Outline
Executive Summary
1.0 Impact of History on the City’s Land Use
2.0 Introduction
2.1 The Planning Process
2.2 Policy Statements
2.3 Organization of the Plan
2.4 Roles of Planning Decision Makers
2.4.1 Planning Commission Responsibilities
2.4.2 Board of Appeals
3.0 Major Themes of the Plan
3.1 Overall Community Benefit
3.2 Compatibility
3.3 Safety
3.4 Neighborhood Preservation
3.5 Utilization, Preservation and Maintenance
3.6 Planning
4.0 Summary of the Elements of the Plan
4.1 Land Use
4.2 Transportation
4.3 Parks and Recreation
4.4 Economic Development/Central Business District
4.5 Capital Improvements (future)
4.6 Adoption, Revision and Implementation
5.0 Land Use
5.1 Land Use Goal
5.2 Existing Conditions
5.3 Analysis of Existing Uses
5.4 Build-Out Capacity
5.5 Commercial/Manufacturing Development
5.5.1 Objectives and Policies for Commercial Development
5.5.2 Recommendations for the Future
5.6 Residential Development
5.6.1 Residential Development Objectives and Policies
5.6.2 Recommendations for the Future
5.6.3 Honeyville City P-Zone Guidelines
5.6.4 Honeyville City Zoning and Land Use Guidelines
6.0 Transportation
6.1 Transportation Goal
6.2 Roads
6.2.1 Functional Classification
6.2.2 Arterials
6.2.3 Collector Roads
6.2.4 Local Roads
6.3 Public Transit
6.3.1 Bus
6.4 Pedestrian
6.5 Bicycles
6.6 Telecommuting
6.7 Park-and-Ride Facilities
6.8 Railroad
6.9 Objectives and Policies for Transportation
6.10 Recommendations for the Future
7.0 Public Services and Facilities
7.1 Public Services and Facilities Goal
7.2 Types of Public Services and Facilities
7.2.1 Water
7.2.2 Electric and Gas
7.2.3 Police Protection, Fire and Emergency Services
7.2.4 Solid Waste Disposal
7.2.5 Sewage Systems
7.2.6 Storm Water Systems
7.2.7 Park and Recreational Facilities
7.3 Objectives and Policies for Parks and Recreation
8.0 Economic Development
8.1 Economic Development Goal
8.2 Background and Issues for Economic Development
8.3 Objectives and Policies
9.0 Housing Element
9.1 Housing Element Goal
9.2 Objectives and Policies
10.0 Environmental/Natural Resources
10.1 Environmental/Natural Resources Goal
10.2 View Sheds
10.3 Septic Tank Suitability
10.4 Agriculture Suitability
10.5 Geology
10.6 Wildlife
10.7 Climate
10.8 Hydrology
10.9 Air Quality
HONEYVILLE CITY GENERAL PLAN 2010
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY – OVERVIEW
Honeyville City is required by state law to prepare a general plan to
conserve the natural resources of the city, to ensure efficient expenditure of
public funds, and to promote the health, safety, convenience, and general
welfare of the public.
There are many values held by the residents of Honeyville City. Each is
reflected in the unique character of our city. Residents have indicated their
high level of satisfaction with the “quality of life” that Honeyville City has
to offer. Quality of life is a generic term that can be defined by a variety of
factors that are unique to a community. Statistical information including
economic indicators, vital statistics and population data, educational and
health figures, and data from the U.S. Bureau of the Census describe only
part of the total quality of life of an area. The opinions and experiences of
the community define the essence of the total quality of life.
Quality of life is determined by the values of a community. In order to
maintain and improve overall quality of life, these underlying community
values must be maintained and respected. The following are (some) key
community values according to the 2000 City Survey:
1. Rural Life Style
3. Clean Environment
5. Right to Own Animals
2. Beautiful Settings & Landscape
4. Near Family & Friends
The Honeyville City planning process is structured to emphasize public
involvement and incorporate comments, ideas and direction from the public
into the plan. Through this effort, the citizens of Honeyville City have
developed a vision statement to guide the plan.
Our overriding vision for Honeyville City is to accommodate growth in a
fashion that will preserve our sense of community and protect and enhance
our quality of life. Priorities include protecting our natural environment,
preserving cultural heritage, as well as maintaining quality of life. We
believe recognition and enhancement of these characteristics are critical to
our future success.
This plan seeks to create a strong and vibrant community within Honeyville
City by encouraging orderly development while creating a healthy
environment and a healthy economy. By accommodating new growth in
areas that can sustain additional development, the plan endeavors to
conserve scarce resources and to build strong neighborhoods based on an
efficient transportation system, well-protected environmental resources, as
well as a strong and diversified economy. The plan’s elements reflect the
character of the City’s population, while the policies and implementation
tools guide future land use and transportation decisions. This plan should be
considered as a guideline for the future.
While one of the major factors for updating the general plan is the amount of
growth the City has experienced in recent years, this plan should be
considered a guideline for the future.
SECTION 1.0
IMPACT OF HISTORY ON THE CITY’S LAND USE
Honeyville, Utah is a small quiet town nestled at the base on the west slope
of the Wellsville Mountains. It was the site of the first dry land farms in
Northern Utah. Abraham Hunsaker was among the first pioneers to survey
the Honeyville area in the early 1860’s when he brought cattle from his
Brigham City farm to graze on the tall bunch grasses on the fertile lands in
the Bear River Valley. In 1863 Abraham Hunsaker harvested a bumper crop
of dry land wheat, some forty years prior to the coming of irrigation. News
of the bumper crop spread, resulting in a number of settlers moving to the
area in the next few years.
While Abraham Hunsaker was grazing his cattle and experimenting with
farming, Joseph Orme built the first permanent log home in Honeyville in
the 1860’s. In the late 1860’s Abraham Hunsaker built a rock home along
the Salt Creek, one of several homes that he would own along the Salt
Creek, west of the present Honeyville City center.
Call’s Fort was built in the southern part of the present city of Honeyville by
Anson Call and his associates to secure residents from the elements and
Indians in 1855, upon the advice of Brigham Young. According to Anson
Call’s journal, he hired a stone mason to build a fort 120 square feet with
stone walls 6 feet high and 3 feet thick. He then built an adobe house that
was 18 feet by 40 feet, as well as a blacksmith shop. A Historical
Monument now marks the southeast corner of the fort’s site on Utah State
Highway 38. In the late 1860’s Anson’s brothers, Omer and Homer Call,
built a burr (crude flour) mill and sawmill on the Salt Creek near Honeyville.
The burr stones from the burr mill are part of the Historical Call’s Fort
Monument. Abraham Hunsaker later bought the Call’s sawmill and burr
mill from the brothers. Hunsaker also purchased a ferry which crossed the
Bear River at Ferry Bend, near the present Honeyville Grain Mill west of the
city’s center.
On August 19, 1877 the Honeyville LDS Ward was organized with
Abraham Hunsaker as Bishop. The first name suggested for the town was
Hunsakerville in honor of Abraham Hunsaker a local beekeeper. According
to some of the locals' memories and recollections, the town was originally
called "Hunsakerville", but Abraham was a humble man and asked that it be
given another name. In honor, then, of Abraham's profession, it was
renamed "Honeyville." There are other rumors how the name came to be,
including one that claims that the railroad could not fit Hunsakerville on the
sign, and since the area was known for its honey production they put
Honeyville on the railroad sign instead. In 1878 the first LDS meeting house
was built. The building was used for school, dances, and special programs
as well as for church functions. A second meeting house, which still stands
at the corner of 6980 North and 2750 West, was built. It later became the
Tolman & Sons Mercantile and remained so until the late 1930’s when they
built a new store across from the church on Utah State Highway 38. In the
early 1900’s Nancy Orme was the local mid-wife and she delivered most of
the children in Honeyville. In the early 1900’s many people of Japanese
heritage migrated to the Honeyville area. Many of these pioneers soon
became farmers, adding fruits, vegetables, hay and wheat to the Honeyville
crops. Honeyville is presently the only site of a Buddhist Temple in Box
Elder County, and 1 of only 3 in the state of Utah. In 1912, the Honeyville
Buddhist Church had a visiting minister for once a month services. Services
for the deceased were held at the Ogden Buddhist Church. The 1st Buddhist
church was built in 1926 on 3600 W about a mile south of 6900 N. A
railroad spur went west out to the U & I Sugar Company’s building. The
building was purchased by the Honeyville Buddhist Church in 1931 for
$4,000.00 with about 5 acres. During WWII the Honeyville Buddhist
Church was partitioned off into apartments to house Japanese evacuees. In
1962 the chapel was added on to the south west of the building. It has been
utilized for many purposes, including a Japanese language school. The
sugar company’s offices were in the brick building just west of the Buddhist
church. There is a safe still in the basement, which was used for payroll.
About 1904 the construction of the Hammond Canal was begun, with
irrigation arriving in 1908. The head of the canal is at the Cutler Dam on the
Bear River, with 2 branches of the canal, the Hammond East and the
Hammond West, flowing south through Honeyville. Though many
disappointments and long hours were spent constructing flumes and tunnels
to keep the banks along the canal from being washed away, the canal
brought new farming industry to Honeyville and more growth soon
followed. By 1911 Honeyville had a saw mill, flour and grist mills, a
mercantile store, candy kitchen, butcher shop, barber shop, confectionary,
and blacksmith shop, as well as a school, an LDS church, post office, and a
sewing school. Agriculture in the area consisted primarily of wheat, rye,
corn, alfalfa and sugar beets. Raising livestock also plays an important role
in Honeyville’s economy. On the south west side of the railroad track on
6900 north, there was a stock yard. There was a spur running to the
stockyard that was used for on and off loading of livestock. It is said that
railcars from California brought in the puncture vines to this area. The yard
was closed in about 1974-75. The town had 2 railroads; the Electric
Railroad running between Ogden and Preston, and the Oregon Short Line
Railroad. Later, the railroads became the Utah & Idaho Central and the
Central Pacific. At one point, there were 7 sets of tracks and spurs running
through Honeyville. Presently, the Union Pacific is the sole railroad running
through Honeyville with one (1) side rail and one (1) spur for off/on loading
that is used primarily by Honeyville Grain.
