Avenues CERT Committee hosts emergency preparedness events and trains committee members to respond in our neighborhood in case of an emergency.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

Dear Emergency Preparedness Volunteers,

——————————–
Announcing a GACC CERT Spring Exercise
——————————–

Join us on Thursday, April 23rd from 6pm to 8pm for a CERT exercise organized by the Greater Avenues Community Council CERT committee.  It will be at the SLC Sweet Branch Library (455 F St Salt Lake City). The exercise is open to all who are CERT trained and to those who are interested in becoming CERT trained.  Topics include a disaster first-aid refresher, an introduction to shelter mangement by the Red Cross, and a presentation on grab-and-go-bags.

——————————–
Volunteering
——————————–

If you would like to hear about volunteer opportunities and events,
some related to emergency management, the Salt Lake City Office of
Emergency Management is encouraging volunteers to sign up with the
“Give Pulse” app.

There are two lists.  One is public
(https://www.givepulse.com/group/915921-Salt-Lake-City-Emergency-Management)
for events such as a stop-the-bleed classes, which are taking place
this month.  List membership is self-serve.

The other list
(https://www.givepulse.com/group/915929-Salt-Lake-City-CERT) is for
individuals who are CERT trained.  That one requires an account and
login.

Thanks,

Carleton DeTar
GACC CERT coordinator
detar@physics.utah.edu

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Hi Neighbors,
Can you believe how warm it has been this year? With the lack of snow and rain so far this season, I’m becoming increasingly concerned about fire risk in our area. Please take time to prepare your home and make sure you have a plan in place in case of a fire. You can also schedule a home assessment with our Fire Department—they are happy to help residents reduce fire risk and stay prepared.  fire.slc.gov/wildland/

Next month the Mayor will present her proposed budget to the Council. I encourage you to keep an eye out for that presentation and share your thoughts or feedback with me.  https://www.slc.gov/Finance/budget/

 Join me April 28th for my next Spill the Tea in District 3 event, at Cucina Deli, 1026 E 2nd Avenue, no RSVP, just show up with your questions and concerns!   Tuesday, April 28, 5:30 p.m to 7:00 p.m.     *Food and drinks will be able for purchase. 

April 28  5:30 – 7 p.m. Cucina* (1026 E 2nd Ave) *Drinks and food will be available for purchase.

Thank you for being part of this community, Chris Wharton  District 3 Council Member  801-535-7726

Stay safe, District 3, and thank you all so much!

Chris Wharton
chris.wharton@slc.gov, or
city.council.liaisons@slc.gov

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

BYLAWS OF THE GREATER AVENUES COMMUNITY COUNCIL

The current bylaws of the Council are shown below. This is our latest revision, voted in at our community meeting held January 7, 2026. 

The Bylaws govern how the council conducts business, holds meetings, uses funds, authorizes committees to act, elects its officers and board members, and who can vote and how. Contact gaccchair@slc-avenues.org with any questions about these Bylaws. The Bylaws are reviewed frequently, changes are proposed, language worked on by the Bylaws and Standard Operating Procedures Committee, and presented for a vote by the entire GACC community.

See the Bylaws in PDF format HERE and in text format below.

BYLAWS OF THE GREATER AVENUES COMMUNITY COUNCIL

Article I

Name and Purpose

1.1. The name of this organization is Greater Avenues Community Council, which will be referred to in these Bylaws as the Council.

1.2. The mission of the Greater Avenues Community Council is to work together to create a strong, vibrant, and informed community.

1.3. The objectives of the Council are:

1.3.1. Provide a forum to discuss issues of mutual concern.

1.3.2. Establish working groups / Committees to facilitate issue resolution.

1.3.3. Promote activities that enhance and enrich the community, and make improvements to the community to protect the unique character of the Avenues.

1.3.4. Provide and expand communication links with governmental, civic, and community organizations.

1.3.5. Provide benefit to the Greater Avenues Community with the use of Council funds.

1.4. The Council may take actions or positions that impact the Greater Avenues Community and fall under the above objectives.

Article II

Boundaries

2.1. The boundaries of the Council are defined as: Beginning at the northeast corner of South Temple and State Street; proceeding north on State Street to the intersection of North Temple and Second Avenue; then east to Canyon Road; then north along Canyon Road, including all residences accessible from Canyon Road, and continuing northeasterly along the southeast ridge of City Creek Canyon to the eastern Salt Lake City limits; then south to the University of Utah boundary; then south and west along North Campus Drive to the southwest corner of North Campus Drive and 100 South; then west to University Street; then north to South Temple Street; then west to the point of beginning, excluding all the homes on the south side of South Temple.

Article III

Membership

3.1. Membership shall be open to any person 16 years of age or older who is a resident, property owner, or owner of a licensed business operating in the Council boundaries.

3.2. A person shall cease to be a member of the Council if that person

3.2.1. Resigns in writing from the Council.

3.2.2. Ceases to meet the criteria of Section 3.1.

3.3. No person meeting the requirements of 3.1 shall be denied membership or office in the Council on the basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, gender, gender identity, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical limitation, race, religion or sexual orientation.

3.4. Participation in the Council is voluntary.

3.4.1. No member of the Council shall receive compensation for their volunteer service.

Article IV

Meetings and Voting

4.1. The Council shall hold a community meeting monthly, which will be referred to in these Bylaws as Community Meeting.

4.1.1. At the discretion of the Board a monthly Community Meeting may be canceled or rescheduled.

4.2. All Council and Board meetings will be conducted in accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order, or other special rules adopted by the Board.

