Sessions
Sessions listed chronologically.
= Keynote
Six Feet and Beyond – Fostering Public Participation During the COVID-19 Era
Wednesday, April 16, 2025, 8:42 AM
The difference between a good plan and a great plan is often community buy-in. Since 2020 the newly implemented COVID-19 restrictions severely impacted the usual public outreach efforts which consisted of hosting varied in-person events. This session highlights several methods (with tips and tricks) we used to get the public involved in projects over the last 2 years. It is our hope that these examples can be helpful in getting meaningful interactions even during challenging times. We believe public participation can still thrive through the pandemic and we can be even better for it.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
The Role of the Planning Commission?
Wednesday, April 16, 2025, 8:42 AM
Seasoned planning commissioners discuss ways to be effective, understanding what your role is as an individual commissioner, and a whole commission. Submitted questions and open Q&A.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Better together: Creating, Belonging and Community
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 9:00 AM
Research shows that teams and organizations will increasingly thrive when they attract, retain, promote, and empower both men and women. This keynote will focus on practices, initiatives, and strategies that have been shown to help all employees—no matter gender, race, ethnicity, age, and ability— flourish in ways that benefit entities and communities. Discover ways to create belonging and community for yourself and others, while continuing to advance your own career.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Townhome Tour – Mobile Workshop
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 10:00 AM
With interest in townhomes growing, come tour several recently constructed townhome developments in West Valley City. During this mobile workshop participants will see different examples of modern and more traditional townhomes with heights ranging from 1 to 3 stories. Learn how the City is steering townhome developments to specific areas of the City. Hear about the tools West Valley is using to improve the design and amenities of townhome projects.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Integrating Water and Land Use
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 10:15 AM
Water is essential to quality of life, economy, and our beautiful natural environment in Utah. Historically water and land use planning have occurred separately with land development expecting the tap to run after lots are built and plumbing is installed. The purpose of this session is to cover the absolute essentials of why and how integrating water and land use planning occurs, including some case studies and best practices, with a focus for land use planners. Attendees will come away with specific action items they may be able to implement within their own communities to better integrate water into the development process.
Speaker(s)
Strengthening Your Influence as Women
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 10:15 AM
This session is designed to help you learn how to strengthen your influence by understanding more about confidence, identity, purpose, and common challenges. Dr. Madsen will also discuss how understanding and effectively navigating bias is particularly beneficial as well. Tips and tools will be shared so that you can immediately begin to strengthen your influence in your home, workplace, and community. Men who want to learn more about how they can help and encourage women are also welcome to join!
Speaker(s)
The Architectural Story of Mid Valley Performing Arts Center Tour
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 11:00 AM
Tour Taylorsville’s new Centennial Plaza and experience an open space specially designed for community gatherings such as farmers markets, arts festivals, movies in the park, live performances, food truck gatherings, and more. Also observe the architectural and urban design techniques utilized to help meld two significant and distinct community buildings into a unified place.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Community Supported Small Business Incubation Retrospective: Lessons and Success Stories
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 11:10 AM
We take a look back at local examples of small business incubation in the community, from public partnerships to farmers’ markets, lessons learned, and success stories. This panel discussion will then discuss the need for local small business support to help make more economically resilient communities. This presentation will also hear via video the stories of small businesses that have succeeded with the support of incubator venues.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Is Your City Missing Middle Housing?
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 11:10 AM
Middle housing building types play a critical role in the housing market and yet they’re underrepresented in the Utah market. This session will cover: what is Missing Middle Housing (MMH), availability in current housing stock, role of MMH for growth and attainability/affordability, and best practices. This session will include time for cities to share their MMH experiences and Q/A.
Speaker(s)
Water Quantity and Quality Toolkits for Utah Planners
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 11:10 AM
Integrating water and land use planning is essential for smart growth in Utah, but many communities lack the time and resources necessary to successfully integrate these two processes. Accordingly, the Babbitt Center for Land and Water Policy and Western Resource Advocates developed a toolkit called the Utah Framework for Community Action. The Blacksmith Fork Soil Conservation Districts and the Bear River Association of Governments have developed a Water Quality Toolkit for Utah Planners. This session will detail the toolkits and attendees will come away with an understanding for how these toolkits can be utilized in their own communities.
