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11/8/2024 - COUNCIL CONSIDERING TELECOM TAX; KEEP THE STORM DRAINS CLEAN; START YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING; etc. View this email in your browser Of all the cities in Salt Lake County of similar size (with the exception of Cottonwood Heights), Millcreek stands alone in not currently imposing a telecom tax. ANNOUNCEMENTS Public Meetings NEWS Council Considering Telecom Option to Keep Property Taxes Down ---PAGE BREAK--- The City offices will be closed on Monday, 11/11, in honor of Veterans Day. The City Council meeting will be moved to Tuesday, 11/12. City Council Tues, 11/12/24 Work Meeting - 6pm Regular Meeting - 7pm City Hall 1330 E Chambers Avenue Historic Preservation Commission Thurs., 11/14/24, 6pm City Hall 1330 E Chambers Avenue MILLCREEK. As a new city, we’ve worked hard to keep property taxes reasonable and have avoided the double-digit increases that many cities in the state have seen. In fact, the past two years we have not raised property taxes at all. This was quite a feat since costs continue to rise in this inflationary environment. In fact, more than 60 taxing entities across the state of Utah are considering property tax hikes this fall (Salt Lake Tribune 7 Aug 2024). I am grateful that Millcreek is not one of them. So how did we hold the line on property taxes this year despite rising expenses? Yes, we continue to be frugal with those precious tax dollars through prudent management, but we also benefited from the energy sales and use tax, as well as the cable tax, approved last year. The $4,263,159 generated from these two franchise taxes helped offset the 7% increase in our public safety costs. As you may recall, 100% of the dollars collected from Millcreek’s property tax collections goes to pay for our share of the Unified Police Department. This leaves the rest of municipal government to operate by the sales tax and other user fees collected. However, the City Council last year opted to add the cable and the energy sales and use taxes to help us with our large public safety costs. This move paid off and we were able to hold the line on property taxes this year. Now, as we look towards 2025, we see on the horizon continued rising costs to administer our police force at current levels. Yet, we are grateful that the increases are not at the rapid inflation rates of recent years. The Consumer Price Index jumped 9.25% in 2022, 4.06% last year, and is estimated at 3.2% this year. There is also talk of adding a second mental health officer to Millcreek’s UPD precinct due to the tremendous success of that program. We won’t know for sure what next year’s public safety increase will be, but anticipate it to surely ---PAGE BREAK--- be up a few points, but not as high as this year’s 7% (caused in large part due to Salt Lake County’s departure from the Unified Police Department). Our contract with Salt Lake County for animal control services, we know, is already up 20% from last year, which is also a need. The last so called “franchise” tax that a city can look at that we have not is the telecom tax. This is actually billed to the phone providers, who typically pass it on to their customers. The average telecom tax is $.49 per capita in Utah cities that are comparable to Millcreek in population and location. In the City Council Work Meeting on Tuesday, November 12, our city finance director will be presenting to us the details of a telecom tax for our consideration. If it seems to make sense for us, we will be voting on the proposal during the City Council Regular Meeting on Monday, November 25, at 7:00 pm. That timeline would allow us to notify the state tax commission of this change by their January 1, 2025, deadline so that the city can begin collecting this tax beginning April 1 of next year. If you look at the chart shown above, you will see that nearly every city in the valley has enacted this tax already. Why? Because good tax policy calls for “broadening the base and lowering the rate,” meaning that the most stable and most fair way for a government to collect taxes is to do so from a variety of sources, but to keep the tax burden in all areas as low as possible. We work hard as a city to keep property taxes reasonable, and giving a serious look at the telecom tax may be a good way to continue these best practices. ---PAGE BREAK--- Autumn’s Leaves and the Impacts on Our Storm Drain System MILLCREEK. As autumn unfolds and temperatures dip, it’s hard not to be captivated by the stunning scenery created by colorful falling leaves. While they may be lovely, these leaves can pose real problems for our stormwater systems and local waterways. It’s essential to tackle the fallen leaves quickly—whether composting, mulching, or bagging them to dispose of them—before they clog up the gutters and storm drains. How Does it Impact Our Storm Drain System? 