The Hooper City Council meeting on August 7, 2025, focused on significant community concerns regarding the proposed Smith Plaza development. Residents expressed strong opposition to the project, citing potential negative impacts on the local environment and community character.

During the meeting, several residents voiced their support for denying the development, arguing that it would lead to increased congestion and alter the rural nature of Hooper. Concerns were raised about the financial implications of the project, particularly regarding the Community Reinvestment Agency (CRA) funding. One resident highlighted that the Weber County School District is currently missing out on approximately $14 million due to CRAs, suggesting that the financial benefits of the Smith Plaza project may not be as substantial as proposed.

Opponents of the development emphasized that the project could lead to a shift in the community's identity, comparing it to other cities that have lost their unique character due to similar developments. They argued that the influx of new stores would not necessarily benefit the residents and could instead burden local infrastructure.

Additionally, residents questioned the motivations behind the project, suggesting that it primarily serves the interests of the developers rather than the community. Concerns were raised about the lack of transparency and the influence of external parties in the decision-making process.

The council was urged to consider the long-term implications of the development on Hooper's character and to prioritize the wishes of the community, which has historically favored maintaining larger lots and a rural atmosphere. As the meeting concluded, many residents expressed hope that the council would take their concerns seriously and vote against the Smith Plaza proposal, emphasizing the need for ethical leadership and community-focused decision-making.