Council hears update on Nebo Regional project and debates earmarking contract water for industry

Jonathan Jones updated the council on the Nebo Regional Water Project, saying the project team held an open house for the environmental assessment and expects a finding of no significant impact that would clear the way for the project to proceed.

"They are confident that we can get to a FONSI, which would clear the way for this project to move ahead," Jones said. He also noted the Central Utah Water District approved lining the High Line Canal to provide water for the project and that the Juab County Water Supply Plan study (being led by Sunrise and partners) will provide more detailed information.

Council members pressed how contract water (CUP) from regional projects will be priced and allocated. Jonathan said Central Utah Water District will contract with East Juab and then the cities and emphasized local control options: "In my opinion, we would allow business and industry to come in... and pay for that," he said, arguing that earmarking some contractual water for industrial or commercial users could build the tax base rather than allowing all supply to be used for residential subdivisions.

Staff noted that final allocation rules depend on the district agreements and that the city must be proactive in negotiating terms that match Mona’s economic and development goals.