Blanding approves demo bid and opposes county landfill policy

Members of the Blanding City Council approved a demolition bid, heard a report on the 4th of July celebration and raised concerns with a proposed county landfill policy at their latest meeting.
The Blanding City Council approved a bid for demolition of city owned structures near the intersection of 200 South and Main Street at their July 8 meeting. The city received two bids and awarded DB Building who entered the lowest bid at $17,020, including demolition, loading and hauling of debris to the county landfill. The city and county have worked out a deal with the county essentially waiving the landfill fees in exchange for an unused city backhoe.
The city plan to demolish the structures in recognition of safety concerns, with consideration for the city to possibly create a food truck park in the area.
The city council also approved a resolution for an interlocal agreement with the county to run the city’s elections. Staff was happy to report that the estimated cost for a primary and general election at $21,980 is significantly less than the initial $42,000 budgeted amount.
City Administrator Trent Herring also announced his resignation at the city with his last day scheduled for August 1st.
Herring offered to assist the city beyond that date during their transition period.
City council members congratulated him on his new position as Human Resources Director for Utah Navajo Health Systems but expressed regret at his departure.
Council members praised his work as well as his negotiation skills and communication abilities.
Plans were made to keep the position open for two to three weeks to allow people to apply before the city gets further into the hiring process.
During conversation members of the city council expressed concern about a proposed County Landfill policy.
While a new state law requires the county to fine a minimum of $10 fee for untarped and or unsecured loads brought to the county landfill. After talking with other landfills in the state, county staff are considering implementing a fee that would double tipping charges as a fine, with a one-time warning given to violators.
City council members raised concerns with the proposal with some viewing the proposal as punitive and could encourage illegal dumping outside the landfill.
City council made plans to draft an official comment voicing their opposition to the proposed doubling of tipping fees at the landfill for uncovered and or unsecured loads.
Community Development Director Ben Muhlstein shared that the 4th of July celebration was a large success thanking city departments and sponsors for their contributions. Parade float awards were given to to Four Corners Regional Healthcare for "most enthusiastic," San Juan Credit Union for "most patriotic," and Energy Fuels for "best theme representation".
Muhlstein also reported that they’re already thinking about next year’s celebration which will mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
In addition Muhlestein reported work is already underway for the annual Blanding Fall Festival, in addition the planning and zoning commission is working on amendments to the R2 zone.
City council also heard from Building Inspector Taylor Francom how reported five new permits issued and 11 inspections completed in June. Francom also reported he had earned plumbing inspection and electrical certification tests with just HVAC remaining.
City Police Chief JJ Bradford reported June was a quiet month and offered thanks to neighboring law enforcement agencies for their help with 4th of July traffic control.
City Recreation Director David Palmer reported the Wellness Center saw an increase in usage from the 1st quarter to the second quarter of the year likely related to the opening of the pool. Palmer also reported that new equipment was needed for the swim team and also shared that a new diving board had been installed at the pool after being broken for a while.
At the meeting city and council took time to recognize a handful of individuals including Jim and Karen Slavens who were recognized as Grand Marshals at the Independence Day Celebration. The couple was recognized for years of service to the community more about their award and years of service can be read in the July 9 edition of the San Juan Record.
City and Council also recognized Lt. Colby Turk who was celebrated as the “Outstanding Citizen of the Year”. Lt. Turk was acknowledged for over a decade of law enforcement service in both the city and county noting his work in training officers, providing traffic safety in school zones and working with the drug task force in addition to teaching drug safety in schools and providing community service including coaching youth sports.
At the meeting the council also recognized David Lyman for over 10 years of service as Lyman is now set to retire from the city. Lyman was recognized for his willingness to help others including mentorship and dedicated service to the city.
During the meeting members of the public presented on and provided thanks for the success of the Blanding Swim Team.
Nicole Francom Has been a key figure in the team’s history which has been active for over a decade growing from 12 to 52 active participants. Francom shared that participation in the team has led to local kids seeing increased confidence and safety in the pool and has also made for better lifeguards in the city.
Four other residents came and spoke, expressing their gratitude to Francom, the city, and community support for the program which has been seen by parents as a huge success for the community.