CROSSROADS THE
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Connecting Eagle Mountain and Saratoga Springs
JOURNAL
Westlake High’s ‘Marching Thunder’ sweeps band competition
1st and 3rd Thursdays
Local Business Highlight Little Dress Up Shop
By Danielle Palmer Staff Writer
By Arianne Brown Managing Editor/Staff Writer
On Saturday, September 29th, the Westlake High School Marching Thunder competed against bands from around the state at the Nebo Tournament of the Bands that was held at Payson high school. Going in as the defending 4A, State Champions, band members had confidence in that they would perform well. However, sweeping all possible categories in their division, against some other very talented schools, namely, Bear River, Lone Peak, Pleasant Grove and Timpview, was something they didn't anticipate. Marching Thunder band director, Breck Mangleson, had
this to say about the competition, “It has been alleged that Timpview has not lost to a Utah band in their class for over 20 years, but I've only been involved for 7 seasons, all of which, Timpview has won.” Mangleson continued, “Last year we came within five points (1000 points total) of beating Timpview at the last competition of the season, before state finals down in St George. Timpview did not attend the state finals and Westlake was named the 4A state champion at those finals last year beating all the other 4A bands. Yesterday was the first opportunity to compete against Timpview since being named 4A state champions. I guess any rumors of us not being able to claim to be the 4A state champions were put to rest yes-
terday.” The Marching Thunder swept all possible categories in their division including: outstanding musical performance, outstanding visual performance, outstanding percussion and color guard. Their total point score put them 3rd place overall state wide, right behind Skyview and American Fork, beating larger 5A bands including Lehi, mountain crest and Bingham. MangelsIon added, “It was a great day. I couldn't have been more proud- the perfect birthday.” If you would like to see the Marching Thunder in action, their next competition will be the Wasatch Marching Band Competition on October 6th, at Herriman High School.
Looking for the perfect costume for your princess or pirate? It’s that time of year, and with Halloween just around the corner, a local business is expanding to meet your needs. Owned by Brian and Lindsay Bills, Little Dress Up Shop is known for offering adorable dress-up clothes that always meet special criteria: machine washable, non-itchy and durable. Specializing in princess dress-ups but also carrying a large selection of pretend play costumes including boy dress-up, career costumes, and superheroes, Little Dress Up Shop is sure to meet your costume needs. Nine years ago, Little Dress Up Shop began in the Bills’ two-bedroom condo, and quickly expanded, occupying many rooms in their Eagle Mountain home including their bedroom, baby’s room, front room, and basement. Lindsay Bills said she believes their rapid growth is in much part due to their outstanding customer service with phone support and satisfaction guarantees. “From the beginning we built our online business on first-rate customer service. We have a lot of repeat customers and customers that refer friends because of our great customer service.” Their business’s rapid growth literally outgrew their home, making it necessary to reach out to the Eagle Mountain Small Business Resource Center, where they were encouraged to apply for the city Incubator Program. Lindsay stated, “The city has
been very helpful. Our basement had been busting at the seams with inventory, desks and employees for too long. We felt like we were goldfish in a fishbowl. We wanted to grow bigger but couldn’t because our bowl wasn’t big enough. The city’s program helped us to rent premium space at low cost and gave us access to helpful coaching and resources. Now that we have a large enough space that we have added many new products (currently over 300) and have changed our shipping space to accommodate local walk-in customers.” Little Dress Up Shop is located on the upper floor of the furthest east building on Campus Drive, owned by Direct Communications. The shop recently added a children’s play corner with dress-up clothes available so children can come in and play while parents shop. People are encouraged to stop in and browse the 50% off clearance rack, and items under $10 or $15 that are great birthday party gifts. Sizes range from 2-10 and they also carry doll dresses for 18” dolls, princess shoes and jewelry, accessories, purses, gloves, and more. Store hours are M-F, 9 am to 2 pm, and may extend for holidays. Customers are also welcome to call 800-738-8156, and the store can open by appointment. Children’s dress-up parties are also available, and you can find out more at littledressupparties.com. All items can be viewed online at littledressupshop.com and you can follow the business on Facebook, by going to, Facebook.com/littledressupshop to stay informed about weekly giveaways and fun in-store events.