Speaker(s)
Shaping the Future by seeing how #CitiesWork
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 12:30 PM
#CitiesWork is a call to action for all cities and towns initiated by the Utah League of Cities and Towns. This effort will strive to connect and establish relationships between State Legislators and Cities in order to help educate them on how we work and the challenges we face as we plan for the future. Because many legislators have not served in local government, they may not understand the concept of local control or the impacts of legislation on local communities, including the unintended consequences of statewide policies. The #CitiesWork resource guide outlines three easy steps to tell your local story and develop a relationship with state leaders.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Centennial Plaza Tour
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 1:30 PM
Tour Taylorsville’s new Centennial Plaza and experience an open space specially designed for community gatherings such as farmers markets, arts festivals, movies in the park, live performances, food truck gatherings, and more. Also observe the architectural and urban design techniques utilized to help meld two significant and distinct community buildings into a unified place.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Billboards in Utah—Information for the Local Level
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 1:40 PM
Come listen to the story of billboards in Utah from a planner’s perspective – from Lady Bird Johnson’s 1965 highway beautification efforts to where we are today. This session is designed as an open-source ‘toolkit’ for use at the local level, enabling planners to inform and educate their respective city and county councils, planning commissions, state representatives, chambers of commerce, and others about Utah’s billboard laws, and the impacts of those laws on their local planning and community development efforts.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Unmasking Transportation after COVID-19
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 1:40 PM
As we all begin to recover from COVID-19 we will see transportation behavior, along with land use markets and ways of recreating, find a new normal. Let’s come together to discuss the latest data and share ideas for how communities can shape and build upon these new dynamics to build a better future.
Speaker(s)
Planning for Community Resiliency: Looking Beyond Hazard Response
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 1:40 PM
The past year and a half have underscored the need for community resilience planning. Who could have predicted a global pandemic paired with localized issues of earthquakes and severe droughts? Yet frameworks of resiliency thinking allow planners to do just that – prepare for and adapt to the unexpected, aiming not just to survive but to thrive. Join Long Range Planners and partners from the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD) as they explore:
- What it means to be resilient community
- How planning for resiliency differs between a more traditional municipality and a campus setting
- What lessons MSD planners have learned during the past year of planning in diverse Salt Lake County communities.
The presentation will be followed by a group discussion of the future of resilience planning in Utah and the tools that may help regional planners lead the state forward.
Speaker(s)
Creating a Community Gathering Place
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 2:35 PM
Taylorsville’s original 1997 General Plan called for the area surrounding Taylorsville City Hall to be a community “gathering place and activity center.” Now, nearly 25 years later, that 1997 vision has been realized with the construction of Centennial Plaza. This new community open space integrates Taylorsville City Hall and the newly constructed Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center and creates a place specially designed for future community gatherings. Learn how architecture, landscape, and urban design unite to help create a place of both beauty and function.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Effects of Light-Rail Transit and Bus Rapid Transit on Traffic in a Travel Corridor
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 2:35 PM
In studies for the Utah Transit Authority and Utah Department of Transportation, the Metropolitan Research Center at the University of Utah has quantified the impacts of fixed guideway transit lines on traffic in transit corridors. The session will delve into reasons why the BRT impact was less than the LRT impact, and implications for transit investments in the region. It will also discuss the recent decline in LRT ridership, the recent increase in traffic on 400 South, and the lack of affordable housing in those new apartment buildings along 400 South.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Main Street Revitalization – An overview and economic development strategy
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 3:30 PM
As communities are looking to reinvest in their traditional downtown cores and commercial districts, there are many questions in reference to “the best” process and what some of the expected return on investment will be. Enter the Main Street model, a four point approach adopted by the National Main Street Center over 40 years ago and still being used today across the country to drive grass roots or locally based downtown revitalization. Our lecture will provide participants with a high-level oversight for the main street model, benefits of implementation, processes for being included in the newly adopted UT Main Street program.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Ombudsman – 15 years of Advisory Opinions
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 3:30 PM
In 2006 the Utah Legislature charged the Office of the Property Rights Ombudsman with resolving land use disputes by preparing advisory opinions on land use law when asked to do so by a party. This session will discuss an overview of the issues resolved by the 235 opinions published in the first fifteen years as well as a general discussion on land use law topics raised by the audience.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Planner Ethics – Change is Coming
Thursday, September 09, 2021, 3:30 PM
Two years ago, the APA and AICP Boards appointed a Task Force to consider possible revisions to the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. The Code’s “Aspirational Principles” and “Rules of Conduct” have not been reviewed since 2005. The Ethical Principles in Planning have not been updated since 1992. Discussions are now occurring that the Code of Ethics (revisions pending) may apply to all planners, whether AICP members or not. This session will review the ethics issues being discussed and how these changes will affect the ethical responsibilities and obligations of all planners.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Welcome/Chapter Meeting
Friday, September 10, 2021, 8:30 AM
Overview of the progress made by the APA Utah chapter over the past year and presentation of the objectives and action items for the year to come.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Density, Inventory and Price: Potential legislative initiatives to address Utah’s housing crisis
Friday, September 10, 2021, 9:00 AM
For several years now, Utah and many other areas have been in the midst of a housing affordability crisis. While there are many reasons for it, one that has garnered particular attention has been local land use practices, prompting regulatory and legislative initiatives. In Utah, the crisis has, among other things, led to the formation of task forces by business and government groups, and the establishment of a state level Commission on Housing Affordability. Rep. Steve Waldrip currently serves as the House co-chair of this Commission, which has been considering a number of policy proposals for recommendation for legislative action. Rep. Waldrip will talk about some of these policy considerations, their relative strengths and weaknesses, and their potential for legislative action in the upcoming session of the Utah State Legislature.