On July 8, 1911 Honeyville was officially incorporated and organized as a
town. Israel Hunsaker was the first Mayor. By 1912, the Honeyville water
system was completed, with a mountain spring feeding a reservoir from
which water is piped into the community. In 1915, Utah Power and Light
installed the first lights and furnished electricity by grant and franchise.
Crystal Hot Springs, originally named Madsen Hot Springs, was used by the
Native Americans as a campsite during the winter. Its location along the
Northern part of the Wasatch Mountain range provided a natural windbreak
from the bitter winter winds. The hot springs also provided a much needed
heating source. It is rumored that an Indian burial ground is located on the
premises. As the Transcontinental Railroad was being built, the Chinese
railroad workers learned of the hot springs, made tubs out of cedar wood and
allowed the refreshing waters to flow into them. This provided a relaxing
and muscle-soothing mineral bath. Soon the area around the hot springs
became occupied with more and more settlers. With their coming, the hot
springs grew in popularity. Around this period of growth is when the town
of Honeyville was established. Crystal Hot Springs became a business
enterprise in 1901. Because of its exceptional crystal clear waters, it is not
surprising it was given this name. Crystal Hot Springs' uniqueness derives
from the fact that it has a hot springs and a cold springs which come together
within 50 feet of each other. Thus, by mixing, temperatures and optimal
relaxing conditions in each of its pools. Crystal Hot Springs, north of
Honeyville City center, has been a favorite spot for campers and swimmers
for many years. Many travel long distances to soak in the mineral pools that
are fed by the natural hot and cold springs. William Ellis developed the area
into a swimming resort in 1916. Since that time many changes and
improvements have taken place. A building was built over one pool with a
dance hall and baseball field added later. They have added 2 water slides
and a lap pool. They have removed the building over the one pool and the
dance hall is no longer functioning. This makes Crystal Hot Springs Resort
ever changing.
By 1930 Honeyville’s population was between 400 and 500 people. In the
latter 1930’s new buildings, a few stores and a service station adjoined the
new Highway 38. By 1940 the population neared 600. Train passenger
service to Honeyville ended and buses took their place. Some of the streets
and roads of Honeyville are different now than they were back in the early
1900’s. One of the main west roads went from 2800 W down to the Salt
Creek at about 7280 N. On 2800 West, there was also a Del Monte Canning
Factory that sat at about 7375 N. Bruce Grant and D.W. Hunsaker used to
raise and race horses here in Honeyville. In 1951 the fourth and present
LDS church building was dedicated to serve Honeyville’s population of 600
to 700 people. Important farm crops then included sugar beets, potatoes and
peas. Additionally, peaches, apples, watermelon, cantaloupe, and celery
became major crops. Milling, dairy farming, and honey production were
minor activities but added to Honeyville’s vitality. Horace Aoki grew
tobacco and many of the citizens of Honeyville at the time thought that it
was an illegal crop.
In the early 1960’s construction was completed on the section of the
combined I-84 and I-15 interstates through Honeyville. I-84 currently
connects the Wasatch Front with Portland, Oregon and Boise, Idaho. I-15
runs primarily north and south from Los Angeles through Las Vegas, Salt
Lake City and Pocatello, Idaho to the Canadian border north of Great Falls,
Montana. Completion of the interstate has removed some of the through
traffic and potential business from Highway 38 Honeyville’s main street.
Before State Highway 38 was constructed, 2800 W to 2750 W was the main
street in Honeyville. State Route 38 is a state highway in Box Elder County
in the State of Utah. It runs north from Brigham City to Collinston (northeast
of Tremonton). The highway was originally State Route 69, but was
renumbered in 1993 due to sign theft caused by the sexual connotation of the
number. New growth in southeast Box Elder County has resulted in an
overall projected traffic increase for State Highway 38 running parallel to
the Wellsville mountains through Honeyville. A well was drilled on the hill
just east of the reservoirs in the early 1960’s to supplement water from the
springs south and east of Honeyville.
Population growth leveled off in the Honeyville area through the early
1970’s as Box Elder County experienced a trend of young people migrating
to other areas and a decline in family size. Honeyville has remained
primarily agricultural in nature. And when the 1980 Census figures were
compiled, Honeyville’s head count was 853. The Mayor at the time, Steven
B. Johnson, filed a request with the Utah State Governor’s Office requesting
that Honeyville become a third class city. On August 22, 1983, Governor
Scott M. Matheson signed a proclamation declaring Honeyville Town to be
constituted as a city of the third class.
Very little history is recorded about the early beginnings of the Honeyville
Fire Department, but it is known that an old 3/4 ton 4X4 FEPP power wagon
was used to fight fires in the city and county. Citizens of the town manned
the truck. At the time the city had no building to house the equipment,
therefore the truck was stored at the home of the current city employee,
Rulan Bowman. Shortly before being officially organized, the County
furnished a 6X6 1,200 gallon Federal Excess Personal Property Tank Truck;
it was a 1962 red tender. The new truck was housed in the old Stubble Duck
Café, located at the corner of 7100 N and Highway 38, and was rented by
the city from 1972 to 1982.
The Honeyville Volunteer Fire Department was officially organized on
September 13, 1972. The Town Council consisted of Byron Hunsaker as
Mayor with Alton Hunsaker, Ursel Hunsaker, Boyd Gardner, and Bryan
Sparks as councilmen. The City council approved a 12 member fire
department. Alton Hunsaker was responsible for the Fire Department
activities. He appointed Dwight Nicholas as Fire Chief and Dennis Harper
as Assistant Chief. Paul Orme was appointed as Secretary, but he dropped
from active service. Dennis Harper then volunteered to act as secretary and
Wayne Aoki became Assistant Chief. The original membership consisted of
the following: Paul Hunsaker, Robert Mozingo, Abe Garcia, Ted Chlarson,
Douglas Tolman, Steve Johnson, Les Hunsaker, and Roger Bowman. Later,
the Honeyville Fire Department rented a building on Hwy 38 from Warner
and Sandy Stoddard until the new fire station was completed in 1982.
In 1981 the city held a general bond election of $85,000 to build a new fire
station and city hall; this was voted on by the citizens of Honeyville, it
passed and the construction of the new building began in early 1982 on a lot
owned by the city, at its current location of 2635 W 6980 N. Contractors
built the outside of the structure, and the members and citizens of the town
donated time and materials to complete the inside of the building. It was
completed later that year.
One of the first fire engines purchased by the town of Honeyville was a 1954
Ford La France, purchased in the late 70’s. In 1985 the city began the
process of purchasing a replacement engine. A 1970 La France engine was
acquired in 1986. This engine is still owned, operated, and maintained by
the Honeyville Station. However, it was retired to a parade truck when it
was replaced by a 1979 Ford F900 pump and roll/structure engine purchased
from Monroe City.
Throughout the years the firemen have used their own funds and town
budgeted money to equip the department with an array of equipment ranging
from bunker gear, boots, smoke fans, generators, extrication equipment,
radio equipment, training for both fire and medical, heat sensor gun, self
contained breathing apparatus, an SCBA filling station, AED, CO2 sniffer,
portable generator, scene lights, just to name a few.
As of 2010 the fire department currently has 20 full time members and 4
reserve members. The department houses both city and county owned
vehicles. Currently the fire station houses a 2005 Kenworth structure engine,
1979 F900 Ford pump and roll fire engine, 1970 La France structure engine,
1985 Ford Squad (a retired Brigham City ambulance), 1992 Ford F350 brush
truck, 2002 Ford F450 brush truck, 1980s C30 Chevy brush truck, Ford
F450 flat bed truck with about a 45 foot Hazmat Wells Cargo trailer with
command center, 89 International 4,500 gallon water tender, 6X6 military
water tender, 5,000 gallon water tender, about a 1985 Ford F 350 support
truck, also a mass casualty trailer.
By 1981 Box Elder County was in the process of establishing fire districts.
This did not become a reality until the mayor’s of Deweyville, Honeyville,
Bear River City and Elwood Town formed a Fire Special Service District in
2008. With the new Fire Special Service District now in place, the fire
department and surrounding communities are looking forward to updated
stations, equipment, and training.
In October 1990 the city of Honeyville discontinued its police force due to
lack of funds. At this time, the city then contracted with Box Elder County
Sheriffs Office for police services. Prior to this, Honeyville had a Justice of
the Peace, Max Richins, who conducted court. Every Wednesday from 1974
to 1982, court was held at the same building that housed the fire department.
This building also served as a meeting place for Town Council. Judge
Richins literally conducted court from the bumper of a fire truck. Prior to
the city leasing the old Stubble Duck Inn, previously owned by Jack Harper,
town council meetings were held at the home of whoever was the current
town clerk. With the building of the new town hall/fire station the current
city clerk no longer had to host meetings at their home. All city business was
then conducted from the new building.
The population continued to grow, creating a need to improve the water
system. Revenue bonds were obtained to make these improvements. Water
meters were installed on individual water connections, a new 250,000 gallon
cement water reservoir was built and new water lines installed. The
population of Honeyville was established at 1085 by the 1990 Census. In
1994 there was a land swap with property owners and the Division of
Wildlife Resources for property along the foothills of Honeyville. The
residents could now have access to the mountain range in back of their town.
In 1995 there was property donated by Harold Burt to enlarge the town
cemetery to the south side. In 1996 another Water Revenue Bond was
obtained by the Honeyville City Council from the Utah State Water
Resource Board. The purpose of this revenue bond was to drill the new
water well, build a pump house, and a 250,000 gallon cement water reservoir
on property owned by Mary Elizabeth Ellis Anderson. The revenue from
this bond also paid for a ten inch water line to connect this new water facility
to the existing water system at 8800 North Highway 38. This project was
completed and put into production in the latter part of summer 1998.
The population of Honeyville City in the year 2000 was 1214. Even with
the continued growth and projected growth of Honeyville City, The Box
Elder County School Board, after conducting an Effective and Efficiency
Study, ordered the Honeyville School to close its doors for the last time at
the end of the school year in June of 2000. The beginning of the following
school year, August 2000, the elementary school children began being
bussed to Bear River’s Century Elementary School for their education.
