The Egyptian Theatre Presents A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
February 13, 2009 - March 21, 2009
Location: The Egyptian Theatre
Phone: 435-649-9371
www.egyptiantheatrecompany.org
“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” is the bawdiest, naughtiest and one of the funniest musicals ever written. With young maidens, handsome heroes, pompous warriors and clownish slaves all in this Greek toga clad musical, it is a guaranteed laugh riot from beginning to end. With hit songs like “Comedy Tonight” and “Everybody Ought to have a Maid” written by Stephen Sondheim, this musical will leave you giggling for days. Do not miss “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum! Please call for show days and times.
Park City Academy Open House
February 24, 2009 - February 25, 2009
www.parkcityacademy.org
Park City Academy is hosting an all-school admissions open house on Tuesday, February 24, 9am - 6pm and Wednesday, February 25, 9am - 6pm, featuring tours, an opportunity to meet teachers, and information about enrolling in grades preschool through eighth grade. PCA has been educating young leaders in preschool through eighth grade for 20 years in a safe, nurturing environment of academic excellence.
"Great Salt Lake: International Treasure at Risk?"
February 26, 2009
Times: 6:30 - 8pm
Location: The Kimball Art Center
Phone: 435-649-8882
www.kimball-art.org
The Kimball Art Center and The Nature Conservancy are co-hosting this discussion with Chris Montague, Director of Conservation at The Nature Conservancy. The Kimball's current photo exhibition, "Salt Lake Reconsidered" provides the perfect backdrop for this exploration of the wildlife and natural values of the Great Salt Lake and the accompanying human impact.
February Brown Bag Seminar - Investing in a Volatile Market
February 26, 2009
Times: 11:30am - 1:00pm
Location: Best Western Landmark Inn
Admission: Free to Members
What do I do now with my investments? What is my recovery plan? Understanding where we are is an important part of understanding what to do next for investing for the future. An open discussion will help get the emotions out of investing and lead to fruitful planning of the next step to take. Experience gained from several cycles can lead to some wisdom in the market place. Stan Secor, Registered Investment Advisor Representation, has seen several cycles during 20 years of advising and consulting and has been involved in over 36 years of investing in real estate, securities, mortgages, etc. The limited amount of time for lunch will go fast as the discussion brings ideas and thoughts to a big problem of today. Join us on February 26, 2009 from 11:30am - 1:00pm, Best Western Landmark Inn. Free to members. Bring your sack lunch, drinks are provided. Register Now!
Park City Free Winter Concert Series - Jordon Booth
February 26, 2009
Times: 8-10pm
Location: HarryO's, 427 Main St.
Phone: 801-661-1888
www.parkcityconcerts.org
Produced by The Park City Concerts Foundation and sponsored by The Canyons, the Thursday night series will bring a mix of the best bands in Utah and national touring acts to Park City's historic Main Street.
Aquila Theatre Company at The Eccles Center
February 27, 2009 - February 28, 2009
Location: 1750 Kearns Blvd
Phone: 435-655-3114
www.ParkCityTickets.com
The "unmistakable fun" (Los Angeles Times) of Aquila Theatre Company brings February to a dramatic close with Homer's "The Iliad" and Shakespeare's "The Comedy of Errors."
Gallery MAR Artist Reception
February 27, 2009
Location: 580 Main St
Phone: 435-649-3001
Admission: Free
www.gallerymar.com
"Alternate Reality"--New works by Ginger Bowen and Fred Calleri. Join us for delicious eats and artful conversation. This exhibit runs from February 23 through March 9.
Park City Film Series - Stranded: I've Come From a Plane That Crashed on the Mountains
February 27, 2009 - March 1, 2009
Times: Friday & Saturday at 7pm; Sunday at 6pm
Location: Jim Santy Auditorium, 1255 Park Ave
Phone: 435-615-8291
www.parkcityfilmseries.com
The events that followed the crash of Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 in 1974 are, by now, legendary. The survivors, members of a rugby team left to fend for themselves in the rugged high peaks of the Andes Mountains, ultimately resorted to cannibalism for the sake of survival. As a result, 16 men (of the initial 45) managed to stay alive on a frozen glacier for an incredible ten weeks. The story prompted a bestselling nonfiction book, a 1993 dramatic feature film, and this fascinating documentary which recounts the harrowing story via firsthand accounts with those involved.
Park City Gallery Association Presents The Gallery Stroll
February 27, 2009
Times: 6 to 9pm
Admission: Free
www.parkcitygalleryassociation.com
On the last Friday of each month, members of the Park City Gallery Association offer a unique showcase highlighting artists, special exhibits, and art events. The last Friday Gallery Stroll is a free community event that gives locals and Park City visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy light refreshments while exploring Park City's exciting art scene. Please visit any of our participating galleries to pick up a free gallery guide.