Speaker(s)
Explore the Jordan River Parkway Part 1 : Big Bend Preserve Walking Tour
Friday, September 10, 2021, 10:00 AM
The Jordan River is a unique river and watershed. It is 50 miles in length, connecting Utah’s two largest water bodies — from Utah Lake to the Great Salt Lake. Over the past two decades the cities, counties, special service districts, and state and federal agencies that have regulatory and jurisdictional oversight of the river are increasingly working together to revitalize and improve the river corridor, commonly known today as the Jordan River Parkway. This mobile workshop series will introduce participants to some of the best emerging elements of the Jordan River Parkway in West Jordan, Murray and Taylorsville.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Fairbourne Station – Mobile Workshop
Friday, September 10, 2021, 10:00 AM
Come learn about and tour Fairbourne Station, West Valley City’s downtown. During this mobile workshop participants will learn about the genesis of Fairbourne Station and tour the mix of office, residential, hospitality, medical, and civic uses that are the result of many years of redevelopment efforts. Learn how the City’s involvement in this development has been critical to its success.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Dark Sky Planning along the Wasatch Front
Friday, September 10, 2021, 10:10 AM
Utah has become the leader of dark-sky tourism in the world and many national and state parks have been certified “dark sky” parks, including two rural communities. However, continued urban growth will increasingly threaten Utah’s remote places’ ability to retain their dark skies despite their steward’s best efforts. This session will explore strategies that urban communities can engage in to limit the expansion of light pollution and skyglow from the Wasatch Front.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
How Are We Doing? Updates on Moderate Income Housing Plans and Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinances
Friday, September 10, 2021, 10:10 AM
October 1st triggers the compliance date for HB82 internal accessory dwelling units. Open discussion to share implementation and discussion with fellow members. December 1 triggers the reporting requirement for submittal of the Moderate Income Housing Plan. We will share resources and provide any updates on the form and what changes may occur in 2022. Come with your story to share and questions as we all navigate these requirements together.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Planning for Utah’s New Climate
Friday, September 10, 2021, 10:10 AM
2021’s heat and extreme weather have been a wake-up call, but experts say in fact Utah’s climate has undergone a long-term change. What will this change mean for communities? How can we prepare for it? What will it mean for our economy, for the environment and how people live their lives? Can we do anything to slow or reverse the change?
Speaker(s)
The Heber Vision, General Plan and Ordinance Work
Friday, September 10, 2021, 10:10 AM
Learn about the importance of Visioning in your general planning process through the Heber Vision/General Plan story. Consider this innovative planning process that can work for your community.
