Page 1 BRIGHTON TOWN COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Tuesday, August 11th, 2020, 6:30 pm
NOTICE is hereby given that the Brighton Town Council will meet electronically, via Zoom, on Tuesday August 11th, 2020 at 6:30pm, at the anchor location, 7688 Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Brighton, UT 84121
TO JOIN ZOOM MEETING https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87971020185?pwd=QnVKRnZ3bmVYMXVWYS84My85THFiQT09
Meeting ID: 879 7102 0185 Passcode: 307133
Dial in +1 346 248 7799 US
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ANNOUNCEMENTS
3. PUBLIC INPUT The meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. at which time public comments will be read. You can email your comment to a councilmember or council staff ahead of time. townclerk@brighton.utah.gov. Questions and comments about the current discussion can be made using the “Chat” feature and will be read aloud at the end of the meeting.
4. MINUTES Approval of Minutes for July 14th, 2020
5. UPD Lee Arnold
6. UFA Dusty Dern
7. BUSINESS a. Resolution for SLCo Municipal Service District Property Tax Rate and Brighton Property Tax Area Authority. For discussion and possible action- Nate Rockwood b. Short-term rentals. For discussion. c. Milly Chalet public restrooms and port-a-potties at Mary Lake trailhead. For Discussion and possible action. d. Funding for three new construction restrooms at Cardiff, Mill B, Storm Mountain. For Discussion. e. Emergency Response Plan for the Town of Brighton. Discussion and possible action. f. Mailboxes: moving the mailboxes from the Brighton Store; replacement mailboxes in Silverfork. For Discussion and possible action. g. UFA Alternate Board Member Designation. For Discussion and possible action. h. Animal Services Advisory Board Appointment. For Discussion and possible action. i. Town logo for discussion and possible action.
8. REPORTS a. Mayor’s Report b. Council Members’ Reports c. BCCA Report
9. PROPOSALS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
10. ADJOURN Page 2
BRIGHTON TOWN COUNCIL MINUTES REPRESENTATION ▪ COMMUNITY ▪ LEGACY July 14, 2020 ▪ 6:30 pm ▪ Electronic Meeting ▪ Presiding: Mayor Dan Knopp
ATTENDANCE Dan Knopp, Jeff Bossard, Carolyn Keigley, Jenna Malone, Keith Zuspan, Polly McLean, Barbara Cameron, Kara John, Nate Rockwood, James Woodword, Keith Stebbings, Kirsten Eliassen, Jake Brown, Robert Cameron, Jolene Despain, Bart Reuling, Amalia Andrews, Nick Sieckowski, Becky Stromness, Blake Pando, Kathy Anderson, Stephen Harris, Josh, Chad Smith, Wayne Dial, Barbara Schmidt, Gay Lynn Bennion, Anne Anderson, Mark Brinton, Marcia Price, Brooke Erickson, Andrew Richards
ANNOUNCEMENTS Dan addressed that the Silverfork Lodge is in a dispute with some neighbors. He is handling everything through the county and has been advised to refrain from communication with the party involved.
PUBLIC COMMENT Josh bought a house in pine tree right next to the road. He would like to request a sound barrier for the road noise. He is also concerned that Rocky Mountain Power will only clear trees that are within ten feet of the powerlines. The trouble is there are numerous tall trees that could fall on power lines and they won’t get removed since they are not within the ten-foot perimeter. Dan advised he speak with him directly for the best way to reach out to UDOT and RMP.
MINUTES Minutes for June 9, 2020 were approved as submitted.
BUSINESS
UPD I just wanted to thank everyone for the willingness to help with the lost 9-year-old boy yesterday. A special thanks to Barbara for putting out the blast email to the residents of Brighton requesting everyone to keep an eye out for him. The boy left his camping area with his uncle at Redman Campground. His uncle lost track of him and was later found and in good health down by Solitude near the river.
We are still having trouble at the Summit on the Guard Road. Just last weekend UPD wrote over 40 Tickets up there for people choosing to park in the NO PARKING area. We are monitoring this very closely. Knock on wood, but Cardiff or Donut Falls so far this year have been not too bad. People are not parking illegally as much there this year.
Vehicle burglary are still up especially at Butler Fork and the S turn. If you see anything suspicious, please call UPD At 8017437000. FYI… if you get an answer machine please stay on the line until you receive a connection with a dispatcher. They are very busy and take the calls as they come in. If it is an emergency, please call 911.
If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to email me or call me at [email protected] or 801 214 4544 and I will do my best to answer your questions or help in any way.
Stay safe and well
Lee
UFA Dusty Dern explained call volume has been slow this past month. There were 5 calls total and they were all related to people recreating and were easily handled. The Fuels Crew has been out recently and have received grants from the state for Wildfire mitigation. They have proven valuable on a few local fires already. The new probationary firefighters are also doing well and continuing journeyman training. The first wildland fire in Salt Lake County was above Millcreek in the forest and it was easily contained. In terms of COVID their department is still low for infection rates, which is attributed to staff doing a
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good job in following safety procedures. There was a small fire near the Argenta area that is still under investigation and it was able to be quickly contained.
BUSINESS Resolution for Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) The council unanimously voted to pass the resolution with a roll call vote. James Woodward presented the plan and explained it is a coordination plan; how the county will interact with the town under an emergency. The county is asking all municipalities to accept the plan. The MSD passed the plan as their own and then sent it out to all townships to be adopted. The town was surveyed to take into consideration local needs. It talks about the scope disaster conditions, weather, incident command which includes fire and police. How the Town of Brighton will coordinate with the Emergency Coordination Center (ECC). It contains various sections such as: a National Incident Management System which explains how to activate your emergency, approval and implementation, changes to the plan and records of distribution. There is a Hazardous Analysis Plan as well as Corrective Action Plan for after an incident to give an opportunity to make improvements to the plan. There is a section on notification and warnings. In the canyon we don’t have a set warning system or siren system. James will discuss it with the emergency management team to discuss how to handle that. There is a section on the various organizations up to the state and federal level and their responsibilities with regards to response procedures. The goal here is to maintain continuity of government. For example, what to do in the event of enacting the emergency evacuation plan; how to run your town if you are unable to meet. The plan also discusses communications and explains how we push information back to the emergency coordination center. Also, where we can input information including radio and cell channels. There is a section on administration, finance, and a way to account staff hours for working on emergency management. It talks about maintenance and distribution which will be reviewed on a yearly basis. The final sections are authority and supporting documents, glossary, and acronyms. Other forms included are rapid damage forms, corrective action forms, and hazardous mitigation report which is unique to our town’s needs. James created an Emergency Response Guidelines document which will be ready in 60-90 days and is based off a basic emergency operations document that was created from local events. Carolyn asked if the community is responding to an emergency how do we access the state system? We don’t have access to a HAM radio within the canyon. James will look into what the strategy is and figured it may be through the use of repeating cell towers and will make sure it is built into our plan. There may be Emergency management ECC grants to help pay for the infrastructure. These plans are specific for the town of Brighton boundaries and do not include the lower canyon. The Wildland interface is trying to tie communities together and James will look into the questions. He will also send a draft copy of the response plan to Jeff to share with the council. Jenna will look into reverse911.com as a method to be notified of emergencies and will work with Barbara and Kara to push the information out to the community.
Resolution for Hazardous Mitigation Plan The council unanimously voted to pass the resolution with a roll call vote. James Woodward presented on the Hazardous Mitigation Plan (HMP) as well and explained it is part of the EOP.
UDOT BCC Paving and Brighton Roundabout. Amalia Andrews from UDOT reported that crews have almost completed paving the section of road around the Brighton loop today with a part of the road temporary unpaved to allow a pilot car through. They will pave that section at the end. They work daylight hours and start with the milling machine followed by the paving crew. They will continue down the canyon. Dan added the contractor for the project estimates to complete one mile per day down the canyon. As for the Hawk Signal and crosswalk at Cardiff, construction of the large arm over the road will start in August. In a meeting last week there was discussion of creating two lanes of traffic around the Brighton loop starting at the roundabout. Becky explained it is not feasible for this project and will need to be a part of a long-term plan. Two lanes would add road capacity, so we would need to go through the process of completing environmental documents and a public hearing. Traffic and safety groups worried there is not adequate width for two lanes. Cars often park on the side of the pavement and even spill into the roadway making even less room for an additional lane and in winter with snowbanks even less room still. If this idea is pursued in the long term, one avenue would be to fund the project through grants from Wasatch Front Regional Council. The funding currently comes from the Federal Highway Administration. The current project is considered Pavement Preservation and only allows 1% of the budget for additional things such as signs, pavement markings, and drainage.
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Jolene explained the issue she and many locals have with the current roundabout are safety related. Driving toward the roundabout approaching the Brighton Loop is dangerous because of how confusing it is. There are too many non-permanent signs and cones trying to direct traffic. She requested that the roundabout function as such. As you approach the Brighton Loop having a permanent center piece for the three roads with painted arrows on the ground and yield signs would eliminate the questions and keep people from going the wrong way through the one-way road. Another issue is that people often drive through the Brighton Store parking lot and cut back on to the road into oncoming traffic. To address Jolene’s concerns, Jake Brown from UDOT added that cones are temporary from the police department and they have talked about a barrier in front of the Brighton Store to prevent that. Another effort is to have enter and exit signs at the Brighton Store parking lot to better guide driving directions. There will be a follow up meeting next week to keep talking through these issues.
Brighton Town History Library Keith Stebbings from the Brighton Institute Board explained that a small group of historically minded preservationists started working together to create the Big Cottonwood Canyon Historical Society. Many records have been collected over the last two years. These materials will serve as a benefit to the public as a reference source and will need to be cataloged and archived. The request is that the materials be kept in the town offices at the firestation and made available for check out during Kara’s regularly scheduled office hours. Keith confirmed that the materials can be stored in the office but need to be maintained separately from town materials and files that are kept locked and secure. The Mayor and Council approved of the request to allow for bookshelves to be placed in the office for the historic materials.