PCSBT Alpine Race
February 27, 2009
Location: Park City Mountain Resort
Phone: 800-222-PARK
parkcitymountain.com
This Park City Snowboard Team Alpine Race will take place in the Eagle Race Arena.
Phoenix Gallery Artist Opening Reception
February 27, 2009
Times: 6 - 9pm
Location: 508 Main Street
Phone: 435-649-1006
PhoenixGalleryPark City.com
"Getting from Here to There" by Carole Wade. Join us to meet the artist, enjoy live music by Rich Wyman and share light hors d'oeuvres. Show runs from February 27 through March 13.
Nordic Night at the Museum
February 28, 2009
Times: 6:30pm
Location: Alf Engen Museum, Utah Olympic Park
Phone: 435-645-7660
Admission: $100
pcnordicskiclub.org
Watch ski jumpers take off from the K120 start house, see cross country skiers demonstrate a short course and enjoy a small hills ski jump show, all inside the historic Alf Engen Museum. Take your chance on several silent and live auction items while enjoying appetizers, hearty buffet and libations. This magical event will benefit the Park City Nordic Ski Club/National Sports Foundation.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Big Crowd Tears Into Treasure
Neighbors turn out en force to challenge the Sweeney family's plans
by Jay Hamburger OF THE RECORD STAFF
Posted: 02/13/2009 03:36:34 PM MST
Pat Sweeney listens on Wednesday as Planning Commissioners and a large crowd criticizes his family's Treasure plans. Scott Sine/Park Record
A big crowd tore into the Sweeney family's idea to build Treasure on the slopes of Park City Mountain Resort just above Old Town Wednesday in what was among the most lopsided and well-attended City Hall hearings in recent years.
Approximately 150 people attended the meeting, which was held at The Yarrow to accommodate the crowd. The speakers on Wednesday leveled wide-ranging criticisms on Treasure, but worries about traffic were especially notable. People who live on streets like Empire Avenue and Lowell Avenue are leery that many people will drive on their roads as they drive to and from Treasure.
The hearing, held before the Park City Planning Commission, was the first in what will be a series of meetings this year. It was scheduled
Kyra Parkhurst, who lives on Empire Avenue, describes conditions on neighborhood streets as she talks about the growth since Treasure won its overall approval in the 1980s. Scott Sine/Park Record after a lengthy hiatus in the talks that allowed the Sweeneys time to revamp their plans. But the redone designs have not appeased the people who live on the nearby roads.
They jammed into the meeting room and spent just more than an hour testifying against the project. The critics keyed on traffic, with Planning Commissioners, the Sweeneys and the crowd shown photos of the conditions, including one of skiers walking in the street close to where the project would be built.
Kyra Parkhurst, who lives on the 1000 block of Empire Avenue, used a makeshift map of the vicinity to illustrate her points about traffic. She talked about the number of pedestrians on the roads, said private-sector snowplows add to the congestion and parking is problematic. People in the audience yielded their allotted speaking time to allow Parkhurst to continue.
She disagreed with Sweeney assertions that a 1980s overall approval for Treasure remains valid. Parkhurst said many houses have been built since then, saying back then the neighborhood was made of "funky ski bums" instead of the families who live there now.
"I think they've missed the window of opportunity. The area has changed too much," Parkhurst said. Brian Van Hecke, an Empire Avenue
Brian Van Hecke, an Empire Avenue resident, tells the crowd streets are dangerous in Old Town and Treasure would damage Old Town forever. Scott Sine/Park Record
resident who is a leader in the Treasure opposition, charged the project would damage Old Town forever. He said Treasure is too large and the nearby roads are not adequate.
"Old Town streets are already dangerous," Van Hecke said, also contending that the neighborhood has changed significantly since the 1980s.
Meanwhile, mayoral candidate Diania Turner spoke to Planning Commissioners about her concerns with Treasure-related parking. Parking in Old Town is difficult already, she said.
"You can't even provide me with one parking place. That's just me," Turner said.
The Planning Commission took testimony from 22 people, with the speakers recounting their experiences in the neighborhood and their concerns about Treasure. Jack Thomas, the chairman of the Planning Commission, requested the crowd refrain from clapping. Police officers were stationed at the meeting, a rare police presence at a Planning Commission meeting.
Kevin King, a house designer and critic of City Hall's Old Town guidelines, offered tepid support, the only speaker on Wednesday to do so. He acknowledged the 1980s approval and said it is "inevitable" Treasure will be built. King suggested alternative ideas be considered, talking about somehow realigning roads through Park City Mountain Resort.