Speaker(s)
Disaster Resilience in Utah
Friday, September 10, 2021, 11:20 AM
Members of the Utah Division of Emergency Management’s (DEM) Mitigation and Recovery team will be discussing disaster resilience, what it means for Utah, and how planners can leverage existing resources and opportunities to develop comprehensive resilience plans for their communities.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Housing Tools 101 For Elected and Appointed Officials
Friday, September 10, 2021, 11:20 AM
IZ? TOD w/MIHP? Confused? Let’s decipher the acronyms into action! Come to a rapid fire introduction to the housing programs, and tools to consider in your community.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Re-Envisioning Intermountain West Cemeteries
Friday, September 10, 2021, 11:20 AM
The Re-Envisioning of Intermountain West Cemeteries aims to create environmentally rich, thoughtfully planned, walkable green spaces that celebrate the macro (community) and micro (individual) history of an area. This is done in three parts: 1. Planning, through policies and procedure to ensure cities allow for best practices; 2. Landscaping, creating water-wise, eco-beneficial landscapes that highlight an area’s native flora and fauna; and 3. History and Preservation, memorializing community and individual histories through art, memorials and intentional care of records and headstones. By weaving these three project aspects together, communities will be empowered to create impactful community spaces.
Speaker(s)
Assets
The Asset-Based Community Development Institute Training
Friday, September 10, 2021, 11:20 AM
Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) is a strategy for sustainable community-driven development. The appeal of ABCD for planners lies in its premise that planners can facilitate communities to drive the development process themselves by identifying and mobilizing existing, but often unrecognized assets, and thereby responding to and creating local opportunities. The six assets we will discuss are (1) individuals, (2) associations, (3) institutions, (4) physical space, (5) exchange and economy, (6) culture, history, and stories. The key is for planners to begin to use what is already in the community.
Speaker(s)
The Power of Planners and Planning
Friday, September 10, 2021, 12:30 PM
We are all struggling with the challenges of this time in history. The environmental, social and political challenges are all acute – both nationally and at the local level throughout Utah. In this moment planners have never been more important! Becker will talk about the role we might now play and how we might “lean into” our current challenges.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Explore the Jordan River Parkway Part 2 : Murray-Taylorsville Paddling Tour
Friday, September 10, 2021, 1:30 PM
Part 2 will include paddling a scenic stretch of the Jordan River from Winchester Park, located at 1250 W Winchester (approximately 6700 South) to Little Cottonwood Creek Confluence at Little Confluence Trailhead Park, located at 677 W 4800 South. Participants will learn about current efforts underway to address water quality, open space preservation, restoration, weed management, bank stabilization, and outdoor recreation development efforts by the Jordan River Commission, Murray City, Salt Lake County, Utah Division of Water Quality and other partners. Participants should wear casual clothes and shoes that might get damp or wet during the paddle tour.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Critical City Design Elements to Know for Planning Commissioners
Friday, September 10, 2021, 1:40 PM
Planning Commissioners play a critical role in shaping growth, land development, neighborhoods, and downtowns. This session will cover the most important elements of planning and design for cities and land development. Every planning commissioner should be familiar with these areas and planning/design principles. The rapid fire presentations will be given by multiple professionals from various backgrounds. Topics to include: historic patterns, centers, active transportation, street networks, housing choices, parks, transect methodology, densities in the right place, walkability, and water wise design.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Is Transit-Oriented Development Affordable for Low and Moderate Income Households?
Friday, September 10, 2021, 1:40 PM
In a study funded by the National Institute for Transportation and Communities, the Metropolitan Research Center at the University of Utah has surveyed transit agencies, metropolitan planning organizations, and city transportation departments to compile a complete inventory of TODs across the nation that are served by rail and meet eight other criteria: (1) adjacent or nearly adjacent to rail stations, (2) dense and multistory, (3) mixed-use with residential and commercial, (4) pedestrian-friendly with public space, (5) built after rail opened, (6) largely built out, (7) with their own parking facilities, and (8) master-planned.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Taking Regional Solutions into Local Hands: Transportation Planning in Southwest Salt Lake County
Friday, September 10, 2021, 1:40 PM
The Southwest Salt Lake County Transportation Analysis and Solutions Development project is an example of an innovative approach to a common issue among fast-growing cities along the Wasatch Front: the time gap between planned transportation infrastructure improvements and the pace of population and employment growth. The Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC), the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT), and the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) in partnership with Salt Lake County and the cities and townships in the southwest corner of Salt Lake County successfully completed this study to analyze potential solutions that would help minimize congestion, provide transit alternatives, and connect the bicycle network.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
The Creating Communities Guide: Planning Mixed-Use Centers
Friday, September 10, 2021, 1:40 PM
Envision Utah’s long-awaited guide to mixed-use centers is here! Learn more about the Creating Communities Guide and how to use it to creative vibrant places in your community. The guide is a resource for city councils, city planners and staff, mayors, and anyone looking to learn more about planning to preserve our quality of life. Our walk through of the guide will cover what centers are, how to implement them, and the benefits of centers from housing to transportation to open space.