Resolution for SLCo Municipal Service District Property Tax Rate and Brighton Property Tax Area Authority It was decided to look into this matter further to get more information before voting. The GSLMSD has a district wide property tax in place. It is to cover liabilities and isn’t considered a general fund property tax. Since the town incorporated, they no longer have authority to charge that tax. But, to meet state code, the municipality now takes that tax. The options are to keep the .000060 property tax rate previously levied by the county which generates $26,642. The MSD uses it for legal defense for claims or settlements against the MSD. The alternate option is to pay that amount from other funds and decrease the property tax rate to .000000. This amount we would collect mostly goes toward school districts and is .4% of the total tax bill tax. In terms of revenues it makes up 3%. Nate explained per Carolyn’s question that if we keep the tax and collect the money, we would not be held liable for the money and we would pay it to the MSD. We can make an agreement with the MSD to make them whole for that amount, so they are not down if we change the rate to .000000. Dan proposes to change the rate to .000000 to keep taxes from going up. Carolyn and Jenna agreed. Jenna clarified that if we choose the second option, it will result in a tax decrease. Nate will investigate what the MSD is using the tax for. How does it affect the town of Brighton and what they will expect from us if it is discontinued? Jeff asked if we could see how much money they have in that fund or how much of it they use.
Special event amendments to municipal ordinance Polly explained that Salt Lake County code requires special events to be regulated when they are on the public right of way. Since we don’t have a lot of public right of way and most events take place on private land, do we want to regulate events that impact private property such as concerts at Solitude or events in the Brighton parking lot, like the Flea Market. A marathon in the canyon would be regulated since it is on the public road and would be done by our contract with the MSD. They make sure health department requirements are met, but don’t go further. Things to consider, Park City limits things that go beyond city right of way, such as things that go against the flow of traffic, or amplified sound. Moab excludes private events all together. Do we want to expand the definition to regulate beyond the canyon road or food related events to include private property? Jeff suggested we separate facilities that are built for commercial use and are already licensed for weddings and not make an ordinance for those, but private concerts at homes that impact the public should be considered for regulation. Keith suggested that that if it is an event that does not spill out onto the public roadways it shouldn’t need regulating. In working with the liquor commission, if alcohol is being sold then a permit should be required. Parking is something to consider. If parking on the roadway is needed for a private event then we should be involved in that. Wayne’s experience is that private events affect public right of way and safety so it would be wise to have a review process and then allow UPD and UFA to decide if they need off duty officers to cover the event without requiring on duty officers to be drawn to the event. Carolyn suggested a small committee consisting of members from UFA, UPD, BCCA and the Town
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Council to come forward with a plan for what needs to be included in the ordinance. Carolyn will spear head the conversation with the various liaisons.
Dog permits Carolyn’s take is that we do not have the staff to take on this issue. If we put an ordinance for dogs, we do not have revenues to enforce it. Barbara explained this came up with Adrianne Aldous as she had a difficult time with SLC and Animal Services to get a permit. Jenna had residents reach out expressing similar concerns, so it is a common issue among the community. Currently, it is required to work between the Watershed, Health Department and MSD to obtain a permit. Jenna volunteered to have conversations with the various departments to make clearing for dog tags more rational and concise. Anne asked about an ordinance to allow walking dogs on town roads. Dan has talked to Laura Briefer, but he is ultimately waiting to get through the first year as a town before tackling this issue. It is so controversial with the watershed and the concern of blurring the boundaries with visitors seeing dogs and thinking it’s acceptable to have their dogs in the canyon too.
Short-term rentals Polly asked, how do we want to change our short-term rental policy? Enforcement and licensing are complicated. Since we are not the land use authority, we must work with SL county for conditional use permits. Our avenue is to regulate nightly rentals through business licensing. Zach Shaw is the attorney for SL county. He said the MPD may revise their code for nightly rentals and would like our input. We have BCCA rules and guidelines and as a part of business licensing we can make sure people adhere. Jeff felt we need to do something to make sure we have solid regulations such as what it takes to get permitted, what happens if you don’t comply, and a posted list that needs to be in every rental for guests to see. Carolyn agrees that we should contain the density within residential areas limiting number of days to rent or limit the number of rentals per block. Jenna echoed Carolyn and feels we are at an inflection point with this, however not having land use authority limits us legally with what we can do. Polly can work with Zach and provide our ideas. Dan agreed that density is important. He is receiving a lot of calls that residents are surrounded by short term rentals. The council will reach out to Polly with ideas for discussion at the next meeting.
Campfire Safety Ordinance and importance of short-term rentals to comply Jenna has seen an increase in campfires at short term rentals and wondered if UFA implements no burn days like in the valley for air quality and to prevent wildfire. Dusty explained that we rely on the state for fire bans based on state hazard recommendations. For air quality the recreational fire code recommends being in a green burn day. UFA code does not address nuisance fires. Carolyn told of an incident on private property that appeared dangerous. The international fire code allows recreational fire that is 4 ft. in diameter by 2 ft. high. It must be dry, clean, woody material. It must be 25 ft from structures or combustible materials and be contained in an improved pit or fireplace. They must be attended until fully extinguished by either a hose, bucket of water, or shovel and dirt. UFA can educate people, but it would need to be UPD to cite people. As for the discussion about whether or not to adopt an ordinance that is more restrictive, Dan suggested at a future meeting we could discuss the possibility to implement our own no burn days for the canyon and have a sign at the entrance to the community with a fire danger alert, and a notice on days fires are not allowed. Carolyn suggested we could put the fire safety instructions on our website and social media.
EIS- Discussion on preferred option or concerns to be drafted in a letter to UDOT. Dan reported that CWC comments on the EIS study argued that trains up Little Cottonwood didn’t get enough consideration. For instance, there is a cog train being built up to Pikes Peak for $110 M and could cost more but could be a superior option for our canyons. Barbara reported that the BCCA took a member’s survey and the majority supported the gondola. The minority was for the enhanced bus option, but no one was for the bus plus road widening option. As things are evaluated it may be four months before we hear back from the EIS about the comments. Also, tolls and improved park and ride should be considered for Big Cottonwood Canyon even though this has been a Little Cottonwood discussion. Carolyn agreed that whatever happens in Little Cottonwood will affect what happens in Big Cottonwood. Dan included the position from UTA that they are unsure about their capacity to increase bus service. The gondola is heavily supported by the ski areas; however, fifty percent of comments disagree since you cannot get off the gondola until you reach the resorts. It limits access to other parts of the canyons. Barbara expressed concern that if tolls are placed in Little Cottonwood, they should be considered for Big Cottonwood also. However, BCCA has not taken a position on tolling in the
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canyon. Polly explained that mayor Sendak was against the gondola for safety reasons since there would not be snow sheds over the road. Jenna included that there is still a lot of data to analyze since the draft isn’t out until Spring 2021.
Final Town Logo Presentation. Carolyn presented the final options. The one saying, “Town of Brighton” was chosen, and will be adjusted to say, “Utah 2020.” There are two logos that we can switch between based on how much room is needed, either a more concise image or a more elaborate image. There is also an option to choose between a dark image or a light image based on the background it will be on. Carolyn will get these converted to a .jpeg so they can be distributed for use.
REPORTS The Mayor reported there is a short fall in UFA budget and some towns are giving the COVID relief money to UFA and likely will do the same thing for UPD. Our town received $7,800 from COVID expenses and Dan would like to split it between UFA and UPD if it is legal to do so. He had previously attempted to give it to public utilities for bathroom maintenance, but they haven’t been able to accept it. Jenna asked if there is a way to give it to community members that have been impacted. Dan confirmed that this money is restricted from that cause because there are specific grants available for community members. His mayor’s meetings have been related to COVID updates and statistics. As for USFS, he is waiting to hear back from Zinnia about the Spruces campground improvement project and whether funding is available. The Zions feasibility study is still looking to see if we will leave the MSD. They are still analyzing data and will have a report for our next meeting to show a budget and options. We will save a little money if we are independent, but ultimately, they bring a full package and provide so many services. Polly reminded that once we receive the report, we will have to stay on the timeline but while they are working the clock is stopped.
Council Members’ Reports Carolyn reported that Taylorsville has decided to leave UPD. Midvale has tabled the question but may reconsider. We get funding from the county in addition to property taxes to pay for canyon patrol. SLCounty council passed a resolution for all permits to come to Brighton as they did with BCCA in the past. It pertains to locations within the town boundary. Polly figured that any properties outside of the town but still within the canyon will be processed through the BCCA.
Jenna reported we sent an email blast regarding the mask mandate and the UDOT paving project. Amalia from UDOT was very responsive and helpful for questions and concerns. We reached 200 residents with paving guardsman information, 40 people about no fireworks, and 60 people about face masks. Jenna also reached out to Laura Briefer to get a conversation started about dogs and watershed. She also contacted Sgt. Blanton about UPD controlling Guardsman and changing parking tickets from criminal to civil since offenders can get rid of the fine by challenging that they can’t prove who actually parked the car illegally. Wayne confirmed UPD can cite right to the county line, and the saddle of Guardsman pass is in Wasatch County. Jenna also reported it’s time to restart the conversation with Senator Reibe about new legislation for illegal mufflers. As for COVID cases, we are still at 0. We still have the community assistance available through Kirsten Eliassen and Laney Jones.
Keith reported that the MSD has been hiring consultants for roadway issues as well as the processes for budget cycles. We will also see presentations for upcoming 2021 projects around the Brighton loop. The WFWR compactor is in but is confusing to residents and needs some signage with operating instructions. The county pays the electric bill at the compactor at this point. He is also looking at additional recycling options. Perhaps “binies” would be a good option because it only allows for material based on the size and shape of the opening. It would limit things that should be taken to the dump. Additional opportunities would be to hire a local contractor for recycling. We also need a sign to prevent people from leaving waste in front of the compactor that is prohibited.
Jeff reported mosquito abatement has been in the area. We haven’t had any cases of West Nile Virus in Salt Lake. There was a beaver dam where Silver Lake drains into Big Cottonwood Creek creating stagnant water. A resident has removed the dam, but mosquito abatement has strategies they would rather use in future.
BCCA Report Barbara requested we review the BCCA report attached. She also provided that the various water companies would like the MSD building plans to be submitted on a regular basis to know what is happening with new builds. Keith suggested the water
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companies try going to the interactive website at the MSD to pull the data for Brighton. Perhaps we’ll be able to ask the county to notify us of new build permits that we could then send on to the water companies.
PROPOSALS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS a. Bathroom facilities to remain open at Brighton for the public. The town will pay to keep them maintained. Dan will coordinate with Randy. *As a reminder about rules and procedures, the Mayor should be notified of agenda requests to keep it manageable. Any two council members can also put items on the agenda.
