By Julie Johansen
The Emery County Business Chamber met with local government officials on Monday to discuss the housing shortage and ideas to expand the supply in the county. Chairman Ethan Migliori began by saying, “If we don’t get proactive, we will get behind the ball.”
Some questions included, “Can cities do something to help?” “How can we find contractors?” and “Are there parcels of land underutilized?” Comments included, ”A better picture with the key players is that land is hard to find and water is almost impossible.”
The possibilities of securing water for culinary and secondary use became the main topic of consideration. It was questioned if there is a way that cities can acquire water to lease or sell. The discussion continued about the strength of leasing, the length of a lease needed and if leasing is just a band-aid.
The cost of water shares and unavailability of them was discussed, including the differences in canal companies’ policies and requirements from different cities. Infrastructure available in the unincorporated areas was also brought up. Some businesses are very concerned about finding housing for their growing business and the number of employees that will need help finding housing.
It was decided by the group that more information is needed from someone who could answer some of these questions about water regulations. Marc Stilson, the Utah State Water Engineer, will be invited to meet with the group. It was decided that a monthly meeting would be needed and mayors from each town would also be invited.
Kent Wilson spoke about the amount of money that Emery County receives each year from solar entities and that 10% of that money is ear tagged for affordable housing. Use of that money is determined by the Community Reinvestment Agency. This will also be discussed more in depth as the chamber continues to address this shortage.