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County News • Box Elder County, UT

By Source Author · September 24, 2026 · 30 min read

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NewsFlash

News Flash

Notice of Vacancy on the Bear River Water Conservancy District Board of Trustees

PUBLIC NOTICENotice is hereby given that the Bear River Water Conservancy District Board of Trustees has three Trustee vacancies due to the expiration of terms on December 31, 2026, representing the following areas:County CommissionPortage, Plymouth, Fielding, and RiversideWestern Box Elder CountyTrustees are appointed to four-year terms. Each Trustee must be:A registered voter;A resident within the boundaries of the Bear River Water Conservancy District; andA resident of the area he or she represents.Interested individuals may submit their name for consideration to:Box Elder County CommissionAttn: Chrisee Bennett, Commission Secretary1 South MainBrigham City, UT 84302Or by email to: cbennett@boxeldercountyut.govApplications must be received no later than 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 24, 2026.The Box Elder County Commission will fill the vacancies by appointment at its regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.For additional information, please contact:Chrisee BennettCommission Secretary435-734-3347

Public Notices

Posted on September 24, 2026

Notice of Vacancy on the Bear River Water Conservancy District Board of Trustees

Public Notices

Posted on September 24, 2026

Notice of Vacancy on the Bear River Water Conservancy District Board of Trustees

Public Notices

Posted on September 24, 2026

Notice of Vacancy on the Bear River Water Conservancy District Board of Trustees

Public Notices

Posted on September 24, 2026

General Public Notice To Control Noxious Weeds

General Public Notice To Control Noxious WeedsIt is the duty of every property owner to control and prevent the spread of noxious weeds on any land in his possession, or under his control, and shall serve as a warning that if he fails to comply with this notice, enforced weed control measures may be imposed at the direction of county authorities.Such general notice shall also include a list of weeds declared noxious for the State of Utah and for said county, if any.The Authority to impose this law is from the Utah administrative code which is the body of all effective administrative rules as compiled and organized by the division of Administrative Rules (subsection 63G-3-102(5); See also sections 63G-3701 and 702).Rule R68-9 is the Utah Noxious Weed Act as in effect on March 1, 2013.Class 1A: Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) Watch ListCommon crupina, Crupina vulgaris Mediterranean sage, Salvia aethiopi Plumeless thistle, Carduus acanthoides Small bugloss, Anchusa arvensis Spring millet, Milium vernale Syrian beancaper, Zygophyllum fabago Class 1B: Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR)African mustard, Brassica tournefortii African Rue, Peganum harmala Camelthorn, Alhagi maurorum Common St. Johnswort, Hypericum perforatum Cutleaf vipergrass, Scorzonera laciniata Elongated mustard, Brassica elongata Eurasian watermilfoil, Myriophyllum spicatum L. Garlic mustard, Alliaria petiolata Giant Reed, Arundo donax Goatsrue, Galega officinalis Japanese knotweed, Polygonum cuspidatum Malta Starthistle, Centaurea melitensis Oxeye daisy, Leucanthemum vulgare Parrot feather, Myriophyllum aquaticum Purple starthistle, Centaurea calcitrapa Vententata (north Africa grass), Ventenata dubia Vipers bugloss (Blueweed), Echium vulgare Class 2: (Control)Black henbane, Hyoscyamus niger Dalmatian toadflax, Linaria dalmatica Dyers woad, Isatis tinctoria Diffuse knapweed, Centaurea diffusa Leafy spurge, Euphorbia esula Medusahead, Taeniatherum caput-medusae Purple Loosestrife, Lythrum salicaria Rush skeletonweed, Chondrilla juncea Spotted knapweed, Centaurea stoebe Squarrose knapweed, Centaurea virgata Yellow starthistle, Centaurea solstitialis Yellow toadflax, Linaria vulgaris Class 3: (Containment)Bermudagrass*, Cynodon dactylon Canada thistle, Cirsium arvense Field bindweed (Wild Morning-glory), Convolvulus spp. Hoary cress spp., Lepidium draba, Lepidium chalepense, Lepidium appelianum Houndstongue, Cynoglossum officinale Jointed goatgrass, Aegilops cylindrica Musk thistle, Carduus nutans Perennial Pepperweed (Tall whitetop), Lepidium latifolium Perrenial sorghum spp., Johnsongrass ( Sorghum halepense) Columbus grass ( Sorghum almum) Phragmites (Common reed), Phragmites australis ssp. Poison hemlock, Conium maculatum Puncturevine (Goathead), Tribulus terrestris. Quackgrass, Elymus repens Russian knapweed, Acroptilon repens Scotch thistle (Cotton Thistle), Onopordium acanthium Tamarisk (Saltcedar), Tamarix ramosissima *Bermudagrass ( Cynodon dactylon ) may not be a noxious weed in Washington County. Triploid Hyprid Bermudagrass purchased from a producer certified with the Utah Crop Improvement Association and the Nursery Inspection program is allowed for commercial and private use throughout Utah Class 4: Prohibited for sale or propagation.These weeds are declared to be not native to Utah, a threat to the state through the retail sales or propagation in the nursery and greenhouse industry. The department designates annual, biennial, or perennial plants that have the potential or are known to be detrimental to human or animal health, the environment, public roads, crops, or other property as prohibited noxious weeds. Cogongrass (Japanese blood grass), Imperata cylindrical Damesrocket, Hesperis matronalis Myrtle spurge, Euphorbia myrsnites Russian Olive, Elaeagnus angustifolia Scotch broom, Cytisus scoparius /DocumentCenter/View/2081