4.3. To the extent that it is financially feasible and approved in the Council annual budget, the Council shall mail a notice and agenda of each Community meeting to every residence and business with a U.S. Postal Service address located within the Council boundary.

4.4. Special Meetings of the Council may be held at any time, at a time and place designated by the Chair. The Chair shall announce the Special Meeting giving the members at least one week notice of the date, time, place, and purpose of the Special Meeting.

4.5. Members of the Council present, in person or virtually, at any Community Meeting shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

4.6. Members of the Board present, in person or virtually, at any Board Meeting shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

4.7. All matters coming before any meeting of the Council shall be determined by a majority of the votes cast by members present at that meeting. Email and Proxy voting is not allowed.

4.8. No matter coming before the Community Meeting shall be acted upon with a vote unless adequate notice is given.

4.8.1. The Council defines adequate notice and discussion for voting as:

4.8.1.1. a notice of the issue appeared in the agenda of a prior Community Meeting; and
4.8.1.2. an open discussion on the issue occurred during that prior meeting; and
4.8.1.3. a notice of the issue appears in the agenda of the current meeting in which the voting action is to take place; and
4.8.1.4. the vote is held during the current meeting.

4.8.2. Exceptions to the requirement for adequate notice and discussion for a vote include those matters of interest to the community which are of an emergency nature, or for which a deadline has been imposed requiring expedited action by the Council. Such exceptions shall be approved by a majority vote of the Board.

4.9. The agenda for the monthly Community Meetings of the Council shall provide time for matters as the Chair or the Board deems appropriate, and an Open Forum during which brief comments from the floor will be accepted.

4.9.1. Any member of the Council may propose topics for the agenda by presenting that topic to the Board at their monthly Board Meeting or by presenting it from the floor during a Community Meeting Open Forum.

4.10. The Chair shall preside at all meetings of the Council. In the absence of the Chair, the Chair-elect shall preside and, in the absence of both the Chair and Chair-elect, the presiding officer shall be appointed by the Chair. If the designated presiding officer fails to appear, the presiding officer for that meeting shall be selected by a majority of the members present.

Article V
Officers and Executive Board

5.1. The Officers of the Council shall be the Chair, the Chair-elect, the Immediate Past Chair, the Treasurer, and the Secretary–collectively known as the Executive Board.

5.1.1. The Executive Board members are not elected on a platform. Their role is to reflect the will of the Council, and to implement the decisions of the Council and the Board.

5.2. Chair

5.2.1. The Chair shall preside at all meetings of the Council and of the Board.

5.2.2. The Chair, in cooperation with the Board, shall plan and supervise the activities of the Council to further the mission.

5.2.3. The Chair shall implement decisions of the Council and the Board.

5.2.4. The Chair shall keep the Council and the Board informed of actions taken on behalf of the Council between monthly meetings.

5.2.5. The Chair shall represent the Council in meetings with Government and Civic Organizations, and the media. This responsibility may be delegated to committee chairs or Board members as deemed appropriate by the Chair.

5.3. Chair-Elect

5.3.1. The term of the Chair-elect is a three year commitment: the first as Chair-elect, the second as Chair and the third as the Immediate Past Chair.

5.3.2. If the Chair-elect fails to meet the participation requirements in accordance with Section 5.8, they may be prohibited from advancing to the position of Chair or serving as an officer or Board member during their second year.

5.3.3. The Chair-elect shall assist the Chair in the performance of the Chair’s duties to the extent the Chair requests.

5.3.4. In the absence of the Chair, the Chair-elect shall perform the Chair’s duties.

5.3.5. Chair-elect shall be responsible to ensure compliance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the Council.

5.4. Immediate Past Chair

5.4.1. The Immediate Past Chair shall serve as advisor to the Chair.

5.4.2. The Immediate Past Chair or designee appointed by the Chair shall serve as Parliamentarian during monthly Council and Board meetings.

5.4.3. The Immediate Past Chair shall chair the Nominating Committee as defined in Article IX.

5.4.4. The Immediate Past Chair shall chair the Bylaws Committee consisting of Board Members to review, and if needed, propose updates to the Bylaws and SOPs.

5.5. Treasurer

5.5.1. The Treasurer shall administer the funds of the Council in accordance with Article X of these Bylaws and be answerable to the Board and Council.

5.5.2. The Treasurer shall chair the Finance Committee.

5.6. Secretary

5.6.1. The Secretary shall keep a true record of the proceedings of all Community and Board meetings. Community meeting records shall be made available to the public.

5.6.2. The Secretary shall retain a record of attendance of Board members and elected officers at all Community Council and Board meetings.

5.7. The Chair, Chair-elect, Immediate Past Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary shall serve one-year terms, beginning at the adjournment of the December Community Meeting following the November elections, and ending at the adjournment of the December Community Meeting one year later.

5.7.1. If a vacancy occurs in the office of Chair, the Chair-elect shall become Chair for the balance of the vacated term and shall then serve the regular term as Chair.

5.7.2. If there is not a Chair-elect to fill such vacancy, the Board shall appoint a Chair Pro Tem to fill the unexpired term of the Chair.

5.7.3. If a vacancy occurs in the offices of Immediate Past Chair, Treasurer or Secretary, the Board shall appoint a Council member to fill the unexpired term of that officer.

