From Deseret News archives:
Plan for Cottonwood Heights irks some residents
The plan conforms to Cottonwood Heights' long-term goals, but some residents are riled over a requested zoning change that would classify the property as mixed-use rather than commercial.
The change would allow for hotels and housing not currently allowed but would rule out things like big-box establishments and liquor stores.
If built, the hotels would be the first in the newly incorporated east-side city, though many properties in the area are rented on a short-term basis to skiers.
Hotels are needed in the area for winter sports visitors and a growing business community, said Gary Harrison, a partner in the development.
"It's a good plan and it's a good use of the property," he said.
Wasatch Gates LLC purchased the 11 acres in question from Snowbird Resorts in May 2006.
A pool and tennis courts that were built there in 1973 have been demolished. The vacant, dusty property is surrounded by temporary green fencing. Private homes, a condominium complex and a gas station neighbor the land at the corner of Wasatch and Fort Union boulevards.
Most residents said they were against hotels, but a few others voiced support for the concept. Almost all who addressed the commission were rebuffed by public officials who insisted the zone change didn't concern either hotels or traffic.
The decision is about two "universes of possibilities," they said. And choosing the mixed-use option gives the city more control.
However, the less-intensive zoning will bring in less tax revenue. It will also be less lucrative for Wasatch Gates, but the developer thinks hotels and homes will be better for the community than retail would be, Harrison said.
Just before the public hearing during a work session, commissioners voiced support for the project, saying Wasatch Gates was a good developer.
The development straddles a series of faults, so the city can use its sensitive lands ordinance to force things such as height restrictions. The area is also in a special district that requires approval by the architecture review committee.
Recent comments
"If his hand is forced, Harrison will put retail on the property, he...
Anonymous | July 13, 2008 at 10:20 a.m.
We chose to incorporate because we tired of dealing with the SL...
Developers | July 13, 2008 at 6:46 a.m.
- Two American pilots die in Iraq 12:47 a.m.
- Murder suspect is vetran, avid skier 12:47 a.m.
- MLB: Zambrano's mom kidnapped 12:32 a.m.
- Lambert surprisingly tops news 12:25 a.m.
- Philadelphia transit strike ends 12:25 a.m.
- TCU 4th in AP poll; U. 16th, Y. 22nd 12:24 a.m.
- 12 high schools ready for 'The Turf' 12:17 a.m.
- RSL unfazed by conference final 12:17 a.m.
- Korver and Miles to be evaluated 12:17 a.m.
- Today on TV 12:13 a.m.
- Gay advocates trek to LDS office
216 - House passes health care bill
201 - Lobo suspended
173 - Cougars crush hapless Cowboys
151 - Utah Jazz fall apart against Kings
129 - RSL rallies to advance
103 - Thousands protest health bill
102 - Provo company innovating engines
101 - Utes pound winless Lobos
89 - BYU cuts Women's Research Institute
88
Why do so many people live so close to refineries in Utah and elsewhere?
NASA's Stardust probe continues to bring new knowledge about the nature...
STOP blaming the Democrats, BLAME THE REPUBLICANS FOR 8 YEARS DOING NOTHING...
The best way to break the law is to become someone who enforces the law.
It's a real shame so many folks have never gotten out and gotten to know the...
It's all talk... you do not have any evidence for your claims. You assume...
Maybe if you could bat .408 in the major leagues, you too would be paid a...
I prefer the “Wizard of Earthsea” quartet by Ursula Le Guin, an...
The bottom line question that no one can possibly answer is; what will be the...
It looks to me like special treatment.
Jazz will have a tough week, with what should be a easy win against the...
I am very excited for this game. As much as I want the Utes to win, it won't...