PUBLIC COMMENT 00:39:49 Polly Samuels McLean: Keith can you let Jenna in? 00:40:04 Jenna Malone: I’m in 00:40:14 Jenna Malone: Thank you! 00:42:48 Jenna Malone: Anyone can contact RMP and ask for a forester to evaluate their property. 00:44:00 carolyn keigley: Keith 's voice is low volume 00:55:13 Amalia Andrews (UDOT Consultant): pls let Blake Pando into the meeting. thanks! 01:01:04 Keith Zuspan: amaila - I don't see Blake accessing the meeting 01:04:35 Amalia Andrews (UDOT Consultant): he says he is on 01:05:03 Amalia Andrews (UDOT Consultant): i do see his number. thanks Keith! 01:14:40 Chad Smith: To ensure you receive emergency notifications via VECC's Reverse 911 system, sign up here: http://www.vecc9-1-1.com/voip-registration/ 01:31:43 Amalia Andrews (UDOT Consultant): good night everyone. pls email me at cottonwoodcanyons@utah,gov or call/text 801.699.5967 03:06:03 Gay Lynn Bennion, Candidate, House District 46: www.gaylynnbennion.com 385-200-1794 Gay Lynn Bennion House District 46 candidate
Gay Lynn Bennion, grew up in Utah, and she loves to ski and hike at Brighton. She’s been a part of Womens State Legislative Council for seven years. She’s the director of Natural Resources and Environment Committee and now the director of the Education Committee. People in her district asked her to run for office since she is so involved. She would love to help us resolve our local issues and to get the word out about her campaign. She’s endorsed by Marie Poulsen and Kathleen Riebe.
Dear Council Members Bossard, Malone, Keigley, and Zuspan: As you know, a number of community members have ongoing concerns with the growing operations of the Silverfork Lodge and Restaurant. We have reached out to Mayor Dan to resolve the issues with no response. We believe this is an overall community issue and as our elected officials, we appreciate your support in asking the Mayor to discuss solutions with the community. Some background for your information is included below.
Sincerely, Matt Mudek and Laynee Jones
Background Information o We appreciate and support the Silverfork restaurant. It adds vitality to the area, serves as a gathering place for neighbors, and is an icon of Big Cottonwood. Laynee and I have celebrated our significant life events at the lodge, we both consider Mayor Dan a personal friend, and we have a good working relationship. As an example, Laynee reached out to Mayor Dan unsolicited in April to help him improve restaurant business during COVID. o Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD) issued a letter last week summarizing code violations for the Silverfork Lodge, including initiating construction/expansion without permits and Americans with Disabilities Act and zoning violations. o When complaining about wedding noise in the past, Mayor Dan has told us that we bought a house next to a wedding venue. The attached MSD letter shows that Mayor Dan has been operating commercial weddings outside the parameters of county zoning ordinance on residentially zoned land. The neighbors have borne the impacts of this wedding activity for many years when we should not have, while Mayor Dan has achieved financial gain.
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o We appreciate the measure Mayor Dan has taken to move wedding attendees into the lodge and discontinue outdoor music at 9 pm. However, we still hear the amplified music and announcements inside and outside our home from the time the weddings begin (anywhere from 2 to 5 pm) until at least 9 pm on wedding days. There are 3 to 5 weddings per week from June to October. (As a point of reference there were only a few quiet weddings a summer when we moved into our home in 2003). o During the week of May 4, 2020, Dan notified Matt in our driveway that he was going to have ice cream/shake shack that would operate from noon to 6:00 pm on weekends, would be grab and go, and was a temporary measure to bring in revenue during COVID. The food trailer now includes frying hot dogs and fish, a fan that we can hear in our kitchen, outdoor seating/eating, operations from 11:30-7 pm Wednesday to Sunday, fan and operations continuing until after 8 pm on many evenings, increasing traffic, parking off of Rufus road, and strangers in the neighborhood and on streets adjacent to our house. Mayor Dan intends to continue operations every summer indefinitely, which would be in addition to wedding operations when they resume. This illustrates the nature of the ever-expanding operation. o There are other community members who are equally concerned but have not come forward publicly for various reasons. You may consider an anonymous forum so that you have a full understanding of the reach of this issue. o We believe in neighbors talking and negotiating solutions directly without the involvement of other parties and government. Laynee and I have approached Mayor Dan multiple times in person or via text over the last 6-8 weeks to discuss food truck solutions and no mitigation has been implemented. We continue to bear the growing impacts of the food trailer with no resolution in sight. The most recent attempts to communicate have been ignored. This would be unacceptable for any business owner, but feel this is especially concerning given Dan is Mayor. o The Silverfork can operate profitably and be an asset to the community without impacting neighbors. Face to face discussions bring greater understanding and facilitate brainstorming of solutions that meet each party's needs. Without the benefit of these open discussions, we have included examples of reasonable accommodations we as community members may request: o Relocate the food trailer to Brighton where there is adequate parking and does not impact residential neighbors. We are offering to assist with permitting or other associated work. o Continue weddings of a reasonable and agreed-to size, frequency, and hours without the use of amplification (music or announcements). o Operate without commercial access off Silverfork Road. o Operate without wedding attendees parking (even temporarily) on private neighboring driveways. o Operate without bride/groom photos on neighboring property. We’re happy to provide more background and look forward to amenable solutions.
ADJOURN. The meeting was adjourned at 9:10pm.
Submitted by Kara John, Town Clerk
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Town of Brighton Town Council Meeting ITEM: 2020 Salt Lake County Municipal Type Service District and Brighton Property Tax Rate – (updated from the July 14th report) DATE: August 11, 2020 SUBMITTED BY: Nate Rockwood ITEM TYPE: Legislative
Subject: Current property tax rate switch in taxing entity from the SLCo municipal type service district (unincorporated municipal special services district) to the Town of Brighton as outlined in state code 59‐ 2‐924(5)(b). Please note that the report on July 14th identified this tax as being charged by the Greater Salt Lake County Municipal Services District, however in further research this tax is levied by the Salt Lake County Municipal Type Services District, a Special Services District of Salt Lake County for unincorporated areas of the County. This is listed on the 2020 Notice of Property Valuation & Tax Changes as: “SL COUNTY MUNICIPAL SVCE”.
Recommendation: Council should review the attached information and approve one of two attached resolutions (1) adopting the auditors certified property tax rate, previously levied by the Salt Lake County Municipal Service District of .000060, which would generate $26,642 ( a no rate increase) or (2) approve the attached resolution setting the Town rate to .000000 which would be a decrease in the current property tax rate and decree in revenue of $26,642 (previously collected by SLCo). This decrease in revenue will have no financial impact on the Town of Brighton, as this revenue was not included in the adopted budget and there is no corresponding expense or future anticipated expense liability related to the tax.
Analysis: The SLCo municipal type services district has had a district wide property tax rate in unincorporated areas of the County of .00060 to fund a special revenue fund in the Counties budget to cover potential legal liability issues in unincorporated areas. When the Town of Brighton incorporated in 2020, under state code 59‐2‐924(5)(b) any property tax in place by the County in a municipal service district is shifted on the tax rolls to the newly incorporated town or city:
A certified tax rate for a taxing entity described in this Subsection (5) shall be calculated as follows: (b) for a municipality incorporated on or after July 1, 1996, the certified tax rate is: (i) in a county of the first, second, or third class, the levy imposed for municipal- type services under Sections 17-34-1 and 17-36-9;
Therefore, following state code, the default tax levy for the Town of Brighton would be certified at a “NO TAX INCREASE” at a rate of .00060 which is the rate to be levied in all areas of the SLCo Municipal Type Services District that have not been incorporated. If the Town Council were to approve this rate, it is considered a no tax increase and does not require special noticing or a “Truth in Taxation” process. This rate is currently included on the tax notices that went out in July and is listed as no tax increase.
As shown in Attachment A, the rate and assessed taxable values are assigned to the Town of Brighton and the corresponding assessed taxable values have been removed from the SLCo Municipal Type Services District. This would show up on a town of Brighton property tax bill as a .000060 rate for the Town of Brighton and a .000000 rate for the “SL COUNTY MUNICIPAL SVCE”. Page 10
The town of Brighton has a total taxable value of $444,041,048. A tax rate of .000060 (or.006%) would generate $26,642. This would equate to a tax of $3.30 per $100,000 of assessed value on a primary residence and $6.00 per $100,000 of assessed value on a secondary residential (including lodging) and commercial property. This is a relatively small tax rate, which represents 0.4% of the total property tax rate of 0.014426 on property in the Town of Brighton. The following chart shows the total rate by taxing entity (Town of Brighton is the small red sliver):
This revenue is used by the SLCo Municipal Type Services District to cover potential liability costs for unincorporated areas under Utah code 63G‐7‐704: 63G-7-704. Tax levy by political subdivisions for payment of claims, judgments, or insurance premiums. (1) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, a political subdivision may levy an annual property tax sufficient to pay: (a) any claim, settlement, or judgment, including interest payments and issuance costs for bonds issued under Subsection 11-14-103(1)(d) to pay the portion of any claim, settlement, or judgment that exceeds $3,000,000; (b) the costs to defend against any claim, settlement, or judgment; or (c) for the establishment and maintenance of a reserve fund for the payment of claims, settlements, or judgments that may be reasonably anticipated.
The County places these funds in a separate fund in the County budget referred to as the unincorporated municipal services fund, which is used to cover potential liability costs in unincorporated areas of the county.
As would be expected, as unincorporated areas of the County have decreased over time through annexations, incorporations and the creation of the metro townships, the taxable value and tax collection Page 11
in the SLCo Municipal Type Services District has gone down dramatically. In 2010 the taxable value of the district was $9.7 billion with a total tax collection for legal liability of $822,000; in 2020 this value is just under $4 billion with a tax collection of $238,366. The legal liability portion of the SLCo tax was first levied in 2009.
With the incorporation of the Town of Brighton this tax will no longer be collected by the County and the incorporated Brighton area is no longer included in the district. The County and Utah Tax Commission is following state code by transferring this tax levy to the Town of Brighton. These funds, if collected by the Town of Brighton, will not be required to be transferred to any other taxing entity and the Town will not be required to make any entity including SLCo whole for the decrease in revenues.
