Utah County Planning Commission Public Meeting - May 19, 2026

The Utah County Planning Commission held a public meeting on May 19, 2026, to discuss a proposed land use ordinance text amendment requested by Rocky Mountain Power. The amendment sought to change the status of 300 kV and above transmission lines from requiring conditional use permits to becoming permitted uses with specific standards. The discussion focused heavily on concerns from local residents and landowners about the loss of conditional use permit protections, including setbacks, noise, electromagnetic fields (EMF), environmental impacts, and property values. Residents expressed frustration over inadequate notification and communication from Rocky Mountain Power, potential impacts on agricultural land, and the lack of detailed standards in the proposed ordinance. Commissioners debated the balance between facilitating utility infrastructure and protecting community interests, ultimately voting unanimously to recommend denial of the amendment to the County Commission. The commission emphasized the need to revisit the ordinance with stronger protections and better communication processes before any changes are made.