Board discusses tax rollback and land ownership issues affecting Wakara Trail

The Utah County Commission meeting on September 28, 2022, focused on a significant property tax adjustment and ongoing discussions regarding land ownership issues related to the Wakara Trail.

The primary topic was a request to substitute a previous property value of $24,800 with a new assessed value of $4,431, which would not incur any penalties or interest. This adjustment is part of a long-standing issue dating back to 2005, with previous adjustments made in 2009 and 2016. The discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining the property’s Greenbelt status, which allows for agricultural use and tax deferment.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the potential for the property to be sold to developers if the Greenbelt status is not preserved. They emphasized the need for a commitment to keep the land in production for at least the next five years to avoid rollback taxes if the property were to change hands.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the complexities surrounding the ownership of the land, particularly the Holdaway family’s efforts to clarify their title against the United States government. This clarification is necessary for them to proceed with agreements related to the Wakara Trail. The commission discussed the urgency of resolving tax issues to facilitate the Holdaways' ability to file a quiet title action, which is crucial for moving forward with the trail project.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of property assessment and ownership in Utah County, with implications for local land use and development. The commission plans to continue discussions to ensure that the property remains in agricultural use while addressing the ownership complexities.