In the new millennium, Honeyville saw a growth in the housing market. In
the next ten years there were 95 building permits issued. With new
subdivisions there was a need for another park. This was completed in 2002
on the east side of the Honeyville Cemetery. There is lawn, a few trees and
a walking path. In the year 2010 several large trees were planted around the
perimeter. In 2009 there was a new cook shack added to the west park, and
the old cook shack/restroom building was turned into handicap accessible
restrooms. With much disagreement from the citizens of Box Elder County,
Rocky Mountain Power pursued the construction of large power lines along
the Wasatch Front. This was finished in the year 2010. It follows the
freeway and then east towards Call’s Fort Subdivision. Honeyville City
purchased the land adjoining the current City Hall/Fire Station. The William
E. Hunsaker home and property on the corner of Highway 38 and 6900
North were purchased and then subdivided into several parcels to be sold
separately. The 1.464 acre parcel of ground south of and adjoining the
current City Hall and station is being retained by Honeyville City for a
future City Hall/Community Center. The city also made a land trade with
Elaine Tolman on the East end of town across from the new rodeo arena to
give the city a ½ acre buildable lot and allow Elaine Tolman to eventually
have a continuous road through the Savanna Heights Subdivision from 7200
N to 6900 N.
Over the years with all the growth and changes in our small town it has still
been a great community to live in.
SECTION 2.0
INTRODUCTION
2.1 The Planning Process
This plan or process is based on the following concepts:
1. The plan should be in the form of policy statements rather than the
more traditional map series. Policy statements which may apply to
many situations can be more flexible than a land use map relating to
site-specific situations.
2. Citizen participation representing a wide range of interests should be
the primary means employed in the planning process. Utah State law
provides for the specific process for the actual adoption.
3. The development of alternative plans is the best method of evaluating
and comparing possible options and varying alternatives. Alternative
plans as an intermediate step toward the preparation of a final plan
document can allow for different perspectives to be expressed and
understood by other interest groups. The final plan should be a result
of consensus building and some conflict resolution between interest
groups.
4. City departments should be represented in the plan development
process. The departments should not only provide technical
assistance, but should also express opinions to help shape the plan.
There should be a dialogue between the interest group representatives
and departmental representatives during the preparation of the plan.
The resulting ownership and identification with the plan will assure
greater understanding and more successful implementation of the
policies by the city departments.
5. The Planning Commission should assume the several (various) roles
which pertain to local planning. They also coordinate and facilitate
the planning process, research and collect the necessary data and
information needed by the decision makers for the city in its
preparation of a final plan.
HONEYVILLE CITY PLAN ADOPTION PROCESS
The steps to adopting a plan generally follow this format:
1.
2.
3.
4.
A report is prepared by the Planning Commission or City Council;
A presentation is given to the Honeyville City Planning Commission;
A public hearing is conducted by the Planning Commission;
The plan as stated (or revised) is adopted by the Planning
Commission;
5. A joint meeting is held with the Planning Commission and City
Council to explain the reasons for the Planning Commission’s
recommendations;
6. The City Council holds a public hearing; and
7. The City Council makes its changes to the plan and if they are
satisfied, they adopt the plan by resolution.
At any time the Planning Commission and/or City Council may add steps to
the above process if they desire more detailed information before adopting a
plan.
Honeyville City Process for Plan Amendments:
The City Council and/or Planning Commission may, from time to time, be
presented with proposed amendments to the Honeyville City General Plan.
There are typically four ways a plan amendment might be requested:
A.
B.
C.
D.
The City Council proposes an amendment to be considered;
The Planning Commission proposes an amendment to be considered;
The City Personnel propose a recommended amendment; or
A proposal comes to the City from an individual and the applicant
may petition for a change.
When the Planning Commission is considering a plan amendment, they may
wish to take the following steps in order to determine whether the proposal
does or does not meet the intent of the plan. In trying to determine this, the
Planning Commission should consider the following:
1. Has there been a substantial change in the location or the subject
matter since that section of the plan was originally adopted?
2. Does the proposed amendment fundamentally change the intent of
the plan, e.g., does the change affect a minor part or the whole plan or
planning community?
3. Does the proposal change people’s perceptions of the plan? Since
one of the purposes of planning is to let everyone know what to
expect, does this proposal betray the trust established during the
adoption process?
4. Who is most affected by the amendment and how will they be
allowed to give input to changes which affect them?
2.2
Policy Statements
The most significant feature of the Honeyville City General Plan is its
statement format. The policy statement format reflects a movement away
from traditional mapped versions of general plans. General plans which
emphasize only the physical and map able elements of a city tend to be rigid
documents which are not very responsive to the dynamics of growth and
development. On the other hand, policy driven general plans attempt to
translate goals and objectives into specific policies that reflect the collective
thinking of the community on a wide range of issues and are, thus, much
more flexible and responsive.
This plan format combines process with substance. The policy statements
are continuous and responsive and, therefore, have a closer relationship to
the political process. While both mapped and text forms of general plans are
intended to stipulate community planning policies, policy statements in text
form are inherently more flexible in terms of their interpretation and
amendment. Mapped city-wide land use plans prepared by a municipality
assume a development scenario many years into the future that, in fact, may
not occur. General planning should strike a balance between long range
desirability, predictability and flexibility. The flexibility provided by policy
driven general plans allows for alternative future land uses and assures
compatibility between those uses. This approach recognizes the practicality
of specifying exact land uses at the time of development rather than a
number of years before development.
In order to assure consistency and a smooth transition between policy
statements and actual development, mapped land uses are appropriate later
in the process. The traditional maps are appropriate in preparing specific
master plans which designate generalized land uses based on the city’s
policies. Certain city-wide maps are appropriate as a part of a general policy
plan. Generalized plans of major streets, parks and other public facilities
should be included in the general plan because these facilities require longrange planning and are less subject to the changing economic conditions of
private development. These city-wide public plans should also be consistent
with the general plan policies.
What is Policy?
Policies can be defined in several ways. One of the more common
approaches is to describe policies as guidelines for future decision making
based on a common vision or values, i.e., policies establish parameters or
limits to certain actions addressed.
Another meaning of a policy is, generally, a commitment for action. The
general plan has a housing policy, a transportation policy, an economic
development policy, etc. The value of such policies is not only to guide
decision making, but also to help define the issues and indicate the course of
action which will be taken by the city, and make commitments to carry them
through.
Policies are more process oriented than outcome oriented. An effective
policy will define the goal to be accomplished, who and what should be
involved in that program, and by what criteria the success will be judged.
The policies are linked together to form the City’s General Plan or other
plans the city may consider.
The success of making a policy is determined by how they are developed in
the context of an overall vision or plan. Vision statements are developed for
this purpose and reflect the city’s commitment for action. Once the decision
and policies are in place, they may drive budget decisions, ordinances,
resolutions and other city initiatives. In this way Honeyville City is assured
that developers, planners and residents understand and, more importantly,
can implement the overall city vision.
Difference between Policies, Procedures and Rules:
Policies are defined as the general guides.
Procedures are the steps to accomplish the policies, strategies and objectives.
Rules are the specific requirements which govern employee behavior.
The policies included in the general plan are intended to be connective links
between general goal statements and specific actions. Policies may establish
both the ends and the means and may range from general objectives to
specific recommendations. For example, the types of statements in the
general plan include direction setting policies, priority setting policies,
conditions of approval, policies establishing standards and recommendations
for study or action. In any case, the usefulness of policies as guides to
decision making depends upon reaching the correct level of specificity for a
particular issue. That is, policy statements should serve to determine a
particular course of action, or direction, as opposed to all other possible
courses of action or directions.
The structure of policy statements in the general plan has been modified, in
most cases, from a “shall/should” format and most now can be read as
directives. It is therefore important to bear in mind that the general plan is a
guide to decision making and that this format implies that the policies
represent a normal or preferred course of action.
2.3
Organization of the Plan
The general plan is organized into several sections. The introduction
provides the history of the process by which the plan was developed and a
summary of its form, content and use. The general plan goals and policy
statements are organized into six elements, or subject area. Each element
contains one or more goal statements. Goals establish the general direction
for the policies which contains one or more goal statements. Goals establish
the general direction for the policies which follow and the recommendations
which are included in the appendix. Definitions are provided in many cases
to clarify certain words of concepts in order to give a better understanding of
the policies which follow. Policies as described above are the City’s
guidelines to be followed in making daily decisions.
The appendix to the general plan includes other technical or specific studies.
For more information on the adoption of and amendments to the General
Plan, please refer to the Honeyville City Ordinance on the General Plan 102-2.
2.4
Roles of Planning Decision Makers
Duties of the City Council
Administration of City (Mayor is CEO)
Sets Budget
Establishes policy and law
Establishes Fee Schedule
Approves, Approves with Conditions or Denies CUPs
Approves Zoning Ordinances, Zoning Maps and Zoning changes
Approves, Approves with Conditions or Denies Subdivision Applications
Approves and Adopts Master Plans and General Plan
Duties of the Planning Commission
Approves site plans
Prepares and Recommends a Master Plan and General Plan
Advisory Board to the Mayor and Council
Hears zoning petitions and subdivision requests
Makes recommendations to the Mayor and Council
Performs other duties as assigned by ordinance (i.e. conditional use permits,
etc.)
Duties of the Board of Appeals
Hears and Decides Appeals from Zoning Decisions
Hears and Decides Appeals from City Council Decisions regarding CUPs
Hears and Decides Variances
Determines the Existence, Expansion, or Modification of Nonconforming
Uses
2.4.1 Planning Commission Responsibilities
The Utah State Municipal Planning and Zoning Act allows cities to set up
Planning Commissions to adopt a Master or General Plan for the physical
development of the city and to request special studies, programs, or take
field trips to determine policies and recommendations. The Honeyville
Planning Commission presently consists of seven members.
The Honeyville Planning Commission is continuously developing a general
plan to guide the city’s decisions regarding land use and development. The
elements of the plan should include current land use, annexation, economic
development, community facilities and transportation. The Planning
Commission also reviews all residential, commercial and manufacturing
developments, rezoning and annexations. All actions by the Planning
Commission are recommendations to the Mayor and City Council.
The Planning Commission develops reports and recommendations
concerning the City’s general plan, administers and enforces the Zoning
Ordinance, and assists the Mayor, City Council and Board of Adjustments
by providing project reviews and other information as directed.
