Commission selects interlocal agreement to operate North County Equestrian Park, pending negotiations

Robert Baxter, the county purchasing manager, told the commission that the selection committee evaluated both a private proposal and a proposed interlocal agreement and recommended the interlocal arrangement unanimously. "They evaluated both proposals by the same criteria, and they came up with a unanimous recommendation to go with the interlocal agreement," Baxter said.

Commissioners discussed operational details, including fee differences, Sunday operations and volunteer-run activities. Richard Nelson, public works director, cautioned that the three cities had not yet finalized an interlocal agreement among themselves and that further negotiation would be required before a final contract is executed.

Speaker 5 moved to receive the committee recommendation and select the interlocal agreement with American Fork City, Highland City and Lehigh City for management of the equestrian park, with pending contract negotiations; Speaker 6 seconded. Commissioners approved the motion (stated result: passes three-zero).

Staff said additional contract language will address responsibilities, rotation or designation among cities, and allow volunteers to operate on Sundays if the cities agree. Commissioners asked staff to continue negotiations and return a finalized agreement for execution.