5.8. Any officer who fails to attend a minimum of 50% of the regular monthly Council and Board meetings during their term shall not be considered active, and will not be eligible for nomination to any office or to the Board at the next annual election unless the Board votes to reinstate them.

Article VI

Board

6.1. The Board shall consist of the elected officers of the Council and ideally a member from each of the nine Avenues Districts:

6.1.1. Canyon Road / West Avenues
6.1.2. Ensign LDS Hospital
6.1.3. Northcrest
6.1.4. Midwest Avenues
6.1.5. Mideast Avenues
6.1.6. Lindsey Gardens
6.1.7. Eastern Avenues
6.1.8. Federal Heights
6.1.9. Arlington Hills

6.2. The members of the Board shall be elected at the November meeting as provided in Article IX of these Bylaws.

6.2.1. Board members are not elected on a platform. Their role is to reflect the will of the Council and to implement the decisions of the Council and the Board.

6.2.2. In the event sufficient volunteers do not come forward to serve, the Board is nonetheless empowered to conduct the business of the Council, as herein provided, as fully as if all districts were properly represented.

6.2.3. If the Board falls below six members, the Board may appoint Council Members to fill up to three positions until the following annual election. Those changes to the Board shall be reported at the next scheduled Community Meeting.

6.2.4. If during the year any of the Council areas are not represented by a voting Board member, the Board may present for a Council vote the name of a person willing to serve as a voting member representing that area. Upon a majority vote at any Community Meeting at which such a vote has been noticed in the Agenda for that meeting, the candidate shall be considered a full voting member of the Board of the GACC, and said candidate shall be subject to the attendance provisions of Section
6.6 of these Bylaws to be considered for re-election at the next regularly scheduled elections.

6.3. The Board shall direct the affairs of the Council by:

6.3.1. Establishing and adhering to Council SOPs.

6.3.2. Setting the Council’s monthly meeting agenda.

6.3.3. Providing informal input and feedback to those who seek to bring matters before the Council.

6.3.4. Otherwise acting as expressly provided in these Bylaws.

6.4. The Board shall hold at least one regular monthly meeting, at a time and place designated by the Board, and may meet at other times at the call of the Chair. The Chair shall give the members of the Board reasonable notice of any meeting. Board meetings are open to any member of the Council but voting is restricted to elected Board members.

6.5. All matters before the Board shall be determined by a majority vote of the members of the Board present, in person or virtually, at the meeting with neither absentee nor proxy voting allowed.

6.6. If a member of the Board fails to attend a minimum of 50% of the regular monthly Council and Board meetings during their term, the member shall not be considered active and will not be eligible for nomination to the Board or other elected office at the next annual election unless the Board votes to reinstate them.

Article VII

Emeritus Members

7.1. Emeritus status may be granted by Board vote to those who have served on the Board. Those being granted emeritus status will be included in Board communications and welcomed at Board and committee meetings to provide counsel and historical context.

7.2. Emerita will be non-voting members of the Board.

7.3. Emerita may not chair committees but may serve on committees.

7.4. Emerita may request to rejoin the Board as voting members during the next regular Board election cycle.

Article VIII

Committees

8.1. The Chair, with the approval of the Board, may establish or dissolve committees of two types:

8.1.1. Standing Committees, to address general or long-term issues. Standing Committees exist until specifically dissolved.

8.1.2. Ad hoc Committees, to address specific or short-term issues. Ad hoc Committees are automatically dissolved on their one year anniversary unless specifically renewed by the Chair or Board.

8.2. The Chair has discretion to appoint the chairperson and members of any committee except as provided in Section 9.1. The appointment of committee members may be delegated to the chairperson of that committee. The appointments of committee chairpersons and members are subject to confirmation or change by the Chair annually.

8.2.1. Committee chairpersons shall be members of the Board.

8.2.2. If during the year any of the committees are not chaired by a voting Board member, the Board may present for a Community vote the name of a person willing to serve as a voting Board member. Upon a majority vote at any Community Meeting at which such a vote has been noticed in the Agenda for that meeting, the candidate shall be considered a full voting member of the Board of the GACC, and said candidate shall be subject to the attendance provisions of Section 6.6 of these Bylaws to be considered for re-election at the next regularly scheduled elections.

8.3. Newly created or disbanded committees shall be announced to the Community.

8.4. The Council shall publish and maintain a current list of its committees and committee membership.

8.5. Each committee shall prepare a short report of the committee’s activities at least once per year for the Community. The method and timing of the report is up to the discretion of the Chair.

8.6. Committees shall direct their affairs under the Objectives of the Council in Sections 1.3 and
1.4. Therefore, committee chairs and committee members shall not act independently of these objectives.

8.7. Committee chairs and committee members shall not speak on behalf of the Council without prior authorization.

8.7.1. Prior authorization may be granted by the Board or the Chair.

Article IX

Nominations and Elections

9.1. A Nominating Committee will be presented by the Chair at the September Community Meeting and shall consist of the Immediate Past Chair and three members of the Council who are appointed by the Chair. If the Immediate Past Chair is unavailable, another Past Chair that is willing to serve may be selected. The Immediate Past Chair shall be ex officio chairperson of the Nominating Committee. No present officer shall be appointed to the committee and no member of the committee may be chosen by it as a candidate for election as an officer. The committee shall prepare a slate of candidates for the November election by:

9.1.1. Researching the Council membership for individuals with interest and qualifications to serve.

9.1.2. Verifying the residency and participation requirements of the candidates.

9.1.3. Confirming the willingness of the candidate to serve.

9.2. The agenda for the October meeting will announce that further nominations will be sought from the floor by the Nominating Committee. At the October Community Meeting, the Chair of the Nominating Committee, or their designated representative, shall announce a tentative slate of candidates and invite Council members to submit additional nominations from the floor. No nomination from the floor may proceed unless the nominated individual is present, agrees to the nomination and meets eligibility requirements. The committee is responsible for verifying the eligibility of all candidates prior to the November election.

