Written by John Crofts
Commission Work Session Reviews Recreation District Progress and Animal Shelter Funding Options
By John Crofts, DavisUtahWeekly.com
April 22, 2025 – Farmington, Utah
At Tuesday morning’s Davis County Commission Work Session, commissioners heard detailed updates from the South Davis Recreation District and examined funding challenges surrounding the new Animal Care facility project.
South Davis Recreation District Highlights Fiscal Success and Growth
Tif Miller, Executive Director of the South Davis Recreation District (SDRD), reported continued recovery and growth since the COVID-19 pandemic. The District posted $500,000 in revenue for 2024 and saw major gains in participation across youth programs like soccer, basketball, and baseball. The SDRD also introduced mental wellness initiatives, increased annual pass sales, and launched a new mobile-friendly website.
Future projects include potential bonding to expand locker rooms and the lap pool, resurfacing the parking lot by 2027, and preparing for increased demand from the 2034 Winter Olympics. A new $160,000 Zamboni will be delivered in May, and officials are tracking demand for programs such as hockey and swim lessons. SDRD memberships for Q1 2025 reached 7,635, with over 18,000 individual members using the facility.
Animal Shelter Project Faces Budget Gap and Uncertain Path Forward
Animal Care Director Ashleigh Young and county officials presented three options for proceeding with the proposed new animal shelter, currently facing a $2 million shortfall. Discussion included the possibility of using opioid settlement funds, though County Attorney Troy Rawlings warned of legal risks and potential clawbacks if spending violates the terms of the national agreement.
Controller Curtis Koch expressed concern about broader fiscal challenges in the County, citing declining sales tax trends and the risk of economic downturn. While pausing the shelter project could threaten existing investments and contracts, commissioners deferred a decision pending a follow-up session.
No official action was taken during the Work Session.