Recommendation: Because of the small amount in relation to the total budgeted Town revenue, Council may wish to not adopt the previous rate of the SLCo Municipal Type Service District as outlined in state code and instead set the town rate to zero, effectively imposing no property tax from the Town of Brighton. This would result in a decrease to the overall tax rate, albeit a very small decrease. This decrease in revenue will have no financial impact on the Town of Brighton, as this revenue was not included in the adopted budget and there is no corresponding expense or future anticipated expense liability related to the tax.
Attached are resolutions provided by the Tax Commission approving the tax year 2020 Town Rate. Attachment B sets a rate of “No Tax Increase” at .000060 and attachment C sets the rate to .000000, a property tax reduction and effectively removing a Town of Brighton property tax (and the previous tax charged by the MSD).
Attachments:
A – Certified Tax Rates, Tax Year 2020 for Town of Brighton and SLCo Municipal Type Services District
B – Resolution setting the property tax rate at a no increase rate of .000060
C – Resolution setting property tax rate to .000000, a tax decrease.
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Attachment A
Town of Brighton
SLCo Municipal Type Service District
Page 13
Utah State Tax Commission - Property Tax Division Form PT-800 Resolution Adopting Final Tax Rates and Budgets Rev. 02/15
County: SALT LAKE Tax Year: 2020
It is hereby resolved that the governing body of: BRIGHTON approves the following property tax rate(s) and revenue(s) for the year: 2020
1. 2. 3. Fund/Budget Type Revenue Tax Rate
10 General Operations 26,642 0.000060
0.000060$26,642
This resolution is adopted after proper notice and hearing in accordance with UCA 59-2-919 and shall be forwarded to the County Auditor and the Tax Commission in accordance with UCA 59-2-913 and 29-2-920.
Signature of Governing Chair
Signature: ______Date:______
Title:______
Sunday, July 12, 2020 Page 14
Utah State Tax Commission - Property Tax Division Form PT-800 Resolution Adopting Final Tax Rates and Budgets Rev. 02/15
County: Salt Lake County Tax Year: 2020
It is hereby resolved that the governing body of: Town of Brighton approves the following property tax rate(s) and revenue(s) for the year: 2020
1. 2. 3. Fund/Budget Type Revenue Tax Rate
This resolution is adopted after proper notice and hearing in accordance with UCA 59-2-919 and shall be forwarded to the County Auditor and the Tax Commission in accordance with UCA 59-2-913 and 29-2-920.
Signature of Governing Chair
Signature: ______Date:______
Title:______
Thursday, July 2, 2020 Page 15
Town of Brighton
Town Council Meeting
Date: August 11, 2020 Re: Short Term Rental Discussion From: Polly McLean, Town Attorney
Issue: Which regulations do we want to consider as part of a change to our business licensing ordinance to support impacts of short term rentals?
Discussion:
At our meeting on July 14, 2020, we discussed how our only avenue to regulate short term rentals is through business licensing. Business licensing regulations will need to work in conjunction with County land use rules related to short term rentals and can put conditions on nightly rentals as long as the statutes don’t conflict. Business Licensing regulations can allow for education and enforcement. We have also discussed the concern is that numerous homes which are rented as nightly rentals don’t have business licenses. Currently the County has issued only 20-30 Conditional Use Permits for Short term rentals in Brighton (that number excludes those nightly rentals in the condos or town homes at Solitude).
The concerns that we have discussed related to short term rentals include:
1. Limit density/Intensity of use of nightly rentals 2. Getting business license for owners so that those who are doing nightly rentals are licensed and in compliance 3. Enforcement 4. Special events at nightly rentals 5. Noise/nuisance
Current Regulations:
County Code (Land Use).
The Salt Lake County Land Use Code defines "Short-term rental" as “any dwelling or portion thereof that is available for use or is used for accommodations or lodging of guests, paying a fee or other compensation for a period of less than thirty consecutive days.” (SLCo 19.04.547(A))
The County Code regulates Short term rentals by zoning regulation. In the Town of Brighton, short term rentals are permitted (MRZ- village district (solitude resort)) or are a conditional use in all other zones (except commercial where residential isn’t allowed) which require Mountainous Planning District approval for a conditional use permit.
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For all short term rentals (SLCo 19.04.547), the following restrictions apply:
1. A short-term rental shall not contain more than four bedrooms. 2. Structures shall be properly maintained, painted and kept in good repair, and grounds and landscaped areas shall be properly maintained and watered in order that the use in no way detracts from the general appearance of the neighborhood; and 3. Required parking areas and access to parking areas shall be maintained and available for use at all times. Parking for this use shall be contained on the site, and shall not be allowed on the public rights-of-way; 4. (19.80.040 (30) - Number of spaces required.) Short-term rental, two spaces per dwelling unit plus one additional space for each bedroom exceeding two bedrooms. For buildings with two dwelling units or less, the third and fourth spaces, when required, can be in tandem with the first two spaces required; 5. Snow shall be removed from sidewalks and driveways within one hour after the snow has ceased falling, provided that in case of a storm between the hours of five p.m. in the afternoon and six a.m. in the morning, the sidewalk shall be cleaned before eight a.m. the morning following the storm. 6. Occupants of a short-term rental shall not create excessive noise that is incompatible with adjacent land uses. 7. A short-term rental use shall not have any signs on the premises that advertise the use. 8. The use of a dwelling as a short-term rental shall not change the appearance of the dwelling or property for residential purposes. 9. Outdoor pools, hot tubs or spas shall not be used between the hours of ten p.m. and eight a.m.
In the zones which require a conditional use, the following additional conditions are required:
1. The on-site parking and the access to the site are available for use and maintained, including snow removal, throughout the entire year, and
2. The dwelling unit is served by an approved drinking water supply and public sewer system that are capable of supporting the use throughout the entire year, and are approved by the health department prior to issuance of a license;
Does the council have any input regarding the bolded (or any other) regulation above?
• 4 bedrooms max • served by public sewer system • 2 parking spots minimum plus one parking spot per additional bedroom • Should short term rentals be a conditional use?
Do you have a recommendation to the MPD to amend any of these regulations?
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Under the current County regulations, no short term rental permit can be given in the Mount Haven, Cardiff Fork and Forest Glen neighborhoods because they are on septic.
I spoke to Teresa Gray from the Salt Lake County Health Department and she said they do not have a regulation related to being on sewer. They require that they have legal water and a legal disposal system. They don’t have a position at this time about allowing short term rentals in homes with septic systems. The concern is of course making sure the septic system matches the use. Septic systems are built to match the number of bedrooms and number of people using the house, and nightly rentals tend to have more people using the home. In addition, they do not have a regulation related to the number of bedrooms. Again there is a concern that if people advertise more bedrooms than a septic system is built for, there could be an overload of the septic system. However, they don’t have any issues generally regarding homes with more than 4 bedrooms. She also voiced concern over people renting out sheds, tiny homes and tents/teepees on their properties.
Brighton Code (Business License)
The Brighton Town Code regulates short term rentals in it’s Business Licensing Title. https://brighton.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=5.19_SHORT- TERM_RENTALS Current regulations are the same as what exists in the Salt Lake County Code. Already there are many requirements related to short term rental licensing. They include:
• License required (5.19.020) • Applications have to include (5.19.030) o The location of the short-term rental, o The number of rooms therein contained, o The number of persons the short-term rental will accommodate, o The name of a property manager, o A sales tax collection and accounting number, o The name, address and telephone number of a local responsible party who is available by telephone twenty-four hours per day o The application shall include a statement by the applicant affirming that the applicant is currently in compliance with all legal requirements and has paid all applicable taxes, fees and other charges, including but not limited to the transient room tax. • The local fire agency and Salt Lake County Health Department review the application. (5.19.040) • Minimum standards for the Short term rentals include (5.19.070) o Periodic housekeeping service shall be provided by the owner, including removal of trash to the nearest collection point, on at least a weekly basis. o Short-term rentals may not be used for any of the following: ▪ Commercial purposes not otherwise permitted in the zone;
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▪ Distribution of retail products or personal services to invitees for marketing or similar purposes; or ▪ The outdoor display of goods and merchandise for sale. o Required parking areas and access to parking areas shall be maintained and available for use at all times. Parking for this use shall include a minimum of one parking space for each bedroom in the dwelling unit, shall be contained on the site, and shall not be allowed on the public rights-of-way. The use of a dwelling as a short-term rental shall not change the appearance of the dwelling or property for residential purposes. (similar to County requirements – although County requires a minimum of two spots) o The access to the short-term rental unit and the layout of the short-term rental shall be designed so that noise and physical trespass from the short-term rental unit is not likely to be a substantial intrusion on adjoining properties. If the short- term rental unit is a single family home, duplex, condominium or other dwelling place and shares an access, hallway, common wall, or driveway with another dwelling, written consent of the owner of the other dwelling is required. • Responsible Party. o The licensee must designate a responsible party who is an individual or property management company residing or maintaining an office in the Town of Brighton. o The responsible party is personally liable for failure to properly manage the short-term rental. o The responsible party must be available by telephone, or otherwise, twenty-four hours per day and must be able to respond to inquiries within twenty minutes of receipt of an inquiry. • The licensee must have a sales tax collection and sales tax accounting number for the rental operation and the sales tax number must be included on the short-term rental application. All applicable taxes, charges and fees, including the transient room tax, must be paid in full during the period of licensure. • The short term rental must require any tenant vehicles to have “three peaks” snow tires and either four wheel drive vehicles or chains in their vehicle for all rentals from November 1 – April 30. • One nameplate sign shall be permanently attached to the building in a conspicuous location near the front entrance of the short-term rental. The nameplate sign shall: o Provide the name and telephone number of at least one responsible individual located within the town that can be contacted twenty-four hours a day, o Contain the occupant load of the building as allowed by the International Building Code, o Be made of durable, weather resistant material, o Not exceed three inches by five inches in dimension, and o Contain no advertising.
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• For purposes of prosecution of violations of this chapter, each day that any violation occurs, or that applicable taxes and fees are unpaid, is deemed to constitute a separate violation.
Does the Council want to change any of the existing regulations above?