Public Notices

Posted on April 15, 2026

Public Notices

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Notice of Vacancy on the Bear River Water Conservancy District Board of Trustees

Public Notices

Posted on September 24, 2026

Box Elder County Begins “Box Elder Together” Countywide Zoning Review

The Box Elder County Community Development Department, working in partnership with the Box Elder County Planning Commission and with the support of the County Commission, is beginning Box Elder Together, a countywide zoning review focused on establishing predictable zoning for areas of the county that currently do not have a zoning designation.The effort is designed to provide a clear land-use framework while recognizing Box Elder County’s agricultural heritage, existing land uses and the needs of communities and property owners as the county continues to grow.Box Elder County currently has significant areas of unzoned land. Through Box Elder Together, Community Development staff will develop proposed zoning based on existing and historical land uses for the unzoned land parcels. Most currently unzoned property is anticipated to be proposed for an Agricultural Heritage Zone (AHZ), while appropriate areas may be proposed for General Industrial (M-G) zoning.“This is a planning process, and our job is to make sure property owners and residents have good information about what is being proposed and why,” said Scott Lyons, Box Elder County Community Development Director. “We want people to look at the maps, ask questions and provide feedback. Public participation is an important part of implementing a plan that works for Box Elder County.”Building on the Community’s VisionBox Elder Together is the implementation of the community vision established through the County’s 2021 General Plan. During that planning process, 92% of respondents expressed support for preserving agriculture, while 81% preferred directing new growth toward areas near existing communities. The current countywide zoning review provides an opportunity to put that community vision into a practical land-use framework.“The General Plan gave us valuable direction from the community about what residents want Box Elder County to look like in the future,” Lyons said. “Box Elder Together is an opportunity to take that direction and work through the details of how land-use planning can support agriculture, communities and responsible growth.”What Does Zoning Mean?Zoning establishes baseline rules for how property may be used. It does not change property ownership or automatically approve an individual development project.Under the proposed process, existing land uses will remain in place and will be grandfathered. Property owners will also retain the ability to request a zoning change in the future through the County’s established public rezoning process.The intent is to provide greater predictability for property owners, residents, farmers and businesses by establishing a baseline for land uses throughout currently unzoned areas.“Zoning does not take away ownership of your property,” Lyons said. “It establishes a set of rules for how land can be used. Existing uses are recognized, and property owners continue to have opportunities to participate in the land-use process in the future.”A Community Planning ProcessThe Community Development Department will lead the technical planning work, with the Planning Commission providing review and a formal recommendation. The County Commission supports the effort and will ultimately consider the proposal following the Planning Commission’s review.The process includes several opportunities for public participation:Planning Staff ReviewBox Elder County Community Development (Planning & Zoning) Staff will prepare initial zoning maps using available information regarding existing and historical land uses.Community EngagementTown halls and additional public outreach will give residents and property owners opportunities to review the proposed maps, ask questions and provide feedback.Planning Commission ReviewThe Planning Commission will conduct the formal public hearing, consider public comments and make a recommendation to the County Commission.County Commission ConsiderationThe County Commission will consider the proposed zoning and the Planning & Zoning Commission’s recommendation before making a final decision through a public meeting.“We have several steps in this process, and there is not going to be a decision made at the town halls,” Lyons said. “The purpose of the early outreach is to educate, answer questions and hear from the community. We want property owners to have an opportunity to understand what is being proposed before the formal public hearing.”Upcoming Box Elder Together Town HallsThe first opportunities for residents to learn more about the process and speak directly with county staff are scheduled for September.Tuesday, September 15 at 7 p.m. | Town Hall 1 — USU Brigham City CampusSaturday, September 26 at 10 a.m. | Town Hall 2 — Box Elder County FairgroundsThese Town Halls will provide opportunities for the public to learn about Box Elder Together, ask questions and discuss specific questions regarding the proposal, view the maps, and meet with county staff and technical experts. No final zoning decisions will be made at the town hall meetings.Additional public education and outreach will continue through September and October through radio, television, social media, newspapers and other community outreach efforts.Formal Public ProcessOctober 1 — Legally required public notices will be sent to impacted property owners. Public signage will also be placed throughout the county.Thursday, October 15 | 6:00 PM — The Planning Commission will hold a formal public hearing and consider the proposed zoning.Tuesday, November 17 | 11:30 AM — The proposed zoning plan from the Planning Commission recommendation will be presented to the County Commission for consideration. The County Commission may take action at this meeting.Learn More, Review Your Property and ParticipateCommunity members can learn more about Box Elder Together, look up their property and submit questions or comments at: boxeldercountyut.gov/boxeldertogetherThe Community Development Department Staff encourages residents and property owners to participate throughout the process. Reviewing the proposed maps, attending a town hall and providing public comment are important opportunities to help ensure the final proposal reflects the needs and character of Box Elder County.“This is a large, but necessary step to reaching the future our residents envision,” Lyons said. “That is why we are taking the time to bring the information to the public, make the maps available and have conversations with property owners. We encourage people to get involved, ask questions and be part of the process.”Box Elder TogetherPlanning with Purpose. Preserving What Matters. Our County, Our Future.