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The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, October 3, 2013
EM Candidates Debate By Danielle Palmer Staff Writer
City Candidates gathered for a Political Debate at Rockwell High School September 25, 2013. The mayoral debate followed the city council debate. Running for City Council positions are the following: Bryan Free first ran for city council in 2007 and has since served on the Parks and Recreation Board. He has background as a Commercial Real Estate Appraiser. Tom Westmoreland has an advertising background and has been a resident for five years. He has a passion for the principles from the founding fathers and believes freedom and productivity go hand in hand. Adam Bradley acknowledges the citizens want to be heard and he will listen and connect with residents. He has a website for communication, and is also available for direct conversation. Nate Ochsenhirt, resident for about ten years with career experience as Drywall Contractor and General Contractor, defined his job in city council as being able to see a need and make it better. Candidates were given two minutes to respond to questions and one more minute to rebut or add to their previous comment time. The City Council Debate included the following questions: #1 What do you plan to do to improve customer service between the city and the residents? This includes City Hall, public works, utilities, and anything else where residents deal with the city. #2 How can you ensure that you never become one of those “in the pocket” of builders, businesses, or state offices and remain aligned with the citizens of Eagle Mountain? #3 We have heard a lot about transparency during this campaign season. Define transparency as it applies to City functions and politics. What would you do to help the city become more transparent? #4 What do you like least about living in Eagle Mountain, and how can you change or improve that as an elected official? Tom Westmoreland personally notices good customer service and expects it from everyone. He stated it’s a simple cultural issue that needs better practice. People need to believe in it. He expressed concerns about seeing candidates be elected only to change afterward and said to avoid this he believes in having deep roots in conservative values developed over time so he cannot be swayed. He takes the oath of office very seriously and would be dedicated. He stated that harsh realities are often the best policies for transparency with no candy coating; it starts with being up-front. He wants to see more citizen involvement as many things can be solved on our own without having the city step in to do it. He encourages residents to work together to find solutions. Adam Bradley said the culture of customer service starts with leadership, then training, and lastly accountability. The residents’ needs should be first priority. He would set an example. He emphasized good communication and a partnership in making the best decisions. “I will vote no if it’s not best for the city.” He vowed to keep an open dialog with residents. He stated he cares about keeping people informed and will keep visual aids and graphics and pictures on his website as well as an availability to answer questions to help with transparency. He would like to see active people in the city influence their friends and neighbors to be more involved in
the community so city residents can help each other more. He also wants to keep economic development within the city and generate more revenue here. He emphasized regaining the residents’ trust. He wants to use his website as a hub of communication, but also encourages phone conversations. Nate Ochsenhirt said good customer service requires a level of communication and a mindset to please the people. He believes in being kind, respectful and honorable. Being honorable, he would never ask for anything against his principles of right and wrong. “My opinion is not for sale.” He emphasized that unless you are present at every meeting and in every conversation, something is going to be lost and this doesn’t always necessarily mean there are things intentionally hidden. He will do all he can to keep a partnership with the public for good communication. He wants to see more services for the community in the city, like movie theaters or bowling alleys, and dreams about having something fun within walking distance from home. He stated we have to have the roofs and roads to build our population so services will want to come. Businesses look at numbers and we need to build that so they will come. He loves this city, and loves to get new ideas from residents. Bryan Free suggested making a mandatory annual customer service training for city employees, adding more easy access to contact information, and making contact information more accessible. He stated he is not here to get friends, but to do what’s best for residents in the city. His only concern is to truly represent the people and help your voice to be heard. He wants to have a can-do attitude and be proactive about transparency, which he defined as always making information