Other Regulations we have discussed to add to our regulations:
1. Require a posted list of regulations. 2. Add regulations from BCCA guidelines in our business license ordinance which aren’t listed in other regulations? a. Quiet hours are 10 pm to 7 am. b. No dogs are allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon due to Watershed regulations. c. Garbage/Recycle cans must remain inside to prevent wildlife from scattering trash. d. Renter is responsible for light snow removal if necessary when no plows are present. A snow shovel is provided to the renter for that purpose. e. Roofalanches are common around canyon homes. Beware of traveling between or under rooflines. f. Camp Fires need to be doused with water and ashes stirred and doused again to make sure they are completely wet as they can often reignite from hot ashes underneath. 3. Intensity of Use: I do not recommend implementing a “density” (i.e. x number of short term rentals per neighborhood) related regulation as such regulations have been subject to legal challenge. However, many jurisdictions limit the number of nights a dwelling can be rented over a calendar year. Here are some examples: a. Redwood City, CA: 120 days/year when host is not present b. Palm Springs, CA: 32 contracts/year, with an additional 4 contracts during peak season c. New Orleans, LA: 90 days/year when owner is not present d. Los Angeles, CA: 120 days/year e. San Mateo, CA: 100 nights/year when owner is not present f. Boston, MA: 120 nights/year when owner is present (Boston had a lawsuit – there was a settlement where all short-term rental listings will be required to display a city- formatted registration number, or the listings will be removed.) g. San Francisco, CA: 90 nights/year when owner is not present h. Washington DC: 90 nights/year when owner is not present i. Mountain View, CA 60 nights/year https://www.mountainview.gov/depts/comdev/preservation/short_term_rental_housin g/default.asp j. Millbrae, CA 100 nights/year https://www.ci.millbrae.ca.us/departments- services/community-development/short-term-rentals 4. Prohibit special events at a nightly rental?
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a. Mountain View. CA prohibits special events at short term rental (no weddings; parties; corporate gatherings, etc) as does Redwood City, CA. 5. Local Contact Requirement - owners must provide the town and neighbors in properties adjacent to the short-term rental with the contact information for a local person who can respond to concerns and complaints within 60 minutes. (Mountain View) 6. Require a building inspection of the home prior to granting a business license?
Enforcement –
1. I am waiting to hear back from the MSD re the penalty amount if there is a violation. 2. The range of penalties include: a. Mountain View, CA $500 violation b. Redwood City, CA: $100 1st violation, $200 2nd violation and $500 for subsequent violations (within 1 year) c. Summit County, CO: $100 per violation d. Big Island, HI: $500 per violation e. Palm Springs, CA: $500 1st violation, $1,000 2nd violation f. Moab, UT: $650 per violation g. Telluride, CO: up to $1,000 per violation h. South Lake Tahoe, CA: $250 - $1,000 i. Jackson, WY: $750 per violation j. New Orleans, LA: $500 per violation k. San Mateo, CA: $100 1st violation, $200 for 2nd, $300 for each additional l. Honolulu, HI: $1,000 1st violation, $10,000 for “recurring violation” (subject to legal challenge) m. Austin, TX: $500 per violation n. San Francisco min $484/day o. LA min $500/day p. Washington DC $500-6000/violation; q. Chicago $1,500-$3,000/day; r. Seattle $500-1000/violation s. Millbrae, CA $1,000/day 3. Mountain View uses https://www.hostcompliance.com/ to help them determine how many nights a unit has been rented.
Education
Utah Law 10-8-85.4 prevents municipalities from fining, charging or prosecuting an individual solely for listing on a short term rental websites. However, there is no prohibition against education. We could send out an informational letter to those who are on Airbnb, VRBO, Property Managers, etc. (similar to what Kara did during the COVID restrictions) to let owners know their responsibility to get a license and so they know what the regulations are. Also, the
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MSD sent out letters to those with CUPs to remind them to get business licenses December 5, 2019.
Conclusion:
We started the discussion with Salt Lake County and the MSD with a meeting on January 21, 2020 which discussed many of the challenges related to short term rentals. The Brighton Town Council has the ability to regulate short term rentals through business license regulations to protect the health and safety of those in Brighton. Please give direction on what regulations we should require for short term rentals for their business license requirement.
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TOWN OF BRIGHTON AND BIG COTTONWOOD CANYON EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN 2020 Page 23
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROMULGATION STATEMENT 3
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 4
GOALS 4
SITUATION 4
VULNERABILITY 5
MITIGATION 5
HAZARD ANALYSIS 5 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS 6 ORGANIZATION CHART 7 RESPONSIBILITIES 8
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION 9
RESOURCES 10 COMMUNICATIONS 10
PLAN MAINTENANCE 10
WINTER STORM SAMPLE TIME FRAME 11
96 HOUR KIT 12
CAR EMERGENCY KIT 12
SAFE DRINKING WATER 12
EMERGENCY CONTACTS 13
PROCLAMATION AND ORDERS 14 Page 24
PROMULGATION STATEMENT
Information contained in this document is the Emergency Operations Plan for the Town of Brighton.
This plan provides a framework for emergency response functions during an emergency incident in the Town of Brighton and Big Cottonwood Canyon.
This plan can also be adapted for use with special events within the Brighton.
This Plan includes four phases of emergency management. They are:
Mitigation - Activities which eliminate or reduce the probability of an incident;
Preparedness - Activities developed to save lives and minimize damage;
Response - Activities which prevent loss of lives and property and provide emergency assistance; and,
Recovery - Activities which return all systems to normal or improved standards.
This plan is prepared in accordance with the National Incident Management System (NIMS) concepts and terminology.
It will be tested, revised and updated at least every 5 years.
Approved by the Town Council on ______. Page 25
/s/ Mayor
(SEAL) Page 26
PURPOSE OF THE PLAN This plan is a local level integrated emergency management manual. It is designed to describe the emergency disaster response of the Town of Brighton.
The goal of the plan is to provide a means to utilize all available resources to MITIGATE or prevent potential emergencies or disasters whenever possible, PREPARE to deal efficiently with the effects of emergency events, RESPOND to matters of life safety and property protection, and promote a means to RECOVER rapidly from unavoidable damages.
Emergency and disaster situations include, but is not limited to wildfire, flood, storm, earthquake, epidemic, accident, chemical spill, technological hazards created as a bi-product of our modern society, or other calamities endangering health, life or property of the constituted government.
GOALS Priorities are (1) life safety (2) incident stabilization (3) preservation of property.
Maintain communications with local, county, and state cooperating agencies. Maintain law and order. Provide fire, rescue, and Emergency Medical System (EMS) response Declare and facilitate evacuation of town residents if needed. Preserve, evaluate, and bring to working order critical infrastructures and buildings Maintain accurate documentation throughout event. Return Big Cottonwood to pre-incident operational level.
SITUATION The Town of Brighton located in Salt Lake County covers 17 square miles: 12.5 sq. miles are US Forest Service public land; 1 sq. mile belongs to Salt Lake City for public open space land; and 3.5 square miles are private lands. It is bordered on the south by the Town of Alta, the east by the Wasatch County ridgeline, on the north by the Summit County ridgeline, and to the west by unincorporated US Forest Service land and unincorporated Salt Lake County private parcels.
The Town of Brighton is a tourist destination, with a year round population of approximately 260, and a seasonal population of approximately 1500. Visitation in the canyon exceeds 2 million annually.
Utah State Highway 190 (Big Cottonwood Highway) is the only access and egress in winter. State Highway 190-Guardsmans Pass Road is a seasonal road that connects Brighton to Park City in the summer; it is closed from November to June.
Unified Fire Authority serves the Town of Brighton and has automatic aid agreements with other surrounding agencies.
Unified Police Department provides law enforcement and has mutual aid agreements with surrounding law enforcement agencies. Salt Lake County Sheriff provides Search & Rescue services.
Nearby hospitals include: 16 miles-Intermountain Medical Center (5121 Cottonwood St, Murray, Utah)-Trauma Level 1; 21 miles-Alta View Hospital (9660 S 1300 E, Sandy, UT); 22 miles-St. Marks Hospital (1200 E 3900 S, Millcreek Utah); 26 miles-University of Utah (50 N Medical Dr, Salt Lake City, Utah)-Burn Center and Trauma Level I.
In an emergency the LDS Chapel at Brighton, Alpine Rose Lodge at the Brighton Resort, Moon Beam Lodge at Solitude, Infinite Mind in Maxfield and Fire Station 108 may be put in use as public shelters. Page 27
VULNERABILITY All properties and infrastructures are at risk for wind and avalanche damage during the winter, and may be threatened by wildland fire, flooding, and landslides in the summer months.
MITIGATION Brighton will maintain regular contact and collaboration with UFA, UPD, and MSD Public Works Department to ensure cooperation and understanding of community needs related to defensible space and creek clearing.
Brighton will maintain collaborative relationships with Brighton and Solitude ski resorts via monthly community/town meetings.
Brighton will collaborate with UFA and Utah Forestry Fire and State Lands to reduce the risk and impact of wildfire by working with property owners to reduce fuel loads and create Defensible Space around private property and infrastructure. Continue Chipper Days as a way to reduce fuels for Defensible Space around private property.
Brighton will coordinate with the US Forest Service to limit the fuel load around communities on Forest Service land by identifying sections of public land adjacent to private land for possible fuels treatment.
Brighton will maintain contact with local churches, businesses, Brighton Girls’ Camp, and Camp Tuttle via town meetings and Emergency Preparedness Committee meetings.
Brighton will organize and maintain Neighborhood Emergency Operations Teams to facilitate local communication prior to and during emergency situations. CERT certification will continue to be encouraged.
HAZARD ANALYSIS Winter Storms and Avalanches are the most probable natural causes of emergencies in Brighton and Big Cottonwood Canyon.
Wildfire would affect all areas of Brighton and Big Cottonwood Canyon. Surrounding designated Wilderness areas are an area of concern.
Drought: Drought can be a problem in this sensitive vegetative environment making wildfire risk high.
Hazardous Materials: Incidents are possible and most likely related to the transportation of fuels.
National Emergencies: These situations are not likely locally, but their impact on resource availability could affect Brighton.
Shortages: The shortage of energy or food supplies could threaten the welfare of the population given the remote location and limited access.
Evacuation: Visitors and residents may not be able to evacuate out of the canyon. In that situation, evacuating to an open area within the canyon may be the best option. Open area evacuation locations include: Brighton Resort parking lot, Moonbeam Day Lodge areas at Solitude, Cardiff parking area, parking area at Mile marker 10.2 (just below entrance to Mount Haven) and Infinite Mind in Maxfield area. If evacuation is not an option, sheltering in place may be the most feasible option.
