By Jennelle Zajac, For Iron County Today
Mayor Pro Tem Election
Rochelle Topham was elected as Mayor Pro Tem for the meeting due to the mayor’s absence.
Public Comments
Parowan Resident Boyd Whitworth discussed concerns about the South Interchange following the opening of the Maverick Station. He highlighted increased traffic and safety issues for motorists and bicyclists, particularly the lack of a northbound turn lane on the east side of the overpass. He recounted a near-miss incident while bicycling. City Manager Dan Jessen clarified that the state has jurisdiction over the interchange and is requiring Maverick to add the turn lane. The project is scheduled for the spring when the asphalt construction window opens. He also mentioned a UDOT study for a broader widening project, though without immediate construction funding.
Ryan Talbot, representing the Iron County Home Builders Association, expressed the association’s desire to be involved early in the city’s planning processes, similar to their relationships with Enoch and Cedar City, especially regarding impact fee studies and engineering standard changes. He acknowledged the inevitability of fee increases but emphasized the impact on housing affordability.
Jake Hewlett commented on the proposed building permit fees, noting that while he supports Parowan having its own building department, the proposed fees are significantly higher than those in neighboring counties and cities, potentially impacting the affordability of housing.
Public Hearing – Culinary Water Impact Fees
The public hearing on culinary water impact fees was opened. The City Council considered comments on the Draft Water Impact Fee Facilities Management Facilities Plan and the Draft Culinary Water Impact Fee Analysis. The analysis proposed a new Water Impact Fee of $7,284.76, a significant increase from the current rate of $2,056 for residential.
Two home builders (Cecily Evans and Andy Springer) spoke to emphasize the rising cost of housing and the disproportionate impact of fee increases on smaller, more affordable homes, appreciation for the city’s proactive approach to infrastructure but raised concerns about passing costs on to first-time homebuyers. They asked the council’s consideration of alternative funding solutions and advocating for smart decisions that don’t create unintentional barriers to homeownership for local residents.
Action Agenda
Appointment of Committee Members
The council approved appointment of the following volunteers to various committees:
- Sarah Bryant and Saria Thurston – Library Board
- Tricia Harris – Economic Health and Development Committee
- Christine Price – Historic Preservation Committee
- Bryce Mineer – Shade Tree Committee
Building Permit Fee Schedule Update
After discussing this subject at length and receiving feedback from contractors and other municipalities, the council agreed to reduce the building permit fee schedule with a 30% discount and review of this fee after six months (July 2026), with retroactive refunds to previous payments.
Breakwater Flood Control Options
The breakwater flood control discussion resumed with the council deciding to put the breakwater flood control maintenance out to bid to assess feasibility.
Parowan Airport FBO Contract Approval – Approved
Recreation Committee Ordinance Update – Approved
Shared Driveways/Private Lanes Ordinance –Approved
Annexation Policy Map Direction
Councilmember Burton presented his proposal for shrinking the boundaries of the map, citing current infrastructure strains and undue complexity and expense for Parowan City. The Council voted to keep the Annexation Policy Map as is, with Councilmember Burton dissenting.
Pioneer Legacy Celebration Commitment Decision – The council decided to let the community raise funds for this July 24 event, citing division of church and state. The city will contribute if the citizens don’t raise $2500 by March 1. Councilman Harris dissented.
Reports, Updates, and Old Business
Councilmembers discussed the new airport FBO, the theater board, and issues with the Field House scheduling. The recharge project is moving forward and work is being done on Meeks Pond. Fencing was added to the Pump Park and Heritage Park. Parowan celebrated its 175th birthday. The Main Street Bridge contract was awarded to Ames construction.
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