available and understandable. He felt it important never to get defensive, but to listen and inform. He stated that transparency is good with a website, it’s better when info is understandable, but it’s best when an elected official personally shares it with you. He wants to incorporate a website for every elected official to use even after new ones are elected to keep things consistent throughout the years. He dislikes seeing people come to EM and then move away. He wants to show others the exciting potential EM has and encourage people to stay here. He stated that services are coming and pointed out the many home-based businesses in the city in need of promotion. He encourages everyone to vote, and emphasized a need for new leadership. Running for Mayor are the following: Christopher Pengra feels he has qualities he can bring forward, including his strengths in finance and in relating to people with good communication. After serving in the Air Force, he made Eagle Mountain his home with the intention of putting down deep roots and investing in the city. Heather Jackson has been serving as mayor and began her introduction with a story of a woman carpooling with children in 2008 through a winter storm that hit furiously and made the trip painstakingly slow and scary. She said since that time, she has improved safety in the city by creating alternate routes and road improvements. The Mayoral Debate questions included, #1 From what sources have you raised fund for your campaign? Who have been your biggest donors? Have any of your donors been entities with business before the city either now, in the past, or likely in the future? Do you believe
this is problematic? #2 What would be your top three priorities as your term in office begins? How will you go about accomplishing them? #3 What is your greatest strength and how is it a benefit to the city? #4 What is your greatest weakness? How do you think it will affect your effectiveness in office and what can you do to overcome it? Heather Jackson listed her donors as legislators, businesses, developers, other city mayors and residents. She believed it important to balance among many different donors to avoid burdening, and named DAI, Dove Construction, and Utah County Board of Realtors. She has treated everybody the same. She announced with excitement that Starbucks is coming and will be located in the Ridley’s Market. She also stated more to come including a hair salon, laundry facility, fast food restaurant and optometrist. She prioritizes working on better communication, continuing efforts to revamp and update the city website, and use Facebook, Twitter, and other venues to communicate. She also stated roads are a very high priority. She cited her experience as her greatest strength, and shared an experience speaking with a couple concerned residents who came to her office. If things meet code, they must be approved or the city can get sued. She feels that momentum is going well and a step back with someone new would deter it. She has served 16,000 hours over the last six years to this community and loves it. Her greatest weakness is sometimes in juggling so many responsibilities something gets dropped. She stated she relies on having a good staff to help her and remind her when she misses something, and affirmed she has the smartest people on staff now to help, and she likes to give herself deadlines. There is a plan implemented to get out of debt a piece at a time, and she would like to try to turn all her weaknesses into strengths. Christopher Pengra stated he’d never taken any donations from developers and that most of his campaign has been out-of-pocket or donations from family members and residents. He’s turned down funds. He wanted to move away from impropriety as much as possible. Although the investment is expensive he believes it to be a worthy one. Then he added that instead of continual spending on the campaign, he’s tried knocking on doors for face-to-face conversations and has enjoyed that process. His top priorities would be to settle the distrust from the residents to local government, stating that distrust requires over-communication. He wants to make information more readily available to residents. He also wants to address financial issues and make changes by asking difficult questions. He also wants to address the moral in city employment, as he has found some employees don’t like going to work and he wants this to change. He wants to encourage better community cohesion to accomplish one goal at a time. He sited his ability to communicate well as his biggest strength. He finds there are wonderful ideas and solutions people can come up with if he will listen. He has a distinct benefit from experience in the past working with angry people, and said it is important not to get defensive. He has a banking industry experience, and understands the ins and outs and doesn’t feel he would be a step back. His greatest weakness is to get bogged down in the details and too tedious and sometimes needs a reminder to step back and see the big picture. He feels it is important to think outside of the box about paying off debt early.