Speaker(s)
Group Decisions
Friday, September 10, 2021, 2:35 PM
The dynamics of interacting with your fellow council or commission members, as you deliberate in front of the public.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
(Re)Introducing the Governors’ Office of Planning & Budget
Friday, September 10, 2021, 2:35 PM
During the 2021 legislative session, HB 326 re-introduced planning into the name of the Governor’s Office of Planning & Budget (formerly Governor’s Office of Management and Budget). The office will streamlined planning, budgeting, efficiency improvement, and economic functions as Utah grows, understanding that proactive planning leads to cost-effective investments into quality of life for future generations. This session will be a workshop format.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Bicycling Cities: Next Steps in Utah’s Bicycle Evolution
Friday, September 10, 2021, 2:35 PM
The cities you know as bike meccas had to create those conditions. Can communities in Utah achieve similar results? Utah’s obstacles to building bike infrastructure here are unique and will require customized strategies. Come join the roundtable to discuss key challenges and solutions. Let’s share and network.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Dr. Strangeportation or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Prepare for the Future
Friday, September 10, 2021, 2:35 PM
Transportation is changing, and so should our planning. Our the last year, Utah’s Unified Transportation Plan partners have been studying the external forces (for instance, telecommuting, autonomous vehicles, e-commerce, micromobility, and high-tech transit) that may significantly change our regional transportation systems and travel behavior. How will our travel change? What does this mean for our future plans and anticipated projects?
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
APA Utah Book Club: Introduction & Discussion of A City is Not a Tree: 50th Anniversary Edition
Friday, September 10, 2021, 3:30 PM
City planners across the country have been organizing and participating in book discussions on city planning and related literature for AICP certification maintenance (CM) credit. These educational events have provided lively group discussions, professional development, and socializing opportunities. Likewise, APA Utah recently selected A City is Not a Tree: 50th Anniversary Edition for review and discussion. Whether you have read this landmark critique of modern urban design or not, everyone is welcome to attend this session and be inspired by great ideas and friendly discussions.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Land Use Ethics for Planners
Friday, September 10, 2021, 3:30 PM
This session will explore real-world scenarios where those involved can discuss appropriate responses to ethical issues.
Speaker(s)
Welcome
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 1:00 PM
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Kanab: Adventure’s Base
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 1:10 PM
Kanab is at the center of the region with incredible places to hike and camp. Thus tourism is the biggest employer in Kane County and vital to the economy. I will provide a personal perspective of hikes in some of the spectacular places around Kanab, including Grand Canyon and the Kaibab Forest, Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks, Grand Staircase and Lake Powell, etc. Following this some of the planning issues Kanab has dealt with will be discussed, including night sky protection, regulating short-term rentals, Hwy 89 thru downtown, a western development theme, and related issues will be briefly covered.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Empowering Communities through the GNAR Initiative
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 1:50 PM
Now more than ever, “gateway” communities in Utah and the West are facing unprecedented challenges that threaten the qualities that make them such desirable places to live. In this session you will learn how the Gateway & Natural Amenity Region (GNAR) Initiative empowers western communities to thrive while preserving the things that make them special. You will see real examples of how communities have benefited from our education resources, capacity building tools, and our evidence-based research.
