Payson wants to fast-track planning around proposed Mormon temple

PAYSON — City manager Richard Nelson wants the City Council to have faith in him when it comes to planning new neighborhoods around the proposed LDS temple.

Nielsen met recently with leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who are planning to build the Payson temple at 930 W. 1590 South in a developing area just off state Route 198 about six blocks from Payson High School and near a new LDS stake center.

The temple property is on gently sloping ground with scenic views of the area and easy access to I-15. The temple could be operational in about three years, he said.

Because the land is primarily vacant around the proposed site, the city has a "golden opportunity" to take advantage in planning how those neighborhoods will look, he said Wednesday.

The meeting with church officials was a "reach out, feel good, let's work together type of meeting," he said.

Church officials are concerned how the neighborhood develops, and given time constraints, Nelson wants to fast track master planning now with the city planning department.

"I want to be aggressive in the planning of that area and get the involvement of residents," he said.

Nelson asked for license to put together a land planning strategy and how to deal with competitors by developing a design-build guide.

"I'd love for you to have faith in me," he said.

— Rodger L. Hardy