After managing a limited evacuation in April, the West Bountiful City Council gathered on May 5 to thank city officials as well as discuss policy changes. Here’s a recap of what happened:

Law enforcement and staff thanked for efforts during evacuation

During their meeting on May 5, the West Bountiful City Council took a moment to recognize police chief Brandon Erekson, City Administrator Duane Huffman and Public Works Director Steve Maughan for their efforts in handling a limited evacuation on April 25.

The order – which extended to residents near 1100 West and 1400 North – was issued after police found explosive material while responding to a different issue. South Davis Metro Fire District and Davis County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad representatives said that the list of items discovered were believed to include dynamite, which was promptly stabilized and disposed of by professionals. 

Citizens were alerted about the evacuation through an Amber Alert, as well as law enforcement officials who knocked on doors. Local police made the order at 10 a.m. and closed it shortly after 12 p.m. As county specialists handled the material, city staff oversaw communication needs while public works employees delivered sand bags to the site.

Police booked resident Dwayne Raymond Hughes into the Davis County Jail for possession of explosives, unlawful possession of fireworks and reckless endangerment. The evacuation occurred just 17 days after law enforcement officers apprehended a suspect during a foot pursuit in front of West Bountiful Elementary School.

Council votes 3-2 against home occupation ordinance change

Acting in accordance with the planning commission’s recommendation, the city council voted 3-2 to deny a home occupation ordinance change. 

A proposal drafted by resident Jed Fisher, the legislative material would alter West Bountiful Municipal Code 5.28.040(A), which states that all employees of a home occupation must be a resident of that dwelling. If enacted, the change would have allowed one non-resident employee to work for this type of business, as long as:

• The home occupation business license was held by a resident of the dwelling

• No more than one non-resident service provider would work on the premises at any time

• All services were delivered by appointment only

According to the meeting minutes, the planning commission provided the negative recommendation on the grounds that the new ordinance would be difficult to enforce, and impact surrounding neighborhoods. Councilmembers Jenn Nielsen and James Ahlstrom failed to pass a motion that would’ve asked the commission to further articulate their decision. They were the two “nays” on the passing motion.

Youth City Council amends GPA requirement

Opening the May 5 meeting, Youth City Council Mayor Bo Bartholomew stood at the podium to discuss bylaw amendments with the West Bountiful City Council. 

The changes – which were unanimously approved – remove membership requirements related to GPA, and allow individuals to join the council who live outside of the city but attend Viewmont High School. According to a post on the Youth City Council’s Instagram page, Bartholomew said the amendment comes just in time for application season. 

Tyler Payne leaves planning commission

During their meeting on April 28, West Bountiful Planning Commission Member Tyler Payne announced that he will be moving out of the city, and stepped down from his position. Alternate Richmond Thornley has been promoted to commissioner status.