Box Elder Together Website

Public Notices

Posted on September 15, 2026

BOX ELDER COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE DECLINES FELONY CHARGES IN MERRELL CASE AFTER INDEPENDENT MULTI-A

Box Elder County1 South Main StreetBrigham City, Utah, 84302FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEAugust 7, 2026BOX ELDER COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE DECLINES FELONY CHARGES IN MERRELL CASE AFTER INDEPENDENT MULTI-AGENCY REVIEW BOX ELDER COUNTY, UTAH — Following a comprehensive, multi-agency review, the Box Elder County Attorney’s Office (BECAO) has declined to charge Brigham and Melinda Merrell with child homicide or child torture in connection with the September 2025 death of their 11-year-old child.This decision is based on a lack of sufficient evidence to prove those charges beyond a reasonable doubt. The decision was reached following reviews by the BECAO Office (including five prosecutors, one investigator, and three victim advocates), a homicide team with the Weber County Attorney’s Office (including four prosecutors, two detectives, and two crime scene investigators), Vince Meister (a senior prosecutor at the Salt Lake District Attorney’s Office, and member of the state’s cold case review board), and Dr. Antoinette Laskey (a medical expert in child abuse). All reviewing parties independently and unanimously concluded that the available evidence does not support findings of child homicide or child torture. Specifically:In-home video and the 911 audio do not substantiate child homicide or child torture.The ligature marks on the child’s neck were consistent with the coaxial cable and the manner of death reported by the family.No evidence showed a motive, signs of a struggle, or physical altercation.Forensic interviews conducted with the Merrell children did not implicate the parents.The prosecution’s case was impeded by an assisting law enforcement agency’s loss of the original memory cards containing video footage from inside the home.The Tremonton Garland Police Department (TGPD) made a warrantless arrest of the Merrells on May 6, 2026, based on the probable cause affidavit. Prosecutors were required to file charges by the fourth day after the arrest or the Utah Rules of Criminal Procedure required them to be released from custody. Due to the complexity of the case, the insufficiency of the evidence, and the need to review reports that had not yet been provided (including the Medical Examiner’s Report, which had not been completed), the Merrells were released from custody. Since that time, BECAO has conducted a thorough evaluation of the evidence provided and requested independent reviews before making a final charging determination. This comprehensive, collaborative review led BECAO to disagree with many of the statements contained in the probable cause affidavit supporting the arrests. Based on these findings, and with the unanimous agreement of the independent reviewers, BECAO determined that there is insufficient evidence to prove the charges of Child Homicide and Child Torture. The matter will now be referred to the Tremonton Justice Court prosecutor to review the case for lesser charges, if applicable.Since the arrests, BECAO and TGPD have worked to improve communication and remain committed to collaborating on behalf of the community. The Box Elder County Attorney’s Office extends its gratitude to the Weber County Attorney’s Office, Prosecutor Vince Meister, and Dr. Laskey for their assistance in this comprehensive review. We express our deepest, heartfelt sympathy to all those affected by the loss.### Media ContactLynnette CrockettPublic Information Officer435-740-7590

