Orem, Utah Development News
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Orem City Council Meeting | 7.14.2026
Published: Jul 14, 2026
Resident Raises Privacy Concerns Over Flock Surveillance Cameras
Ethan Staer raised concerns about Flock cameras, a private company contracted by cities for surveillance. He described how these cameras record license plates and potentially occupant information, storing it in a private database searchable by police nationwide without warrants or strict justification (searches logged under 'test'). Staer highlighted the presence of at least 12 crowdsourced cameras in ORM, with unknown city locations, and questioned the legality of collecting and sharing this data, comparing it to a violation of privacy rights. He specifically noted a camera near the Sarati Theater, questioning the need to monitor families attending with children. Staer urged the council to consider the implications for search and seizure rights.
City Council Rezones 5.45 Acres for Single-Family Residential Development, Potentially Funding New Parks
The City Council voted to rezone approximately 5.45 acres of city-owned and R12-zoned property at 360 West 1500 South from Public Facilities (PF) and R12 to R8 single-family residential. This change, recommended by the Planning Commission with a 6-0 vote, aims to create 18 single-family lots. The development will include a cul-de-sac street, utility easements for sewer and water connections (potentially serving adjacent properties currently on septic), and pedestrian access to the north. The city plans to use proceeds from lot sales to fund parks in other areas of the city, addressing a need in the southwest part of town. Deed restrictions for owner-occupancy are being considered. The former PF zoning was part of a blanket rezoning of city and school properties in 2022 to preserve open space and increase public input potential.
City Council Reviews Draft Ordinance for Detached Accessory Dwelling Units Amidst State Mandate
The City Council discussed a proposed ordinance for detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs), mandated by state law to be allowed on lots of 11,000 sq ft or larger by October 1st. Staff presented a draft ordinance that sets minimum setbacks, lot coverage requirements, and prohibits short-term rentals of ADUs (defined as rentals less than 90 consecutive days). ADUs cannot be larger than the primary dwelling unit and must be consistent with the main dwelling's design. They will not be allowed in the front yard. The city aims for a cautious, incremental approach, starting with larger lots and adhering to state law limitations on regulations like conditional use processes and parking requirements (max two on-site spots for units over 650 sq ft, one for smaller). The ordinance will go to the Planning Commission on July 15th and August 5th, with council action expected in August and September. Concerns were raised about potential impacts on infrastructure and utilities if many ADUs are built.
ORM Police Department Details Comprehensive Safety Measures for City Events
Lieutenant Blake Fent of the ORM Police Department presented on event safety, highlighting the extensive planning and collaboration between departments (Police, Fire, Events, Parks) required for large events like Ormfest. He detailed the staffing levels, including 24-hour park coverage with officers on night shifts for security and contingency planning. For Ormfest, nearly all city employees are involved, with officers providing visible presence and unseen support for various scenarios. The department utilizes overtime and employs a multi-layered approach involving drones, camera trailers, and internal/external security. Logistical improvements for future events include enhancing command presence within the park and for specific details like the parade. Lieutenant Fent emphasized the number one priority is everyone's safety and community engagement, with a goal to maintain a 'lost kid' streak of zero.
City Proposes Property Tax Increase to Fund Public Safety Amidst Inflationary Pressures
A presentation detailed a proposed property tax increase aimed at funding public safety and addressing inflation's impact on operational costs. The city highlighted its history of fiscal responsibility, with only one property tax increase since 1978 and significant grant funding. The proposed increase, framed as 'four quarters, two cops, one safer,' would average $180 annually per household (or less than $1/month for some) on the city's portion of the tax bill. The website 'TNT' (Truth and Taxation) was launched to provide transparency, including a calculator to estimate individual impacts and details on fund allocation. The increase is attributed to rising costs for patrol vehicles and fire engines, increased daytime population due to growth in students and visitors, and the need for additional police presence at events. A public hearing is scheduled for August 27th.
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