Becoming Champions
By Danielle Palmer Staff Writer
The BYU Triple Crown had 520 participants and 47 schools from all over the state represented this year, and among these were our very own Ranches Academy and Hidden Hollow Running Clubs, which placed first and second in the competition. The BYU Triple Crown began in 1999 and is sponsored by the BYU Cross Country team. Traditionally, Provo and Orem schools win the coveted championship trophy, but this year, all this changed, with two teams from Eagle Mountain taking the top two spots: Ranches Academy Running Club came in first, with Hidden Hollow Running Club following in a close second. Ranches Academy Running Club is in its sixth season and fourth year (with three spring seasons and three fall). In their first season, they had about 45 kids, and the energy spread quickly with each season’s participants growing exponentially. Currently there are nearly 130 runners on the k-6th grade team, which is a third of the school. Practices are twice a week more cross-country meets are planned this fall. “Kids love the games and activities we do as a team and have even learned that running can be fun!” says Coach Becky Anderson, “We teach our kids that winning is not what makes someone a champion. Champions do hard things. Champions never give up. Cham-
pions cheer for and encourage their friends. Champions always do their best. Anyone can be fast if they are born with natural talent, but it takes heart to be a champion. That is what we want to teach our runners and we hope it carries over into all aspects of their lives.” This was the Ranches Academy’s third trip to BYU for the Triple Crown. Previously in 2011 and 2012, the club took 3rd place. This year, they came home with the win. Hidden Hollow Running Club is in its second season and has just fewer than 160 runners participating. “There is nothing better than seeing kids work hard and improve.” says HH Running Club Head Coach, Diane Garrett, “Running as a group is helping all of us to improve our self esteem, make new friends, and develop lifelong healthy habits. It is also a great unity builder as we cheer for each other and the other runners that we compete against.” The coaches participating are teachers at Hidden Hollow Elementary and parent volunteers, which show terrific support to the club. Practices are twice a week, there are parents coming to every practice to run with the younger children. This was Hidden Hollow’s second time competing in the Triple Crown, and they took second place. The lessons learned from participating will help these kids carry good principles of hard work and determination into other facets of their lives. These runners are clearly learning how to be champions.
Thursday, October 3, 2013
The Crossroads Journal
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The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Thursday, October 3, 2013
The Crossroads Journal
EM City Council Notes By Danielle Palmer Staff Writer
At the Eagle Mountain City Council Meeting on September 3, public comments mentioned an appreciated difference from dove hunters this hunting season, and also watering concerns were pointed out. Multiple residents requested reconsideration for Natural gas in Cedar Pass Ranch with an amended proposal. CM Ireland participated in the meeting via telephone, CM Painter was absent. A Public Hearing was held to allow public input in regard to the sale of up to $2.5 m. in bonds. The city had been talking about refunding or refinancing bonds; they would be changing the bond from an SID bond to a sales tax revenue bond. The payment would probably not change, but with a different security mechanism would be used, lowering the interest rate without extending the term. The final bond amount would be approximately $2.2 m. No action was necessary at that meeting, but action was taken at the end of the Sept 17 meeting, where the Resolution was adopted not to exceed $2.4 m or 7% interest by unanimous vote. Also approved at the Sept 3 meeting, a Resolution to amend the EM City Consolidation Fee Schedule to add a rock and frost clause to the gas connection fee and create a connection fee for open space electric meters; an Agreement to approve a grant between EM City and the Department of Defense for the Camp Williams Training Site Joint Land Use Study Implementation; a Motion to consider the request from Curt Faus Corporation to waive the hours of construction noise restrictions (in the motion, CM Ochsenhirt specified beginning the 13th and not to exceed 4 days, only on weekdays); and an Agreement between EM City and the Central Utah Water Conservancy District for a pump station. All were approved by unanimous vote. A Motion for the approval of the bid for Niels Fugal Sons Company, LLC, for the Cedar Pass Ranch Phase 1, Natural Gas System was discussed. Residents request sixteen instead of twenty people committed to payment for approval. An extension of billing time was also requested for six people. Steinkopf moved to reconsider the motion from Aug. 20 meeting and CM Burnham expressed concerns about the process. All voted yes except CM Ireland. The old motion was then on the table for reconsideration. After discussion, the vote was again taken with Ochsenhirt no, Ireland yes, Burnham yes, Steinkopf no, and the Mayor broke the tie vote with no. CM Ochsenhirt moved to accept the bid award with Niels Fugal, but that the mayor would not sign the contract until we reach sixteen lots with 1000 deposit on or before the first of October, if not by then it dies. Also clarified was that there are ten residents that commit to pay in full within 30 days and other six or any additional would need to make two payments and extend the deadline to November 1 for initial sign-up and thereafter charge additional $1000. 50% of the balance would need to be met within 6 months and the remaining within 12 months. CM Ireland had some questions for CM Ochsenhirt as a business owner. Vote was taken with CM Ireland no, Burnham no, Steinkopf yes, Ochsenhirt yes, and the Mayor broke the tie vote by voting yes, to the apprecia-
