Springville Planning Commission approves senior housing overlay zone amendments

The Springville City Planning Commission convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss key agenda items, including the approval of minutes and the introduction of a new planning commissioner, as well as a significant legislative proposal regarding senior housing.

The meeting commenced with a motion to approve the agenda, which was unanimously accepted. Following this, the minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed and approved without any amendments.

A notable highlight of the meeting was the introduction of Pete Pratt as the new planning commissioner. Pratt shared a brief background about himself, mentioning his experience in construction and disaster restoration, and his long-standing ties to the Springville community.

The primary focus of the meeting was a presentation by Carla Wiese on a proposed amendment to the Springville City Code. The amendment seeks to establish a senior housing overlay zone within the existing overlay district regulations. Wiese explained that this initiative aims to accommodate independent senior living while aligning with the city’s goals for creating walkable neighborhoods. She noted that the proposal had undergone several revisions to ensure consistency with existing city codes and to enhance the overall intent of the general plan.

The petitioner, representing Ashford Living, expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts with city staff in developing the new code. After the presentation, the commission opened a public hearing, but no members of the public chose to speak on the matter. The public hearing was subsequently closed.

The commission then moved to vote on the proposed amendments. A motion to approve the changes to the Springville City Code, specifically the addition of the senior housing overlay zone, was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously, marking a significant step forward in addressing the housing needs of the senior population in Springville.

In conclusion, the meeting effectively addressed its agenda, with the approval of the senior housing overlay zone representing a key development in the city’s planning efforts. The commission looks forward to further discussions and implementations of similar initiatives in the future.