Council reviews first draft of FY2027 strategic plan, discusses AV upgrades, public safety and economic development

Town Manager Bret Howser presented the first draft of the FY2027 Strategic Plan and guided the council through each section.

Public information: council discussed audiovisual improvements for the council chambers and Public Safety training room to improve guest presentations and reduce screen jitter. Council Member Larry Freeberg suggested high-visibility shirts for cleanup events to increase participation.

Community development: Howser said the 14–17 day design-review timeframe reflects state statute requirements, and noted the online building guide and inspection list were developed from Missing Voice Committee recommendations. The council discussed training for code compliance staff and rebranding outreach to reduce negative interactions.

Economic development: council members discussed transferring holiday lighting responsibilities to the Chamber of Commerce while maintaining town support, pursuing grants to install power lines on Village Way to encourage business development, and America 250/Brian Head Days planning.

Public safety: Chief Dan Benson described the need to replace the town’s unsupported body camera system with a platform offering automatic redaction and improved storage. He also discussed SKED rescue sleds, AED placement in public buildings, contracting hydrant flow testing on a rotating basis, and a potential life-flight landing pad location that preserves trail access.

Council agreed to continue the Public Works section review at a future meeting and deferred final action on the strategic plan pending additional staff follow-ups and incorporation of council input.