2.4.2 Board of Appeals
The Board of Appeals is a quasi-judicial body which hears appeals of zoning
matters. They consider appeals only on the interpretation of the Zoning
Ordinance, conditional uses (not land uses in general) and variances on
zoning requirements (e.g., setbacks). Utah State law indicates the grounds
upon which a variance can be granted and a hardship must be proven.
Essentially, the Board of Appeals is a safety valve assuring that owners of
particularly difficult pieces to develop can be heard.
SECTION 3.0
MAJOR THEMES OF THE PLAN
3.1 Overall Community Benefit
The Honeyville General Plan is designed to provide an overall benefit to the
entire community. The principle applies to groups of property owners,
neighborhood residents, the business community, or any other stakeholder
identified by the City. Application of the principle of overall community
benefit does not infringe upon an individual’s rights under law. Overall
community benefit can also be seen in the mutually supportive relationships
of the plan’s various elements. For example, an attractive and balanced park
and recreation system not only offers leisure activities and amenities, but can
also prove to be an economic development tool. A healthy and attractive
central business district produces the benefits that are not limited to the
owners of property but extend to the entire city as a reflection of the image
presented by the central focus for government, business, and cultural activity
in the Honeyville City area.
Thus, the plan’s elements function individually as they apply to specific
issues of subjects. More importantly, their collective and interactive use is
an expression of aspiration and vision for the entire community and all of its
citizens.
3.2 Compatibility
The plan’s emphasis on compatibility between the uses of land represents a
concern for the collective interests and rights of individuals to live, work and
play in a small town environment where the physical components are in
harmony with each other. One of the traditional purposes of city planning
and zoning is to assure and protect compatibility between uses. The policies
outlined in the land use element, the economic development element and the
transportation element are good examples of the theme of compatibility
between land uses, neighborhoods and traffic.
3.3 Safety
The protection of the public health, safety and welfare is often cited as the
purpose and intent for planning and a number of local codes and ordinances.
Public safety is similarly included as a basic tenet of the general plan.
Safety is a product of compatibility and its related policies. In the
transportation element, the overall principle is that safety is more important
than convenience or reduction in travel times. In addition, the plan’s
policies regarding residential housing, neighborhoods and natural hazard
areas are only a few examples of the theme of safety in the general plan.
3.4 Neighborhood Preservation
Neighborhood preservation and protection is another theme expressed
throughout the general plan. The importance of designing neighborhoods
which facilitate and create a tradition of neighborhood identity is partially
reflected in the concepts of the neighborhood portion of the plan’s
residential development section. Protection of the city and citizens is one of
the purposes for the policy on zone changes and preservation of established
neighborhoods is also an important consideration. Revitalization is the drive
of other policies. The policy for separating neighborhoods from non-local
street traffic is also related to the themes of neighborhood protection and
safety.
3.5 Utilization, Preservation and Maintenance
The broad theme of utilization, preservation and maintenance of the city’s
infrastructure and significant features is closely related to safety and
neighborhood preservation. A large portion of the residential development
section of the plan is based upon the concept of utilizing the existing land
and infrastructure available in the city before expanding the facilities and
services of the city. A number of policies place a priority on the
maintenance of the existing infrastructure in the areas of neighborhoods,
parks and capital improvements. A theme for Economic
Development/Central Business District is directed at utilizing, preserving
and expanding the central areas as a major resource of the city. The
preservation of the city’s significant natural, historic and architectural
features is another variation of the plan’s recognition and emphasis on
existing features and assets. Environmental maintenance is also expressed in
the policies throughout the plan.
3.6 Planning
The theme of planning is naturally predominant in the general plan. Land
use planning is emphasized as a preferred alternative to simply reacting to
land use requests. This pro-active concept is the basis for the
recommendation to identify, in advance, the probable land use areas. The
plan recommends the specific plans be prepared for transportation, sanitary
sewer, storm sewer and economic development. The need for aggressive
and long range water resource and drainage planning should be expressed in
other documents, such as the various capital facilities plans. The plan also
recognizes a strong relationship between planning and engineering regarding
several areas of capital improvement and the policies of the general plan.
The importance of long range and comprehensive planning is paramount to
the goals of enhancing the city’s unique physical character. Concern with
the natural environment is reflected in policies which address significant
environmental features and offer guidance for handling development in
sensitive areas, as well as preserving natural areas as part of the city’s fabric
as it grows.
SECTION 4.0
SUMMARY OF THE ELEMENTS OF THE PLAN
4.1 Land Use
The Land Use policies in the land use element are intended to guide the
basic land use patterns of the city. The policies governing the relationships
between land uses are included in the Land Development Regulations
portion of the plan. Compatibility and safety is a major theme of the general
plan, and the land use balance goal offers a multifaceted approach to
achieving compatibility and safety through land use planning. Land use
compatibility and convenience are represented in policies for the location of
commercial uses. Planning for commercial uses should be given equal
consideration with planning for residential uses. Commercial uses should
not simply be located on land unsuitable for housing, but should be planned
to accommodate employers, employees and customers without sacrificing
use-to-use compatibility.
4.2 Transportation
There is a high level of community interest and identification with traffic
problems due to the widespread use of the automobile as a primary means of
transportation. The plan assumes that the private automobile will continue
as the primary means of transportation resulting in higher traffic volumes
and more traffic problems as the city grows. This does not mean alternative
means of transportation should not be explored. The planning and
development of a safe and efficient transportation system will become even
more essential in the future. Comprehensive and long range transportation
planning should provide for the proper future location and function of new
major streets as well as greater predictability in the timing and financing of
needed elements of the transportation system, including alternative means of
transportation such as public transit and bikeways. Many policies are also
intended to maintain and improve traffic safety and convenience. In cases
where safety and convenience are conflicting objectives, the first priority
should always be safety.
4.3 Parks and Recreation
The purpose of the parks policies is to provide a wide range of recreational
opportunities for all citizens and visitors. The plan seeks a balance between
acquisition, maintenance and development of parks, special facilities,
recreational programs, trail systems and open space areas. Policies are
provided to establish funding priorities as well as other funding sources
including the private sector and other public agencies. In order to apply park
priorities within the context of a balanced system, the plan recommends long
range park planning and capital improvements programming as well as
evaluation of new methods for funding park and recreation needs in the
community.
4.4 Economic Development/Central Business District
The goal of a diversified economic base is founded on the desire to maintain
and improve the community’s standard of living. A diversified local
economic base is intended to provide greater stability in the area’s income
and employment, thus, expanding the local tax base. The General Plan
policies for economic development reflect the desired limited role of the city
in determining the composition of the economic base as a matter of public
policy. The major role of the city is in providing infrastructure and services
in a fiscally prudent manner which creates the proper environment for
economic development to occur.
4.5 Capital Improvements (future)
The purpose of the capital improvements element is to establish the close
relationship between Capital Improvement Programming (CIP) and the
general plan. The foremost policy in capital improvements is to provide for
the sufficient and continuous funding of projects that, in conjunction with
the city’s budget, can establish priorities in order to correct the growing
deficiency in capital improvements. The recommendation for a city-wide
five year CIP is the umbrella recommendation for five year CIP’s in parks,
transportation and public works projects. A five year Capital Improvements
Plan (or CIP) is a needed planning tool to provide guidance and some
predictability for future years budgeting.
4.6 Adoption, Revision and Implementation
The general plan shall be adopted and revised by resolution. It is important
that the plan be adopted as a resolution in order to establish it official
position as the policy making document for the city. The adoption of the
plan is not as important, however, as the continuous evaluation, revision and
usage of the plan. The general plan should not be considered a static
document. Rather, the plan should be viewed as a process by which its
policies are always evaluated for possible revisions, additions and/or
deletions. This plan is only a point of beginning for the long range planning
of the city. Not every conceivable policy area has been addressed in this
plan and new policies must be added to keep it relevant and effective in
dealing with the changing problems, opportunities and issues which are
certain to face the city in the years to come. In order to maintain the plan’s
flexibility, relevancy and effectiveness, it is recommended that a General
Plan Work Group be established periodically to review existing and new
policies and make recommendations to the Planning Commission and City
Council.
SECTION 5.0
LAND USE
5.1
Land Use Goal:
The land use element of the Honeyville City General Plan should encourage
a land use balance between agriculture, residential, commercial, and
industrial growth in such a way as to generate revenues which will cover the
costs of City services, and provide a mix of employment and housing
opportunities that meets the current and future needs of Honeyville City.
5.2
Existing Conditions:
As of 2010, the City of Honeyville currently covers 7,453 acres of land.
Here is a break down from the USGS (United States Geological Survey):
Open water – 21.26
Developed, open space – 787.29
Developed, low/medium intensity – 61.92
Evergreen forest – 24.27
Shrub/scrub – 1,116.67
Herbaceous – 334.47
Hay/pasture – 1,773.20
Cultivated crops – 2,629.65
Woody wetlands – 215.48
Emergent herbaceous wetlands – 529.02
For a total of – 7,453 acres
See http://landcover.usgs.gov/classes.php for definitions on classes.
In order to put the quantity of possible future growth of the City into
perspective, the General Plan includes an assumed City population of
approximately 1,693 by the year 2020. The policies of the Plan are intended
to assure that the City’s quality of life will not be adversely affected by the
assumed growth.
There has been some growth in the last decade and there is expected
pressure for further annexation because of the urban services which the City
provides. Therefore, a major emphasis of the policies in the land use
element is to plan and guide the type of growth and development in areas
subject to future annexation or development within the City. One method of
planning and guiding growth on the urban fringe is through annexation to
the City. The plan’s annexation guidelines are intended to control the timing
and suitability of development and the provision of City services in order to
assure that annexations are a logical and efficient extension of the City’s
boundary. In recognition that not all urban development will occur in the
City, policies also provide for intergovernmental agreements to ensure that
development will be compatible with City standards and policies.
5.3
Analysis of Existing Uses:
Honeyville City is comprised of four basic land use types; 1) Agriculture, 2)
Residential, 3) Commercial, and 4) Industrial. Table 5.3
TABLE 5.3:
TYPE OF USE
Agriculture
Residential
Commercial/Industrial
Open/Other Space
5.4
ACREAGE
3,859.2
478.8
82.0
3,033.0
PERCENTAGE
51.7
6.4
1.1
40.8
Build-out Capacity
Of the over 6,000 acres in the City that are vacant, most remain undeveloped
and are zoned for agricultural uses. If re-zone and built out to capacity,
areas zoned single family would accommodate an additional 10,000
dwelling units. Based upon average family size for single family units of 3.6
and an average of three residents for multi-family units, vacant land zoned
for residential purposes could accommodate and additional 30,000 to 36,000
residents. That build-out would multiply the City’s present population over
twenty times.
