Homeowner Gary Smith raises infrastructure concerns over new housing development in Whitesville

The Eastern Summit County Planning Commission meeting on December 7, 2023, focused on community concerns regarding proposed housing developments and infrastructure challenges in the area.

Homeowner Gary Smith expressed significant worries about a new neighborhood planned near his property in Whitesville. He highlighted the potential impact of increased density, noting that the addition of approximately 200 homes could strain local infrastructure, particularly on narrow roads like 1100 South County Road. Smith emphasized concerns about traffic congestion and the adequacy of county services, such as snow plowing and trash collection, which could be complicated by the proximity of larger developments.

Shelley Barris, the executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Summit and Wasatch County, shared positive feedback about recent outreach from the Larry Miller Group regarding affordable housing initiatives. She noted that this early engagement with developers is uncommon and expressed hope for continued collaboration to address community needs and concerns regarding affordable housing.

The meeting concluded with the announcement that the hearing would be continued to the second meeting in January, allowing for further discussion on these pressing issues. The commission aims to address community feedback as they consider future developments in the region.