Monticello updates on water, fire

by David Boyle
News Director
Members of the Monticello City Council got an update on the Spring Creek water project, lifted fire restrictions and discussed a building inspection agreement with Bluff at their latest meeting.
Monticello City Manager Kaeden Kulow shared an update on the Spring Creek water project, with the city finalizing a $5.3 million grant and loan application with the USDA including a $675,000 price contingency as part of the September 22 meeting.
Engineers designed a separate pipeline, running parallel to the existing North Creek route, to manage higher water pressure and prevent backups.
A new diversion box near the top pond will allow operators to route raw water to Loyds Lake through an existing 15-inch transfer pipe.
Kulow said environmental clearances were signed on August 18 after years of regulatory review. Contract bidding is expected this winter with construction likely to follow on the mountain in early Spring 2027 through late 2027.
Members of the city council also approved lifting of fire restrictions within city limits. Although state law keeps firework bans in place until New Years, city officials noted recent rainfall and manageable local risk justified ending burning restrictions on properties within the city.
Members of the city council also reviewed a proposed interlocal agreement with the town of Bluff for building inspection services.
With San Juan County’s building department being overwhelmed, the county is stepping back from municipal inspections which Monticello has relied on since 1971.
With neither Bluff or Monticello having enough construction for a full-time inspector, combining workloads under Bluff’s part-time certified official should help both cities comply with 2025 Utah building code requirements.
City council did not pass the resolution as they wait for Bluff’s final review. The city will also maintain a reserve agreement with the city of Blanding as a contingency.
During public comment, resident Tom Wiggington shared frustration over dark streetlights on Center Street with Wiggington sharing he often hears visitors comment on the dim lighting makes the town look “out of business”. Other concerns raised were glares from commercial storage units on Center.
Kulow shared that the city secured a bid to replace 60 and 62 Center Street fixtures with bright white LED bulbs.
Additionally, commercial storage properties are under contract for sale and pending buyers have been notified to install light shields.
Council members also discussed a two-court pickleball facility at Veterans Park. The project is estimated to cost between $75,000 and $100,000. Administration recommended creating an itemized material invoice, including concrete, fending and specialized surfacing. The city hopes creating an itemized list can help in seeking donations in materials, skilled labor, as well as potential cash donations to go alongside potential expenditure of city capital funds.