Commissioners revise event process, vow to collaborate

The Grand County Commission held a workshop before its January 21 meeting to discuss significant proposed amendments to the special event approval process. The changes aim to simplify and expedite the process by granting the Special Event Coordinator the authority to approve low-impact events, redefining what qualifies as low-impact, and reducing approval timelines.


“The old system was wasted time,” said Commissioner Mike McCurdy, who added the issue to the agenda.


Commissioner Mary McGann emphasized caution, citing past public outcry over noise from events. Commissioner Melodie McCandless acknowledged that noise had been a significant issue in the past but noted that changes to speed limits and motorized road use laws might have mitigated the problem.


New Commission Chair Bill Winfield emphasized speed and collaboration, warning that if discussions drag on, “we’ll just call for a vote in the next meeting and do it based off the majority.”


The conversation centered on negotiating the number of vehicles and attendees that would qualify for a high-impact event. Commissioners agreed to refine vehicle and attendance thresholds and revisit the impact of these changes in 2026. The revised ordinance will return as an action item at a future meeting.

“This was a great exercise in compromise,” said Commissioner Jaques Hadler, a sentiment echoed by Winfield, who expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort to find a solution.


Meeting at a Glance: Grand County Commission, January 21, 2024

Workshop
Workshop on revisions to special event permit process
Timestamp: [00:00:06]

Main meeting begins
Timestamp [00:46:52]

Action Items
Volunteer Citizen Appointments
EMS Special Service District: Jim Webster and Elizabeth Tubbs.
Vote: 6–0 in favor, with Commissioner Hadler abstaining.
[Timestamp: 2:07:25]

Planning Commission: Megan Schafer was appointed following discussion comparing qualifications with Ellie Swanson.
Vote: 4–3 in favor. Opposed: Commissioners Hadler, Hedin, and McGann.
[Timestamp: 2:22:42]

Travel Council Advisory Board: Wendell Williams, Howard Trenholme, and Sharon Kienzle appointed.
Vote: 4–3 in favor. Opposed: Commissioners Hadler, Hedin, and McGann.
[Timestamp: 2:28:43]

Easement Agreement – Sand Flats Road
Easement agreement solidified for maintenance and public roadway access.
Vote: Unanimous approval with Hadler absent.
[Timestamp: 2:30:36]

Council on Aging: Karen Feary, Patrice Hlas, and Cherie Major reappointed.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
[Timestamp: 2:24:05]

Advertising Opportunity in the Grand Circle Association Guide
Approved a $6,995 ad placement aimed at increasing tourism visibility.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
[Timestamp: 2:35:26]

Resolution Approving the Final Plat for San Juan PUD
Approved resolution for three workforce housing units with deed restrictions.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
[Timestamp: 2:37:13]

Adoption of Canyonlands Regional Airport Plans
Adopted Title VI (Civil Rights), CPP (Community Participation Plan), and DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) program plans.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
[Timestamp: 2:41:05]

Acceptance of Utah Airport Revitalization Grant
Approved $46,500 grant for landscaping projects at Canyonlands Regional Airport.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
[Timestamp: 2:44:50]
Tourism Promotion Budget Fund Transfer
Approved the transfer of funds between accounts to comply with state auditor recommendations.
Vote: 5–0 in favor; Commissioners Hedin and Hadler abstained.
[Timestamp: 2:59:12]

Cooperative Agreement for USU Extension Services
Approved annual agreement to split costs for extension services.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
[Timestamp: 3:03:58]

Approval of Consent Agenda
* Approval Of Meeting Minutes
* Ratification Of Payment Of Bills
* Ratification Of HMGP Application Documents – Old City Park Road And Kerby Lane Vented Low-Water Crossings
* Toilet Contract Grand County/Sand Flats Recreation Area And Zunich Bros.Mechanical
* Annual Emery Telcom /Grand County Sand Flats Recreation Area Agreement
* Subcontractor Partnership Agreement With Moab Area Community Land Trust And Grand County For The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Application
Vote: Unanimous approval.
[Timestamp: 3:05:39]