1. Localized Flooding: When leaves accumulate around drains, they can create blockages that prevent proper water drainage. This issue can be particularly concerning given our unpredictable weather. If many leaves build up over a storm drain, it can cause flooding in our streets and yards during rainy days. If you notice this happening near your home, don’t wait. Grab a rake and clear it out! 2. Water Pollution: When leaves pile up, they can absorb all kinds of pollutants, like pesticides, fertilizers, and even bacteria from pet waste. If water stagnates because of these obstructions, it can turn into a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and algae. This not only affects our local waterways but can also harm aquatic life and contaminate our drinking water. ---PAGE BREAK--- 3. Infrastructural Damage: Frequent blockages can really damage our drainage systems. Over time, this wear and tear can lead to pipe disruptions, sinkholes in the roads, and even flooding in our neighborhoods. Don’t Leaf These Tips Out! 1. Rake & Remove: Leaves in the street can lead to flooding, especially during moderate to heavy rain when its drains are already blocked. To help keep our neighborhood safe from flooding, it’s essential to regularly rake your yard and remove fallen leaves, particularly before any forecasted rain. 2. Mowing to Mulch: Instead of bagging your leaves, think about mulching them right into your lawn using your mower. The smaller pieces will break down and fertilize your lawn as they decompose, which is a great benefit for the grass. It’s an easy way to improve your yard without much extra effort! 3. Yard Waste Bags: If you prefer to bag your leaves, Millcreek offers residents yard waste bags, courtesy of a partnership with Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling. This initiative helps keep drains clear and reduces the risk of flooding in the community. You can pick up your bags at City Hall until the end of November! For more information, click HERE. 4. Participate in Community Clean-up: Get involved in curbside leaf collection for community clean-up. It’s an easy way to keep our streets and waterways clean and makes a real difference in the neighborhood. Taking these steps can help us enjoy the beauty of autumn without the headaches that can come with it! NOTICE: The Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District green waste can pickup will end the second week in December. The leaf pick up program will end November 30th. ---PAGE BREAK--- When it snows, let the plows go--park smart, stay safe!! ---PAGE BREAK--- NOW OPEN ---PAGE BREAK--- SAVE THE DATE MON., 11/11 ---PAGE BREAK--- FRI., 11/15 ---PAGE BREAK--- The winter season of gathering with family and friends is upon us. On Friday, November 15, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. the Skate Loop at Millcreek Common opens for the winter season, and 40+ makers will gather for Utah’s Own Holiday Shoppes at the indoor Public Market. Grateful Get Together invites you to make holiday memories at the Common: Skate the Loop on the first day of the Winter season and enjoy an ice skating performance Sample the flavors of Utah with 40+ makers at Utah’s Own Holiday Shoppes Express your gratitude with a special activity from JOYMOB Learn to make holiday mocktails with local producer Bitters Lab Donate to the Promise Program’s Annual Coat Drive and receive a free ice skating pass per coat ---PAGE BREAK--- Shop our mini farmers market and get local produce to serve at your Thanksgiving table Haven't Ice Skated Before? Learn How! Millcreek Common Skate School registration is just around the corner! Aren’t sure if you like ice skating or not? Come try a lesson! We will be offering single day lessons to introduce our learn to skate program. The class is $12 for 30 minutes (20 minutes of instruction and 10 minutes of free time). Class dates are November 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27 and will be offered from 6:30pm-7:00pm. Registration is available at millcreekcommon.org. ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- MILLCREEK IN THE NEWS MILLCREEK. Utah Business has spotlighted Utah's Own Holiday Shoppes return to Millcreek Common, a fantastic place for your holiday shopping. Check it out HERE. Join the Millcreek Team! Public Market Sales Associate Event Assistant Adventure Hub Zamboni Driver Meetings with the Mayor Fridays from 2 to 4 pm have been set aside for citizens to meet with Mayor Silvestrini. Call 801- 214-2700 to schedule a slot. VISIT us at Click here to subscribe to this weekly newsletter Millcreek City Council Meeting Agenda Public Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Millcreek will assemble in a public work meeting and a regular meeting on Tuesday, 12 November 2024 at City Hall, 1330 E. Chambers Avenue, Millcreek, Utah 84106, commencing at 6:00 p.m. for the work meeting and 7:00 p.m. ---PAGE BREAK--- for the regular meeting. 6:00 p.m. – WORK MEETING: 1. Discussion on Crosswalk Safety on 900 East 2. Planning Matter First Reading: ZT-23-011, Repeal of the Foothills and Canyons Overlay Zone and the Geologic Hazards Ordinance, Replacing Both with a Sensitive Lands Ordinance; Francis Lilly, Planning Director 3. Staff Reports 4. Discussion of Agenda Items, Correspondence, and/or Future Agenda Items 7:00 p.m. - REGULAR MEETING: 1. Welcome, Introduction and Preliminary Matters 1.1 Pledge of Allegiance 1.2 Public Comment Audience members may bring any item to the Council's attention. Comments are subject to the Public Comment and Policy set forth below. State Law prohibits the Council from acting on items that do not appear on the agenda. 