tion of residents in attendance at the meeting. CM Burnham challenged those residents involved to prove her wrong by making this happen smoothly. CM Ochsenhirt seconded that. The Sept. 3 meeting adjourned at 9 pm. Sept. 17, Matthew Everett was appointed to the Planning Commission, and was given the Oath of Office. His term ends in December 2014 as he was a replacement, but he can be reappointed at that time. Mayor Jackson stated that Everett had already been upholding the oath of office by his past behaviors before being appointed, and she expressed her appreciation to him for his care and dedication. Public Comments consisted of a petition from North Ranch residents presented by Wendy Lojik and Charlotte Ducos for better monitoring and policies on the Tickville wash, as the heavy rains and flooding has caused it to grow, via studies by a developer mentioned. It was requested to prohibit dumping materials in or around the fingers of the wash to ensure safety to the neighborhood. A firm policy for every developer in the area is requested. Christ Trusty stated they had an inspector monitor the area, as they don’t want to jeopardize the major storm water drainage. It was assumed that further development would lesson storm water hazards. Mayor Jackson urged to start working on a policy. A Public Hearing was held for the consideration to approve the Evans--- Ranch Master Development Plan and Rezoning the Master Development Plan Area. Steve Mumford presented the information for land use and layout. Once approved, the next step would be the Master Development Agreement and then each individual subdivision plat approval. Involvement from residents is encouraged in the entire process. The plan included single-family homes, parks, trails, and townhomes with a possible school site. Average lot size is between 68 and 9100 sq ft. They plan to add left turn lanes to Porters Crossing, as well as striping the lanes to increase safety. There was discussion about adding stop signs to Porters Crossing as well. The developer presented changes to his plan since 2006. Goals were changed to make open space a priority with bigger lots, fewer roads, more neighborhood, parks, trails, and less intersections. For safety, they moved lots away from the wash about 100 feet. Just south of the plan is the Saratoga Springs border where a large road may someday be placed. Also more connection to the Silverlake masterplan is anticipated with the extension of Golden Eagle. They are open to delay building the townhomes until adequate traffic routes are in place, and are committed to an HOA plan. He also pointed out areas to develop soccer fields. CM Ochsenhirt clarified that natural seed would only be along the wash and every other part of the plan will be improved ground. There were many Public Comments on the topic from Dave Bills, Donald Plott, Jason Witham, Nathan Perry, Amy Plott, Cameron Hodges, Janelle Fuhriman, Barry Norton, Brittany Long, Susan Byerly, and Marie Hopkin. Concerns about the plans included major traffic concerns for Porter’s Crossing as it already has a large burden with existing residents. Recalling the evacuation for the fire, residents stated they were already unable to exit the area using Porter’s Crossing because of
high traffic. It also presented a safety hazard to kids walking routes. Stop signs were requested. Safety concerns were presented about the playground locations being next to the road, and the trail being near the wash. Concerns were made about numerous blind corners on the roads within the plan. Complaints were made about the wash being unimproved first, and the pump needing replaced before adding more developments. Residents in the whole asked for more precautions being taken before developing the area. Some felt the development should be turned down until the new road with Saratoga could be established. An elderly housing area was suggested. Chris Trusty clarified that the sewage connection to the Silverlake sewer line would ultimately help the sewer problems as the lift station would be taken out so it would no longer back up and cause issues. Mayor Jackson expressed her determination to rip out the foliage along Porter’s Crossing and this was met with appreciative applause. She also supports adding stop signs. The public hearing was closed and the council discussed the item further. Jeremy Cook stated that the compatibility traffic study showed the area was compatible for the high density plan, and it would be up to the council to decide to agree with that study or not. The developer stated if the whole project was not approved, they would not continue at all. Much of the concerns would be handled under the Master Development Agreement, but notes were taken to be sure they revisited these concerns. CM Ireland moved to approve with the condition in staff report with the HOA cross off as a requirement. Ochsenhirt was uncertain about the traffic evaluation. The mayor suggested requesting to put Golden Eagle road in the plan. CM Burnham wanted residents to understand that although people may not like the idea of having townhomes in their area, the townhomes subsidize us and we need them in the city. CM Ireland loved the senior living option but stated it is unethical to require someone else to build it. He would love to see someone come forward to do it himself or herself. He amended his motion to include that the area set aside for the school have the same underlying single family home lot sizes if the school did not buy. Vote passed his motion with all voting yes except CM Steinkopf, voting no. Residents were encouraged to stay involved with the following steps being taken in the future for the project. Other items on the agenda for the evening included another Public Hearing for the Ordinance amending the Porter’s Crossing Town Center Master Development Plan, to decrease office space and replace it with a church site and single-family residential zoning along with other minor changes. Dave Shelley commented about needing more commercial property in the city. The Ordinance was adopted unanimously. Another Ordinance was also adopted unanimously, to formally levy an assessment onto each parcel in the assessment area and establish payment terms, timing, and use of funds related to the assessments. The meeting adjourned at 10:10 pm. Please see the city website for upcoming events, announcements, and full meeting minutes as well as PowerPoint presentations given. You can also watch these meetings in full on YouTube under Eagle Mountain City.