Public Notices

Posted on August 10, 2026

BRAG is seeking Public Comment for the BRAG Hazard Mitigation Plan

We are pleased to share the draft BRAG Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan for your review. Your input is vital to ensure that the plan reflects the community's needs and priorities. Please take a moment to review the plan draft and provide your feedback using the links below:Draft Link: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:d1891ba6-4905-4b20-b1e3-5576bc196da5Feedback Form Link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/gF6ZpZhSzAWe kindly ask that feedback be sent in by August 19th so that we have enough time to review and incorporate comments into the plan. Your comments will help us strengthen the final plan and better prepare the planning area for future natural hazard impacts.For your convenience, we have also attached a flyer with the feedback form and Plan Draft Link to help spread the word within the planning area. We ask that proof of opportunity for public comment is sent in by August 12th. Thank you for your time and continued effort to support the BRAG Hazard Mitigation Plan update process!

Public Comment Link

Public Notices

Posted on August 07, 2026

FIRE WEATHER WATCH AND STAGE 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT FOR BOX ELDER COUNTY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJune 19, 2026Contact:Lynnette CrockettPublic Information OfficerBox Elder Countylcrockett@boxeldercountyut.gov435-740-7590FIRE WEATHER WATCH AND STAGE 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT FOR BOX ELDER COUNTYBOX ELDER COUNTY, Utah — A Fire Weather Watch remains in effect for western Box Elder County, including the Salt Lake Desert area, due to strong winds, low humidity, and the potential for dry thunderstorms.According to weather officials, widely scattered dry thunderstorms are possible Saturday afternoon and evening across northwest Utah. Gusty and erratic outflow winds exceeding 40 mph are possible near thunderstorms and areas of virga, with isolated gusts approaching 60 mph.These conditions create a heightened risk for wildfire starts and rapid fire growth. Any new fire ignition or existing fire may spread rapidly under these conditions.In response to the elevated fire danger, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are now in effect for unincorporated state and private lands in Box Elder County. The restrictions became effective at 12:01 a.m. on June 19, 2026.Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions:• Open fires are prohibited except in approved fire rings or grills at developed campgrounds with pressurized water systems and in permanently constructed fire pits at private residences with pressurized water systems.• Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle, trailer, building, developed recreation site, or an area paved or free from dry vegetation.• Fireworks, tracer ammunition, exploding targets, and other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited.• Cutting, welding, or grinding metal in areas of dry vegetation is prohibited.• Motorcycles, chainsaws, ATVs, and other small internal combustion engines must be equipped with a properly functioning spark arrestor.The restrictions apply to unincorporated state and private lands within Box Elder County and do not apply within incorporated city or town limits.Residents and visitors are encouraged to use extra caution outdoors, avoid activities that could create sparks, and immediately report any signs of smoke or fire by calling 911."With dry vegetation, strong winds, and the potential for lightning-producing storms, conditions are favorable for rapid fire growth," said Box Elder County officials. "We encourage everyone to do their part to prevent wildfires and help protect lives, property, and natural resources."Violations of Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 under Utah law.For updates on fire restrictions and wildfire conditions, residents are encouraged to monitor boxeldercountyut.govBox Elder County Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