The Sweeneys are seeking an approval for approximately 200 hotel rooms, 100 condominiums and 19,000 square feet of commercial space on a hillside just west of Old Town. The project is part of the earlier approval, meaning that City Hall years ago granted the Sweeneys development rights at the site.
After the hearing, Pat Sweeney, who represents his family, said his side did not push Treasure supporters to attend the meeting. He said the crowd on Wednesday ignored what he sees as the Treasure benefits.
Sweeney also said the developers would make improvements to nearby streets, including installing a sidewalk on Lowell Avenue close to the project, to alleviate traffic, among other measures.
"They're not here to look at the positives," he said. Planning Commissioners indicated they were worried with the Treasure designs. They seemed unconvinced Treasure will boost business on Main Street, they criticized ideas for a conference center at the site, they questioned the Sweeney measures to handle traffic and they said pedestrian safety remains in doubt.
The panel is tentatively scheduled to continue discussions about Treasure on March 25.
by Jay Hamburger OF THE RECORD STAFF
Posted: 02/13/2009 03:36:34 PM MST
Pat Sweeney listens on Wednesday as Planning Commissioners and a large crowd criticizes his family's Treasure plans. Scott Sine/Park Record
A big crowd tore into the Sweeney family's idea to build Treasure on the slopes of Park City Mountain Resort just above Old Town Wednesday in what was among the most lopsided and well-attended City Hall hearings in recent years.
Approximately 150 people attended the meeting, which was held at The Yarrow to accommodate the crowd. The speakers on Wednesday leveled wide-ranging criticisms on Treasure, but worries about traffic were especially notable. People who live on streets like Empire Avenue and Lowell Avenue are leery that many people will drive on their roads as they drive to and from Treasure.
The hearing, held before the Park City Planning Commission, was the first in what will be a series of meetings this year. It was scheduled
Kyra Parkhurst, who lives on Empire Avenue, describes conditions on neighborhood streets as she talks about the growth since Treasure won its overall approval in the 1980s. Scott Sine/Park Record after a lengthy hiatus in the talks that allowed the Sweeneys time to revamp their plans. But the redone designs have not appeased the people who live on the nearby roads.
They jammed into the meeting room and spent just more than an hour testifying against the project. The critics keyed on traffic, with Planning Commissioners, the Sweeneys and the crowd shown photos of the conditions, including one of skiers walking in the street close to where the project would be built.
Kyra Parkhurst, who lives on the 1000 block of Empire Avenue, used a makeshift map of the vicinity to illustrate her points about traffic. She talked about the number of pedestrians on the roads, said private-sector snowplows add to the congestion and parking is problematic. People in the audience yielded their allotted speaking time to allow Parkhurst to continue.
She disagreed with Sweeney assertions that a 1980s overall approval for Treasure remains valid. Parkhurst said many houses have been built since then, saying back then the neighborhood was made of "funky ski bums" instead of the families who live there now.
"I think they've missed the window of opportunity. The area has changed too much," Parkhurst said. Brian Van Hecke, an Empire Avenue
Brian Van Hecke, an Empire Avenue resident, tells the crowd streets are dangerous in Old Town and Treasure would damage Old Town forever. Scott Sine/Park Record
resident who is a leader in the Treasure opposition, charged the project would damage Old Town forever. He said Treasure is too large and the nearby roads are not adequate.
"Old Town streets are already dangerous," Van Hecke said, also contending that the neighborhood has changed significantly since the 1980s.
Meanwhile, mayoral candidate Diania Turner spoke to Planning Commissioners about her concerns with Treasure-related parking. Parking in Old Town is difficult already, she said.
"You can't even provide me with one parking place. That's just me," Turner said.
The Planning Commission took testimony from 22 people, with the speakers recounting their experiences in the neighborhood and their concerns about Treasure. Jack Thomas, the chairman of the Planning Commission, requested the crowd refrain from clapping. Police officers were stationed at the meeting, a rare police presence at a Planning Commission meeting.
Kevin King, a house designer and critic of City Hall's Old Town guidelines, offered tepid support, the only speaker on Wednesday to do so. He acknowledged the 1980s approval and said it is "inevitable" Treasure will be built. King suggested alternative ideas be considered, talking about somehow realigning roads through Park City Mountain Resort.
The Sweeneys are seeking an approval for approximately 200 hotel rooms, 100 condominiums and 19,000 square feet of commercial space on a hillside just west of Old Town. The project is part of the earlier approval, meaning that City Hall years ago granted the Sweeneys development rights at the site.
After the hearing, Pat Sweeney, who represents his family, said his side did not push Treasure supporters to attend the meeting. He said the crowd on Wednesday ignored what he sees as the Treasure benefits.
