Heber Development News

Heber City Council Debates PID Funding, Stormwater Master Plan Risks, and Budget Amendments

The Heber City Council held a work meeting to discuss the proposed Public Infrastructure District (PID) for the Highlands development. The PID aims to fund approximately $22 million of the estimated $40 million in public infrastructure costs. The developers, Four Star Group and DR Horton, presented the PID as a tool to provide attainable and affordable housing, stating that without the PID, home prices would increase by approximately $40,000. The council members raised concerns about the realism of the projected home prices and the overall cost burden on homeowners, especially in light of potential future property tax increases and the complexity of PID financing. Discussions also touched on the potential use of PID funds for public amenities like parks and trails, and the city's policy regarding PID proceeds. A separate discussion focused on the North Village Stormwater Master Plan, highlighting new findings that indicate some basins, particularly the largest one, may be classified as high-hazard dams by the Utah Division of Dam Safety, which could significantly increase design and construction costs and city liability. This new information prompts a reconsideration of the original plan to avoid discharging stormwater into the Northfields, potentially reopening discussions about alternative solutions, including a possible return to the original concept of some discharge to the Northfields, albeit only for natural runoff and not developed flow. The council expressed concerns about the feasibility and cost of high-hazard dams and the potential for re-evaluating alternatives. In a subsequent regular meeting, the council also approved a final budget amendment for fiscal year 2026, involving transfers between general fund departments to cover unexpected expenditures and adjust for surpluses. Several specific amendments were discussed, including funds for police overtime, cemetery tree replacements, underestimated salaries and benefits, and adjustments for tap tax projects like the main stage backdrop and theater HVAC replacement. Additionally, public hearings were held for the budget amendment and an ordinance to amend the consolidated fee schedule, which included adjustments to park reservation fees, building permit fees, and irrigation fees. The council also approved the non-reversionary form lease for airport hangars, a measure intended to generate immediate cash for airport capital improvements. Finally, the council addressed water conservation, deciding to remain in phase two (voluntary reductions) for outdoor watering, with an emphasis on increased public education and outreach, while acknowledging the potential need to escalate to mandatory restrictions if conditions worsen.