9.3. One or more candidates may be nominated for each position to be filled by election. Currently serving Board members, the Secretary and the Treasurer may be re-nominated if they have been active in that capacity as set forth in Sections 5.7 and 6.6.

9.4. The office of Chair and Treasurer, being critical to the continuity of on-going activities and the long-term leadership of the Council, requires candidates for Chair-elect and Treasurer have a demonstrated history of involvement with the Council.

9.4.1. Involvement is demonstrated through:

9.4.1.1. membership on the Board; or
9.4.1.2. participation in any of the Council committees; or
9.4.1.3. demonstrated participation by attending Community meetings for six of the past eight

9.5. In the event a suitable candidate for any office has not stepped forward, the Committee may nominate a candidate who has not met all the attendance criteria for nomination which are set forth in these Bylaws.

9.6. If the Chair-elect is ineligible to assume the office of Chair in accordance with Section 5.3.2, the Nominating Committee shall nominate candidates for both Chair and Chair-elect. Both offices shall then be voted on in November and both winning candidates will assume office at the end of the December Community Meeting.

9.7. An election shall be held at the November Community Meeting. The Chair of the Nominating Committee, or their designated representative, shall present the nominees for all positions to be filled by election. No further nominations will be accepted at the November meeting.

9.8. If more than one candidate is nominated for any of the positions to be filled, the election for that position shall be by written ballot and in accordance with Article IV. An immediate run-off election to choose between the two leading candidates shall be held if a majority vote is not initially obtained by any candidate.

Article X

Financial Management

10.1. Ultimate control and responsibility for management of the assets of the Council rests with the members of the Council. The assets of the Council shall be managed with a view to achieving the objectives set out in Section 1.3 of these Bylaws.

10.2. The Council shall not incur any debt or liability, or any combination of debts or liabilities, exceeding the net assets of the Council.

10.3. The Treasurer shall pay or reimburse all budgeted expenses incurred in the normal operation of the Council as they may become due.

10.4. The Board may authorize expenditures by a majority vote less than or equal to $500.00. Authorizing votes will be equal to one vote per Council district. The Chair shall not vote except to break a tie.

10.5. Requests for approval of Extraordinary Expenses shall be presented to the Board and subject to Board approval.

10.5.1. Extraordinary Expenses are those which may arise from time to time outside the regular operation of the Council, which are not reflected in the Council budget and are greater than $500.00.

10.5.2. The Board shall place on the Community Meeting agenda, according to Section 4.8, any Extraordinary Expenses for approval by a majority vote of Council members in attendance.

10.6. The Finance Committee of the Greater Avenues Community Council shall consist of the Treasurer and at least three Board Members appointed by the Chair.

10.7. Prior to a new year, the Treasurer shall prepare and seek approval for the proposed budget for the upcoming calendar year.

10.7.1. In November, the Treasurer shall present, and be prepared to discuss for Board approval.

10.7.2. In December, the Treasurer shall present, and be prepared to discuss for Council approval.

10.8. The Treasurer shall prepare and seek approval for an accounting of the preceding calendar year finances.

10.8.1. In January, the Treasurer shall present to the Board.

10.8.2. In February the Treasurer shall present to the Council.

10.9. The Treasurer, in coordination with the Finance Committee, shall prepare timely annual filings critical to the continuity of Council operations.

10.9.1. To ensure the Council’s ongoing status as a Recognized Community Organization (RCO) with the city and as a non-profit with the state.

10.9.2. To ensure applicable tax filings with the state and federal governments.

10.9.3. To ensure necessary insurance policies are maintained.

Article XI

Amendments

11.1. Bylaw Amendments shall be presented to and approved by the Board before being presented to the Council where they must be approved by a majority vote subject to Article IV.

11.2. Bylaws were adopted on October 11, 1995. Final draft incorporates changes made 10/11/95. AFC

First Amendment approved on (date unavailable) Second Amendment approved on February 4, 1998
Third Amendment approved on July 9, 1999 (Section 5.1) JCS Fourth Amendment approved on October 6, 1999 (Section 7.1) JCS Fifth Amendment approved May 4, 2005 WFG
Sixth Amendment (Section 2.3) approved August 2, 2006 WFG
Seventh Amendment (Sections 5.2.1 and 5.3.1) approved February 1, 2012 GRS First Revision approved October 1, 2014 MAW
Eighth Amendment (Section 3.5) approved January 6, 2021 DA

Second Revision approved January 7 2026 SKM

See the 2026 Bylaws in PDF format HERE. 