5.5
Commercial/Manufacturing Development:
The opportunity for residents to work close to their homes should be an
important objective of the General Plan and the Land Use element. In
creating a “jobs to housing” balance, residents of the community would have
a shorter commute time and distance, while having the option to use
alternative modes of transportation. An economic base within the
community, located in local employment centers, would result in a growing
sense of community and greater quality of life.
The City should encourage small businesses within the community,
including home-based businesses as appropriate.
5.5.1 Objectives and Policies for Commercial Development:
The following objectives and policies reflect the direction that will be taken
by Honeyville City government in shaping commercial growth and
development in the future. These are designed in consideration of the
overall land use goal (Sec 5.1) outlined in this Plan element and throughout
the General Plan.
Objective CD 1: Expand Quality employment opportunities and Capital
Investment.
Policy CD1.1
Direct resources to promote and attract business.
Policy CD1.2
Encourage the development of infrastructure which is
conducive to uses such as, industrial parks, commercial centers
and professional office parks in appropriate locations.
Policy CD1.3
Encourage employment opportunities proximate to housing.
TABLE X GLOBAL
Objective CD 2: Foster Commercial revitalization and development.
Policy CD2.1
Encourage commercial development to locate along 6900 North
whenever possible.
Policy CD2.2
Encourage development within the City center – Rural
Development Agreement (RDA).
Policy CD2.3
Encourage industry development in industrial parks.
TABLE X
5.5.2 Recommendations for the Future:
1. Create an Economic Development Master Plan.
2. Work with Box Elder Economic Development to develop a marketing
strategy for commercial development.
3. Create a City Beautification Plan to enhance the street scape within
the Central Business District.
4. Develop a Street and Building Lighting Policy or Plan
5.6
Residential Development:
The density and location of residential development heavily influence the
cost of housing, the type and level of services required, and the impacts on
the natural environment. Residential development within the city should
promote a variety of residential densities to address these considerations
while promoting a diversity of housing choices for residents within the
community. A range of housing densities will be allowed within the City,
promoting various opportunities for social and economic success. Higher
density residential development should be located near transportation routes,
commercial centers, and public facilities. The remaining residential
development will be encouraged to be clustered, located near natural
features, or community amenities. Residential development should have
direct access to open space whenever possible and should be within a short
walk or bike ride to schools, commercial centers, and activity centers to
encourage alternative modes of transportation, such as walking or bicycling.
5.6.1 Residential Development Objectives and Policies:
The residential development objectives and policies are provided to give
direction to all stakeholders involved in the residential development process.
Objective RD 2: Encourage innovative and varied approaches to
development.
Policy RD 2.1
Encourage high quality residential, commercial, and
industrial land developments.
Policy RD 2.2
Develop flexible standards to accommodate innovative
and varied approaches to residential development.
Policy RD 2.3
Require master plans for residential developments with
more than one dwelling unit.
Policy RD 2.4
Policy RD 2.5
Review existing zoning and subdivision ordinances for
consistency.
Provide adequate separation between intensive urban and
rural land uses.
TABLE X
Objective RD 3: Promote master planned communities that provide a
mix of housing types and land uses.
Policy RD 3.1
Encourage the creation of master planned communities
that provide a diversity of land uses.
Policy RD 3.2
Encourage the use of non-traditional zoning and flexible
development standards in new developments.
Policy RD 3.3
Encourage residential development that provides
opportunities for a variety of income levels, including
affordable housing.
Policy RD 3.4
Encourage and accommodate mixed use development.
Policy RD 3.5
Encourage a mixture of housing types and intensities
within planned developments.
Policy RD 3.6
Encourage planned communities that incorporate quality
and clustered developments.
Policy RD 3.7
Require new development to preserve significant natural
resources, and landscapes.
TABLE X
5.6.2 Recommendations for the Future:
A.
B.
C.
D.
Stay current on existing zoning ordinance.
Stay current on existing subdivision ordinance and standards.
Review the Planned Zone (P-zone) ordinance.
Consider hiring staff to work on Economic Development and
current planning issues.
5.6.3 Honeyville City P-Zone Guidelines:
The purpose of the Planning Commission’s Guidelines regarding Planned
Zone (P-Zone) is to provide consistency and guidance for site plan review
and subdivision improvements within a P-zone development. In providing
attractive developments within the City, the Planning Commission and City
Council will use the following guidelines with respect to the development of
P-zones.
A P-zone is a mixed use development zone. It encompasses and encourages
residential, agricultural and commercial buildings within the same
development or parcel of land. This type of zoning allows the City Council,
with the aid of the Planning Commission, to have a developer design a
subdivision that is suitable for Honeyville, while also being more
diversified.
General:
1. All streets within the development shall be constructed to City
standards, and include sidewalks and curb and gutters.
2. Common areas should be designed to provide activity areas for
use by all the residents within the development such as
playgrounds, recreational courts, picnic areas and pavilions,
gazebos and water features. The amenities should be centrally
located providing equal access to residents within the P-zone.
3. Open space and/or common areas should be planned and
developed, not just left over space between buildings.
4. The development should have a defined design theme that is
highly visible in various locations within the development
which may include: building design, signage, lighting, and
other special features.
5. The P-zone is to be designed as a community within a
community.
5.6.4 Honeyville City Zoning and Land Use Guidelines:
Purpose and intent:
The Planning Commission’s zoning and land use guidelines consist of
statements which define how zoning and land use decisions should be made.
These guidelines represent the commitment the Planning Commission makes
to the community. Since these are general statements, there sill be occasions
when various policies conflict. In such cases, the Commission will need to
determine which one takes precedence over the others given the specific
needs of the pending issue.
General:
1. A definite boundary should be established between types of uses to
protect the integrity of each use.
2. Zoning should reflect the existing use of the property to the largest
extent possible, unless the area is in transition.
3. Where possible, properties which face each other across a local street
should be the same or similar zones. Collector and arterial roads may
be sufficient buffers to warrant different zones.
4. Zoning boundaries should not cut across individual lots or
developments (i.e., placing the lot in two separate zones). Illogical
boundaries should be redrawn to follow along property or established
geographical lines.
5. The primary frontage and land uses should be considerations when
establishing zoning boundaries on corner lots.
6. To draw boundary on types of uses (e.g., commercial), the Planning
Commission may chose to use multiple family or professional office
zoning as a buffer to the commercial, transitioning the neighborhood
from commercial to apartments to single family developments.
7. Any non-residential zone abutting residential zones should be a
Planned Zone (P-zone) to help minimize the impacts on residential
zones.
Residential:
8. Avoid isolating neighborhoods.
9. Discourage small lot developments of multiple density uses.
10.Multiple density developments should be phased, i.e., rezoned only
the property associated with current phases of development.
Commercial:
11.Commercial zones should be located on collector and arterial streets,
avoiding local streets serving residential zones. Access to commercial
and industrial zones should avoid using local streets within residential
zones.
12.Existing businesses on collector and arterial streets should be allowed
to expand while providing an adequate buffer with adjacent residential
zones.
13.Encourage commercial uses to be developed as centers rather than as
strip commercial. To be adopted by the Planning Commission and
revised periodically.
SECTION 6.0
Transportation
6.1
Transportation Goal:
The goal of the transportation element of the Honeyville City General Plan
is a declaration of anticipated needs and ideal results based on a combination
of community endeavors and professional opinion. The goals address
relevant transportation inputs into the growth and development process
within the City. The intent is that the transportation improvements and the
alternative mode development process will contribute to an improved quality
of life for the residents of Honeyville City.
The goal of the transportation element is to provide an efficient, cost
effective, well planned, accessible, environmentally sensitive, and safe, citywide system that deals with existing and future roadways, and promotes
other kinds of transportation needs to include, but not limited to, bikeways
and pedestrian travel.
6.2
Roads:
The road network is the nucleus of the transportation system in Honeyville
City. Automobiles, buses, trucks, farm equipment, bicycles and pedestrians
all strive for space on the network. Pedestrians, bicycles and farm
equipment also compete for time to cross the streets and roads. While
expansion of the network generally means accommodating additional traffic,
some reallocation of space and priorities is becoming necessary to encourage
alternative modes of transportation. This plan recommends that available
resources be used to fund projects and programs that sustain mobility,
access, safety, the environment, and economic development within and
around Honeyville City. Further, preservation, rehabilitation,
reconstruction, and improvement of existing roads are also recommended.
6.2.1 Functional Classification:
All roads in Honeyville City have current and future functional
classifications. These classifications typically include future traffic
volumes, land use compatibility, General Plan recommendations, and local
transportation needs.
Functional classification is a long range planning tool that helps link land
use with transportation. Functional classification further allows for the
preservation of right-of-way in the future as properties are developed.
6.2.2 Arterials:
Roads in the network are classified arterials, depending on the connections
and the character of the adjacent land use. The patterns of use vary along
the arterials, typically having four to six lanes and average volumes of
6,000-45,000 vehicles per day. In general, arterials are designed and
managed for through, or regional, travel.
The characteristics of the arterial network make those roads particularly
suited to regional commuting. Parking is often restricted on these routes and
would remain so for future planning considerations. Further, arterial roads
that act as regional connectors may be candidates for widening, possible
speed limit increases, or other capacity increases.
6.2.3 Collector Roads:
As with the arterial system, usage varies depending on the location of the
road and the nearby land uses. Collector roads are designed as two lane
roads with average traffic volumes of 500 – 18,000 vehicles per day. Traffic
movement along collector roads serves intra-community travel and routes of
higher classifications.
Since collector roads are less critical to regional commuting, they may be
suitable candidates for traffic-calming, parking, pedestrians, and bicycle
lanes. Speeds and road widths should be determined based on compatibility
with the terrain, particularly in hillside areas.
6.2.4 Local Roads:
Local roads (also known as residential roads) differ primarily by design
characteristics and land use. Both are designed to serve primarily local
traffic, have only two lanes, and have average traffic volumes of less than
1,000 vehicles per day.