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Public Notices

Posted on June 19, 2026

Utah’s Closed Fire Season

With summer approaching and wildfire risks rising, state fire officials are reminding residents that Utah’s Closed Fire Season officially begins next Monday, June 1, and runs through October 31. There is one rule that always applies: notification to your local 911 dispatch center’s non-emergency line is always required. “Fire Sense is common sense,” said Copeland Anderson, Millard County Fire Warden. “We want the agriculture community to be able to clear their ditches safely, but it takes all of us doing our part to prevent catastrophic wildfires. Apply for a permit, make the right call to dispatch, monitor the weather, and never leave your fire unattended.” What is Allowed During Closed Fire Season (June 1 – Oct 31) During the closed fire season, burn rules depend heavily on where you live and what you are burning. Residents should consult the FFSL Burn Permit Matrix to determine exactly what actions are legally permitted. Outside City Limits (Unincorporated County): Residents can burn residential yard waste, debris, and agricultural materials during the closed season, but you must obtain a burn permit from the local Fire Warden or County Sheriff first. Inside City Limits (Incorporated Cities): Burning in incorporated areas is governed by your local city ordinances and the Department of Air Quality(UAC R307-202). While DAQ rules outline specific conditions for the open burning of residential clippings, bushes, and plants, you must obtain permission from your local fire jurisdiction before conducting any residential yard clean-up burns. Residents are encouraged to review the DAQ Open Burning guidelines for full details. The Three Agricultural Exceptions: State law outlines specific agricultural scenarios where a permit is not required: burning within 10 feet of fence lines on cultivated lands, canals, or irrigation ditches. However, you are still legally required to notify your local non-emergency dispatch line before starting. Never burn trash, oil, tires, or vegetation on protected lands. These materials are prohibited from being burned anywhere in Utah, regardless of the season or permit status. The Golden Rules of Burning For those planning to conduct a permitted open burn this season, fire officials share the following safety protocols to help ensure a safe and effective burn.Before you light, be sure to obtain a proper burn permit from the Fire Warden or County Sheriff before you burn. Notify your local 911 dispatch non-emergency line before you start. Failure to do so is a Class C Misdemeanor. Always check the weather. If gusty winds are in the forecast, do not proceed. Create safety buffers between your fire and surrounding vegetation, and have an emergency plan ready. If your fire escapes control, notify your local fire department immediately. Debris should be out in the open and nowhere near structures or under trees that may catch fire. Have a water supply available right next to the burn area. Tend the fire at all times. Walking away or leaving it unattended is a Class C Misdemeanor. Fires must be out cold before you leave the scene. Leaving before it is completely cold is a Class C Misdemeanor. Remember, you are legally liable for the costs if your fire escapes control. Apply for a Permit Online: Residents can now apply for a burn permit in minutes from their smartphones. Visit: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/7ed3af2d2eaa4511838cd4820e7ff56c Stay Informed: To check fire restrictions or for information about active wildfire incidents, visit UtahFireInfo.gov. Local, state, and federal fire officials urge everyone to practice “Fire Sense” to prevent unwanted wildfires. This interagency campaign, launched in 2021, raises public awareness about fire prevention. For more information on wildfire prevention and the Fire Sense campaign, visit UtahFireSense.org. ###

Public Notices

Posted on June 01, 2026 | Last Updated on June 05, 2026

Box Elder County Attorney Issues Legal Decision on Referendum Applications for Resolutions

