Midway residents would stand behind a $5-7 million open space bond

A recent survey indicates resident of Midway are willing to invest in conservation and would likely support a $5-$7 million dollar bond in November to conserve open space. Photo: City of Midway

MIDWAY, Utah – Most Midway residents indicate strong support for the city spending an additional $5 to $7 million on conserving open space. This November, Midway voters may decide whether to approve a new bond for the city’s conservation efforts.

At a city council meeting held Tuesday, July 16, Midway planner Katie Villani presented the results of a phone survey conducted by Utah Valley University, which gathered responses from about 300 Midway locals. According to Villani, an overwhelming majority would “probably” or “definitely” support a new open space bond, with over 80% of respondents indicating their support.

The survey gauged residents’ likelihood of supporting open space bonds of $5 million, $7 million, or $10 million. A $5 million bond would cost taxpayers slightly over $16 per $100,000 of taxable value over 20 years, while a $7 million bond would cost about $23, and a $10 million bond would cost $33. Approximately 80% of respondents favored a $5 million bond, and a majority also supported a $7 million bond, though less than half backed a $10 million bond.

Villani highlighted that the survey results reflect residents’ willingness to invest in conservation, citing a perceived decline in open space over the past decade and an increased sense of urgency for preservation.

Midway Mayor Celeste Johnson expressed support for a $5 million bond, acknowledging the need to respect those concerned about tax increases. She believes their hesitation is due to the financial burden rather than a lack of desire for open space.

Councilmembers generally favored allowing residents to vote on a bond this November. To place it on the ballot, the city must finalize the resolution by August 22. If approved, this would be Midway’s second open space bond, following a $5 million bond approved in 2018 dedicated to conservation easements.

The final decision on placing the bond on the ballot will be made at the city council meeting on August 6.