The Summit County Council recently held a public hearing regarding a $99 million transportation bond aimed at funding improvements in the Snyderville Basin. During the hearing, only one resident, Nicholas Schapper, voiced concerns about the bond's implications. He emphasized the need for careful planning to ensure that the funds do not inadvertently support infrastructure for Dakota Pacific Real Estate's future development in Kimball Junction. Schapper, while not opposing the bond, expressed apprehension about what he described as a lack of regulations on how the funds will be utilized. He pointed out that the bond does not address the primary traffic issues affecting access to Park City, which he attributed to the Utah Department of Transportation's responsibilities. Schapper urged the County Council to focus on the long-term needs of residents rather than short-term solutions related to the upcoming 2034 Winter Games. County Council Chair Tonja Hanson acknowledged Schapper's concerns, indicating that she perceives the bond as a means to enhance infrastructure for the entire Snyderville Basin, rather than merely preparing for the Olympics. The bond was initially proposed by County Manager Shayne Scott as part of the future planning for the Winter Olympics. In November, the County Council discussed and authorized the bond alongside a new sales tax recommended by Scott. Although the bond has already received approval, the public hearing was necessary for the legal process of issuing the bonds and securing funding. The bond is intended to cover transportation improvements, while the new sales tax will be allocated to repay the county's debt over a 21-year period. The Impacted Communities Taxes Act, established by the state Legislature in 2015, aims to provide financial support to resort municipalities facing increased infrastructure demands due to tourism. Summit County staff have advocated for amendments to allow the tax to be implemented at the county level, a request granted earlier this year. County Councilor Chris Robinson noted his long-standing support for this type of tax, highlighting its potential to generate revenue without imposing an additional burden on local taxpayers. The updated statute allows for a sales tax of up to 1.1% on purchases in unincorporated Summit County, with the revenue designated for transportation projects. The tax is projected to generate approximately $17 million annually and is expected to take effect in mid-February. Exemptions include certain food items, prescription medications, and gasoline. With the new tax, Summit County's total sales tax rate will be around 8.75%, which is lower than Park City's rate of 9.55%. The implementation reflects a broader strategy to enhance the county's infrastructure in light of its tourism-driven economy.