PLEASANT VIEW — Public reaction to a proposed new mountain zone was not favorable at a recent public hearing.
If the zone were adopted, it could allow high-density cluster-type housing to creep up the mountainside.
Community Development Director Bruce Talbot said the mountain zone could actually aid the city in gaining access to the mountainous area.
Currently, most of the area below the canal is privately owned, but as development occurs, part of the building agreements could include trails and open space, providing access up the mountainside.
There would be a 20-acre minimum for qualifying for the mountain zone, according to Mayor Doug Clifford.
“If you look at the area in Pleasant View that isn’t built on, not a whole lot would qualify for the mountain zone. You would have to have 20 acres to qualify for this zone,” Clifford said.
He said information about the zoning changes would be sent to residents in a future newsletter.
Resident Kent Jones said he was tremendously concerned about the proposed mountain zone and the density it would bring.
Jones said the city would be giving up an awful lot for the possibility of some trails leading up the mountain.
“I want to see a study from Utah State on what happens with the water slides and earthquakes with this kind of density up there,” resident Marie Cotter said. “When Pole Patch went in, what happened down below? Pole Patch went in, and we had flooding down below. You don’t do this on a mountain where you have people down below. With this kind of density, getting a trail is not worth it.”
Cotter also said, “How many of you live on a hill? Do you want condos in front of your view? We wanted a view, we wanted to have a horse. That’s why we live here.”
Resident Ron Dixon asked the council to do all they can to preserve the uniqueness of Pleasant View and the mountains.
Clifford said the discussion would be continued in another meeting.
“I don’t know if you can just wipe it off,” he said. “I think you have to decide something in its place.”
Clifford said it was clear the mountain zone is a hot issue for residents. He said the mountain zone idea should be kicked back to staff and the planning commission for further consideration.
Councilman Scott Boehme also said the city should reconsider the mountain zone because the proposed density would just be too high.
General requirements for residential zones, residential estate zones and agricultural zones were discussed at a recent public hearing.
The mountain zone, as well as the other zones, will be revisited in a future council meeting.
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