Accessibility: Areas of Highway 190 could be deemed impassable due to avalanche, debris, and bridge collapse or fire/rescue operations. Utilities (power, water, telephone) could be down for 24-72 hours (or longer). Page 28
Public Safety Resources: All requests for assistance (law enforcement, fire suppression, rescue, medical assistance, structural repair, etc) may need to be handled initially by Town resources only. Emergency boxes supplied by County EMS are located at Fire Station 108.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS General:
The operation of the plan will be coordinated among all departments and agencies and not dependent upon any one individual (Unified Command). The Incident Commander (professional UPD or UFA officials, or the Brighton Manager) will manage incidents and adhere to national incident management practices.
A triage of the town will be conducted in the early stages of a declared incident to gather information, identify priorities and set objectives to guide critical resources during response activities to minimize its effects. The information will be evaluated and used to identify priorities and the need for critical resources to support
Problem areas and deployment of resources will be monitored and recorded.
Public information will be initially coordinated with UFA and UPD public information officer. Mayor will assist where possible.
The Town of Brighton will prepare to operate unsupported for 72 hours.
The Incident Command Post (ICP) will be established near the emergency situation, or at Fire Station 108 whichever best facilitates the management of the incident. The Emergency Operations Committee policy group (elected officials) will meet at the Silver Fork Lodge or the Big Cottonwood Improvement District.
The Brighton elected officials (policy group) will need to be in regular contact with the Incident Commander.
Operations:
Operation of the plan commences when UPD or UFA officials determine that the severity or length of the situation warrants plan implementation to reduce the threat to life and/or property
The policy group, or designated representative, will alert and order the activation of the Emergency.
The size and composition of the staff is to be determined by the magnitude and type of the disaster event.
The general population will be advised of the situation by UFA or UPD. Arrangements will be made for the evacuation of threatened areas. The Incident Commander will make determination of evacuation orders. The Town of Brighton will make a concerted effort to get as many residents signed up for the Reverse 9-1-1 system as possible.
The Incident Commander (Town Emergency Manager) or designated representative will request support from Salt Lake County’s Emergency Operations Center if the incident/event exceeds the town capabilities. Organization:
The Incident Commander (Town Emergency Manager) or designated representative shall be the Director of Emergency Management and responsible for the coordination and operations of such activities for the Town of Brighton.
The employees, equipment and facilities of the Town will participate in the emergency management activity as Page 29
appropriate within their capabilities and assigned responsibilities.
ORGANIZATION CHART
Incident Command Priorities ▪ Contact UFA,UPD or Public Works immediately. UFA or UPD will assume command if they are in the area. Assistant ▪ Individual safety ▪ IC must stay in one place, and appoint an Assistant ▪ Take notes on ▪ Family’s Safety ▪ Conduct size-up and evaluate priorities with Team Leaders every command and ▪ Neighbors’ Safety ▪ Get reports from teams every 20 minutes to verify safety location of personnel and team needs ▪ Initiate recovery plans
Neighborhood Medical Team Logistics Team Public Info Search Leader Leader Leader Officer Stay in one place. ▪ Set up Treatment ▪ Procure and track ▪ Help set up Send out teams of at Area all equipment and Communications least 3, but no more ▪ Set up safe Triage supplies among UFA, UPD, than 7 to: zone ▪ Procure food and Team Leaders and ▪ Locate people & ▪ Place head-to-toe water for rescuers Incident Command problems ▪ Tag-ID all people and victims ▪ Set up family ▪ Triage ▪ Treatment in ▪ Procure 1st Aid reunification plan ▪ Tag Structures place if possible Supplies ▪ Initiate public info ▪ Warn others ▪ Transport if ▪ Procure Search and plan via websites, ▪ Cordon off danger Needed Rescue supplies social media, etc. ▪ Shut off propane, ▪ Set up Morgue ▪ Assign Volunteers ▪ Report, Document electricity, water if ▪ Emotional Support ▪ Accept Donations needed ▪ Report, Document ▪ Report, Document ▪ Report, Document
Neighborhood Medical Teams Logistics Teams Public Info Teams Search Teams ▪ Suggested Teams: ▪ Suggested Teams: ▪ Suggested Teams: ▪ Suggested Teams: -Recorder -Recorder -Recorder -Recorder -Triage -Food and Water -Social Media -Individual S&A -Treatment - S&R equipment -Family teams (no less than 3 -Transport -Medical Supplies Reunification or more than 7) -Morgue -Volunteers - Donations
Recovery Team Leader ▪ Set up plans for recovery effort ▪ Contact the Red Cross MARK program, VOAD, Team Rubicon, or other County and volunteer agencies as needed (see p.13) ▪ Work with Planning and Development Department to determine financial damage report Page 30
RESPONSIBILITIES
Individual Responsibility: The primary responsibility of all persons involved in an emergency situation is personal safety. Participation and viability of the entire effort depends on the safety of each individual. The second responsibility to the emergency effort is to secure the health and safety of family members and then immediate neighbors. After those responsibilities are completed, community members are encouraged to report to one of the emergency staging areas: Brighton, Solitude, Fire Station #108, Silver Fork Lodge, Cardiff Parking area, Infinite Mind Building
Incident Command (IC): UFA, UPD, SLCo Public works, or the Town Manager or a designated representative will serve as Incident Commander. UFA or UPD are required to take on immediate duties of an active emergency situation IF they are present in the canyon. It is possible that no UFA or UPD personnel would be available due to the remote and rural location of Brighton. The IC must stay in one place and appoint an Assistant. A size-up evaluation of priorities must be conducted with input from Team Leaders. The IC must track the safety and needs of all personnel, including volunteers. Finally, the IC will initiate recovery plans.
Assistant: The IC must appoint an Assistant who will take notes on all commands and location of personnel and assist with incident stabilization.
Neighborhood Search Team: The Neighborhood Search Leader must stay in one location to organize Neighborhood Search teams to check on homes. Teams should consist of at least 3, but not more than 7 people. The mission is to locate injured people and bring them to the IC area if needed, tag cabins if there is structural damage, cordon off dangerous areas, shut off propane, electricity, water if needed. Documentation is important.
Medical Team: The Medical Leader will set up a casualty collection point treatment area, including a safe triage zone. Injured people should be placed head-to-toe and identified with a sign or tag. First Aid will be done in place if possible. Transport will be arranged if needed. The Medical Team Leader will also seek persons to offer emotional support for victims and arrange an area for fatalities if needed. Documentation is an important function of this team. Medical Teams could include: Recorder, Triage Team, Treatment Team, Transport Team, Emotional Support Team, Morgue Team.
Logistics Team: The Logistics Team will procure equipment and supplies for food, water, 1st Aid Supplies, Search & Rescue equipment, and administrative supplies. Volunteers are often an important personnel supply, so there will be a volunteer intake process. Logistics Teams could include Recorder, Food & Water Support Team, Neighborhood Search Support Team, Supply Team, Medical Supply Team, Volunteer Intake Team, Donations Intake. It’s important for volunteers to sign in and out to account for their safety.
Public Information Team: – The Public Information Team will set up a family reunification plan and initiate public information through websites, social media, etc. Public Information Teams could include a Recorder, Social Media Team, Family Reunification Team.
Recovery Team: The Recovery Team is charged with setting up plans to return Brighton to an operational level. They will set up a Volunteer Center in a suitable meeting location for the public to come for assistance. They will coordinate identified needs with offers to help from local, state, federal, and volunteer officials, including the Public Assistance Center for legal advice, loans, reunification. There will be a need for sensitivity and creativity during the process. The Recovery Team will provide a preliminary disaster assessment within 24 hours of the event. The Director of Planning and Zoning is responsible for providing a financial damage assessment. Page 31
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Recovery efforts will require the following information: Boundaries of the disaster area Access points to the disaster area Local weather conditions Hazard specific information Status of utilities Status of communications Status of roads Status of food supplies
Status of law enforcement operations Status of fire and rescue operations Overall local priorities for response Resource shortfalls Status of local disaster situation Social/economic/political impacts
RESOURCES A list of Emergency Management contact names is provided on the last page of this plan. Agencies include:
Salt Lake County Emergency Management-contact for help with issuing a disaster declaration, UFA Wildland Fire Crew status, FEMA, S.A.F.E. Neighborhoods program, Utah Department of Emergency Management.
Red Cross DAT- (Red Cross Disaster Action Team), Blood, Psychological First Aid (for PTSD and other emotional support programs), disaster agency referrals
MARC (Multi-Agency Resource Center)-provides on-site community meeting opportunities with lawyers, medical and home insurance, muckers, construction repairs, etc.
VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters)-Connects with specialized church services such as LDS Church (food, clothing), Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (muckers), Salvation Army (housing, food), and agencies like Habitat for Humanity (builders)
Amateur Radio-provides personnel and equipment to operate Ham radios.
Team Rubicon-Military veterans who provide personnel and chainsaws to help with tree and structure failure. Also medical personnel may be available.
Salt Lake County Health Department-provides guidance with flood mitigation, sewage contamination.
Salt Lake County Aging Services-provides resources for housing, transportation, in-home personal care, health insurance.
Salt Lake County Medical Reserve Corps-provides health care volunteers to help with floods, sewage contamination. Page 32
COMMUNICATIONS
Fire personnel have digital 800 MHz-limited UNF capability with portable and mobile radios. The Town of Brighton will follow the communications plan outlined by the UFA and UPD.
Neighborhood Team Leaders equipped with handheld walkie-talkies will use Channel 22
Phones (landlines and cell phones) will be the primary means of communication between Salt Lake County ECC and the local Town of Brighton BEOC. Text communications are often the most resilient in a large-scale emergency.
Most of Big Cottonwood homeowners are included in Neighborhood Team Networks. Communities are divided into areas with a leader(s) in charge of maintaining current contact information for 12-15 homes nearby. Homeowners may be contacted in person or by text. The Town of Brighton, Brighton Ski Resort, and Solitude Mountain Resort’s websites are available to update the public about disaster progress, as well as their social media accounts.
The Mayor or designee will be responsible for approving public information releases. Public information will be coordinated with Salt Lake County Emergency Management as necessary.
