is GRANITE
CITY
FEASIBLE?
Let's find out!
Granite City is one possibility for the
Granite Community. Nestled in and around the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, the Granite Community has a rich history that dates back to the 1850s. For over a century, it was an independent community that thrived on its own. However, in the 1970s, suburban development reached the area, and any new development was annexed into Sandy City.
Today, a number of historic Granite neighborhoods still exist as islands of unincorporated Salt Lake County, preserving the unique character and charm of historic Granite. The community boasts an estimated 550-575 homes and a population between 1250 and 1500, making it a close-knit and welcoming place to call home. But Granite is on the verge of a major change.
In 2024, House Bill 330 was passed. This bill mandates that all of unincorporated Granite will be annexed into Sandy by July 1,2027 unless the unincorporated Granite Community is incorporated into a new city, Granite City.
Why this matters now
Residents have concerns over what this means for the long loved rural feel and want to make sure that Granite retains its historic charm; remaining a place to enjoy nature and experience the equine & farming culture that's defined the area's history.
Right now residents hold the power to shape the destiny of Granite, whether it involves annexation into neighboring areas or preserving our distinct identity as Granite City. Transparency and feasibility are key factors in enabling residents to make informed choices for their city's future.
The feasibility of incorporating Granite City is determined by a study that will explore the community's financial fitness to be an independent municipality. If incorporation is possible the unincorporated Granite islands can then decide if incorporation is the right option for them.
THE STUDY REQUIREMENTS
To conduct a feasibility study three things are required:
1: Maps of the unincorporated areas
2: Filing appropriate paperwork
3: Community signatures
Feasibility Timeline
Aug 2024- Dec 2024
Fundraising, Hosting info sessions for neighbors
Raise funds for official surveys & maps, lawyers fees, paperwork filing costs, website admin, raising awareness and gathering public opinion. Fundraising goal is $40k for professional services.
Jan 2024- March 2025
Complete Surveys
Gather Signatures
Maps of the islands proposing to be incorporated are created. Campaigning for community signatures kicks off.
March 2025- May 2025
Submit Paperwork to State
Feasibility study for Granite City submitted to the State for review.
If incorporation is feasible and desired...
We prepare a petition to hold an election in 2026 for our first city officials.
If incorporation is not possible...
The unincorporated islands of Granite Community will be annexed into Sandy City July 1, 2027. For those residents who do not wish to be annexed at this time there is an option to disconnect from Sandy.
Possible impacts of annexation
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higher density housing. Sandy Code Sec.21-20-3
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zoning changes that result in loss of livestock rights, Sandy Code Sec.21-20-1
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property loss to public domain -sidewalks, curb cuts, gutters, street lights, Sandy Code Sec.21-2-23
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restrictions on home-based business operations, Sandy Code Sec.21-7-2, see "home occupation"
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loss of rural feel due to encroaching development encouraged by zoning changes
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changes to local native environment
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increased light/noise pollution and traffic
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loss of wildlife
BENEFITS OF INCORPORATION
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larger voice in a smaller community (one voice in 1,500 vs one in 90,000)
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ability to create flexible zoning
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control over land use
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control over community spending
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control over municipal services
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preservation of historic feel
