The Hanksville Town Council convened for its regular meeting on Aug. 6, 2026, at the Hanksville Community Center, according to a report published Aug. 24. During the session, the council addressed several legislative items, including the adoption of a wildland-urban interface ordinance and a cooperative agreement with the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands.
The council voted to adopt Ordinance No. 2026-03, known as the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code. This decision follows discussions regarding the town's liability for fire costs if such an ordinance is not in place. Additionally, the council approved a cooperative agreement with the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands, noting that the Wayne Special Service District is responsible for the associated paperwork and compliance.
Regarding local development, the council accepted a $14,690 bid from Red Desert Inc. for concrete pads at the Hanksville Gun Range. The council also moved to hire Kathryn Hoggatt for a part-time park maintenance position at $15 per hour for 20 hours per week.
Brock Jackson of R6 discussed a planning grant being applied for through the Outdoor Recreation Initiative for the Wayne County Master Recreation Plan. The grant aims to assist in planning recreational amenities like trails and parks. While the application is being submitted by the county rather than individual municipalities, Hanksville may collaborate to receive funding.
Infrastructure and maintenance discussions included a proposal for a sidewalk and street lamp project along Hwy 95 and 24. Council member Robert Gilner noted the project would involve 6,700 linear feet and 33 street lamps. The council also discussed the need for road maintenance equipment, including a pickup, tractor, and trailer, which would require a budget amendment.
Mayor Jeffren T. Pei addressed several town matters, including the potential for a pickup service for water sampling delivery to municipalities and Capital Reef Park. The mayor also noted that the gun range project is expected to close out this month and mentioned the need for cement for portable toilets.
The meeting concluded at 7:52pm with the approval of various bills and the adjournment of the council session.