6.3
Public Transit:
At the most comprehensive level, reduced auto usage may result in
improved air quality, agricultural and open space preservation through a
more compact urban form, and help build a sense of community. Further,
transit can be more effective when it is a viable alternative to congested
roadways, high parking costs, and limited parking availability. Transit
should not only serve the transit-dependant rider, but also the general public.
In addition, an important part of regional transit is the development of transit
stations that can become activity canters by:
A. Encouraging economic development by creating and attracting
businesses near transit stations.
B. Improving air quality by reducing the number and length of
automobile trips. If bicycling and walking are also encouraged, air
quality can be further improved.
C. Providing a choice of housing options by encouraging mixed-use
development of varying densities.
Growth is the by-product of an effective, healthy, and aggressive
economy. As Honeyville City grows, an efficient multi-modal system
will require development patterns that advance alternatives to automobile
travel for work and non-work trips.
6.3.1 Bus:
In order to expand the roadways available for bus transit, the City’s arterial
network would be suited for the highest degree of public transit use. One
option to enhance bus service is the development of a bus network that
places emphasis on community circulators to provide more cost-effective
bus service to areas of the City using smaller, neighborhood-friendly
vehicles. Other options would be to extend the hours of daily bus service,
add Sunday service, implement new routes and trips, use alternative fueled
vehicles, and expanded passenger bench and shelter programs.
6.4
Pedestrian:
Provisions for pedestrians are encouraged in this plan. With adequate
facilities and appropriate urban design, walking can be used as a mode of
travel for school, convenient shopping, recreation, social and even work
trips. Pedestrian facilities can be accommodated as enhancements with new
road construction or maintenance. However, urban design issues allowing
short walk trips must be addressed before significant walk trips will occur.
For example, subdivisions designed as “enclaves” and homogeneous land
uses are often not favorable to pedestrian activities.
6.5
Bicycles:
The plan identifies interconnected routes for bicycle travel within and
through the City. Included in this system are on-street bike lanes and signed
bicycle routes. Also included is an off-street multiple use path system that
generally follows existing canals in the urbanized area. The five major goals
for bicycle transportation are:
1. Provide for bicyclists in transportation programs and projects.
2. Improve safety by educating bicyclists and motorists to share the road.
3. Promote awareness of the benefits of bicycle transportation to
engineers and planning professionals engaged in the development of
transportation projects.
4. Support enforcement of applicable traffic laws to improve traffic
safety and enhance courtesy among roadway users. Promote strict
prosecution of traffic infractions to increase respect for riding
privileges.
5. Promote bicycling as a viable means of transportation and as a
healthful form of recreation.
6.6
Telecommuting:
With the arrival of new technology and socioeconomic changes,
telecommuting is becoming a viable option for many employers and
employees. Telecommuting allows employees to connect to a central office
with a personal computer and high speed internet connection, or fax
machine. Some workers may telecommute full time, while others only part
time. The transportation advantages of telecommuting are trip reduction,
reduced single occupancy vehicle usage, and reduced roadway congestion.
These types of programs also have the potential to contribute to improved air
quality.
6.7
Park-and-Ride Facilities:
Park-and-Ride facilities are an important component to the success if car
pool programs and increased bus-ridership. Honeyville City should explore
the development of regional park-and-ride facilities. The county supports
the development of car pool facilities that are part of the regional park-andride lot network. Continued growth will propel the need for more of these
facilities, especially where they can support the growing public
transportation network.
6.8
Railroad:
The Union Pacific tracks run north and south through Honeyville. A spur is
located near the city center which can be used to freight pickup and delivery,
and is currently used by Honeyville Grain.
6.9
Objectives and Policies for Transportation:
The following objectives and policies reflect the direction that will be taken
by Honeyville City government in working to meet the transportation needs
of the city into the future. These are designed in consideration of the overall
transportation goal (sec 6.1) outlined in this plan element and throughout the
General Plan.
Objective T1:
Reduce the proportion of trips made in single
occupancy vehicles.
Policy T1.1
Encourage transit oriented development.
Policy T1.2
Explore and encourage options to increase bikeways.
Policy T1.3
Explore and encourage options to increase pedestrian
facilities.
Policy T1.4
Explore and encourage telecommuting and
teleconferencing options.
Policy T1.5
Encourage the development of market incentives for
transit and vehicle reduction opportunities, and park-andride facilities.
Policy T1.6
Provide adequate separation between intensive urban and
rural land uses.
Objective T2:
Policy T2.1
Policy T2.2
Employ applicable technology to improve the use of
transportation facilities.
Encourage future roadway development to use
technological innovations to accommodate future
communication technology.
Encourage develop public/private partnerships to explore
technological advances.
Objective T3:
Policy T3.1
Policy T3.2
Policy T3.3
Policy T3.4
Policy T3.5
Policy T3.6
Objective T4:
Policy T4.1
Policy T4.2
Policy T4.3
Policy T4.4
Objective T5:
Policy T5.1
Policy T5.2
Policy T5.3
Optimize public investments.
Promote and encourage inter-jurisdictional partnerships
with Box Elder County.
Provide for incentives to promote developer
participation.
Explore the development of an impact fee for
transportation infrastructure.
Enter into partnering agreements to provide additional
resources to allow future increases in regional travel on
primary roads.
Look into Acquiring sufficient right-of-ways for future
transportation needs.
Provide adequate separation between intensive urban and
rural land uses.
Identify and accommodate transportation corridors.
Identify new transportation corridors.
Monitor the development and subdivision proposals
located along major transportation corridors.
Identify future activity centers.
Identify current and future recreation centers and
corridors.
Minimize transportation impacts within
neighborhoods and the central business district.
Wherever possible, residential lots should back onto
arterial and collector streets.
Use traffic-calming techniques to reduce speeds in
neighborhoods.
Use landscaping and street-scape within the central
business district to enhance and beautify the area.
6.10 Recommendations for the Future:
1. Conduct and impact fee study for transportation needs.
2. Develop a street-scape and traffic-calming Master Plan.
3. Clearly identify entryway into the City.
SECTION 7.0
PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES
In addition to transportation facilities, urban growth and development
significantly affects several major components of the City’s infrastructure
and services, including potable water supply and future sewer, storm water
drainage, parks and recreation, police, fire and emergency services, and
schools. Water is provided by the City of Honeyville all other services,
except schools, are provided by the City through the City’s General Fund.
Growth and development also affect the School District located fully within
the County. The School District is a separate local government entity that
operates independently of City government.
7.1
Public Services and Facilities Goal:
The public services and facility’s element of the Honeyville City General
Plan would provide, through conscientious planning, for future growth in
such a way as to be efficient and cost effective, use existing facilities
through up-grading, and to be able to provide City services through revenues
generated by future development.
7.2 Types of Public Services and Facilities:
The types of public facilities that are available in Honeyville City are as
follows: Culinary (potable) Water, Irrigation Water, Electricity, Gas,
Propane, Fire and Emergency Services, Police, Solid Waste Disposal,
Sewage Systems, Storm Water Systems, Parks and Recreation Facilities, and
Railroad.
7.2.1 Water:
Culinary water is supplied by Honeyville City Corporation from nine springs
and two wells feeding four reservoirs. Major water line and reservoir
improvements have been since 1980. In addition to lines and reservoirs,
bonding and implementation of a water enterprise fund have assisted in the
installation of fire hydrants and water meters. All culinary water pipes/lines
installed since 1980 are six, eight or ten inches in diameter. In 2010 it was
noted that the wells and pumps are in A-1 condition. Irrigation water is
supplied to share holders of the Bear River Canal Company.
The City currently works closely with the Bear River Conservancy District.
The Honeyville Water System is connected, for emergency purposes only,
with the Bear River Water Conservancy District, ACME (Bear River City),
Deweyville and Elwood water systems.
Honeyville City will continue to operate and maintain its water system to
provide the highest quality of water possible for residential culinary use and
fire protection.
In 2009 Honeyville City was awarded grant money from the Army Corp of
Engineers for a new million gallon reservoir and bonded for the remainder
of the project. The project was contracted and completed and put into
service with a new automated system linking the north and south reservoirs.
Honeyville City will continue to upgrade and improve the water system and
will first concentrate and commence on upgrading the present water lines in
the City center.
7.2.2 Electric and Gas:
Electrical power is provided by Rocky Mountain Power, formerly Utah
Power and Light Company. The company also owns a substation in town.
The power substation has high voltage lines running north and south.
Easements owned by Rocky Mountain Power surround these lines,
necessitating the company’s approval to cross them. Natural gas is
furnished by Questar Natural Gas Company. A few homes are supplied by
Liquid Propane Gas which they purchase from local delivery suppliers.
7.2.3 Police Protection, Fire and Emergency Services:
Honeyville City does not currently have its own Police force and is therefore
serviced by the Box Elder County Sheriffs Department and the Utah
Highway Patrol.
Honeyville City can boast one of the finest Fire Departments for a small city
in the state. It is currently a paid on-call/ volunteer department. It provides
protection and fire suppression for Honeyville and neighboring communities
in East Central Box Elder County. The Fire Department also houses a Quick
Response Unit (QRU), otherwise known as First Responders. The majority
of the fire department has completed Emergency Medical Technician
training, and works hard to continue their fire and medical training.
Honeyville City will continue to provide Fire and First Responder Service to
the citizens of Honeyville and the surrounding communities. The City will
continue to provide and improve training of the fire fighters and EMTs, and
upgrade the fire equipment as the budget allows. In 2009 Honeyville City
began working with Box Elder County, Bear River City, Elwood and
Deweyville Town to form a Special Service Fire District that will service
these areas and potentially more. In 2010 the Special Service Fire District
made great strides by solidifying the boundaries of the area that they will
serve. Ambulance service will continue to be supplied by Brigham City
Ambulance Service and Tremonton Fire and Ambulance Department until
such time that the Special Service Fire District can obtain their own
ambulance service.
7.2.4 Solid Waste Disposal:
In the early 1980’s the Honeyville Solid Waste Dump, east of the City, was
closed. All solid waste is sent or taken to the Box Elder County’s Landfill at
Little Mountain via Econo Waste by contract or by personal vehicle.