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Two big accomplishments for Riverview Elementary By Emily Fothringham Staff Writer
In just the third year of operation, Riverview Elementary School in Saratoga Springs recently had two big successes. First they found out that they were ranked as the #1 elementary/middle school in Alpine School District on the recently released state grading report, receiving an “A” grade. They also ranked in the top twenty in the Scholastic Summer Challenge for reading 1,495,565 minutes over the summer break. About ranking number one in the district, Principal Barry Beckstrand states, “Our students, parents, and staff are thrilled to know that all the effort put into the school translates into student achievement. Without the support of everyone involved, this wouldn't be possible. I'm just happy to be a part of Riverview's success.” The grade was based on state-wide testing and for the whole state, Riverview ranked in the top ten out of 712 schools. When questioned about what makes his school different Principal Beckstrand states, “It's hard to say. Each school is unique with its own challenges. It begins with the parents being engaged in their child's education. We have a high percentage of parents volunteering daily in the school, along with a very supportive and productive PTA. Our
School Community Council designates Trust Land money to our greatest academic needs. We've tried to build a culture conducive to student achievement and success. Riverview is a great place for learning. The staff is passionate about seeing each student progress. Everyone, including the kitchen staff, custodial crew, office staff, librarian, and aides contribute to Riverview's positive culture.” About the school’s other big accomplishment: top twenty in the Scholastic Summer Challenge, media specialist Jeana Haymond says, “The Scholastic Summer Challenge is a completely voluntary reading program. I learned of it just as Riverview was opening its doors, and we took part in the challenge for the first time last summer (2012-2013 school year). That year we placed 14th in the world. This year was so much more difficult. Our school goal was to read 1,000,000 and we not only accomplished our goal, but surpassed it. We read 1,495,565 minutes; almost twice what we read the previous summer.” The school’s reading was added into the reading of students from all fifty states, and in 30 countries, to reach a grand total of 176,438,473, a new world record. Because they were in the top twenty of school’s with the most hours logged, Riverview Elementary will be listed by name in the 2014 Scholastic Book of World Records.
Vista Heights Middle School addresses bullying By Emily Fotheringham Staff Writer
Vista Heights Middle School recently tackled the all too common problem of bullying by presenting an anti-bullying assembly that was well received by students. The assembly went right along with a school theme for the year, “You’re worth it!” According to Principal Dr. Steve Stewart, “If there is even one incident of bullying it is a problem. At this age, many students are trying to figure out their values, beliefs, and attitudes about everything around them. It can be an awkward time and can lead to odd demonstrations of their own concept of self-worth and confidencebuilding. We want to help them understand what appropriate behavior looks like and feels like.” The assembly showcased two people who know what bullying feels like and have found ways to rise above it. First was the talented Bri Ray, herself still a high school student, who shared her personal story of bullying through music and words. She encouraged student to show more caring for others. Also on the program was Josh Drean, who used to entertain thousands as Cosmo, Brigham Young University’s mascot. He had also overcome personal bullying and shared his story with an upbeat presentation. A theme both presenters emphasized was the need to be respectful and the need to stand-up for others that students notice being bullied. Dr. Stewart feels the assembly helped a number of students talk to
adults about bullying that has been going on. He also stresses that bullying in cyber-space is also important to address stating, “Cyber-bullying has always been included in our conversations about bullying. This is harder for us to monitor because most of it occurs outside of the school. However, we deal with it when it affects a student's attitude about being at school.” He states that the school has helped students to know where they can turn to report bullying, including a tip-line that they can use to make anonymous reports. Besides tackling bullying the Vista Heights also received some good new recently as they ranked third in Alpine School District in the recently released state grades. About this Dr. Stewart states, “We have experienced great success at our school from the first year (2010). I attribute it to an incredible collegial faculty and staff who remain committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure high levels of learning for every student. They work as a team, literally. Along with our normal content area department teams who work on curriculum and assessment. We also have interdisciplinary teams that include Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, and Science teachers who teach the same cohort of students. They have the same preparation period during which they can plan interdisciplinary projects and talk about ways to support one another's curriculum. They can also discuss ways to help students who are struggling. Our teachers work hard to provide the best learning experience possible for each of our students.”
