For teachers, living and teaching in the same community is invaluable, McConnell said. Running into parents at community events such as parades or just seeing them at the grocery store really helps establish a working relationship that benefits students, he said.

For Harlan, who started working in the public sector soon after arriving in Utah, having adequate affordable housing in the city is imperative to retaining the area's diversity and community spirit.

Losing the professional support structure to commuting saps the vitality from a community, he said.

"I think it takes government intervention to dictate availability for the whole sector," he said. "Historically, the council has held to that commitment."

There are also economic benefits to providing affordable housing, Robinson said. The Park City community is a favorite vacation spot in part because it has authentic and interesting locals, she said.

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E-mail: rpalmer@desnews.com