The Salem City Council approved a General Plan Update and a resolution for a special sales tax election during a meeting on August 19, 2026. The meeting, which included a public hearing, addressed long-term growth strategies and local revenue initiatives.
During the meeting, the council held a public hearing regarding the General Plan Update. City Planner Lisa Webster and consultant Shawn Seager presented the plan, which serves as a long-term blueprint for future growth. Seager noted that the plan anticipates Salem's population could reach approximately four times its current level by 2050. Following the hearing, the council voted unanimously to accept the General Plan as presented.
The council also approved a resolution for a special bond election to be held on November 3, 2026. This election will ask voters about the levy of a .1% Sales and Use Tax for Recreation, Arts, and Parks (RAP) projects. Jen Wright, the Recreation Director, noted that Salem is among the last cities of its size in Utah County without such a tax. The estimated first-year revenue from the proposed RAP Tax is approximately $90,000.
Other decisions made by the council included approving the Evan Thompson petition for annexation and the city's Storm Water Management Plan. Additionally, the council approved a proposal for a Water Risk and Resilience Assessment and authorized bills for payment totaling $2,958,865.52.
Additional discussions during the work session included updates on the Transportation Impact Fee Facilities Plan and a zone request for the Brockbank Subdivision. The meeting concluded with reports from various city directors and a closed session to discuss potential litigation.
