The Vernal City Council voted unanimously on Oct. 7 to approve a $501,562 design contract for an expansion of the Vernal Regional Airport terminal. The council also authorized a $158,316.35 contract to upgrade the city's water system controls, according to approved meeting minutes.
Airport Director Ken Campbell stated the airport secured federal grant funding for the project after several years of effort. While the original proposal involved replacing the terminal, an expansion was deemed more feasible. The project aims to add approximately 6,000 square feet to the northeast side, providing seating for about 100 additional passengers, a second gate, and more restrooms past the security checkpoint.
Task Order No. 1 covers architectural design and construction-ready plans. Campbell noted that because the federal reimbursement rate is expected to drop from 95 percent to 90 percent next fiscal year, the city is moving the design into the current year, leaving a local share of about $25,000. Total construction is estimated at approximately $4 million, with 90 percent of that expected to come from federal funds. City Manager Quinn Bennion noted that Uintah County had approved the task order the day before.
Water Superintendent Ivan Merrell requested a waiver for competitive bidding to hire Dorsett Controls for upgrades to the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. Merrell explained the current system is outdated and fails to meet cybersecurity standards. The upgrade, which includes new software, hardware replacement at monitoring sites, and a vendor-hosted server, would allow staff to monitor and adjust the system remotely.
While $170,000 was budgeted for the project, Merrell noted that the Ashley Valley Water and Sewer Improvement District already utilizes this provider, which could assist with future valley water service coordination. Cellular monitoring sites will incur a $15-per-site fee in addition to hosting costs. Following the vote, Councilmember Randel Mills requested further information regarding ongoing monthly service and hosting costs.
The council also voted unanimously to approve a conceptual design for a 60-foot tall clock and bell tower in the new Community Plaza. The project, designed by MHTN Architects, is expected to be funded by an anonymous donor through potentially the Charitable Friends of Ashley Valley. The donor intends to cover construction and a local stone exterior, estimated between $200,000 and $300,000, with the tower eventually becoming city property. Construction is hoped for in summer 2027.
Regarding the Lamplighter Hotel, the city's purchase agreement allows previous owners 30 days after tenants depart at the end of November to salvage furnishings. City Manager Quinn Bennion stated that asbestos abatement is expected to begin in January, with demolition tentatively scheduled for March or April. Council members expressed support for a public silent auction of items like decorative lighting and original wooden doors in late December or early January.
In other reports, Bennion mentioned that an informational meeting held on Oct. 6 regarding a proposed 135-acre annexation along Aggie Boulevard and Main Street saw opposition from five residents. Additionally, Public Works Director Keith Despain reported that the city's $4 million Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership application has advanced to national consideration.
