Kaysville buys more land for a future park

KAYSVILLE — Kaysville's plans for its own Pioneer Park are moving forward.

The City Council voted last month to purchase another 4.8 acres at 1285 S. Angel St. for a park on the city's extreme southwest side.

According to Kaysville City Manager John Thacker, the city already owns just over five acres of land adjacent to the new property, creating a 10-acre site for the future park. That's in line with the city's master plan that called for a 10-acre park in that area.

The City Council voted unanimously to approve the purchase for an undisclosed amount of money, but not before a debate on city debt.

Councilman Lynn Galbraith expressed concern over the city going in debt.

Thacker explained the city uses impact fees from new growth to pay for such parks. So the city can't use those fees in other areas.

"This completes the plan for west-side park development," Councilman Christopher Snell said.

Councilman Mark Johnson said the park land would cost more in the future and it is wise to buy it now — especially since it connects with the existing park property.

"It's valuable to have the raw ground now," he said.