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Utah Legislators representing the Avenues

Our Utah Legislators representing the Avenues

Sen. Jenn Plumb

Senator Jen Plumb

Mobile: 801-870-0228
Home: 801-870-0228
Address: 350 State St., #320, Salt Lake City, UT, 84114
Email: jplumb@le.utah.gov

,

The 2026 Utah Legislative Session was a challenging one, and I’m proud of the work we did to protect our communities and push for thoughtful, evidence-based policy. This session, I was honored to pass thir- teen pieces of legislation, including advancing pediatric emergency readiness in ER settings, strengthening dyslexia screening in schools, expanding vitamin K education to protect newborns, and ending abusive non-compete clauses in veterinary medicine to improve access to animal care and protect the workforce. I also passed legislation establishing a Recovery Ready Workplace initiative, and initiated a Purple Alert system to help communities respond when vulnerable Utahns go missing. It is an honor to represent Senate District 9, and I remain committed to building a healthier, more equitable, and more just Utah for all.
–Sen. Jenn Plumb

Senator Todd Weiler

Senator Todd Weiler

Mobile: 801-599-9823
Address: 1248 W 1900 S, Woods Cross, UT, 8408
Email: tweiler@le.utah.gov

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. This year in the Utah legislature, I was able to pass 21 Senate bills as well as another 16 House bills that I co-sponsored. We focused on key issues including protecting the Great Salt Lake, strengthening safeguards for children and supporting student success. We took meaningful steps to protect the Great Salt Lake by finalizing a major land agreement through H.J.R. 30, securing long-term protections, public access and Utah’s mineral rights. Education remained a top priority, with nearly $300 million in new funding to support students, teachers and classrooms.
–Sen. Todd Weiler

Rep. Jennifer Dailey-Provost

Rep. Jennifer Dailey-Provost

Phone: 385-321-7827
Address: 350 N State Street, Suite 350, SALT LAKE CITY, UT, 84114
Email: jdprovost@le.utah.gov

The 2026 Utah General Legislative Session brought a mix of progress and ongoing challenges for our state. As lawmakers, we debated critical issues such as public education funding, Medicaid expansion, and environmental protection. While this session felt slightly less contentious than the past few years, many justifiably feel that the legislature fell short in addressing our water crisis, environmental quality, and protecting voting access. On social issues, the session saw continued contentious debates over LGBTQ+ and immigrant rights, with many community members pushing back against restrictive, mean-spirited measures. Despite these setbacks, grassroots activism and public engagement continues to grow stronger, setting the stage for change in the coming months. Overall, the session highlighted the importance of continued advocacy to ensure that the voices of all Utahns are heard and reflected in future policy making.
–Rep. Jennifer Dailey-Provost

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Your Greater Avenues Community Council is paying attention to things happening in our neighborhood and around the City, County and State to bring you the latest information on issues of public concern.

This page is also intended bring you opportunities for your own civic engagement.

You can help make a difference by getting involved!  

Civic engagement is individual and collective action designed to identify and address issues of public concern. 

Civic engagement can take many forms, from individual volunteering, organizational involvement and electoral participation.

The Avenues Civic Engagement Committee encourages Avenues residents to be informed, learn about the issues, let our elected officials know your thoughts, and to vote!

We invite you to attend a 2026 Legislative Preview organized by the Westside Coalition at the Fairpark, Tuesday, January 6th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.

                                                             

We invite you to attend a 2026 Legislative Preview at the GACC Community Meeting on January 7th, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Avenues Library, 455 N F Street. 

During the meeting we will hear from our Utah Legislators representing the Avenues:  Sen. Jenn Plumb, Sen. Todd Weiler and House Rep. Jennifer Dailey-Provost.

Contact them or see their sponsored legislation at these links:

jplumb@le.utah.gov, https://senate.utah.gov/sen/PLUMBJ/

tweiler@le.utah.gov,  https://senate.utah.gov/sen/WEILET/ 

jdprovost@le.utah.gov, https://house.utleg.gov/rep/DAILEJ/

Bring your questions to the meeting on Jan. 7! 

Participate in the Election Process

Check your voter registration HERE  

See the latest election results HERE

Downtown Entertainment District and Saving Abravanel Hall

What to know, What to do

The City Council voted on July 9th unanimously to accept the proposed project. The next step is a state committee review for approval before the agreement can be finalized. If the agreement is finalized, the City Council will vote later this year on whether to approve a 0.5% sales tax increase and proposed zoning changes to accommodate the plan’s development. Let your council member know your thoughts by email to chris.wharton@slcgov.com or call 801-535-7726.

Read the Proposed Agreement between SLC and the Smith Entertainment Group.

See a comprehensive look at what’s at stake for downtown Salt Lake City in this Dennis Romboy Article in Deseret News

See a recap of the July 9th City Council meeting in this KSL article by Carter Williams

See a Tribune Article by Jordan Miller about the recently formed State Committee reviewing the Agreement.

Announcing The Rio Grande Plan

What is the Rio Grande Plan?    See More HERE

The Rio Grande Plan is a citizen led initiative to take the railroad tracks on the west side of downtown and put them underground. The goal is to eliminate eight at-grade street level  crossings throughout downtown Salt Lake City, which will reconnect the east and west sides of the city, improve resident safety, and make the city easier to navigate.

The Rio Grande Plan has the additional benefit of allowing the reuse and revitalization of the 114-year-old Rio Grande Depot making it the new central shared transit station for Amtrak, Frontrunner, TRAX, and buses.

The Rio Grande Plan also reimagines 125 acres of previously underutilized downtown land. This will reinvigorate the Depot District by removing barriers, make the city more bike and pedestrian friendly by integrating the Green Loop post RGP construction, and allow citizens from all over the state to fully enjoy the city.