Speaker(s)
Assets
East Zions Inter-local Trail Success- Trail Planning and Resources for Rural Utah
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 1:50 PM
Utah is experiencing unprecedented legislative interest and support to fund trail projects throughout the State. How can your locality take advantage of these bolstered trail development programs? Speakers at this session will share exciting updates to existing funding programs and what this means for rural Utah. They will share their insights on how to leverage your localities strength to procure grant funding, from both state and federal sources.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Ethics Update
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 1:50 PM
Two years ago, the APA and AICP Boards appointed a Task Force to consider possible revisions to the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. The Code’s “Aspirational Principles” and “Rules of Conduct” have not been reviewed since 2005. The Ethical Principles in Planning have not been updated since 1992. Discussions are now occurring that the Code of Ethics (revisions pending) may apply to all planners, whether AICP members or not. The Task Force has now finalized Report and the 2022 Ethics update is now in effect. Revisions include items regarding equity and social justice, sexual harassment, discrimination, and other issues related to the use and interpretation of the Ethics Code(s). This session will review the updated ethics issues and how these changes will affect the ethical responsibilities and obligations of all planners.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Inclusive Planning: Connecting with Diverse Communities in Outreach and Public Engagement
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 2:45 PM
Utah’s growing diversity is a key contributor to the economic and social vibrancy of our cities and towns. Local governments and planning bodies are required to meet a minimum standard of public noticing and public engagement; but does the status quo unintentionally leave diverse voices out of planning conversations? What do we lose when this happens? Dr. Lucero will focus on the basics of inclusive public engagement – its benefits, challenges, design, and implementation. She will share insights from her community involvement and research in Cache County, and attendees will leave with actionable steps to more effectively engage diverse perspectives in the planning process.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Fast & Funny Planning Game
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 2:45 PM
Fast and Funny will connect you to peers around the State and expose the less glamorous aspects of land use planning. Come bond through shared suffering and laughter as contestants compete for fabulous prizes by sharing the infuriating, the outrageous, and the downright hilarious stories they’ve experienced in their planning careers. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll kiss 75 minutes goodbye. Crowdsource solutions to coping with public clamor, out-of-order officials, and poorly-prepared presenters.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Hindsight 20/20 2022
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 2:45 PM
We often hear the phrase “hindsight is 20/20”. As planners we regularly look 10-20 years into the future to do our work. This session will provide advice from urban counties on what they wish they would have known and/or done 20 years ago.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Disaster Resilience Project (THE BIG ONE)
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 3:45 PM
Utah’s natural climate and geography put it at a high risk of a major disaster disrupting the state’s economy and impacting the lives of millions. In fact, the Wasatch Fault has a 43% chance of experiencing a 6.75 or greater magnitude earthquake in the next 50 years, and experts project that such an event would be among the deadliest disasters in U.S. history. A major earthquake on the Wasatch Front would also leave hundreds of thousands of Utahns without shelter while interrupting power, water, sewer, and road service for most of the population—potentially for months.
Envision Utah, recognizing the gaps in resiliency, launched a disaster effort in 2020 to convene key stakeholders and determine the best strategies to improve Utah’s resiliency. During this effort, Envision Utah partnered with the Utah Seismic Safety Commission to present seismic recommendations during the 2022 Legislative Session to address the most urgent vulnerabilities.
During the APA Utah Spring Conference Session, Ryan Beck from Envision Utah will present the seismic risk and resiliency gaps in the Wasatch Front, an overview of the Envision Utah stakeholder process, legislative recommendations, and next steps to continue to improve resiliency in Utah.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Legal Considerations for Short-term Rentals
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 3:45 PM
Looking to regulate short-term rentals? We’ll talk about the changes to state statute made last year that affect regulating and enforcing violations for short-term rentals. We’ll also talk about what you can (or, really what you cannot) do about existing short-term rentals in your areas.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Book Club—Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, 3:45 PM
APA Utah has selected Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City by sociologist Matthew Desmond for our next Chapter Book Discussion. In Evicted, Desmond follows eight different families in Milwaukee who are struggling to keep a roof over their heads. This critical work on poverty, housing, and economic exploitation in America today highlights many factors all planners should understand. We look forward to hearing your thoughts and lessons learned from reading Evicted. For more information about the book, and additional resources on the topic, please visit https://www.evictedbook.com/.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Welcome/WM Smart Truck
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 8:00 AM
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
WM Smart Truck
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 8:15 AM
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Assets
No materials are available for this session
Destination Management: Rethinking the Role of Tourism
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 8:30 AM
Over the past decade Utah has become a premier destination for visitors, introducing new challenges and opportunities to communities across the state. Join a discussion on how the Utah Office of Tourism is working to build a sustainable tourism industry that benefits and preserves our state. Learn how the state is pursuing destination management and development, strategic partnerships, and other ways to keep Utah Forever Mighty®
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Networking Break
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 9:20 AM
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
The Vernal Downtown Plan—Modeling a Walkable Community that Celebrates Cultural Identity and Place
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 9:35 AM
Vernal’s Downtown Plan, recently completed in October 2021, focuses on thirteen blocks surrounding the intersection of Main St. (HWY 40) and Vernal Ave. (HWY 191). The City initiated this planning effort because although Vernal’s Downtown character is both historic and charming, there are many vacant storefronts and evenings are relatively quiet. Additionally, these two major road corridors are noisy and due to the large volume of semi-trucks, can feel unsafe. This plan identifies strategies that aim to draw visitors and residents into the downtown and out of their cars to shop, dine and socialize. Through extensive public engagement and coordination with UDOT, this plan incorporates the diverse feedback received into a conceptual plan, design guidelines and implementation strategy. This presentation will cover the nine-month design process and actions taken by the city following its completion. You will hear from members of the design team and Vernal’s City Manager.
