Commentary: HB257 would undermine democracy in rural Utah

(Leah Hogsten | The Salt Lake Tribune) Torrey residents Darrell Mensel and Tyler Ward set up Ward's telescope during the town's star party October, 19, 2017. Kirsten and Mark Bailey and Mary Beddingfieldsmith held a star party at the Bailey's home to show residents and members of the Wayne County Business Association the beauty of our vast universe, planets and far away galaxies more easily seen in Wayne County's dark skies. Torrey, the gateway town to Capitol Reef National Park, hopes become the state's first Dark Sky Community. In March 2018 the Legislature amended Utah Code 17-52a making it easier for citizens to consider changing their county’s form of government. A study committee is required to analyze four forms of government, and recommend which form and what options best suit their county. The committee’s recommendation is then placed on the ballot for voters to give an up or down vote.

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