If you have any questions or suggestions for the Avenues Civic Engagement committee, please email civicengagement@slc-avenues.org 

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS ADDS AVENUES UNIT

Meeting the 3rd Thursday of every month

The Salt Lake League of Women Voters has formed a new Avenues unit that meets the third Thursday of every month at 4:30 p.m. at the Avenues library, 455 F Street. All are welcome! The March meeting was Thursday, Mar. 19 at 4:30 p.m.

For more information please contact: Jeanine Kuhn-Coker at jkuhncoker@gmail.com or at (801) 808-5097.  

To see all we are doing please visit https://www.lwvsl.org/

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Service Committee Members

Paul Walton, Chair, Lori Galindo, Kirstin Burdge, Amanda Blair, Jenn Beck, Steve Miller

Current Service Opportunities we are working on:

• 1. Promote signups for Volunteers for the October 10th Avenues Street Fair

• 2. Fund school lunches for Ensign Elementary School students:
• Dear Friends and Community Members,
• Many students in the Salt Lake City School District have unpaid lunch balances. Even small debts can place a significant burden on families, creating unnecessary stress and hardship.
  Our district is committed to feeding every child, regardless of their ability to pay. While this ensures no child goes hungry, it also places a substantial financial strain on our schools. We are relying on the strength of our community to step in.
  I invite you to join this important effort to reduce and eliminate lunch debt in the Salt Lake City School District. Whether you choose to make a personal donation or a contribution through your business or organization, every dollar truly matters.
  How You Can Help:
  · Donate directly: https://ensign.slcschools.org/make-a-donation
  · Spread the word: Share this initiative with your friends, family, and coworkers.
  · Sponsor a child or a classroom: We can help coordinate your donation to support a specific school or number of students.
  If you have any questions or are interested in getting involved in other ways, please don’t hesitate to reach out. The Salt Lake Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting all schools within the Salt Lake City School District. When you designate your donation for school lunch debt, 100% of your contribution will go directly toward that purpose.
  Please join is in working together to ensure that no family is burdened by lunch debt. Your support will make a lasting impact.
  With gratitude,
  The GACC Service Committee

• 3. The monthly Avenues Community Kindness Award
• Community Kindness Program – Winner for August! by Jenn Beck
• Damon Grayson was nominated by his neighbors on 4th and J who wish to remain anonymous, for “his kindness
  and being a helpful member of the Avenues community. His grandmother lives in the neighborhood and Damon is a walker. He often walks by my home on 4th Avenue at least once a day. Damon is a friendly, outgoing person. When I am in the yard or sitting on my porch, he always says hello and often asks if I need anything. I’m in my 70’s and have taken him up on the offer numerous times over the years, from helping with garbage bins to lifting things for me to shoveling snow in an emergency. Thanks to Damon for being a kind human being and a good Avenues neighbor.” Damon will receive a $25 gift card to an Avenues business of his choice! 
  This award happens every month! Avenues residents can nominate others in the community. Each month The GACC Service Committee will recognize the randomly chosen winner to receive a $25 gift card from an Avenues business of their choice!
  To submit a nominee: 
  1) Send an email to Jenn Beck at jennjbeck@gmail.com
  2) Provide the name and contact info (phone & email if possible) for the person being nominated
  3) Give a brief description of the service/kindness
• Thank you to those who submitted nominations and to all those who serve the Avenues community!

Past Service Committee Projects

2024 – Backpacks for Bryant Middle School

2024 – Volunteer Roundup for Memory Grove Cleanup

2024 – Volunteer Roundup for Avenues Street Fair

Apply to be on the Avenues Service committee:

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• Becoming a Board Member
• Helping with Avenues Street Fair
• Helping with Memory Grove Cleanup
• Serving on a Committee
• Sponsoring GACC

Committees in which you are interested:

• Avenues Athletic League
• Avenues Grants
• Bylaws and SOP's
• Civic Engagement
• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
• Finance
• Land Use/Housing
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• Communications Committee*
• Street Fair
• Wildfire Preparednes

*Steering Committee Oversees Newsletter Committee, Web Page Committee, Social Media Committee

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OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Greater Avenues Land Use Committee

The Avenues Land Use Committee is focusing attention in 2026 on several key initiatives:

• The Avenues Community Plan (formerly the Avenues Master Plan).  

Master Plans helps guide various City departments as they review applications for development and make decisions as to what is important to the Avenues area. This document outlines the character of the Avenues and development guidelines important to all Avenues residents. What do you think should be included in an updated Avenues plan?

See the new City Planning proposed AVENUES COMMUNITY PLAN HERE

See an article by Building Salt Lake about the new plan HERE

The existing 1987 Avenues Master Plan can be seen HERE

Please send any comments to landuse@avenuescouncil.org , as well as directly to the Planning Department at avenuesplan@slc.gov.

See the feedback public comment form regarding the new proposed plan HERE 

We note that all city Neighborhood Plans must conform to the City’s main guide for development, which is the PLAN SALT LAKE document that can be seen HERE

The updating of the Avenues Masterplan has occasioned a lot of discussion of the character of the Avenues. Major contributors to the character of The Avenues has been the Avenues Historic District and the SR-1A zoning (see map at: https://slcgov.maps.arcgis.com/home/index.html). In our opinion, the Avenues would not be the same without the protection that the historic districts have provided, including the retaining of the open spaces and mature trees in those spaces, including parking strips, that typify the Avenues.