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The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, October 3, 2013
SS City Council Notes By Jennifer Klingonsmith Staff Writer
September 17, 2013 The meeting was called to order at 6:40 pm. Those present included Shellie Baertsch, Rebecca Call, Michael McOmber, Jim Miller, Bud Poduska, Mayor Mia Love, and city staff. Public Comment Former city council member Marsha Paskett asked that an expired ordinance be reinstated. The ordinance required that the city waive all utility fees of active-duty members of the military. She said it was a small token of gratitude to those serving our country. The ordinance was adopted in 2006, but needed to be reapproved every year by the city council. Mayor Love stated that the city council would discuss the ordinance at the next city council meeting. Policy Items Consent Calendar The consent calendar was unanimously approved. Ordinance 13-18 (9-17-13): Amending the Official Zoning Map Rezoning Plat Q of Jacobs Ranch Subdivision from Regional Commercial (RC) to Low Density Residential (R-3). The amendment was unanimously approved. Public Hearing: Amendment to the City of Saratoga Springs Zoning Map Rezoning Sergeant Court from Mixed Use (MU) to Mixed Use with PUD overlay. City staff reported that the new plan contained two less units than the previous. The applicant had also held a meeting with nearby residents and gotten feedback on architectural designs. The townhomes would now have a lighter color scheme.
Councilwoman Baertsch expressed concern about two corner homes whose driveways joined at an awkward angle. She also reiterated the need for a second access road to the development. Other city council members agreed with Baertsch’s assessment. The applicant argued that a limited emergency exit was the only viable option. He noted that current residents felt the same way. He also reminded the city council that the development was under 200 rooftops (the minimum number of homes requiring a secondary access road). Fire Chief Jess Campbell stated that he signed off on the concept plan because he was balancing many factors including minimum requirements met and the city’s goal to be developer-friendly. He admitted that the concept plan was not ideal when considering the need for a secondary exit. He also stated the 200-home minimum could be reduced if congestion is an issue. The PUD overlay was approved, with McOmber opposing. Public Hearing: Master Development and Agreement for Saratoga Springs Development (Lakeside), Plat 14, 16A, 25, 26, and 27 located approximately between 1500 South to 2800 South between Redwood Road and Utah Lake. City staff reported that the plats would contain a total of 229 homes. There was a previous master development agreement for the plats but it had since expired. The previous agreement counted the golf course as open space. The city no longer allowed such an arrangement. The developer asked that the golf course count as some of the open space. Pocket parks, a bird-watching tower, and trail space would make up the remaining 15 percent. City staff saw
the proposed new master development agreement as a good compromise. City staff also proposed that the minimum lot size be 7,000 square feet (versus the developer-proposed 6,000 square feet). Councilwoman Rebecca Call asked that the Utah Lake Trail should be completed now that the parcels of lands were being improved. McOmber stated that he was not in favor of the State coming and condemning some existing residents’ property in order to complete the trail along the lake. He thought efforts should be made to build the trail on top of an old canal that was no longer used. Call recounted the history of the old farming canal (that ran behind some Amanda Lane residents’ homes). She reviewed some of the hoops that the developer would have to jump through in order to have permission to build a trail over the canal. She thought that she and city staff had made great progress on this endeavor already. The meeting was then opened for public comment on the issue. Saratoga Springs Owners Association President Larry Johnson requested that the new development match the existing neighborhood. This would include a lack of sidewalks and similar lot sizes. He was against a trail at Eagle Park, stating that the current trail system was sufficient. Nearby resident Nancy Card asked that the golf course not be counted as open space. She noted that it’s not a public area. Another resident was concerned about the future expansion of Redwood Road. She suggested it be widened to the east before the development comes in. She did not want it expanded on the west side. City staff
noted that UDOT made all decisions concerning Redwood Road expansion. The applicant then stood and asked that the density of the old agreement be honored. He said he could accept the 7,000 square-foot minimum lots. He would be unable to complete the project if required to maintain 30 percent open space. The development was approved
with 15 percent open space required and a minimum lot size of 7,000 square feet. Call and Baertsch opposed the plan. Agreement extending the Sierra Estates Master Development Agreement. The extension was unanimously approved. The meeting then entered into closed session.