May 28, 2026FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEBox Elder County Attorney Issues Legal Decision on Referendum Applications for Resolutions BOX ELDER COUNTY, UTAH — Box Elder County recently received three applications for referendum from two different groups challenging the Box Elder County Commission's decision to pass Resolutions 26-11 and 26-12. The applications from the first group were received on May 8, 2026, and the applications from the second group were received on May 11, 2026."The Box Elder County Clerk's Office is committed to overseeing the referendum process with strict adherence to state law," stated Marla Young, the County Clerk. "Whenever an application is filed, we immediately initiate the required statutory review, which involves submitting the application to the County Budget Officer for a fiscal impact statement and to the County Attorney for a mandatory legal analysis to determine if the measure can legally be placed on the ballot."Following a mandatory legal review of these applications, Box Elder County Attorney Stephen R. Hadfield has officially determined that neither resolution is legally referable to voters. As a result, the referendum applications have been rejected.Hadfield stated that the determination was based on his legal obligation to apply Utah constitutional, statutory, and case law governing referendum eligibility.“I acknowledge and take very seriously my responsibility to uphold the constitutional right of Box Elder County residents to refer legislative actions of the Box Elder County Commission to the voters for their approval or rejection. This constitutional right is implemented by Utah State statute and applies only to County Commission actions which create new laws. In my opinion, both the statute and the case law interpreting it define Resolutions 26-11 and 26-12 as administrative actions of the Box Elder County Commission, not newly created laws. Accordingly, because I am obligated to interpret and uphold the law, I am legally bound to reject the applications for referenda of these resolutions. I fully anticipate and appreciate that this will allow referendum sponsors who disagree with my opinion to appeal to the state courts for further guidance and resolution.” Understanding the Local Referendum Process In Utah, citizens have the right to circulate a referendum petition to submit a passed local law to a vote of the people for their approval or rejection. When eligible voters file a referendum application with the local clerk, the county attorney has 20 calendar days to review it and determine if the proposed referendum is legally referable to voters. The attorney must then provide written notice of this determination to the sponsors. Under Utah's Election Code, a proposed referendum is not referable if it challenges a government action that is administrative, rather than legislative, in nature. Legislative acts create new laws of general applicability based on weighing broad policy considerations, whereas administrative acts simply implement laws that already exist.Statutory Fiscal and Legal Analysis By law, within three business days of receiving a referendum application, the county's budget officer, together with legal counsel, must prepare an unbiased, good-faith initial fiscal and legal impact statement. This statement must evaluate the estimated fiscal impact of repealing the law, including any increases or decreases in taxes, effects on public debt, and costs or savings to local government entities.Box Elder County Auditor Shirlene Larsen, acting as the budget officer, completed the required fiscal analysis. The resulting analysis determined that repealing the resolutions would result in the loss of guaranteed revenue, including $5.4 million annually and an estimated $108 million annually at full capacity. Furthermore, if the development moves forward without the resolutions, the county would likely face increased expenditures of approximately $5.4 million per year for services such as fire, ambulance, and police, and holding a special election for the referendums would cost the county an estimated $55,000.“My duty as the County’s budget officer is to prepare an unbiased, good-faith estimate of the fiscal and legal impacts these referendums could have on Box Elder County,” stated County Auditor Shirlene Larsen. “In this role, I serve as a neutral party responsible for providing factual information required under Utah law. I am committed to fulfilling these statutory requirements, so the public has a clear and accurate understanding of the potential financial consequences, including possible impacts to projected revenue and estimated costs to local government.”Resolution 26-11: Consent for MIDA Project Area Resolution 26-11 provided Box Elder County’s formal consent to include specific land in the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) Stratos Project Area. The County Attorney determined this action is an administrative act, not a legislative one, because it does not create a new law of general applicability. Instead, the resolution acts as a record of consent that implements provisions of the MIDA Act, which mandates counties to cooperate with MIDA. Under the state's MIDA Act, a county's consent to include land in a project area is irrevocable, meaning the resolution cannot be overturned.Resolution 26-12: Interlocal Cooperation Agreement Resolution 26-12 authorizes an interlocal cooperation agreement with MIDA, obligating the County to provide emergency services and road maintenance for private land within the project area in exchange for tax revenue. The agreement also outlines ten specific standards for the project area, such as requiring valid water rights, allowing a maximum of 150 hotel rooms, and prohibiting permanent residences. The County Attorney found that this agreement is administrative because it implements MIDA's existing project area plan and acts as a specific contract between the County and MIDA, rather than creating a new, generally applicable law.Because both resolutions represent administrative implementations of existing laws and are not broadly applicable legislative acts, state law dictates that they cannot be placed on the ballot for a voter referendum. The sponsors of the proposed referendum have been notified in writing of these rejections. Under Utah law, sponsors have the right to challenge or appeal a rejection decision to a district court or the Utah Supreme Court within a specified timeframe.Further Information For further information on local referendum processes, the public is encouraged to visit the Lieutenant Governor's website. Additional information on these referenda applications, the associated fiscal impact statements, and other associated records is available on Box Elder County’s website.**To protect the judicial process as the sponsors consider whether or not to move forward through the court system, the county elected officials and staff will not be providing additional interviews at this time. Questions related to the county’s decisions and participation in the local referendum process can be forwarded to the County’s PIO, Lynnette Crockett.Media ContactLynnette CrockettBox Elder County Public Information Officerlcrockett@boxeldercountyut.gov435-740-7590 cell phone

