A packed public hearing in Kamas served as a venue for Summit County residents to push back against a Browns Canyon development proposal, according to a August 13 report.
The proposal by Ivory Development, a division of Salt Lake-based Ivory Homes, seeks a zoning change to create the Lost Creek Community Zone. This change would potentially allow for up to 3,000 residential units in the area.
The Eastern Summit County Planning Commission unanimously recommended that the County Council reject the proposal. Attorney Wade Budge, representing the developer, stated the company has been transparent regarding its goals and framed the proposal as an effort to address affordability issues in Summit County. Ivory Development also noted that this zoning change alone would not permit construction, as a development agreement and further rezoning would still be required.
However, many speakers expressed skepticism regarding the affordability claims. Mitch Dumke stated at the hearing that he had concerns regarding the exploitation of the term affordable housing and called for more transparent, accessible numbers.
Commissioners also raised concerns about the scale of the project. Commissioner David Darcey stated he was not in favor of the zone due to its overwhelming size, noting that Browns Canyon represents the essence of a rural area.
Opposition centered on several environmental and logistical concerns. Planning Commissioner Bridget Hayes noted that the project would represent a massive increase in density without a corresponding increase in public value.
Local rancher Nathan Ivie warned that heavy development could impact water access, suggesting that tapping the aquifer could lead to the loss of the creek. Residents also cited risks regarding fire danger, sewer capacity, utilities, and emergency response limits for a rural community.
The Summit County Council holds the final authority and will consider the commission's negative recommendation alongside input from the developer and county staff.
Former Eastern Summit County Planning Commission member Jill Jones noted the high costs associated with utility expansion, mentioning that even a modest pump-station project in an area with existing infrastructure can cost approximately $6 million.