Thursday, October 3, 2013
The Crossroads Journal
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HOME BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY. Amazing video shows how anyone can be a home business success story. The hottest home business in the US and Canada! www.healthybusinessforyou.com (801 615-5127.
DANI'S DANCING FINGERS teaches piano to ages 5+ for only $30 monthly, younger classes available. Located in Eagle Mountain city center. Classes begin in October. Please call 801-789-2606, or like me on Facebook.
DEBORAH’S DAYCARE: @the Ranches; Eagle Mtn. Ages 3 and up. Safe, fun environment. Preschool activities; meals provided. No enrollment fee. Call 801-735-3052.
DOGGY HOUSE SITTING *Kind and compassionate care *Fenced in yard *Only 14 dollars a day *Call Katie at 801-828-5805. E1107
FOSTER PARENTS NEEDED Pinnacle Youth Services is looking for loving people who want to be foster parents. Receive financial compensation while working with kids in your home. Please call 801-2632001. E1003
Mail or drop off your ad with payment to: The Crossroads Journal 7618 Silver Ranch Road Eagle Mountain, UT 84005 by Thurs, Oct 10th by noon
Classifieds are only $12.00 for one month or $18.00 for two months. Add a border for $1.00 PER MONTH or a picture for $2.00 PER MONTH
30 WORD MAXIMUM For more information call Stefanee at 407-1340
TUTORING *Certified teacher with 19 years experience *I come to your house *Grades Kindergarten-4th *Call Katie at 801-828-5805. E1107
DRUM LESSONS Fun, certified teacher, 42 years experience, positive influence, professional drummer & band leader, all ages/levels, studio in Saratoga Springs, references available. Please call Ken Culmone 768-0708/3672787. E0704
is a FREE newspaper delivered every 1st & 3rd Thursday to over 10,000 homes & businesses in Eagle Mountain and Saratoga Springs • • • • • • • For information on advertising email thecrossroads@digis.net or call (801) 407-1340
READY-NOW-PIZZA NEW
To place an ad in The Classifieds
E0905
E1003
GENERAL SERVICES SERVICES GENERAL
E1121
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$ 5 MENU
CUT CUT CUT
NO WAIT!
BOOK
We Deliver! 282 East SR-73
76 6-8 200
9/19/13 ANSWER: Book ends
whatdoesitsay? Congratulations to Stephanie George of Eagle Mountain for emailing the first correct answer to last issue’s puzzle! She won 1 free medium pizza from Tenney’s Pizza in Saratoga Springs. The Crossroads Journal wants you to tell us “what does it say?” The first person to email the correct answer to this week’s puzzle NO SOONER THAN OCTOBER 4TH will win 1 free medium pizza from Tenney’s Pizza in Saratoga Springs. Email your guess to thecrossroads@digis.net along with your name, address and phone number. Good Luck!
THE SERVICE DIRECTORY AUCTION
DANCE STUDIO
HOUSE CLEANING
COUNSELING
HANDYMAN SERVICES
MASSAGE
COUNSELING (YOUTH)
HERBALIFE
PHOTOGRAPHY
DARREN J. GILLESPIE, LCSW CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER 3688 E. Campus Dr. suite# 140 Eagle Mountain, UT 84005 Phone: (801) 661-4516 eaglemountaintherapist@gmail.com
Adolescent Specialist
Parenting Consultant
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The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, October 3, 2013