Email your thoughts and suggestions on this topic to landuse@avenuescouncil.org

Here are more resources on this topic:

Salt Lake Zoning map:  https://slcgov.maps.arcgis.com/home/index.html

SLC Preservation page: https://www.slc.gov/historic-preservation/

Avenues Plan Update:  https://www.slc.gov/planning/2025/05/29/avenuesplan-update/

SR-1 Zoning (the actual Code): https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/saltlakecityut/latest/saltlakecity_ut/0-0-0-64320

Preservation Utah: https://www.preservationutah.org/for-property-owners

• D1 REZONE PROPOSAL

The City Council has wisely passed a policy whereby zoning changes have to provide a public benefit. Development requests have been approved administratively by the Planning Commission that may conflict with the public benefit. One example of this is that the City has continued to issue permits for photovoltaic generation facilities (better known as solar panels) without providing any protections for solar panel property owners from developments that would block their sunlight. One example is St. Marks Episcopal Church at 100 S and 200 East, which has solar panels that provide over 50% of all their operating electricity.  The D1 Rezone allows unlimited height on a proposed development at 100 South and 300 East that would considerably expand the high-rise zoning in the City, and shade out the large solar panel installation at the Episcopal Church. 

With the approval in October by the Planning Commission, the final say on this proposal will be made by the City Council.  Those wishing to comment on the proposal should address their City Council Member, chris.wharton@slc.gov, 801-535-7726, and council.comments@slc.gov .    See more from the City on this matter HERE

The title and case number are: Zoning Map Amendment at Approximately 265 E 100 S, Case Number: PLNPCM2024-01377. 

Read a commentary by GACC Land Use Chair Jim Jenkin HERE

 • SALT LAKE CITY EXPANDING HOUSING OPTIONS (EHO) Plan

Expanding Housing Options is a proposed change to zoning rules that would give property owners in lower-density neighborhoods more options for how they use their property. Salt Lake City is proposing to rewrite the SR Single Family Zones ordinance. Your Greater Avenues Land Use Committee is discussing the elements of the proposed new ordinance, and will bring more information to Avenues residents. A good summary article is HERE   See more HERE on this important issue.   Read a Building Salt Lake article HERE  See the City’s EHO Handout Summary Sheet HERE   See the City’s EHO web page and public comment link HERE

• RMF-35 to 45 Ordinance Change 

The City Council has approved an extensive update to the city-wide RMF-35 and RMF-45 zoning districts to make it easier to build more types of housing while helping preserve existing housing.  The proposed updates are intended to:  Add new design standards for new developments, Allow smaller lot sizes, Remove lot width minimums, and Offer incentives to keep existing housing. 

The GACC Land Use Committee opposes the ordinance change due to provisions which in our opinion are destructive to Local Historic Districts and to established neighborhood character.   In the GACC Land Use Committee’s opinion, the problems are:

A. The setbacks of the RMF 35 zoning and SR-1A Zoning in the Avenues are essential to the development and protection of the existing character of the neighborhood.   They promote significant tree coverage on private property as well as in park strips.   This tree coverage creates natural cooling, superior walkability and the neighborliness that characterizes local historic districts.   The proposed setback reductions are therefore a direct threat to the character of the neighborhood.  Maintaining the existing neighborhood character is prioritized in multiple planning documents, including the preamble to the RMF-35 Ordinance.

We further note that, of the three example slides in the Planning presentation of existing single family residential adjacent to multifamily buildings, none seemed to include four-foot setbacks.   In fact, in one example a multi-unit apartment building had been constructed with its driveway directly adjacent to a zero lot line historic home.   This is exactly the kind of development that the existing Zoning was enacted to prevent.  

B. The current proposal limits mandatory setback and step-back protections to Historic Registry properties, which are a limited species typified by an owner discretionary application process.  Local historic districts are made up of significant and contributory properties defined and regulated by City Code, not just properties on the Historic Registry.   The protection of only “Registry” properties from height and proximity encroachment is antagonistic to Local Historic Districts and existing neighborhood character.

C. Planning staff contends that review by the Historic Landmarks Commission (HLC) of construction in Local Historic Districts is sufficient to protect contributory structures and the character of local historic districts.    However, multiple observers have concluded that, while the Historic Landmarks Commission is proficient in protecting the character of contributory structures where the permit involves the contributory structure itself, the Commission generally permits non-contributory structure construction at the limits of the existing Zone.   (We contacted a former member of the HLC to check the validity of this viewpoint, and they considered it accurate.)

In addition, many applications involving non-contributory structures are approved administratively at the staff level and never make it to the Historic Landmarks Commission for review. 

We conclude, therefore, that the Historic Landmarks Commission will likely not provide sufficient protection of the Local Historic District in the RMF 35 Zone without extending step back and setback mandatory protections to contributory local historic structures, not just “registry” structures.

We will inform the Avenues Community in the January 2026 newsletter and at the January 7th, 2026 Community Meeting of the concerns of this new ordinance with this article:

Attention: if you live in the RMF 35 Zone between South Temple and 3rd Avenue the City has recently changed your zoning by making significant changes to the ordinance which defines the RMF-35 zone. Chris Wharton was the only Councilperson to vote against this measure.  These changes have significant effects on the distance that buildings can be built from the property line (reducing it in all directions to as little as 4 feet), and reduced the amount of required parking. 

