Soda Springs Council debates future of historic Anders Hotel amid community concerns

The City Council of Soda Springs convened on December 19, 2024, to address several key issues affecting the community, including financial matters and citizen concerns regarding local infrastructure and historical buildings.

The meeting began with discussions on account payables, specifically regarding a grant-related project on the east side of the city. Council members reviewed the financial details, confirming that all line items were funded through the grant, with no city funds involved. A proposal was made to finalize a billing adjustment with DeForest Grama, which was agreed upon, and the council decided to document this agreement for future reference.

Following the financial discussions, the meeting opened to citizen input. Kathleen White, a resident, expressed her concerns about the Anders Hotel, which has been a topic of ongoing debate. She emphasized the need for the city to consider selling the building rather than investing further in its upkeep. White argued that the funds required for maintaining the building could be better allocated to upgrading the city’s neglected infrastructure. She referenced a recent survey indicating that a majority of residents favored selling the building over leasing it or relocating city hall there.

Another resident, Clark, took the opportunity to commend the city council for their collaborative efforts with community organizations. He highlighted the positive impact of city partnerships on local events and initiatives, thanking the council for their support and involvement.

The meeting concluded with a call for further citizen input, indicating an ongoing commitment to community engagement in local governance. The council's next steps will likely involve addressing the concerns raised about the Anders Hotel and continuing to foster partnerships that benefit the Soda Springs community.