the truth about local land control

Local outcry cannot supersede state law. The false narrative that the County Commission should have listened to the citizens regarding their will towards Eden Crossing is clearly a reason to be concerned with how an incorporated city will be managed. We are not an island or a sovereign entity. We are ultimately governed by state law.

Land preservation is touted as a key factor supporting incorporation, but this argument is likely the most deceitful. Unless the city can buy all the land, it will never control all of it. Land transactions occur daily, with market forces influencing property prices and subsequently property taxes. To lower property taxes, one would need neighbors to sell their land for less than the asking price. Alternatively, the only way to control land is through eminent domain and or downzoning, which can negatively impact property values and suggest that property owners can afford to maintain larger plots.

A cautionary tale of a newly formed Utah city gone terribly wrong....

You'll recognize the similarities.

free-erda.com/reasons

(site is not https proceed anyway)

What control do we have now?

In the case of Utah, the emphasis is placed on local control either in an unincorporated or corporated situation, providing citizens with multiple opportunities for public policy involvement. The key is people have to want to be involved.

1. **Opportunity for Public Policy Involvement:**

Utah citizens have the opportunity to engage in public policy discussions and decisions that impact their communities.
This participation is not automatic but requires proactive efforts from individuals to stay informed and involved.
This includes several appointed community boards and commissions; however, individuals can insert themselves in almost every aspect of the public process.

2. **Notice and Public Hearings:**

Public hearings are an essential aspect of local governance, and they require proper notice to ensure that interested citizens can attend and voice their opinions.
This transparency is crucial for fostering an inclusive decision-making process.

3. **Public Meetings:**

Any meeting involving two or more elected officials is considered a public meeting, providing citizens with access to observe and participate in the political process.
This helps prevent decision-making behind closed doors and promotes accountability.

4. **Proactive Citizenship:**

Effective public engagement demands proactive citizenship, where individuals take the initiative to follow issues, attend meetings, and stay informed about local governance.
Being proactive allows citizens to exert influence on the decisions that affect them.

5. **Effective Engagement Strategies:**

**Study the Issues:** Informed citizens are more effective participants. Understanding the complexities of the issues at hand is crucial for meaningful contributions.
**Know the Law:** Familiarity with relevant laws and regulations empowers citizens to advocate within the framework of the legal system.
**Understand the Problem:** A deep understanding of the problems faced by the community allows for the development of well-informed and practical solutions.
**Bring Solutions:** Instead of just pointing out issues, effective engagement involves proposing constructive solutions to problems.

6. **Politeness and Open-Mindedness:*

Being polite in interactions with officials and fellow citizens enhances the effectiveness of public engagement. It fosters a positive atmosphere conducive to collaboration.
Recognizing that there may be multiple perspectives and solutions is crucial. Open-mindedness allows for a more inclusive decision-making process. Accept you may not always get your way. Compromise.

7. **Persistence:**

Public policy involvement is an ongoing process. Persistence is essential, as it may take time for ideas and concerns to gain traction and influence decision-making.

In summary, effective public engagement involves informed, proactive, and polite citizenship. It requires an understanding of the issues, knowledge of the legal framework, and a commitment to finding practical solutions. By being persistent and respectful, citizens can contribute meaningfully to the democratic process at any level in Utah.