7.2.5 Sewage Systems:
Honeyville does not have a sewer system and relies on septic tanks and leech
fields for sewage disposal. Large areas of the City are poorly suited for onsite sewage disposal because of high water table and poorly drained soils. A
public sewer system has been discussed by City Officials for more than 20
years, and has not yet been a feasible option for the citizens of Honeyville.
It may be necessary as residential development expands into these areas to
look seriously at a sewage disposal system. Bear River Health Department
feels that the city center and areas to the north and east of the city center are
generally suitable for on-site sewage disposal so long as minimum lot sizes
of ½ acre in some areas and larger acreage in outlying areas, per dwelling
unit are maintained.
Honeyville will continue to regulate lot sizes and continue use of septic
systems, but will also study the feasibility of a sewer system service in all
areas of the City.
7.2.6 Storm Water Systems:
This will be addressed as proposed construction requires along with a study
of impact fees.
7.2.7 Park and Recreational Facilities.
Honeyville City has two City Parks, one located just west of the Union
Pacific Railroad tracks on 6900 North and the second one located east of the
City Cemetery on 6900 North above Highway 38. The first contains a ball
diamond, bowery, cook shack, volleyball court, handicapped accessible
restrooms, half basketball court, soccer field, and playground equipment for
younger children. The second park contains a walking path, grassy play area
and rodeo arena.
The Wellsville Mountains east of the city provide hiking and other
wilderness experiences, but this requires coordination with property owners.
There is a public access at the top of 7200 North. The Crystal Hot Springs
Resort is a commercial resort providing visitors with hot springs for soaking
and swimming, water slides, camping, and other leisure activities and is
privately owned. The spring boast two naturally flowing springs within 50
feet of each other. One spring is hot mineral water and the other is cold
water.
Honeyville City shall continue to make improvements to existing parks and
develop a long range plan to construct new parks or ball fields as the public
requires and look for opportunities to save or obtain open spaces for future
park development.
7.3 Objectives and Policies for Parks and Recreation:
The Planning Committee has formulated the following objectives and
policies to guide this element to the revision of the General Plan with respect
to public services and facilities.
Objective PS1:
Policy PS1.1
Honeyville City will continue to operate and maintain
its water system to provide the highest quality of
water possible.
Honeyville City will continue to upgrade and improve
the water system.
Policy PS1.2
Policy PS1.3
Objective PS 2:
Policy PS2.1
Policy PS2.2
Objective PS 3:
Policy PS3.1
Objective PS 4:
Policy PS4.1
Policy PS4.2
Honeyville City will first concentrate and commence on
upgrading the present water lines in the city center.
Honeyville City will continue to provide adequate water
for fire protection.
Honeyville City will continue to provide fire and
emergency service to the citizens of Honeyville and
the surrounding communities.
The City will continue to provide and improve training of
the fire personnel and upgrade the fire equipment as the
budget allows.
Honeyville City will continue working with Box Elder
County and surrounding communities to get a Special
Service Fire district in place and bring on board new
stations.
Honeyville City will continue to regulate lot sizes to
allow the continued safe use of septic tanks.
Honeyville City will study the feasibility of a sewer
treatment system service.
Honeyville City will continue to improve the parks.
Honeyville City will work to provide new parks when
developing larger subdivisions.
Honeyville City will continue to improve the existing
parks.
Section 8.0
Economic Development
8.1
Economic Development Goal
The vision of the economic development element in the Honeyville
City General Plan is to promote growth with balance. To combine
efficient and diversified companies and economies, compatible with
available resources, that will provide employment opportunities. A
good balance of compatible businesses will increase the tax base for
the city, can improve the quality of life, and should be open to the
natural and cultural framework of the community.
A sound economy is important to the livelihood and well-being of
Honeyville City residents. Defining a vision for economic and
community development requires a thorough assessment of the area’s
economic potential, demand, opportunities, and limitations.
Most economic indicators show the region will continue to benefit
from business expansions, relocation, tourism, retail trade, services,
construction, and agriculture. City residents have expressed an
interest in an economic climate that can expand business opportunities
in the face of new challenges. The city recognizes the need to expand
its economic foundation on the basis of available resources, ensuring
that development is balanced with the surrounding environment.
The overall business climate in the region should be enhanced through
state, county, and local actions and initiative, primarily through tax
and business incentives policies, the availability for capital, and the
deployment of infrastructure and services. To enhance the city’s
economic development opportunities, the area should seek affordable
housing and community facilities. In this manner, neighborhoods and
central business districts will be revitalized, while labor training and
quality educational programs and facilities become accessible to
residents. This should become a draw for new residents and
economic enterprises alike.
8.2
Background and Issues for Economic Development
Honeyville was incorporated and organized as a town on July 8, 1911.
Honeyville became a 3rd class city on 22nd August 1983. As of August 2010,
the city has 66 licensed businesses, nearly all of them are considered home
based businesses with a few notable exceptions: Crystal Hot Springs,
Honeyville Grain, Frank May SkiDoo and ATV, Lainie’s Country Store,
Bryce’s Auto and Truck, Centro de la Familia, and several gravel pits.
Grocery stores are located in Brigham City and Tremonton, advanced
medical services, recreation and dining are also located close in Brigham,
Ogden, Tremonton and Logan. The schools are located in Brigham City,
Tremonton, Bear River, or Garland for primary education.
There are several large employers within about a 30 mile radius including a
WalMart store and warehouse, Proctor and Gamble, Vulcraft, Gem, Nucor,
Autoliv, and ATK. The airport has expanded in Brigham City to enable
more air traffic and larger planes. Housing has slowed with the economy,
but should return with expansion in the next few years that will demand
more business growth as the population continues to move North from Salt
Lake, Davis, Weber, and other parts of Box Elder counties. The question is
not ‘will we grow’, it becomes ‘when’.
The issues facing Honeyville City in bringing “other” types of business to
the area are water, law enforcement, sewer, and public sentiment and/or
preference. Although there is language in this, and past general plans
stating that there is interest, or even a plan to encourage or attract business
here, the truth is that we are lacking as a city in providing necessary
components for businesses to locate or relocate to our area.
8.3
Objectives and Policies
1. Seek or establish funding, bonding, tax plan to develop a sewer
system for Honeyville City. Set aside the ground, get the plan
together with a proposal to present to Box Elder County and the
State of Utah to get the project underway (3-5 year plan).
2. Once a sewer plant is underway, we will need to designate an
Economic Development Team to encourage local businesses to
coordinate efforts and information to further utilize the industrial
and commercial zones within the city. Who better to invite new
companies and businesses into the city than city leaders and
established businesses? Economic Development plan must
include a plan to bring people off of the interstate and into our
community to do business. A main business center, group, i.e.
“Chamber of Commerce” type organization would be helpful in
gathering and implementation of information and strategy.
3. Green Belt conservation with an established zoning such as the
planned Zone. The ability to protect the agricultural and rural
environment is vital to our community and important to our
citizens.
4. Home based businesses should continue to be encouraged, but
there needs to be an understanding that in order to create a tax base
to fund law enforcement and other city goals and projects, there
needs to be larger businesses operating here in Honeyville City.
5. Website advertisement highlighting industrial and commercial
zones and the benefits of locating in our community. Advertise
on a national basis for types of businesses that our city desires.
Enhance entrances to our city to promote our city and capitalize on
first impressions.
Honeyville is a great place to live and can be a great place to do business if
we can remove some of our hurdles that prevent businesses from coming
here. There will be a need for strip malls, fuel centers, fast food, and other
enterprises here as our community grows and develops. We need to prepare
now for the growth that we expect and plan for our future with our eyes
open. We would much rather be inviting for business to come to our city
than to be forced to accept any type of business that chooses to come.
Planning and putting forth a strategy is essential.
SECTION 9.0
HOUSING ELEMENT
Introduction:
Neighborhoods and Housing, the places where we live, learn, play, and
increasingly work, constitute the largest use of land in the City.
Collectively, we regard our neighborhoods with appreciation as places of
security. Also, homes often represent the largest single investment residents
will ever make.
Inclusion of Housing as a separate chapter results from a mandate from the
Sate of Utah. Preservation of the quality of our neighborhoods and housing
is a primary value of the residents of the City. Protecting housing from
adverse consequences of growth, reversing effects of deterioration and
nurturing the identity of emerging neighborhoods were also clearly
articulated as core values.
Concepts in this chapter reflect values held by the community. It seeks to
define types of neighborhoods and housing, and on the basis of that
definition, provide direction to protect, enhance, and revitalize them.
Encourage citizens to be good neighbors and develop friendships with
people of all ages, races, creeds and religions, genders and sexual
orientations.
9.1
Housing Element Goal:
The housing element in the Honeyville City General Plan should provide
that the City would afford a reasonable opportunity for a variety of housing
to meet the needs of the population desiring to live in Honeyville City.
Moderate income housing should be encouraged to allow persons with
moderate incomes to benefit from and to full participate in all aspects of
neighborhood and community life.
9.2
Objectives and Policies:
Objectives and policies reflect the direction that will be taken by Honeyville
City government in housing and neighborhood development.
Objective H1:
Policy H1.1
Policy H1.2
Objective H2:
Policy H2.1
Policy H2.2
Policy H2.3
Policy H2.4
Policy H2.5
Focus on Neighborhoods.
Utilize neighborhoods as the Fundamental Building
Blocks for Residential Development.
Foster Cooperation with and by Neighborhoods.
Enhance neighborhoods, preserve and enhance
existing and established neighborhoods, and support
developing and redeveloping neighborhoods.
Protect the character of established and stable
neighborhoods through neighborhood planning,
assistance to neighborhood organizations, and supportive
regulatory actions.
Assist and Support Established and Redeveloping
Neighborhoods.
Improve Neighborhood Zoning Code Enforcement
Efforts.
Partner with the Development Industry to create
functional and attractive new and developing
neighborhoods.
Support a mix of housing types and densities.
SECTION 10.0
Environmental/Natural Resources
10.1
Environmental/Natural Resources Goal:
The environmental/natural resource element of the Honeyville City General
Plan should support, sustain, and improve the existing environmental
conditions within the limits of Honeyville City. Consideration of continued
growth in Honeyville should be formulated with the cooperation of
individuals and developers in preserving and protecting the environment.