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Assets
Land Use Training
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 9:35 AM
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
ADUs/IADUs in your Community
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 10:35 AM
Discussion of HB-82 for IADUs, and the mandates put in place by the state to address the lack of affordable housing. IADUs are a permitted use in residential zoning district. ADUs and the difference between the two types of units. What’s allowed and what’s not allowed, etc.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Lunch Keynote: Legislative Update
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 11:35 AM
2022 Legislative Update–The APA UT Legislative Committee co-chairs will bring you up to speed on the latest and greatest, real-time happenings in the 2022 legislative session.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Religious Land Use And Institutionalized Persons Act —What Planners Need to Know about RLUIPA
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 1:15 PM
The Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, commonly known by its acronym RLUIPA, is a federal law requiring local governments to implement land use regulations without (1) burdening the exercise of religion by religious institutions or (2) the rights of institutionalized persons. We’ll briefly review the Act while highlighting best practices and issues to look out for. This should be a brief, highly practical session.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Trail Planning and Resources for Rural Utah
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 1:15 PM
Utah is experiencing unprecedented legislative interest and support to fund trail projects throughout the State. How can your locality take advantage of these bolstered trail development programs? Speakers at this session will share exciting updates to existing funding programs and what this means for rural Utah. They will share their insights on how to leverage your localities strength to procure grant funding, from both state and federal sources.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Keeping the Momentum: Successes, Lessons Learned, and Next Steps for the Greater Zion Region
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 1:15 PM
Leaders in the Greater Zion area are tackling the challenges unique to their region by employing methods Utah planners, elected officials, and land managers can learn from. This session will focus on what happens after plans are made, hands are shook, and the ribbons are cut; it will focus on the grind of implementation. Speakers will use their experience working on the multiple initiatives underway in East Zion and the region beyond to illustrate the power of partnerships and collaboration to ensure a better future for their communities.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Tell Your City’s Story
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 1:55 PM
How historic preservation planning in your city can help cultivate a more sustainable community and benefit generations to come.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Ethics Update 2022
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 1:55 PM
Two years ago, the APA and AICP Boards appointed a Task Force to consider possible revisions to the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. The Code’s “Aspirational Principles” and “Rules of Conduct” have not been reviewed since 2005. The Ethical Principles in Planning have not been updated since 1992. Discussions are now occurring that the Code of Ethics (revisions pending) may apply to all planners, whether AICP members or not. The Task Force has now finalized Report and the 2022 Ethics update is now in effect. Revisions include items regarding equity and social justice, sexual harassment, discrimination, and other issues related to the use and interpretation of the Ethics Code(s). This session will review the updated ethics issues and how these changes will affect the ethical responsibilities and obligations of all planners.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Ethics Update 2022
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 1:55 PM
Two years ago, the APA and AICP Boards appointed a Task Force to consider possible revisions to the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. The Code’s “Aspirational Principles” and “Rules of Conduct” have not been reviewed since 2005. The Ethical Principles in Planning have not been updated since 1992. Discussions are now occurring that the Code of Ethics (revisions pending) may apply to all planners, whether AICP members or not. The Task Force has now finalized Report and the 2022 Ethics update is now in effect. Revisions include items regarding equity and social justice, sexual harassment, discrimination, and other issues related to the use and interpretation of the Ethics Code(s). This session will review the updated ethics issues and how these changes will affect the ethical responsibilities and obligations of all planners.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Golf Event—East Zion Golf Course
Thursday, March 24, 2022, 4:00 PM
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Welcome
Friday, March 25, 2022, 8:00 AM
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Where’s the Market Going and How Do We Adapt?