Sweeney also said the developers would make improvements to nearby streets, including installing a sidewalk on Lowell Avenue close to the project, to alleviate traffic, among other measures.
"They're not here to look at the positives," he said. Planning Commissioners indicated they were worried with the Treasure designs. They seemed unconvinced Treasure will boost business on Main Street, they criticized ideas for a conference center at the site, they questioned the Sweeney measures to handle traffic and they said pedestrian safety remains in doubt.
The panel is tentatively scheduled to continue discussions about Treasure on March 25.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
PC Calendar of Events 2.15.09 to 2.21.09
The Egyptian Theatre Presents A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
February 13, 2009 - March 21, 2009
Location: The Egyptian Theatre
Phone: 435-649-9371
www.egyptiantheatrecompany.org
“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” is the bawdiest, naughtiest and one of the funniest musicals ever written. With young maidens, handsome heroes, pompous warriors and clownish slaves all in this Greek toga clad musical, it is a guaranteed laugh riot from beginning to end. With hit songs like “Comedy Tonight” and “Everybody Ought to have a Maid” written by Stephen Sondheim, this musical will leave you giggling for days. Do not miss “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum! Please call for show days and times.
USLA Luge Youth National Championships
February 17, 2009 - February 22, 2009
Location: Utah Olympic Park
Phone: 435-658-4200
olyparks.com
The Tao of Rudy - Reading and Booksigning
February 18, 2009
Times: 3 - 5pm
Location: The Canyons Resort
The new Sundial Cafe at The Canyons will host local author/illustrator, Corinne Humphrey, at a reading and booksigning of her award-winning children's book, The Tao of Rudy. The book features Corinne's bold illustrations paired with real rescued dog Rudy's sage canine commentary, appealing to children and adults alike.
Park City Free Winter Concert Series - Motherlode Canyon Band
February 19, 2009
Times: 8-10pm
Location: HarryO's, 427 Main St.
Phone: 801-661-1888
www.parkcityconcerts.org
Produced by The Park City Concerts Foundation and sponsored by The Canyons, the Thursday night series will bring a mix of the best bands in Utah and national touring acts to Park City's historic Main Street.
Park City Film Series - Rachel Getting Married
February 20, 2009 - February 22, 2009
Times: Friday & Saturday at 7pm; Sunday at 6pm
Location: Jim Santy Auditorium, 1255 Park Ave
Phone: 435-615-8291
www.parkcityfilmseries.com
Anne Hathaway stars in this contemporary drama about the return of an estranged daughter to the family home on the weekend of her sister's wedding. Kym's (Hathaway) reemergence throws a wrench into the family dynamics, forcing long-simmering tensions to surface in ways both hilarious and heartbreaking. Rachel Getting Married paints a colorful, nuanced family portrait and is filled with the rich characters that have always been a hallmark of Jonathan Demme's films.
February 13, 2009 - March 21, 2009
Location: The Egyptian Theatre
Phone: 435-649-9371
www.egyptiantheatrecompany.org
“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” is the bawdiest, naughtiest and one of the funniest musicals ever written. With young maidens, handsome heroes, pompous warriors and clownish slaves all in this Greek toga clad musical, it is a guaranteed laugh riot from beginning to end. With hit songs like “Comedy Tonight” and “Everybody Ought to have a Maid” written by Stephen Sondheim, this musical will leave you giggling for days. Do not miss “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum! Please call for show days and times.
USLA Luge Youth National Championships
February 17, 2009 - February 22, 2009
Location: Utah Olympic Park
Phone: 435-658-4200
olyparks.com
The Tao of Rudy - Reading and Booksigning
February 18, 2009
Times: 3 - 5pm
Location: The Canyons Resort
The new Sundial Cafe at The Canyons will host local author/illustrator, Corinne Humphrey, at a reading and booksigning of her award-winning children's book, The Tao of Rudy. The book features Corinne's bold illustrations paired with real rescued dog Rudy's sage canine commentary, appealing to children and adults alike.
Park City Free Winter Concert Series - Motherlode Canyon Band
February 19, 2009
Times: 8-10pm
Location: HarryO's, 427 Main St.
Phone: 801-661-1888
www.parkcityconcerts.org
Produced by The Park City Concerts Foundation and sponsored by The Canyons, the Thursday night series will bring a mix of the best bands in Utah and national touring acts to Park City's historic Main Street.
Park City Film Series - Rachel Getting Married
February 20, 2009 - February 22, 2009
Times: Friday & Saturday at 7pm; Sunday at 6pm
Location: Jim Santy Auditorium, 1255 Park Ave
Phone: 435-615-8291
www.parkcityfilmseries.com
Anne Hathaway stars in this contemporary drama about the return of an estranged daughter to the family home on the weekend of her sister's wedding. Kym's (Hathaway) reemergence throws a wrench into the family dynamics, forcing long-simmering tensions to surface in ways both hilarious and heartbreaking. Rachel Getting Married paints a colorful, nuanced family portrait and is filled with the rich characters that have always been a hallmark of Jonathan Demme's films.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Treasure critics: were buyers beware?
