Planning Commission denies rezoning request for West Canyon commercial camping site

The Utah County Commission meeting held on October 5, 2022, focused on a proposed rezone request for a 195-acre property located in the Northwest corner of the county, near Eagle Mountain. The property, currently designated for mining and grazing, is being considered for a change to a Critical Environment 2 (CE-2) zone, which would allow for potential commercial camping and residential use.

Bryce, a representative from the county staff, outlined the applicant's request, noting that the CE-2 zone permits higher density residential developments, provided there is a water system in place. The area in question is described as remote, accessible via gravel roads, and historically has been a county road until its classification changed in the late 1970s and early 2000s. Staff expressed concerns that the proposed rezone does not align with existing land use policies, particularly given the area's vulnerability to natural hazards and the opposition from local residents.

During the public hearing, several residents voiced their objections, citing the potential negative impact on the watershed and the delicate ecological balance of the area, especially in light of ongoing drought conditions. Terry Messer Smith, representing the Lehigh Cattlemen's Association, emphasized the importance of preserving the land for agricultural use and expressed concerns about the water supply, which has been severely affected by drought. He argued that the introduction of commercial camping could jeopardize the area's resources and disrupt the current land management practices.

The discussion also touched on access issues, with questions raised about whether the property owners have deeded access to their land, as the road leading to the property is no longer classified as a county road. The commission acknowledged that without proper access and water rights, any development would face significant hurdles.

In conclusion, the commission is tasked with weighing the applicant's request against the concerns raised by the community and the implications for land use policy in the region. Further deliberation will be necessary to determine the future of the proposed rezone and its potential impact on the local environment and community.