Friday, March 25, 2022, 8:15 AM
- A changing retail and office landscape
- Reconsidering highest and best use in a new environment
- Why economic development tools are more important now than ever
- Rethinking the approach to residential development
- Know your city – what data determines your decisions
Speaker(s)
Assets
Small Town Politics, When Public Safety Is On The Line
Friday, March 25, 2022, 9:25 AM
Come hear about lessons learned when trying to relocate a small town police station and jail from the basement of a 1939 fire station turned city hall. How did positive public sentiment get checked against financial conservatism and the proverbial band aid approach to maintaining facilities? How were the citizens engaged, alternatives assessed, process made transparent, and elected officials involved?
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
U.S. 89 Progressive Design Build’s Digital Stakeholder Engagement
Friday, March 25, 2022, 9:25 AM
The Utah Department of Transportation has set a high bar for public involvement and stakeholder outreach. UDOT’s U.S. 89 project communications team supported the department’s goal and raised the bar when we opened the gates of transparency and offered up an abundance of information through two digital engagement platforms: a PublicInput.com dashboard that hosted an online open house and a project-specific Facebook Group (6,100+ members strong as of December 2021). While digital engagement can be a critical tool to educate, inform, and collaborate with the public, the communications team was met with a spectrum of reactions, varying from frustration with a perceived lack of detail to praise for our unexpected transparency and willingness to incorporate public feedback. We will review our strategy, practice and results using multiple digital communication tactics and assess best practices, “hits” and “misses”, and engage the group in a lively discussion about perfecting the craft.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Sensitive Lands
Friday, March 25, 2022, 9:25 AM
Why so sensitive? While some would argue that natural landscapes (like people) also have feelings, sensitive lands actually refer to areas where we should consider modifying or avoiding development in order to protect public health, safety, and welfare. If sensitive lands have you down, then this session is for you! Attendees will leave with a framework for understanding what sensitive lands are and why they should be protected as well as examples of “sensitive lands success” from across the state. Don’t cry, just try to be sensitive.
Speaker(s)
Assets
Utah Water Challenges in the Age of Extreme Weather
Friday, March 25, 2022, 10:15 AM
This panel presentation will explore the increasingly important role that water planning has on communities – from the perspective of a scientist, local government and from the state. Seth Arens will discuss the two ends of hydrologic extremes in Utah, drought and flooding, which were both present in near-record forms during 2021, and projections of what to expect in the future. Laura Hanson will discuss the state’s long-term planning approach to help mitigate these extremes. And Mayor Rosenberg will discuss strategies and actions that can be taken within the local government to better prepare cities to navigate challenges of drought and flooding.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Planning for Public Land Access and Responsible Stewardship
Friday, March 25, 2022, 10:15 AM
Utah’s Public Land Policy Coordinating Office will discuss the updates to the State and County Resource Management Plans and will provide an overview of the Access Map 360° web application that highlights roads that provide access to Utah’s public lands.
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Annexation—State Law
Friday, March 25, 2022, 10:15 AM
State Law (handout of steps), Heber and Herriman examples stressing the ability to negotiate while in an annexation process through a development agreement
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Looking Forward: The Rural Landscape in 2032
Friday, March 25, 2022, 11:10 AM
To be “rural” means different things to different people. Likewise, to be a “planner” means a lot of different things to different people. One common identifier is that planners look ahead. The purpose of this session is to gather planners that work with rural issues (that’s you) for an interactive discussion (with you) on what rural Utah will look like in the next 10 years, and what we can do now to maximize its positive potential. Rural Community Consultants will moderate the session, and it will only be as inspirational, informative, and as irreverent as you make it. There might be a t-shirt cannon.
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Assets
Circling the Drain: Addressing Utah’s Critical Water and Energy Challenges
Friday, March 25, 2022, 11:10 AM
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
Keynote: Alan Matheson
Thursday, September 08, 2022, 9:00 AM
Join us for a discussion about the development of nearly 700 acres of state-owned property called ‘The Point’. Widely recognized as one of the most important economic development opportunities in state history, The Point offers unprecedented potential to create an innovation hub that fosters technological advancement, facilitates mixed-use urban areas and preserves parks and open space.
Speaker(s)
Assets
No materials are available for this session
The Mayor’s Perspective
Thursday, September 08, 2022, 10:00 AM
Maintaining Community Character: The cities of Bluffdale, Draper, and Lehi – located along the rapidly growing at the Point of the Mountain – have a rich historical character. The pressures of growth can wear at that fabric if not addressed. Hear what these communities are doing to maintain and evolve community character and make connections between the old and new residents of their towns – from the perspectives of their Mayors. A panel of mayors from these cities will present their perspectives.