This will undoubtedly affect adjoining properties, many of which are historic.  In addition the City now defines only historic homes that are on the local Landmark registry as protected from encroachment by the height and distance from the property line of a neighboring structure. Landmark designation has never before carried these specific protections. Owners of historic homes may consider applying for Landmark registry, or contact historicpreservation@slc.gov or call 801.535.7700.  

Your community council would like you to know about these changes. The document transmitting these draft measures to the City Council for their approval has been posted on the Land Use page of the Greater Avenues Community Council at https://avenuescouncil.org/project/land-use/, along with other supporting documentation. 

The City’s published information is at https://storymaps.arcgis.com/collections/8faf4a83ba444e94a1e0cfa427150498

If you have specific questions about how these changes affect your property, we suggest you contact the City Planners.  Aaron Barlow, 801-535-6182, aaron.barlow@slc.gov, Amy Thompson,  801-535-7281 or amy.thompson@slc.gov, Katilynn Warr, 801-535-6179,  katilynn.warr@slc.gov, or Alicia Seeley, 801-535-7922, alicia.seeley@slc.gov.

See the Avenues Zoning Map HERE

 • Keeping Avenues residents informed on the latest petitions for development in the Avenues area.

A. Ellerbeck Mansion

B. 128 North N Street – Zoning Map Amendment

The City has approved a petition to rezone the property located at 128 N N St from SR-1A to R-MU-35 to build an additional five units of housing on the site.  See the property diagram HERE.  See the rezone petition HERE.

City Planning, the Planning Commission and the City Council used an interpretation of City Code 19.06.070.C and 21A.50.050.C in defining this project’s increased number of two-bedroom units after approval as a “Community Benefit.”

An alternative interpretation is that the market has and will continue to produce that size unit at market rate, and that the City’s acceptance of these new units on N Street under a “community benefit” definition undermines the development of the types of housing the market will not inherently produce , such as affordable, accessible and family-oriented units.

2. Capitol Park Cottages – Planned Development

Ivory Homes Capitol Park Cottages at F Street and 14th Avenue. The project recently received Planning Commission approval of their Planned Development for the three acre site. More about this project can be seen at HERE and HERE.

• Bring Housing and Land Use News From the City to Avenues Residents

When the City Planning Department or City Council needs to hear resident opinions on legislation or projects that affect housing in the Avenues we will post these projects or surveys here.

1.  Federal Housing Grants – How should the City spend its federal grant dollars on improving access to housing? TAKE THE SURVEY

2.  Salt Lake City Park Strip, Landscape Policy Changes – Public comments are being taken by the Salt Lake City Planning Division and Planning Commission as they consider city-wide changes to the Landscaping Chapter of the Zoning Code. This includes proposed revision of the Park Strip ordinance under which many city residents have been penalized for their water conservation efforts. The proposed Park Strip policy revision would require one “street tree” every 30 feet and vegetation covering at least 30% of the area. See all proposed amendments HERE. Public comments can be submitted in-person or via email to Nan Larsen. Reference case number PLNPCM2023-00098 in the subject line.

3. See all Salt Lake City projects which are currently accepting public comment and feedback HERE.

 • Other Land Use Concerns

1. Utah Transit Authority – Five-Year Plan

UTA’s updated 2025-2029 Five-Year Service Plan is a vision for the future to guide potential service planning changes over the next few years and get people where they need to go. Why is this a Land Use concern? Because many residents have concerns over UTA’s choices of bus routes, the type of equipment used on our narrow and hilly Avenues streets, and the noise and vibration of the buses.   See the UTA Five Year Service Plan and take the SURVEY

2. Hotel Proposal Adjacent to Sugarhouse Park

The Salt Lake City Planning Commission has forwarded to the City Council a recommendation on a re-Zoning request from Magnus Hotel Management that would allow them to build a 95-foot hotel on property directly adjacent to Sugar House Park (the site of the former Sizzler Restaurant). 
The Avenues Land Use Committee voted Jan 13 to ask the GACC Board to endorse a letter that was sent to the City Council by a consortium of Community Council groups including the GACC Land Use Committee. The Committee feels the reasons to endorse this letter include the following:   

1.  Sugarhouse Park is a unique resource that is enjoyed by members of The Avenues and others across the City.   

2.  The proposed re-zone would set a precedent for high-rise buildings directly adjacent to other Park/Green Space properties, including such properties in the Avenues (Parks and the Cemetery).   

3.  When major development proposals come to the Avenues (think of the LDS Hospital property), we hope that other Community Councils will support us, as the Committee asks you to support them in this matter.   

4. Avenues residents have expressed concerns about this project.

The GACC Land Use Committee invites all residents to be part of these efforts. The Committee meets monthly on the 3rd Tuesday at 6pm at the Sweet Branch Library. Email committee chair Jim Jenkin at landuse@avenuescouncil.org for details or we will see you at a meeting. Let us know what land use concerns you have.

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

A letter asking Utah Public Utilities Commissioners

Rocky Mountain Power Rate Increase –

A letter asking Utah Public Utilities Commissioners to reconsider the recent Rocky Mountain Power rate increase is available HERE.  

Avenues residents are encouraged to read the letter and send it, if you agree:

Attention:
Commission Chair Jerry Fenn,
Commissioner David Clark,
Commissioner John S. Harvey, Ph.D.,

via email psc@utah.gov,

by snail mail to the Public Service Commission, 160 East 300 South, 4th Floor, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, or by fax 801-530-6796.  

See more info about the rate increase HERE  

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD