Snyderville Basin Recreation is asking Summit County voters to approve a $71 million bond on Nov. 3 to fund the construction of new indoor recreation facilities, including a fitness center and a community center. The proposal follows a significant reduction in the project's scope after local residents and the County Council expressed concerns regarding a previous $150 million price tag.
Proposed Facility Details
The proposed bond would fund two primary indoor facilities designed to expand recreational access for residents. According to Snyderville Basin Recreation Director Robert Parrish, the plan includes a 67,000 square foot center at Silver Creek Village that would serve as a fitness and wellness center. Additionally, the district intends to build a 19,000 square foot East Canyon Community Center located at Jeremy Ranch.
Budget Reductions and Planning
The decision to reduce the bond amount from an original $150 million to the current $71 million came after feedback from the community. Speaking on KPCW's "Local News Hour" on Sept. 21, Parrish said the initial amount was based on public input but was ultimately deemed outside the budget range residents wanted.
Parrish noted that the scaled-back $71 million figure aligns with the goals established in the district's 2024 strategic plan. He added that the revised amount follows advice from the Summit County Council in July to focus specifically on essential needs.
Taxpayer Impact
The financial impact on local property owners has been outlined by the district. For primary residences with a valuation of $1 million, the estimated annual tax increase would be $121. Business owners or holders of second homes would see an approximate annual tax increase of $219.
Parrish stated that the district's existing bonds are designed to reduce overall tax burdens for residents.
Legislative Requirements
Before the bond can be issued, state law requires a formal public hearing. The Summit County Council is scheduled to hold an information hearing regarding the proposed bonds on Wednesday, Sept. 23.
Trail and Playground Updates
In addition to the long-term bond proposal, the district is managing ongoing maintenance and new amenities for the area. Parrish reported that trail resurfacing and rehabilitation work is expected to be completed this week, with the trails scheduled for a full reopening by the weekend.
Furthermore, the district plans to open a new Trailside playground specifically designed for children ages two to five, which is scheduled to open on Oct. 9.
Next Steps
The Snyderville Basin Special Recreation District will move forward with the bond proposal as the public hearing approaches. Voters will cast their ballots on the $71 million measure during the Nov. 3 election.
The election will determine whether the district can proceed with the construction of the Silver Creek and East Canyon facilities as outlined in the current strategic plan.
