REQUEST – Pause any additional annexation or developments in the Spring Lake area (south of 1950 South, Payson and east of US 198) until Payson City can complete and adopt a formal Land Use study on the area.

NEED FOR THE REVIEW – A Land Use study can help implement the strategies outlined in the City’s General Plan in ways that address the specific needs and considerations of the Spring Lake area. Land Use studies have been used by the City for other key areas within the greater Payson area, such as the West Mountain area and the Haskellville area.

The Spring Lake area is a populated farming community with a small-town feel and a long, rich history and unique identity that are cherished by its residents. Residents and non-resident visitors to the area, including visitors to the Spring Lake Park owned by Payson City, value the beauty, tranquility, and open spaces of the area. The residents and friends of the Spring Lake area, including those signing this letter, are greatly concerned that continued expansion of urban development into the area, if not first appropriately planned, will result in the permanent loss of valuable contiguous open spaces and treasured recreational opportunities, as well as the loss of the traditional agricultural base of the community and environmentally sensitive areas. A temporary pause on annexation and development in the area to perform a formal Land Use Study would allow for these and other concerns to be adequately addressed and could provide a path for the Spring Lake area to further become a destination for recreation and adventure. 

AREAS OF CONCERN TO BE ADDRESSED IN THE PROPOSED LAND USE STUDY – While not intended to be a fully inclusive list of areas of concern that should be addressed in the proposed Land Use Study, below are some key items of concerns that we recommend be included:

• How to Maintain the Small-Town Feel and Traditional Agricultural Base of the Area
• How to Protect Environmentally Sensitive Areas
• How to Preserve and Expand the Recreational Opportunities of the Area
• How to Appropriately Transition from Existing Urban Development to the Rural, Open Spaces of the Spring Lake Area
• How to Address Safety Concerns and Maintain Access to Foothills by Pedestrians, Bikers, and Horsemen along 12240 South
• Plan for Providing Future Improvements to Spring Lake Area, Beyond the Zeeman Parcels

Therefore, we the undersigned residents and friends of the Spring Lake area, respectfully request that the Payson City Planning Committee, City Council, and Mayor recommend and resolve to temporarily pause any additional annexation or developments in the Spring Lake area (south of 1950 South, Payson and east of US 198) until Payson City can complete and adopt a formal Land Use study for the area.