It seems neighbors did not extensively research what might be built on hillside
by Jay Hamburger OF THE RECORD STAFF
Posted: 02/07/2009 09:52:06 AM MST
When Brian Van Hecke was in the home-buying market in the late 1990s, he found a property on the 1100 block of Empire Avenue he wanted.
He bought the place in late 1999, according to Summit County records, moving into a house down the street from where the Sweeney family, more than a decade before, had secured approval from City Hall to build the Treasure development on the slopes of Park City Mountain Resort.
Van Hecke is now one of the leaders in what appears to be an expanding opposition movement to Treasure. He acknowledges he was unaware when he bought his house that City Hall officials in the 1980s had approved the development.
"I don't think my Realtor told me about it," he says, adding, to his recollection, "the potential of Treasure Hill development was not mentioned at that time."
Van Hecke's situation seems to be similar to those of others who have moved onto nearby streets in Old Town in the time between the original Sweeney family approval and the start of talks between the family and City Hall about Treasure several years ago. Many, it appears, purchased their houses unaware of the development prospects of the high-profile Treasure hillside just off of streets like Empire Avenue and Lowell Avenue.
The 1980s approval has been a favored target of critics claiming that the neighborhood, which has grown substantially since the original approval, can no longer handle the traffic that Treasure is expected to attract. They say the project does not fit where it was approved in the 1980s, pointing to other criticisms like the size of the buildings.
People familiar with Treasure's history and the local real estate market said in interviews it seems unlikely the people who moved into the neighborhood since the 1990s heavily researched what could be developed nearby.
The city's Planning Department has held the documents describing Treasure's original approval since it was OK'd. There was little interest for years in what had been approved in the 1980s, according to a high-ranking former official in the department.
Rick Lewis, who was City Hall's director of Community Development from 1990 until 2003, says he does not recall people inquiring about Treasure while they were shopping for homes up until early in this decade, as rumblings about development started. Lewis acknowledges people could have spoken to other staffers in his department before then, but he likely would have known if people were asking questions about Treasure since answering them would have required research.
"Things were pretty quiet up until about 2000 or 2001, when they started getting active again," Lewis says.
The Sweeneys want to build approximately 200 hotel rooms and 100 condominiums spread through 12 buildings, with commercial and meeting space also planned.
Old Town houses and condominiums until the recent market downturn had been hot sellers, with people liking the Victorian architecture prevalent in the neighborhood, the closeness to
Main Street and the proximity to the slopes and hiking and biking trails. People have built or bought places in the neighborhood as their family residence, their vacation home or as a rental place.
"They look at the mountains and think they'll always be there and don't necessarily do their homework," says Mayor Dana Williams, a real estate agent who rose to political prominence leading the development watchdog Citizens Allied for Responsible Growth.
The mayor says he tells home shoppers about Treasure, but he has not sold in Old Town extensively. He says buyers generally do not research the development potential before closing. They are "more focused on right where they are," he says.
The Park City Board of Realtors encourages prospective homebuyers to research the development potential in a neighborhood before closing on a deal. Lincoln Calder, the president of the group, says it is "critical" for people to look into developments that are approved but not yet built.
"It's up to the buyer to do that due diligence," Calder says. "Some people research it extensively, some will do very little."
Since the middle of the 1990s, many local real estate agents have required homebuyers sign what is known as the 'Buyer Due Diligence Checklist,' according to Calder. It is not required, but Calder says nearly all of the major brokerages in Park City use the form.
The checklist advises buyers to research possible developments nearby, suggesting they consult officials in the Planning Department and the Building Department. It indicates buyers should look into the "potential impacts" of development like a loss of views, noise and inconvenience.
"As a board, we strive to make sure buyers make informed decisions," Calder says, who recounts that some of his clients have inquired about Treasure as they were shopping for a house.
Van Hecke, the Treasure critic on Empire Avenue, says buyers rely on their agent for information as they are considering a house. He says he might not have purchased his house had he realized Treasure could be built someday.
"If I knew what I know now, probably not," he says.
Treasure meeting slated at The Yarrow
The Park City Planning Commission on Wednesday is scheduled to discuss Treasure for two hours, with the emphasis on traffic, and hold a hearing. Officials booked the Ivers Room at The Yarrow for the meeting to accommodate what is expected to be a large crowd. The meeting is scheduled to start at 5 p.m., with the hearing set for approximately 7 p.m.