2. Financial Matters 2.1 Public Hearing to Consider a Monetary Contribution of Up to $1,500 to Purchase Discounted Human Services UTA Passes for Millcreek Residents in Need 2.2 Discussion and Consideration of Ordinance 24-51, Approving a Monetary Contribution of Up to $1,500 to Purchase Discounted Human Services UTA Passes for Millcreek Residents in Need 2.3 First Reading of an Ordinance Adding Chapter 3.10 to Title 3 of the Millcreek Code of Ordinances, Thereby Establishing a tax on the Gross Receipts of Telecommunications Service Providers, Setting the Rate for Such Tax and Establishing the Effective Date of the Tax 3. Reports 3.1 Mayor’s Report 3.2 City Council Member Reports 3.3 Staff Reports 4. Consent Agenda 4.1 Approval of October 28, 2024 Work Meeting and Regular Meeting Minutes 5. New Items for Subsequent Consideration 6. Calendar of Upcoming Meetings • Historic Preservation Commission Mtg. 11/14/24 6:00 p.m. ---PAGE BREAK--- • Planning Commission Mtg. 11/20/24 5:00 p.m. • City Council Mtg. 11/25/24 7:00 p.m. 7. Closed Session (If Needed) The Council may convene in a closed session to discuss items as provided by Utah Code Ann. §52-4-205. 8. Adjournment In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Millcreek will make reasonable accommodation for participation in the meeting. Individuals may request assistance by contacting the ADA Coordinator, [PHONE REDACTED] or [EMAIL REDACTED], at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting. Public Comment Policy and Procedure: The purpose of public comment is to allow citizens to address items on the agenda. Citizens requesting to address the Council may be asked to complete a written comment form and present it to the City Recorder. In general, the Chair will allow an individual two minutes to address the Council. A spokesperson, recognized as representing a group in attendance, may be allowed up to five minutes. At the conclusion of the citizen comment time, the Chair may direct staff to assist the citizen on the issue presented; direct the citizen to the proper administrative department(s); or take no action. This policy also applies to all public hearings. Citizens may also submit written requests (outlining their issue) for an item to be considered at a future council meeting. The Chair may place the item on the agenda under citizen comments; direct staff to assist the citizen; direct the citizen to the proper administrative departments; or take no action. Public comment can be submitted via the City’s website at: The meetings will be live streamed via the City’s website at: The Council may convene in an electronic meeting. Council members may participate from remote locations and may be connected to the electronic meeting by GoToMeeting, Zoom, or telephonic communications. The anchor location will be City Hall. THE UNDERSIGNED DULY APPOINTED RECORDER FOR THE MUNICIPALITY OF MILLCREEK HEREBY CERTIFIES THAT A COPY OF THE FOREGOING NOTICE WAS EMAILED OR POSTED TO: City Hall City Website Utah Public Notice Website Those Listed on the Agenda ---PAGE BREAK--- DATE: November 6, 2024 RECORDER: Elyse Sullivan Agenda items may be moved in order, sequence, and time to meet the needs of the Council. Millcreek Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Agenda Public Notice is hereby given that the Historic Preservation Commission of Millcreek will assemble in a regular public meeting on Thursday, 14 November 2024, at City Hall, 1330 E Chambers Ave, Millcreek, Utah 84106, commencing at 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. – Regular Meeting 1. Discussion and Consideration of a Recommendation by the Historic Preservation Commission to Designate Mountair Acres Neighborhood to the Utah State Historic Preservation Office for Induction in the National Register of Historic Places 2. Updates from Sub-Committees 3. Staff Updates 4. Approval of September 12, 2024, Regular Meeting Minutes 5. Adjourn In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Millcreek will make reasonable accommodation for participation in the meeting. Individuals may request assistance by contacting the ADA Coordinator, [PHONE REDACTED] or [EMAIL REDACTED] at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting. The meeting will be live streamed via the City’s website at: Live-Stream. Public comment can be submitted before or during the meeting via the City’s website at: The Commission may convene in an electronic meeting. Commissioners may participate from remote locations and may be connected to the electronic meeting by GoToMeeting, Zoom, or telephonic communications. The anchor location will be City Hall. THE UNDERSIGNED DULY APPOINTED CITY RECORDER FOR THE MUNICIPALITY OF MILLCREEK HEREBY CERTIFIES THAT A COPY OF THE FOREGOING NOTICE WAS EMAILED OR POSTED TO: City Offices City Website Utah Public Notice Website Those Listed on the Agenda http://millcreekut.gov/ http://pmn.utah.gov DATE: November 8, 2024 DEPUTY CITY RECORDER: Alex Wendt ---PAGE BREAK--- Agenda items may be moved in order, sequence, and time to meet the needs of the Commission. Copyright © 2024 Millcreek, All rights reserved. Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list Click here to subscribe to this weekly newsletter Forward Share Tweet