Salt Lake County OKs Sandy funds

The Salt Lake County Council voted 5-4 Tuesday in favor of continued funding for the Sandy Amphitheater, despite claims that the $300,000 annual stipend will actually end up indirectly benefiting the city's $110 million soccer stadium still under construction.

Councilman Joe Hatch said in the meeting that it's like extending an olive branch to Sandy and a way of easing past "tension" between the city and county by voting in favor of extended funding for the amphitheater. But those who voted against the measure called for more transparency in government and asked others to call the contract with the county what it really is, a way for Sandy to fund its stadium.

The council also voted 8-1 in favor of an agreement that will provide county funds for the operation of West Valley City's Utah Cultural Celebration Center. Councilman Randy Horiuchi said the agreement is one that will serve everyone in the county and also show the city that the county cares about more than just filling "chuck holes."