By Julie Johansen
With imminent snow, Castle Dale City is pleading with residents to keep vehicles off the street during storms. During the council’s December meeting, it was stated that the efficiency and effectiveness of snow removal from the city depends on clear streets. The maintenance crew’s ability to maneuver through the city streets depends on the absence of parked vehicles. If vehicles are not removed and parked off the street, the street may not be plowed, scrapped or sanded.
Also during the meeting, two garbage removal bids were opened and considered. The garbage removal contract was awarded to Emery Sanitation as the bid was considerably lower than the one received from City Sanitation.
Three public hearings were conducted by the council as the meeting continued. The first one was to consider the annexation of property owned by Hardman’s at approximately 600 North and 4th East to Highway 10. This property was annexed as Central Commercial.
The second hearing was to change the Short-Term Premise Business Ordinance from a temporary status to permanent. An explanation of this ordinance explained that it is specifically for businesses like snow cone shacks. It had been approved on a temporary basis for only six months and had to be changed to permanent. It also requires that owners receive approval from the Land Use Committee yearly before a license is issued by the city. This ordinance was approved upon return from the hearing to the city council meeting.
The third public hearing considered amending the Accessory Building Development Code to meet the state’s fire safety standards. This too was approved by the council in regular meeting.
A vote to sign the memorandum of understanding with Emery County to use Sunrise Engineering for building inspections was taken with four ayes and one nay vote. A copy of concerns from the city was given to Emery County Commissioner Kent Wilson to deliver to Jeff Guymon, the Emery County Building Administrator.
At the resignation of Chris Bingham, who is moving from the area, Castle Dale City is advertising for a new maintenance employee, which will be a full-time position. Applications are available at Castle Dale City Hall and requirements for applicants can be found online.
A resolution to manifest the dates for city council meetings was also approved. The regular city council meetings will continue to be on the second Thursday of each month in 2020.
Councilman Joel Dorsch then introduced the idea of making the old secondary pond into a recreational area for special events such as mud truck event and ATV runs. This area is located at about 1200 North and Center Street north of the city shop. Discussion continued but no decision or motion was entertained.
Castle Dale City’s Christmas party for the community will be on Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. at the Emery County Recreation Center. An ugly sweater contest is included for participants with prizes for those who come dressed for the event. The party will include a chili dinner.
Castle Dale City Recorder Lael White reported an increase of $2,600 in sales tax and $500 in TRT taxes for the past year. Although they are small increases, the city was hopeful that this increase will continue.