An agenda indicates the Planning Commission will hold another meeting March 25, and others are anticipated to follow.
by Jay Hamburger OF THE RECORD STAFF
Posted: 02/07/2009 09:52:06 AM MST
When Brian Van Hecke was in the home-buying market in the late 1990s, he found a property on the 1100 block of Empire Avenue he wanted.
He bought the place in late 1999, according to Summit County records, moving into a house down the street from where the Sweeney family, more than a decade before, had secured approval from City Hall to build the Treasure development on the slopes of Park City Mountain Resort.
Van Hecke is now one of the leaders in what appears to be an expanding opposition movement to Treasure. He acknowledges he was unaware when he bought his house that City Hall officials in the 1980s had approved the development.
"I don't think my Realtor told me about it," he says, adding, to his recollection, "the potential of Treasure Hill development was not mentioned at that time."
Van Hecke's situation seems to be similar to those of others who have moved onto nearby streets in Old Town in the time between the original Sweeney family approval and the start of talks between the family and City Hall about Treasure several years ago. Many, it appears, purchased their houses unaware of the development prospects of the high-profile Treasure hillside just off of streets like Empire Avenue and Lowell Avenue.
The 1980s approval has been a favored target of critics claiming that the neighborhood, which has grown substantially since the original approval, can no longer handle the traffic that Treasure is expected to attract. They say the project does not fit where it was approved in the 1980s, pointing to other criticisms like the size of the buildings.
People familiar with Treasure's history and the local real estate market said in interviews it seems unlikely the people who moved into the neighborhood since the 1990s heavily researched what could be developed nearby.
The city's Planning Department has held the documents describing Treasure's original approval since it was OK'd. There was little interest for years in what had been approved in the 1980s, according to a high-ranking former official in the department.
Rick Lewis, who was City Hall's director of Community Development from 1990 until 2003, says he does not recall people inquiring about Treasure while they were shopping for homes up until early in this decade, as rumblings about development started. Lewis acknowledges people could have spoken to other staffers in his department before then, but he likely would have known if people were asking questions about Treasure since answering them would have required research.
"Things were pretty quiet up until about 2000 or 2001, when they started getting active again," Lewis says.
The Sweeneys want to build approximately 200 hotel rooms and 100 condominiums spread through 12 buildings, with commercial and meeting space also planned.
Old Town houses and condominiums until the recent market downturn had been hot sellers, with people liking the Victorian architecture prevalent in the neighborhood, the closeness to
Main Street and the proximity to the slopes and hiking and biking trails. People have built or bought places in the neighborhood as their family residence, their vacation home or as a rental place.
"They look at the mountains and think they'll always be there and don't necessarily do their homework," says Mayor Dana Williams, a real estate agent who rose to political prominence leading the development watchdog Citizens Allied for Responsible Growth.
The mayor says he tells home shoppers about Treasure, but he has not sold in Old Town extensively. He says buyers generally do not research the development potential before closing. They are "more focused on right where they are," he says.
The Park City Board of Realtors encourages prospective homebuyers to research the development potential in a neighborhood before closing on a deal. Lincoln Calder, the president of the group, says it is "critical" for people to look into developments that are approved but not yet built.
"It's up to the buyer to do that due diligence," Calder says. "Some people research it extensively, some will do very little."
Since the middle of the 1990s, many local real estate agents have required homebuyers sign what is known as the 'Buyer Due Diligence Checklist,' according to Calder. It is not required, but Calder says nearly all of the major brokerages in Park City use the form.
The checklist advises buyers to research possible developments nearby, suggesting they consult officials in the Planning Department and the Building Department. It indicates buyers should look into the "potential impacts" of development like a loss of views, noise and inconvenience.
"As a board, we strive to make sure buyers make informed decisions," Calder says, who recounts that some of his clients have inquired about Treasure as they were shopping for a house.
Van Hecke, the Treasure critic on Empire Avenue, says buyers rely on their agent for information as they are considering a house. He says he might not have purchased his house had he realized Treasure could be built someday.
"If I knew what I know now, probably not," he says.
Treasure meeting slated at The Yarrow
The Park City Planning Commission on Wednesday is scheduled to discuss Treasure for two hours, with the emphasis on traffic, and hold a hearing. Officials booked the Ivers Room at The Yarrow for the meeting to accommodate what is expected to be a large crowd. The meeting is scheduled to start at 5 p.m., with the hearing set for approximately 7 p.m.
An agenda indicates the Planning Commission will hold another meeting March 25, and others are anticipated to follow.
Lower Home Prices Lead to Increased Sales
Under a headline which read "Lower Home Prices Lead to Increased Sales" was the following article in Real Trends Newsletter.