PLAN MAINTENANCE
The Mayor and Town Council will review the plan at least every 5 years. The Emergency Plan shall also be reviewed after an actual emergency. Page 33
SAMPLE TIME FRAME FOR A MAJOR WINTER STORM
If possible, the Salt Lake County Emergency Coordination Center (SLCECC) will notify the town approximately 96 hours prior to possible major storm.
The Town Staff will begin preparation of securing Town interests. 72 HOURS AHEAD Brighton’s Emergency Operations Committee (BEOC), UFA and UPD personnel should be getting personal affairs in order. 36-48 HOURS AHEAD Probable Evacuation at this point (Evacuation is ordered during daylight hours) Mayor/Designee contact the Brighton Emergency Operations Committee (BEOC) Operations: prepare for evacuation order by county or municipality Planning: begin documentation and status reporting as needed Logistics: gather and purchase supplies/resources and ready facilities 18-24 HOURS AHEAD Emergency Centers activated at Brighton, Solitude, Fire Station 108, Silver Fork Lodge Town Offices secured (building, files, computer, phones forwarded to local EOC, etc.) Council watch schedule established Status of Incident Command (IC) Sections reviewed 12-18 HOURS AHEAD Mayor to evaluate need to issue Proclamations for Municipal State of Emergency Issue Public Information in conjunction with SLCo ECC warning visitors and residents to seek safe shelter Upon completion of evacuation, UPD and UFA evacuate to Town emergency centers or designated location
WINTER STORM EVENT 2-4 HOURS AFTER EVENT Initiate public information as necessary Operations: Suppress fire and crime Initiate search and rescue Debris removal Activate damage assessment teams Submit initial situation and damage report to County EOC 4-6 HOURS AFTER EVENT Emergency Operations Committee meets to evaluate damage, make assignments, and adjust Action Plan Continue evaluation of safety, sanitation and resource needs Determine debris collection and removal 6-8 HOURS AFTER EVENT Activate Mitigation Ordinance Activate Recovery Plan Page 34 96 Hour Kit Checklist (4 days) Water paper/pen Clothing Water (1gallon/person) AM/FM Radio Shoes/socks/boots Water filter/purifier tablets Extra underwear Water bottles/jugs First Aid Hand warmers Pain Relievers Blanket Food Bandages/Wraps Hat/gloves Dehydrated/Freeze-dried food Insect Repellent Reflective bag/blanket Beef Jerky Sanitizer/Soap Food Bars First Aid Kit Fuel & Cooking Hard Candy Personal Medications Lightweight Stove Energy Drink Extra Fuel Can opener Lighting Cook Set Lamps/Lanterns Utensils Shelter & Bedding Flashlights Matches Tent Batteries Clean-up Supplies Tarp Candles Sleeping Pad Tools & Equipment Sleeping Bag Toiletries Pick/Shovel Parka, jacket Portable Toilet Duct Tape Plastic Bags Multifunction Knife Security & Protection Shampoo Compass/Maps Protective Mask Razors Ax/Hatchet/Saw Protective Gloves Toothbrush Tire Repair Tools Escape Ladder Shovel/Trowel Sewing Kit Evacuation Plan Towel/Washcloth Rope Toilet Paper Communications Soap Other Batteries/Chargers Lotion Toys/Books/Games Signal Mirror Comb/Brush Camera Whistle Feminine Needs Baby Supplies Flare/Strobe Light Privacy Shelter/Sheet Cash (small bills) Walkie-Talkie Laundry Soap Car Emergency KIT First Aid Kit Non-perishable Food, Candy Whistle on lanyard Flares Foldable Shovel Paper, Pen Fire Extinguisher Tools (pliers, knife, screwdriver) Jumper Cables Blankets Duct Tape, Electrical Tape Siphon Hose Sealable Plastic Bags Tissues, Towelettes, Toiletries Snow Scraper Flashlight Bottled Water (not full-may freeze) Contact Info Warm Clothing Cash in small bills Safe Drinking Water Amount: An active person requires a minimum of 1 gallon of water per day. Storage: Buy water jugs at the market or use plastic soda bottles. Do not use milk jugs, as they are designed to disintegrate in a short time. Store water in a cool, dark place and rotate it every year.
Ways to Purify Water Boil vigorously for 1 to 3 minutes. Purification tablets. Use as directed on package Bleach purification: Amount of Water Clear Water Cloudy Water 1 quart 2 drops 4 drops 1 gallon 1/8 tsp. ¼ tsp. 5 gallons ½ tsp 1 tsp Page 35 emergency contacts ▪ Salt Lake County Emergency Management Fire/Police/Paramedics 911 Clint Mecham MEDICAL 801-330-8491 (mobile) 801-743-7103 (office) Poison Control Center 800.222.1222 [email protected] Hospitals Alta View Hospital 801.501.2600 ▪ Red Cross Disaster Action Team U of U Emergency Room 801.581.2291 Toni Wise Primary Children’s Hosp. 801.662.1000 801-440-8757 (mobile) 801-323-7002 (office) LDS Hospital 801.408.1100 [email protected] St. Marks Hospital 801.268.7111 IHC Hospital-Murray 801.507.7000 ▪ MARC Multi-Agency Resource Center Toni Wise (see above) or Lisa Bagley (see below) Care Centers FirstMed Urgent Care 801.943.3300 ▪ VOAD Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters After Hours Medical-Holladay 801.509.9425 Lisa Bagley [email protected] After Hours Medical-Sandy 801.609.9864 IHC InstaCare 801.871.6400 ▪ Amateur Radios Kelly Weldon [email protected] PUBLIC SAFETY Sheriff Dispatch 801.743.7000 ▪ Team Rubicon UFA Station #108 Local 435.649.7108 [email protected] SLCo Public Works (24x7) 385.468.6101 Or Sanitation (trash) 385.468.6325 [email protected] Watershed 801.483.6884 Forest Service 801.236.3400 ▪ Salt Lake County Health Department Public Lands Info 801.466.6411 385-468-4124 Canyon Sewer District 801.558.9891 [email protected] Road Conditions 511 Flood Control 385.468.6600 ▪ Salt Lake County Aging Services 385-468-3200 Power Outage 877.548.3768 [email protected] Trees on Power Lines 888.221.7070 CenturyLink Outage 385.414.2077 ▪ Salt Lake County Medical Reserve Corps Utah Avalanche Center 801.524.5304 385-468-4100 Avalanche Hotine 888.999.4019 UPD Graffiti Hotline 385.468.9769 adjoining county Planning/Code Enforcement 385.468.6700 emergency contacts Bear Sightings (DWR) 801.491.5678 ▪ Summit County-Chris Crowley Tow Truck-Paul Nell 801.403.6186 801-718-4628 (mobile) 435-333-1532 (office) Tow Truck Dan Knopp 801.244.0366 [email protected] Brighton Resort 801.532.4731 Solitude Resort 801.536.5776 ▪ Wasatch County-Sergeant Jeremy Hales SUMMER CAMPS 435-654-1098 ▪ Brighton Girls’ Camp [email protected] Barbara Schmidt 801-915-9660 [email protected] BRIGHTON OFFICIALS Mayor Dan Knopp ▪ Camp Tuttle Council Member Zuspan Admin/Finance Melanie Lees 801.597.9840 Council Member Bossard Logistics [email protected] Council Member Keigley Recovery Libby Hunter 801-755-4939 Council Member Malone Info Outreach [email protected] Town Manager Page 36 NEIGHBORHOOD EMERGENCY TEAM PROGRAM
Big Cottonwood is divided into Neighborhood Teams. Community Team Leaders and Team Members include:
Brighton Ski Resort-Kim Doyle ▪ Kim Doyle 801.503.8414 Silver Fork-Barbara Cameron [email protected] ▪ Area 1 ▪ Barbara Cameron 801.694.9045 [email protected] Brighton Girls Camp-Barbara Schmidt ▪ Area 2 ▪ Corey Carlson 801.860.2480 ▪ Barbara Schmidt 801.915.9660 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Area 3 ▪ Scotty John 801.518.6338 ▪ Brian Homer 801.870.2847 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Area 4 ▪ Keith Zuspan 801.608.8205 ▪ Susan Rabiger 801.556.7146 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Area 5 ▪ Tom Loken 801.556.3635 [email protected] Brighton, Camp Tuttle, Evergreen ▪ Area 6 ▪ Eli Lovett Lady of the Lake -Doug Fry, Jolene Despain [email protected] ▪ Doug Fry 801.557.9411 ▪ Area 7 ▪ Gwen Gushee [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Jeff Bossard 435.647.7941 ▪ Area 8 ▪ Kelly Lether 801.655.3595 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Steve Jorgensen 801.819.9218 ▪ Area 9 ▪ Dave Carlson 435.452.1811 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Don Despain 435.714.0494 ▪ Area 10 ▪ Logan Cookler 303.589.3458 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Jolene Despain 435.7142121 ▪ Area 11 ▪ Earlene Pitt 801.712.1177 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Karen Gleeson (Camp Tuttle) ▪ Area 12 ▪ Klaus Biggers 801.410.0012 [email protected] [email protected] Mary Zeigle-(Willow Loop) 801.703.6068 [email protected] Pine Tree-Karin Peterson ▪ Karin Peterson 801.450.2886 Forest Glen, Mill F, Old Stage [email protected] Road-Carolyn Keigley & Greg Hatch ▪ John Dumas 801.518.9205 ▪ Greg Hatch 801.4408785 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Nathan Breinholt 801.518.8326 ▪ Carolyn Keigley 774.224.1523 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Don Pickard 508.361.2418 Mill D North Fork-Kurt Hegman [email protected] ▪ Kurt Hegmann 801.541.6710 ▪ Alex Wheler 801.580.9682 [email protected] [email protected] Cardiff Fork-Bart Reuling ▪ Travis Harvey 801.859.6883 ▪ Bart Reuling 435.645.3928 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Nancy Robinson 801.448.1149 [email protected] Mount Haven-Russ Zimmerman ▪ Tom Linus & Laurie Hilyer 801.631.3373 ▪ Russ Zimmerman 801.205.3453 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Jeanette Sawaya & Greg Hoel 801.450.2426 ▪ Karl Bryner 801.330.1385 [email protected] [email protected]
Solitude Mountain Resort-Bryan Luftglass Maxfield-Mike Jager ▪ Marvin Sumner 801.330.3829 ▪ Mike Jager 801.541.8270 [email protected] [email protected] ▪ Bryan Luftglass 914.533.5300 Laurel Pines-Steve Tripp [email protected] ▪ Steve Tripp 801.301.6489 ▪ Adam Peters 801.535.4125 [email protected] [email protected] Page 37
PROCLAMATION AND ORDERS
TO BIG COTTONWOOD RESIDENTS The Emergency Preparedness Team has been working to get homeowners prepared in the case of a canyon emergency. Thanks to all the team leaders who signed up to help them! Here’s an update:
First, Big Cottonwood homeowners were divided into Neighborhood Team Networks of 12-15 nearby homes. Then, Neighborhood Team Leaders were recruited to be in charge of maintaining current contact information and helping distribute emergency information.