Public Notices

Posted on May 28, 2026

Utah Inland Port Authority Public Meeting Notice

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Public Notices

Posted on May 11, 2026

Box Elder County Authorizes MIDA to Initiate Stratos Project

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMay 4, 2026Box Elder County Authorizes MIDA to Initiate Stratos ProjectBox Elder County, Utah — The Box Elder County Commission today approved a resolution giving consent to the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) to create the Stratos project area, which may include a state-of-the-art data center to be built in an unzoned area of western Box Elder County.“Today’s decision isn’t the end of the oversight process, but just the beginning,” said Box Elder County Commissioner Tyler Vincent. “We appreciate all the residents who shared comments, questions and concerns with us as we took the necessary time to do a thoughtful evaluation of the project. The agreement we negotiated with MIDA reflects thoughtful consideration of long-term economic opportunity, infrastructure planning, and responsible stewardship.”Before granting its authorization, and despite a short timeline, the Box Elder County Commission took time to conduct significant due diligence, established a page on its website to inform the public that included a feedback form, and reviewed more than 2,500 comments from the community, of which 300 were from Box Elder County residents. The Commission also negotiated for the inclusion of several improvements and guardrail provisions in an interlocal agreement between the County and MIDA, including:• Limits on noise levels at both the data center and power plant not to exceed 55 decibels (similar to the sound level of a dishwasher or neighborhood street).• Restrictions on building heights to align with the County’s emergency response capacity, or, if exceeded, a requirement that the developer provide a new appropriately equipped fire truck every ten years. • Compliance with “dark sky” regulations.• The inclusion of a local landowner on the Development Review Committee that will oversee, and review the project throughout the construction.• For the Developer to allow agriculture uses in and around the development area, including leasebacks to landowners for grazing, ranching and farming.The project area encompasses approximately 40,000 acres of privately held vacant land split into three different sites. One is intended to support large-scale energy generation and a data center, with two additional sites planned for future uses that may include manufacturing, retail, restaurants, hotels, and public works infrastructure (sewer, water, drainage, etc.). These future development areas are also where MIDA anticipates the creation of an estimated 2,000+ jobs associated with the project. Stratos is designed to strengthen domestic energy capacity, support national defense priorities, and create long-term economic opportunity in Northern Utah.The development will be phased over time and designed to coexist with existing agricultural uses through leaseback agreements and conservation buffers. By producing power directly at the site, the project is designed to operate without placing additional demand on the regional electrical grid, preserving reliability for local communities. The developer is also required to pay for the construction, and maintenance of public services infrastructure needed for the project, and into the future.“The combination of site location and design make Stratos one of the most sustainable and effective data centers in the country,” said Paul Morris, Executive Director of MIDA. “This project reflects what’s possible when state and local leaders work together to advance strategic infrastructure that supports our military mission, strengthens energy resilience, and delivers long-term economic investment. We look forward to continuing that collaboration as this project moves forward.”The Box Elder County Commission emphasized its commitment to continued oversight, transparency, and public engagement as the project moves forward. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and continue providing input as additional phases, State regulatory permitting processes, and development details are considered. The Commission will work closely with MIDA, the developer, and the community to ensure the project is implemented responsibly and in a manner that protects the long-term interests of Box Elder County.“From a military standpoint, projects like this matter because national security has to be built into our infrastructure from the start,” said Col. Andy Owens, Director of Utah National Guard Joint Staff. “Investments that strengthen energy resilience and support critical systems help ensure we’re prepared for the challenges ahead and able to operate without interruption when it matters most. Having reliable energy and strong data infrastructure is becoming critical to how we operate, and efforts like this help strengthen readiness in a very real way. We’re grateful for the collaboration and the shared focus on moving military readiness forward.”About MIDAThe Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) is a state entity focused on supporting military missions and strengthening Utah’s defense-related infrastructure. In partnership with the military, local communities and partners who support military missions, MIDA helps deliver projects that improve readiness, enhance facilities, and support long-term economic and operational growth. Learn more at www.midaut.org###Media ContactsFor Box Elder County:Anne HansenChief Civil Deputy Attorney435-734-3329 ahansen@boxeldercountyut.govLynnette CrockettPublic Information Officer435-740-7590 (work cell)lcrockett@boxeldercountyut.gov