Thanks to much higher sales in places like California, the December average of home sales in 56 markets across the country rose 9.73 percent from November and 11.36 percent above December 2007 sales, according to the Associated Press-RE/MAX Monthly Housing Report Year. Year-over-year sales increases in California were up 75 percent in the Los Angeles metro area and up 44 percent in San Diego. Other sharp increases were recorded in Las Vegas, up 82 percent, Phoenix, up 69 percent, and Miami, up 69 percent. The report had some other good news - inventories are beginning to recede. The average number of homes for sale on the market was down 7.69 percent from November and down 3.93 percent from a year ago. Many analysts believe than reduced inventories may signal the beginning of the end for the current down cycle in housing. REAL Trends comment: We have been saying for months that once affordability returns to markets there is ample evidence that both first time homebuyers and investors will return. The report from RE/MAX/Associated Press is one more piece of data that confirms this.
Thanks to much higher sales in places like California, the December average of home sales in 56 markets across the country rose 9.73 percent from November and 11.36 percent above December 2007 sales, according to the Associated Press-RE/MAX Monthly Housing Report Year. Year-over-year sales increases in California were up 75 percent in the Los Angeles metro area and up 44 percent in San Diego. Other sharp increases were recorded in Las Vegas, up 82 percent, Phoenix, up 69 percent, and Miami, up 69 percent. The report had some other good news - inventories are beginning to recede. The average number of homes for sale on the market was down 7.69 percent from November and down 3.93 percent from a year ago. Many analysts believe than reduced inventories may signal the beginning of the end for the current down cycle in housing. REAL Trends comment: We have been saying for months that once affordability returns to markets there is ample evidence that both first time homebuyers and investors will return. The report from RE/MAX/Associated Press is one more piece of data that confirms this.
Friday, February 6, 2009
PC Calendar of Events 2.06.09 to 2.07.09
Burton Super Demo Tour and Am Series
February 6, 2009 - February 8, 2009
Location: Park City Mountain Resort
Phone: 435-649-8111
parkcitymountain.com
Check out Burton's latest gear on the snow, sample products from event sponsors, and meet the Burton team riders. Compete in the Am Series for a chance to receive an invitation to the Burton U.S. Open in March 2009.
Intermountain Freestyle Aerials Competition
February 6, 2009
Times: 5pm
Location: Utah Olympic Park
Phone: 435-658-4200
www.olyparks.com
Check out the best and brightest aerial skiers as they go big at the Utah Olympic Park aerials site. Free admission.
Park City Film Series - Synecdoche, New York
February 6, 2009 - February 8, 2009
Times: Friday & Saturday at 7pm; Sunday at 6pm
Location: Jim Santy Auditorium, 1255 Park Ave
Phone: 435-615-8291
www.parkcityfilmseries.com
A wild-eyed theater director, played by Academy Award winner Philip Seymour Hoffman, attempts to build a life-sized replica of New York City in preparation for an ambitious theatrical event. This film is the feature directorial debut of notoriously quirky screenwriter Charlie Kaufman (Being John Malkovich, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind). Catherine Keener, Michelle Williams, and Emily Watson co-star in a tale of one man's quest to stage the ultimate love letter to the Big Apple.
Swaner EcoCenter Open House and Nordic Ski 'n' See
February 6, 2009
Times: 3 to 6pm
Location: Swaner EcoCenter
Celebrate Winter at the Swaner EcoCenter! Utah's greenest building will be open to the public with free admission (from 3-6 pm) so come explore the new exhibits, ascend the climbing wall, or learn about the new EcoCenter Host Program. Join Swaner EcoCenter employee and Nordic enthusiast, Nell Larson, for a one-hour Nordic Ski 'n' See adventure beginning at 5:00 pm and ending with the Winter sunset. Reservations are required and there is a $5.00 fee. Ski equipment is not provided. Contact Savannah at 435.649.1767 or savannah@swanerecocenter.org for reservations or details. Ski equipment rentals are available at White Pine Touring at 435.649.6249.
Full Moon Snowshoe at McPolin Farm
February 7, 2009
Phone: 435-658-5819
www.mcpolinfarm.org
Join the Friends of the Farm under a full moon for a snowshoe/skiing chili supper event at the McPolin Farm. Folk music by Switzerland's own Elsbeth Gugii and a guided snowshoe tour. $15/person, adult or child. Tickets at the PC library starting 1/2/09.
International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race
February 7, 2009
Location: Quinn's Junction Sports Complex
Phone: 435-649-6100
10am to noon: Meet the Mushers and Ice Sculpture demonstration. Noon to 2pm: Sled Dog Race on the trails of Round Valley. Come out to the Park City Ice Arena to watch the start and finish of the race. 2pm to 3pm: Junior Musher Sled Dog Race.