10.2
View Sheds:
Honeyville currently has three main entrances into the City Center. The City
entrances from the west on 6900 north, and from the north and also from the
south on Main Street (Highway 38). These areas have a major impact on the
first impression of residents, visitors, and passers by. Care should be taken
to keep or develop a pleasing and high visual quality of these areas.
Landscape areas on the benches and in the City with tree rows prior to
development should be encouraged which will provide wind breaks and a
pleasing view, obscuring the sight of ongoing construction.
Collection and removal of all junk and debris should be encouraged to
enhance the overall appearance that is desired for the present and future of
the City.
Installing street lights in and around the City to give ample lighting of
streets, signs and sidewalks.
Preserving the views for present and future residents, which are and will be
located in the area.
Attempt to construct future roadways along the contours of the hillside,
instead of vertical or partially vertical roads which leave visual scars for
long periods of time.
Care should be used for any type of development encroaching on the Bear
River and the various flood planes.
10.3
Septic Tank Suitability:
Honeyville currently utilizes septic tanks systems only. The Honeyville
Public Sensitive Areas Map shows the slight to moderate limitations
category as the darkest areas. These zones are most acceptable for septic
tank systems. Outside of this zone, limitations for septic tank sewage
disposal systems are moderate to severe depending on slope, depth to water
table, and soil permeability. Soils in the severe limitations category are
generally unacceptable for on-site sewage disposal systems (septic tanks).
Future construction of septic tank systems are to be approved by, and
coincide with, the Box Elder County Health Department regulations.
The State Health Department recommends that septic systems not be used in
areas where the water table is within sixty inches of the surface.
A Sewer Treatment System Facility is to be considered as the population
expansion necessitates.
10.4
Agricultural Suitability:
The quality of the soil in Honeyville varies vastly due to the rock slopes on
the hillsides and the plain areas of the valley. Either these sites are in steep
and/or rocky slopes of characterized by high water tables and marshes.
The soils located east of the railroad tracks continuing north and east to the
city limits from 6900 North are silt, clay, loam, fine sandy loam, silt clay,
gravelly silt, fine sandy loam, broken land, gravelly loam and moderate
alkali.
The soils located west of the railroad tracks continuing north and west to the
city limits from 6900 North are silt, clay loam, gravelly silt loam, fine sandy
loam, and silt clay loam.
The soils located east of the railroad tracks continuing south and east to the
city limits from 6900 North are silt loam, silt clay, very stony loam, gravel,
gravely loam, alkali and loam.
The soils located west of the railroad tracks continuing south to the city
limits from 6900 North are fine sandy loam, silt clay, silt loam, fresh water
marshes, alkali, and clay loam.
Most of the land designated as “prime” is in fact today’s prime cropland.
10.5
Geology:
A major geological hazard exists in and along Honeyville’s eastern
boundary. The Wasatch Fault Zone is noted to be the major fault zone in
northern Utah that passes through this area. The Wasatch Fault Zone map
notes three types of faults that have been mapped by the Utah Geological
and Mineral Survey within the fault zone. The Wasatch Fault Zone passes
through this area. Faulting and landslides could occur in this area. The
prominent scarps are visual breaks in the bedrock along a major fault. Also
mapped are other known inferred faults. All are areas where faulting has
occurred previously and will likely occur again.
Regulations controlling development near these zones would be in the best
interest of and safety to the community. It is strongly recommended that
these conditions are to be considered in planning the Honeyville area.
Recommendations are to be made that limit the construction of human
dwellings or occupancy within 100 feet from known or inferred faults. The
Utah Geological and Mineral Society have provided these recommendations
and guidelines.
It is suggested that property owners be fully informed of the faults in which
their property lies on or near, and to fully inform prospective buyers and
developers.
Recommendations will be made that any road construction be limited in said
areas so as to limit, if not eliminate, danger or loss of life to humans,
domestic animals, or property.
For further information please refer to: Investigation and Evaluation of the
Northern Wasatch and Cache Valley Faults, by Woodware-Lundgren and
Associates.
10.6
Wildlife:
The Bear River Valley holds a diverse and interesting array of wildlife. The
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is only a short distance to the south of
Honeyville and a gathering place for birds. Visitors come to view and
photograph bird life.
It should be noted that the sagebrush and grassland zone noted in the
vegetation section is included in a critical winter feeding zone for deer and
elk. This means that in a severe winter, which is not uncommon in the Bear
River Basin, deer and possibly elk will seek out plants to graze on in this
area. Development in this zone will destroy valuable winter range for deer
and elk and will likely mean occasional visits to residential areas by the
animals, especially if shrubs that are suitable to the taste of elk and deer,
have been planted.
The Honeyville area has a trailhead to the Wellsville Mountain Range and
forest, thus necessitating the need for the protection and preservation of the
wildlife range areas.
Any development of main roads or construction in or around the winter
range would be disastrous to the present or future wildlife area.
The following is a list of common animals, upland game, waterfowl, fish and
their habitats. Some birds and other waterfowl have been omitted due to the
lengthy process of identification and incomplete current listings.
Common wildlife species in Honeyville, Utah:
MAMMALS
Common Name
Mule Deer
Muskrat
Long Tail Weasel
Striped Skunk
Spotted Skunk
Coyote
Badger
General Habitat
Sagebrush – grassland as winter range
Marsh, ponds, streams
Widespread in areas not far from water
Bushy areas
Throughout area
Throughout area
Sagebrush, grasslands
White Tail Rabbit
Ring Tail Cat
Bob Cat
Mountain Lion
Raccoons
Red Fox
Jack Rabbit
Sagebrush, grasslands
Throughout area
Sagebrush, rock and cliff areas
Rock and cliff areas
Throughout area
Throughout area
Sagebrush, grasslands
UPLAND GAME AND WATERFOWL
Common Name
General Habitat
Rio Grand Turkey
Sagebrush, grain fields, grasslands
Chukar Partridge
Sagebrush, grain fields, grasslands
Mallard
Marsh, streams, cropland
Pintail
Marsh
Gadwell
Marshes, ponds
Shoveler
Marshes, ponds
Canadian Goose
Marshes, grain fields
Snow Goose
Marshes, grain fields
Coot
Marshes, grain fields
Ring Neck Pheasant
Cropland, marshes
Sage Grouse
Sagebrush, grasslands
Sand Hill Crane
Marshes, cropland
Bear River Fish Species: (Class 3 Fishery Stream*)
Fish in the Bear River include: Carp, Channel Catfish, Black Bullhead,
Sunfish, Perch, Walleye, Large Mouth Bass, Chubs, and Suckers.
*Utah Division of Wild Life Resources
10.7
Climate:
Honeyville lies in the lower Bear River Valley of the arid Great Salt Lake
Basin. Normal annual precipitation is approximately 16 inches. January,
April, and May are typically the months with the most precipitation, with
July, August and September being the driest months.
The average high temperature in January is 32 degrees Fahrenheit and the
average high in July is 88 degrees Fahrenheit.
The average low temperature in January is 12 degrees Fahrenheit and the
average low in July is 56 degrees Fahrenheit.
10.8
Hydrology
Current information about water quality in the Honeyville area indicates few
problems. The Bear River and its contributories are protected under the
State of Utah’s beneficial use designation of 2B (Recreation B non-contract),
3B (Aquatic and Wildlife B Warm Water Species), 3C (Non Game
Fisheries), 3D (Waterfowl and other Water Oriented Wildlife), and 4
(Agriculture). Each category has its own set of standards. For details and
category definitions please refer to: State of Utah Wastewater Disposal
Regulations Part II, Standards of Quality of Waters of the State.
Crystal Springs, one and a half miles north of the City center, is the site of
two springs rising very close to each other, but of a very different nature.
One of the two springs is hot and has a very high mineral content. The daily
salt flow from Crystal Springs into the Salt Creek is substantial. This flow
contributes to the salinity of the Bear River. There are also two fresh water
springs located at the Honeyville pond.
A “Public Sensitive Map” area indicates the depth to the water table in
Honeyville. Areas with high water tables are noted and basically represent
the flood plains of the Bear River and Salt Creek. The gravel pits noted in
the eastern benches do not have sufficient data compiled and are therefore
blank. The State Health Department recommends that septic systems not be
used in areas where the water table is within sixty inches of the surface.
This same figure represents the surface water. Ponds, springs, canals,
marshes, perennial streams and intermittent streams are shown. All of these
areas should be classified as sensitive zones and care should be taken to
protect these natural areas of drainage and storage of water.
The proposal of water protection in Honeyville City is vitally important.
Recognizing that our water system is a valuable commodity, every
precaution should be taken to protect it for the present and future use of the
community.
Recommendations are made to limit the use of natural drinking water for the
use of the residents within Honeyville proper.
Regulations have been set in place for the storage and distribution of water
for the protection of the residents and future growth of the community.
The sale of water for commercial of non-residential use is to be presented to
the city and reviewed for sale at substantial profit. The city is to inform the
residents of the proposed sale of water to non-resident and/or commercial
use. The city should hold informed open meetings and final cote from the
residents be taken into consideration.
Disturbance of these zones may mean future problems especially in relation
to erosion, pollution, and land or mud slides in areas of steeper slopes.
Leaving natural damage ways free of disturbance may also save construction
costs of a storm runoff system.
10.9
Air Quality
Honeyville City currently is without zoning or regulation data for air quality.
The City does follow guidelines of the State, County, and EPA. The quality
of the air we breathe directly affects our health and well-being. Air
pollution is a factor in heart and lung disease, as well as increased cancer
risk. It also harms crops and buildings, reduces visibility, impacts soil, lakes
and streams, and the food web that sustains all life.
Major concerns for human health from exposure to Particulate Matter (dirt,
soot, and smoke in the area) include the elderly, children, and people with
chronic lung disease, influenza or asthma. These persons are especially
sensitive to effects of particulate matter.
The use of solid fuel, such as wood or coal, for heating residences and
businesses should comply with state and local regulations in an effort to
sustain the quality of air for all residents, livestock and wildlife.
Controlled burning of ditches should be conducted in the spring and fall
during safe green burn days that are established by the state EPA, with a
burn permit from the County Fire Marshall Office.
This General Plan has been created to best serve the values and interests that
the citizens of Honeyville City hold dear.