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Public Notices

Posted on May 04, 2026

Press Release Regarding Box Elder County Defers Decision on Stratos Project

Box Elder County1 South Main StreetBrigham City, Utah, 84302FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 27, 2026Box Elder County Defers Decision on Stratos ProjectBox Elder County, Utah — The Box Elder County Commission today delayed a decision to approve consent for the proposed Stratos Project after local residents expressed concerns following the County Commission meeting last week. The Stratos Project envisions a state-of-the-art data center to be built in western Box Elder County and was recently approved by the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA).By deferring a final decision until a later date, the Commission can take additional time to more fully review the project proposal and understand both the potential benefits and impacts to Box Elder County residents and businesses. To make it easier for County residents to ask questions or share concerns about the project directly with Commissioners, the Commission has developed an online feedback form: https://www.boxeldercountyut.gov/641/Stratos-Project. “We want Box Elder County residents to know that we are listening and want to hear from you,” said County Commission Chair Tyler Vincent. “While we’re excited at the potential investment and job creation Stratos can bring, it’s our responsibility to make sure this project is done the right way — protecting our agricultural heritage, maintaining local control, and addressing concerns from our residents. Please send us your thoughts and questions, and we’ll convey them to MIDA and the other project developers.”The Stratos Project is expected to include a large-scale data center campus supported by integrated, on-site energy generation. By producing power directly at the site, the project is designed to operate without placing additional demand on the regional electrical grid, preserving reliability and electricity rates for local communities.A special scheduled Commission Meeting for the Commission to consider the project has been set for Monday, May 4, at 4:00 pm, at the Box Elder County Fairgrounds Fine Arts Building in Tremonton, Utah.About MIDAThe Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) is a state entity focused on supporting military missions and strengthening Utah’s defense-related infrastructure. In partnership with the military, local communities, and partners who support military missions, MIDA helps deliver projects that improve readiness, enhance facilities, and support long-term economic and operational growth. Learn more at www.midaut.org###Media ContactFor Box Elder County:Anne HansenChief Civil Deputy Attorney435-734-3329ahansen@boxeldercountyut.govFor MIDA:Kristin Kenney WilliamsMIDA970-390-0062kristin@commfluent.comPress Release PDFStratos District Project Area Map (PDF)

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Public Notices

Posted on April 27, 2026 | Last Updated on May 04, 2026

Special County Commission Meeting Update

NOTICE is hereby given that the Special Commission Meeting scheduled for Friday, April 24, 2026, at Box Elder County Commission Chambers, 1 South Main Street, Brigham City, Utah, at 5:00 p.m. is canceled.Public notice is hereby given that by an Official Order of the Box Elder County Board of County Commissioners, a Special Commission Meeting will commence at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, April 27, 2026, in the Commission Chambers of the Box Elder County Courthouse, 01 South Main Street, Brigham City, Utah. Please be advised that a member of the Board of Commissioners may not be present at the upcoming meeting in person, but may participate via phone or other electronic means.Agendas can be found at boxeldercountyut.gov/agendacenter

https://www.boxeldercountyut.gov/agendacenter

Public Notices

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