By Jennelle Zajac, For Iron County Today
Public Comment – During the public comment section, Cecilie Evans, a representative from the Iron County Homeowners Association, requested increased collaboration between the association, city staff, and council members prior to council meetings to proactively address building industry concerns. They also shared findings from the NAHB price-out research, highlighting how even small increases in housing prices can significantly affect affordability. The Mayor expressed agreement with the idea of offline discussions to foster collaboration.
Audit Report and Fraud Risk Assessment – Kimball and Roberts presented the audit report for fiscal year 2025, delivering a “clean and unmodified” opinion, signifying a clean audit of Parowan City financials with no material irregularities. Rick Roberts discussed the budget to actual expense comparisons, noting that while total revenues were less than budgeted, expenditures were also kept below budget. He also addressed a finding of non-compliance regarding the Fraud Risk Assessment and emphasized the importance of timely completion and approval. The council approved the audit report and moved to rectify the Fraud Risk Assessment. The council discussed the possibility of forming a formal audit committee to ensure Parowan City receives a finding-free assessment in the future.
Pioneer Legacy Celebration Request – Justin and Merrill Osmond presented a report on the 2024 Pioneer Legacy Celebration, expressing gratitude for the city’s support and outlining plans for the upcoming 2026 event. He emphasized the importance of remembering the pioneers and engaging youth in celebrating their legacy. He requested continued partnership and sponsorship from the city, emphasizing that any funds raised beyond production costs would be donated to charity.
Breakwater Flood Control Discussion – The council resumed discussion on the Breakwater Flood Control, evaluating three options: doing nothing, putting the project out to bid, or running the pit as an enterprise fund. The discussion included the need to process existing raw materials, potential cost savings, and the importance of flood control for the town. Councilmember Barton expressed interest in cleaning the pit and using the material for upcoming projects and suggested to “clean it ourselves and use the material at least for the next couple of years until we kind of run out of projects and then maybe about putting it out for bid”. The council decided to table the item until the next meeting to gather more information on feasibility and bidding processes.
Police Truck Buyback – The council deliberated on the police truck buyback program, considering whether to purchase and keep two trucks coming off lease. City Staff noted the advantages of having a backup truck and a vehicle for the building inspector, highlighting potential cost savings. Ultimately, the council approved buying both trucks with the option to sell one if it’s not needed after evaluation.
Committee Reappointments – Committee reappointments were made, approving the reappointments of Greta Adams and Bernadine Byl to the Theater Committee, Greg Evans to the Electric Board, Lori Eichelberg to Economic Development, and Doug Fox to the Water Board.
Water Impact Fee Analysis Presentation – Aaron Anderson from Home Commons and Associates presented a draft of the Water Impact Fee Analysis, explaining the methodology for calculating fees and emphasizing the importance of growth paying for itself. He outlined the equation for determining impact fees, considering the value of existing infrastructure and cost of new capacity, and discussed the incorporation of grants and bonding. He stated that “with a correct impact fee then growth will pay for itself”. The analysis proposed a new Water Impact Fee of $7,284.76, a significant increase from the current rate of $2,056 for residential. The council discussed the implications of the proposed fee, the need to balance affordability with ensuring adequate infrastructure funding, and the process for public hearings and potential adoption. The council decided to schedule a public hearing for the next meeting.
Airport FBO Operating Agreement and Hangar Leases Discussion – The council discussed the FBO operating agreement and hangar leases at the airport. The proposal involved separating airport management duties from the FBO and hiring a part-time city employee for airport management. The city would lease the main hangar to the FBO for free, encouraging them to enhance services and attract more aviation activity. There were discussions about a separate agreement for the FBO to develop hangars, creating potential ground lease revenue for Parowan City. The council agreed to review the draft contract and address it on the next agenda.
Annexation Policy Plan Discussion – The council reviewed the annexation policy plan, deciding whether to make recommendations to change the map and future boundaries. Councilmember Burton expressed interest in shrinking the annexation area, citing infrastructure concerns. After discussion, the council agreed to move the item to the next action meeting, allowing Councilmember Burton to present a proposed new annexation map.
Shared Driveway Code Update The shared driveway code update was discussed. The code is ready for ordinance formatting, which will be considered for approval at the next meeting.
Other Discussions
– Parks and Recreation Committee Code: The council discussed a proposed change to the ordinance regarding the Parks and Rec Committee, suggesting adding the word “and” to allow for both a Rec Director and a Rec Committee.
– Building Permit Fee: The council discussed the recently adopted fee schedule and negative feedback received from builders. Compared to the Iron County and Cedar City, Parowan’s fees are much higher. The council will consider discounts and refunds at a future meeting.
– Wildland Urban Interface: The council reviewed the definition of Wildland Urban Interface in preparation for defining the area for Parowan City. The urban wildland interface (WUI) is the area where human development meets or intermingles with wildland vegetation, posing significant wildfire risks.
Residents are encouraged to attend City Council Meetings on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Parowan City Council Chambers. Alternatively, the meetings can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/@parowancity2030