The Hanksville Town Council held its regular meeting on July 9, 2026, at the Hanksville Community Center. During the session, council members and the mayor addressed various community issues, ranging from utility connection approvals to public debate regarding surveillance technology in the town.
The council approved two new utility connection applications. Morgan Stephens was granted a new 1-inch water connection at 160 N Star Springs Lane. Additionally, the council approved a new sewer and water connection for Neil and Becky Rasmussen at 401 N Hwy 24. This approval followed discussions regarding a necessary utility easement through the property of Morgan Stephens, which the Rasmussens agreed to fund by providing culinary water connections to the Stephens property.
Public comment focused heavily on the use of Flock surveillance cameras. Resident Dan Thatcher submitted a report opposing the expanded use of the cameras, citing concerns regarding privacy, data vulnerability, and resource allocation. He requested a suspension of camera operations on Highway 24 pending a public review and asked for an ordinance to manage the technology. Other residents expressed varying views, with some expressing frustration over the number of cameras and others noting concerns about potential targeting or the visibility of live footage.
Mayor Jeffren T. Pei noted that the cameras were intended to replace the cost of a full-time deputy, which previously cost the Wayne County Sheriff's Office approximately $1.3 million annually. The mayor stated he would discuss the Flock cameras with the Sheriff's office and include the issue on the September agenda.
The council also discussed several municipal updates and upcoming projects. Mayor Pei announced new job openings for park maintenance, including a part-time seasonal position and a full-time position covering public property grounds, roads, and mosquito abatement. The mayor also announced plans to purchase a new tractor using funds from the sale of a 2015 extended reach excavator.
Regarding public safety, the mayor intends to purchase cameras for the firehouse, water tower, gun range, and the Navajo water well. He noted that a temporary camera installed by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office near the post office is distinct from the Flock cameras and is intended for reading people due to reported suspicious activity in the area.
The meeting concluded with a report from Council member Shyann Alvey regarding funds collected for 4th of July water games and ongoing efforts to pursue grants for park updates. The meeting was adjourned at 8:17pm.
