MEETING – OCTOBER 22, 2024 -8- Councilmember Huynh Yes Councilmember Christensen Yes Councilmember Nordfelt Yes Mayor Lang Yes Unanimous. THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS OF THE WEST VALLEY COUNCIL THE STUDY MEETING ON TUESDAY OCTOBER 22, 2024 WAS ADJOURNED AT 5:11 PM BY MAYOR LANG. I hereby certify the foregoing to be a true, accurate and complete record of the proceedings of the Study Meeting of the West Valley City Council held Tuesday, October 22, 2024. _______________________________ Nichole Camac, MMC City Recorder THE WEST VALLEY CITY COUNCIL RECONVENED IN CLOSED SESSION ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2024, AT 5:15 P.M., IN THE MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM, WEST VALLEY CITY HALL, 3600 CONSTITUTION BOULEVARD, WEST VALLEY CITY, UTAH. THE MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER BY MAYOR KAREN LANG. THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS WERE PRESENT: Karen Lang, Mayor Lars Nordfelt, Councilmember At-Large Don Christensen, Councilmember At-Large Tom Huynh, Councilmember District 1 Scott Harmon, Councilmember District 2 Will Whetstone, Councilmember District 3 Jake Fitisemanu, Councilmember District 4  MINUTES OF COUNCIL STUDY MEETING – OCTOBER 22, 2024 -9- STAFF PRESENT: Ifo Pili, City Manager Nichole Camac, City Recorder John Flores, Assistant City Manager Eric Bunderson, City Attorney Colleen Jacobs, Police Chief The City Council met in Closed Session and discussed pending litigation. THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS OF THE WEST VALLEY CITY COUNCIL, THE CLOSED SESSION OF OCTOBER 22, 2024 WAS ADJOURNED AT 5:28 P.M. BY MAYOR LANG. __________________________________ Nichole Camac – City Recorder