The Summit County Council has officially authorized a $71 million bond proposal from the Snyderville Basin Special Recreation District to appear on the Nov. 3 ballot, marking a significant reduction from the district's original $150 million request. The decision follows intense community scrutiny regarding the project's cost and the district's existing financial obligations.
Downsized Bond Proposal
The Summit County Council unanimously voted this week to place the general obligation bond on the Election Day ballot, a move that follows a period of intense negotiation between district leaders and local officials. The revised $71 million figure represents less than half of the $150 million bond originally unveiled by Basin Recreation last month. The original plan, which sought to fund a climbing facility in Jeremy Ranch and an aquatic center in Silver Creek, faced significant pushback from residents and council members concerned about the total cost and the district's current debt load.
Council Response to Revised Plan
Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the district's willingness to adjust its plans in response to public feedback. Councilmember Megan McKenna noted that the district's ability to return quickly with a modified plan demonstrated a commitment to the community's input. Similarly, Councilor Tonja Hanson stated that the revised proposal would likely 'bode well' with constituents who experienced sticker shock regarding the initial $150 million figure.
Impact on Facility Designs
Basin Recreation Director Robert Parrish explained that the reduction in funding necessitates a significant shift in construction plans. While the district originally intended to build both the climbing facility and the aquatic center, the new $71 million limit means the district may not be able to deliver both specialized facilities or include all previously intended amenities. Parrish indicated that the district would likely construct a building in Silver Creek that is similar in size to the current Fieldhouse, though a smaller community center or outdoor equipment could still be installed on the Cline Dahle parcel in Jeremy Ranch.
Planning and Cost Mitigation
To refine the project's scope, recreation leaders are scheduled to meet with architects in September. Parrish stated that the staff is working to determine how to reduce building sizes and costs while still attempting to offer the additional amenities requested by the community. The district is also planning to hire a general contractor early in the process to prevent unexpected cost increases. Additionally, Parrish intends to use $6.3 million from the district's capital improvement fund to cover soft costs, such as architectural designs and building permits, to delay the need to draw on bond funding and save taxpayer money.
Taxpayer Financial Impact
The financial impact on local residents will depend on property values and residency status. For primary homeowners, the bond would add $12.09 for every $100,000 of a property's taxable value. For example, a property valued at $1 million would see an increase of $120.90 in addition to the district's base tax rate and other existing bond debts. Secondary homeowners and businesses would face a higher rate of $21.99 for every $100,000 of taxable value, meaning a $1 million business or second home would pay $219.90.
Existing Debt and Timing
The bond's timing is also tied to the expiration of existing district debt. Parrish noted that three outstanding bonds are currently being serviced by the district. Bond B from 2015 is set to expire in December 2028, and a bond from 2017 expires in 2030. Bond A, also from 2015, does not expire until December 2034. The district plans to begin construction and draw on the new bond funding in 2028, a time when the expiration of some debts should help even out the overall cost for taxpayers.
Voter Eligibility and Next Steps
Voter eligibility for this bond is limited to residents within the Snyderville Basin within Basin Recreation boundaries. Interim Summit County Clerk Malena Stevens noted that while most residents in the 84098 zip code are within the boundaries, residents in the 84060 zip code, which includes most of Park City proper, are not eligible to vote on the measure. Before the election, the clerk's office will provide pro and con statements on the district's website and via mailers. Basin Recreation is scheduled to hold another public hearing regarding potential building designs on Sept. 23.