Marcia Ball at The Eccles Center
February 7, 2009
Location: 1750 Kearns Blvd
Phone: 435-655-3114
www.ParkCityTickets.com
The W.C. Handy Blues Award winner and "bayou queen of the piano" puts on a rollicking show.
The HUNT 2009: 3rd Annual All Mountain Treasure Hunt
February 7, 2009
Times: 8:30am to 2pm
Location: Park City Mountain Resort
Phone: 435-649-2791
parkcityhunt.com
A Park City Academy Scholarship Program Event. Registration of $75 for a team of two will include: breakfast buffet, ability to purchase day of discounted lift tickets, ski or board in the All Mountain Treasure Hunt solving clues that lead to ten checkpoints on the mountain with a race to the finish line, chance to win two 2009-2010 Adult Season Passes to PCMR and other great prizes. Teams are limited so don't delay--join us now for The HUNT!
February 6, 2009 - February 8, 2009
Location: Park City Mountain Resort
Phone: 435-649-8111
parkcitymountain.com
Check out Burton's latest gear on the snow, sample products from event sponsors, and meet the Burton team riders. Compete in the Am Series for a chance to receive an invitation to the Burton U.S. Open in March 2009.
Intermountain Freestyle Aerials Competition
February 6, 2009
Times: 5pm
Location: Utah Olympic Park
Phone: 435-658-4200
www.olyparks.com
Check out the best and brightest aerial skiers as they go big at the Utah Olympic Park aerials site. Free admission.
Park City Film Series - Synecdoche, New York
February 6, 2009 - February 8, 2009
Times: Friday & Saturday at 7pm; Sunday at 6pm
Location: Jim Santy Auditorium, 1255 Park Ave
Phone: 435-615-8291
www.parkcityfilmseries.com
A wild-eyed theater director, played by Academy Award winner Philip Seymour Hoffman, attempts to build a life-sized replica of New York City in preparation for an ambitious theatrical event. This film is the feature directorial debut of notoriously quirky screenwriter Charlie Kaufman (Being John Malkovich, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind). Catherine Keener, Michelle Williams, and Emily Watson co-star in a tale of one man's quest to stage the ultimate love letter to the Big Apple.
Swaner EcoCenter Open House and Nordic Ski 'n' See
February 6, 2009
Times: 3 to 6pm
Location: Swaner EcoCenter
Celebrate Winter at the Swaner EcoCenter! Utah's greenest building will be open to the public with free admission (from 3-6 pm) so come explore the new exhibits, ascend the climbing wall, or learn about the new EcoCenter Host Program. Join Swaner EcoCenter employee and Nordic enthusiast, Nell Larson, for a one-hour Nordic Ski 'n' See adventure beginning at 5:00 pm and ending with the Winter sunset. Reservations are required and there is a $5.00 fee. Ski equipment is not provided. Contact Savannah at 435.649.1767 or savannah@swanerecocenter.org for reservations or details. Ski equipment rentals are available at White Pine Touring at 435.649.6249.
Full Moon Snowshoe at McPolin Farm
February 7, 2009
Phone: 435-658-5819
www.mcpolinfarm.org
Join the Friends of the Farm under a full moon for a snowshoe/skiing chili supper event at the McPolin Farm. Folk music by Switzerland's own Elsbeth Gugii and a guided snowshoe tour. $15/person, adult or child. Tickets at the PC library starting 1/2/09.
International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race
February 7, 2009
Location: Quinn's Junction Sports Complex
Phone: 435-649-6100
10am to noon: Meet the Mushers and Ice Sculpture demonstration. Noon to 2pm: Sled Dog Race on the trails of Round Valley. Come out to the Park City Ice Arena to watch the start and finish of the race. 2pm to 3pm: Junior Musher Sled Dog Race.
Marcia Ball at The Eccles Center
February 7, 2009
Location: 1750 Kearns Blvd
Phone: 435-655-3114
www.ParkCityTickets.com
The W.C. Handy Blues Award winner and "bayou queen of the piano" puts on a rollicking show.
The HUNT 2009: 3rd Annual All Mountain Treasure Hunt
February 7, 2009
Times: 8:30am to 2pm
Location: Park City Mountain Resort
Phone: 435-649-2791
parkcityhunt.com
A Park City Academy Scholarship Program Event. Registration of $75 for a team of two will include: breakfast buffet, ability to purchase day of discounted lift tickets, ski or board in the All Mountain Treasure Hunt solving clues that lead to ten checkpoints on the mountain with a race to the finish line, chance to win two 2009-2010 Adult Season Passes to PCMR and other great prizes. Teams are limited so don't delay--join us now for The HUNT!
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