For example, Neighborhood Team Leaders will distribute the Big Cottonwood Emergency Handbook. It contains information about various kinds of emergencies, as well as places to fill in personal family emergency plans and contacts. Keep it in a safe place to remind you of your well-thought out plans in the hurried chaos of an actual emergency.
Second, in the event of an actual emergency, homeowners may be contacted in person or by text. Text communications are often the most reliable in the event of a large-scale emergency.
Third, you can help by welcoming your Neighborhood Team leader, and helping be sure your contact information is correct (especially your mobile phone/text number). If you are aware of any emergency, contact the leader to be sure the information gets out to everyone. After all, your team leader may not be home at the time, and you may be the one to contact your neighbors. If you have visitors who are using your home, it may be helpful for them to know where the emergency booklet is.
Thanks for everything you can do to help keep our neighborhoods safe. You’re worth it! Page 38
In August each year BCCA compiles a list of Community Needs. This year’s list is a result of BCCA Board member input and items that have been on the Community Needs list for many years.
BIG COTTONWOOD COMMUNITY NEEDS RESTROOMS New Restrooms at Cardiff-open year-round (USFS estimated cost $1,312,956) New Restrooms at Mill B-open year-round (USFS estimated cost $475,740) Restore water source at Storm Mountain Gulch (USFS estimated cost $250,000) Porta-potties near Lake Mary Trailhead, open from May-October
TRAILS No roadside parking outside of designated, marked spaces near trailheads and resorts. Urge UDOT and USFS to clear deadfall and hazard trees from trailheads and road corridor. Support creation of a Winter Snow Trail at Spruces with off-road parking at Spruces. Maintenance on Desolation Trail Twin Lakes Dam Trail reroute - improvements to the historic trail route Design, flagging and NEPA for Crest Trail extension from Brighton to Guardsman Pass Reroutes and repair of Brighton Ski Area to Dog Lake section of Great Western Trail Install Historical markers or signs around Loop and at Trailheads.
THE LOOP Improved compactor/recycle area. No roadway lighting in the Brighton Loop, not even warning lights. Dark skies are important. Pedestrian lane around the Loop on one side, and a bicycle lane on the other side.
TRANSPORTATION No increase in road width, except for bicycle lanes on both sides of the highway. Reduce noise from illegal mufflers. Reduce number of vehicles in summer by providing Public Summer Shuttle Service from May 15 through October 15, from the mouth of the canyon to Brighton, with trailhead stops as needed. This should be combined with no roadside parking at trailheads outside of marked parking spaces. The Notch: Provide motion-activated signage/lights to warn vehicles of cyclists and joggers. Pave and stripe a parking area near Maxfield Road turn-off above the Notch. Re-engineer the S-Turn to reduce the grade and increase the radius. Put a pedestrian tunnel to Mill B north. Also install a bicycle lane+bridge up Mill B South along the old trail so cyclists could avoid the S-Turn. Straighten road slightly at Stairs Power Plant to allow for a bike lane, improve line-of sight, and traffic flow. UDOT to supply real-time information at the mouth of the canyon about parking availability in the canyon. Install additional UDOT cameras at Brighton and Solitude for real-time view of traffic. Redesign parking at Silver Fork restaurant area Provide wildlife warning signs on roadway in appropriate places.
Page 39 WILLOW HEIGHTS Create a parking area for the Willow Heights Trailhead on the north side of the road by realigning the highway 12’ to the south. This will eliminate the need for crossing the road at this very busy trailhead. Install a public restroom at the trailhead on the north side of the road. No camping at Willow Heights unless there are vault restrooms at the top.
UPD UPDATE FROM LEE ARNOLD I hope this email finds everyone safe and well. There have been no new residential burglaries reported in the month of July which is always a good thing. With the construction on Big Cottonwood Canyon Road we have had concerns reported in the Loop about vehicles going the wrong way in the one way. I placed one of our message signs at the beginning of the Brighton Loop Road to help with this problem. I know Jake with UDOT is also working on this problem. When the paving is completed I am sure the new markings and barricades will help drivers understand.
Parking on the Guard Road remains in the sights of UPD, this is a constant problem that requires full time monitoring for Patrol. In spite all the tickets, signs, warnings, and education we have tried people continue to park where it is “NO PARKING”. UPD will continue to Ticket all involved and try to keep this somewhat under control.
There have been concerns about fire pits on private property. The laws have not changed all fires must be in a contained pit and away from any compostable items such as propane tanks and debris. Have a ready water source to extinguish the fire and don’t leave it unattended. This is all common sense lines of thought. If you have further questions call UFA before you light that fire.
As always if you see something and you think it is suspicious call 801-743-7000 this is the non-emergency number for UPD Dispatch. You may be put on hold for a short time please remain on the line until your call is taken. If it is an emergency please call 911. Many eyes make a safe and happy community. Thanks everyone for all you do.
CANYON CLOSURE PASSES UPD will issue Canyon Closure Passes to permanent residents so they can drive home in the event of a canyon closure for such things as parking overflow at the resorts. Details on how to obtain a Pass will be announced in September. Passes will not allow residents to avoid safety or avalanche closures, or drive around traffic.
Short-term rental customers must have a printed copy of their rental agreement or receipt, listing the address and dates they’ll be staying. A phone copy will slow traffic and is not COVID friendly. UPD will issue a regular pass for renters who are staying 2-4 months if they contact the UPD.
Contractors will be handled on a case-by-case basis. If they look like contractors (tools, branded trucks) and know the address they are headed to, they’ll be allowed up the canyon.
BRIGHTON UPDATE-RANDY DOYLE Summer is here and it is hot. Operations at the Brighton store are going well and with some effort the public is generally respectful of the facemask requirement. The Millicent bathrooms are once again open for the public and will be for the rest of the summer. Rumor has it that the town may help to defer some of the costs of this. Signage has been placed at the trailhead informing the public of the location of the bathrooms. We are currently assessing the hours that we will keep them open.
We have been working with UDOT on the Roundabout and believe that we have a solution that may be acceptable to everyone. It will involve barricades, but you will be able to access the roundabout from the store lot. Page 40
We are currently finalizing plans for opening next season as soon as the snow permits. All operations are planned to be open, but of course capacities may be limited. We are working with UTA and hopefully busses will operate at the same level as last year. However capacities may not be at a level that we have seen in the past. In other words, the busses will not be loaded beyond capacity. You are right about the backcountry. There seems to be consensus that the backcountry will be very busy this season, which may create additional issues and headaches for Wasatch Backcountry Rescue. As always we will be available to help when needed.
SOLITUDE UPDATE-KIM MAYHEW We have a few key senior managers coming back from zero hours this month to assist in preparation for what will be the “new normal” for operations for winter. We are planning on opening on November 21st weather permitting and will be operating under guidelines from federal, state and local government to protect our staff, our guests and our community from the spread of COVID-19. Food and beverage operations, restroom facilities, rental and snow sports as well as our retail outlets will have a different feel as we navigate capacity constraints and regulations. While we don’t have the exact details on what this will look like, we are working diligently to put our plans in place because unless the government shuts us down or we can’t open due to poor snow conditions, we will be open for business starting on November 21st.
We have seen hikers and some bikers on our property but we continue to remain closed for the summer. We are working with UTA to secure a similar bus operation as they provided last year. We may see fewer people riding the bus under our current circumstances but UTA is working hard to make a positive experience for riders. We anticipate staffing the resort will be much harder this year due to several different issues. First, we will not be able to hire the foreign work and travel J-1 visa students as we have in recent years as the Trump Administration has put a hold on all temporary non-immigrant workers coming to the US and will reevaluate this in January 2021. Also, in order to operate in a safe manner, we are going to need more staff to assist us with following all the operational guidelines we must follow in every area of our business.
We are excited to be moving toward winter with the hope that Mother Nature will help us out.
MUNICIPAL SERVICES DISTRICT LICENSING PORTAL Click the link below to find out where to get business licenses, building permits, inspections, and code enforcement for citizen complaints about illegal land use issues. https://msd-planning-slco.hub.arcgis.com/
RENTAL ASSISTANCE
With the end of the federal $600 weekly unemployment benefit, those receiving unemployment benefits may now receive State rental assistance. Previously, only renters who were not receiving unemployment benefits were eligible.
The program is targeted to help renters whose income has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and who have a household income at or below the area median income. The program can pay up to $2,000 a month for rent and utilities.
To learn more about eligibility and where to apply, renters should call Utah Community Action at 801-359-2444. Callers should be aware that there may be long wait times, or that they may need to leave a voicemail message so staff can call them back.
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CHIPPER DAYS UPDATE Chipper Days were delayed several weeks because the crew was called out on wildfires. They will return in mid-August. They have promised to return again beginning September 8. So far, we have 46 families participating. Here are some things to remember about Chipper Days. Keep track of your hours because we get in-in-kind credits to keep Chipper Days free. Each hour gets a credit of $24.65! Be sure to stack large cut ends at edge of drive to help crews with untangling. No limbs over 6 inches in diameter. New Rules. Property owners ARE allowed to clear deadfall from USFS lands adjacent to their property up to 150 ft from their residence. If you want to sign up for Chipper Days, email [email protected]. Provide your cabin address, contact phone, number of hours, and say if you want your chips scattered or piled. Please understand that you are giving your permission for the chipper crew to come onto your property, and will not hold them responsible for unintended damage.
MATTRESS DISPOSAL Did you know that Spring Back Mattress (1929 South 4130 West) will take your used mattresses, and will recycle 100% of its materials! The recycling fee for mattress or box springs is $20 per piece. They will also pick up your mattress for an additional $40. This is a much better option than sending it to the landfill for $15 per piece.
For more information, please contact them at: 801-906-8146 www.springbackutah.com