Expanded suit sought against Summit

Attorneys representing several civil rights organizations and Anderson Development have asked a federal judge to expand their suit against Summit County to become a class action on behalf of all Utah minorities.

The group, which includes the Utah NAACP chapter, Utah Coalition of La Raza and the Disabled Rights Action Committee, accuse Summit County officials of using zoning laws to block affordable housing, which has forced many who work in the county, including those who work in Park City, to commute from Salt Lake County and other areas. The group also claims the county's zoning ordinances violate federal fair housing laws.

Attorney Alain Balmanno said his clients should be allowed to represent all minorities in Utah who could be affected by Summit County's policies.

Jody Burnett, attorney for Summit County, said his client opposed the motion for a class-action suit because attorneys for the plaintiffs are predominantly being hired by the developer and that expanding the suit "clouds the duty of loyalty" for Anderson Development's attorneys.

Both sides have also filed motions for summary judgment, asking the court to rule in their favor.

U.S. District Judge Dale Kimball took the arguments under advisement and plans to issue a written ruling at a later date.