City Council Discusses Chief Toker Reservoir Recreation Area Development Plans

During the recent City Council meeting in Toquerville, Washington County, discussions centered on the future of recreational opportunities at Chief Toker Reservoir. The council is considering how to best develop this area, which has been a topic of planning since 2017.

The primary focus of the meeting was the potential naming of the recreation area and the challenges surrounding its development. While some members suggested alternative names, the consensus leaned towards maintaining the current name, Chief Toker Reservoir. The council emphasized the importance of community assets, particularly parks and recreational facilities, as vital components of the city's infrastructure.

A significant point of discussion was the proposed construction of a cofferdam to stabilize water levels in the reservoir. However, recent communications with the conservancy district revealed that support for this project had been withdrawn due to concerns about its feasibility. As a result, the city is now shifting its focus back to the original plan for a recreation area at the south end of the reservoir.

The council acknowledged that while there is no immediate urgency to begin construction, careful planning is essential. They discussed the need to monitor water levels over the next few years before committing to specific facilities. The idea of forming a community steering committee was proposed to guide the development of the recreation area, ensuring that local input shapes the project.

The council also addressed the types of recreational activities that could be permitted at the reservoir. While motorized boats were deemed unsuitable, there was some discussion about allowing smaller vessels, such as kayaks or trolling motor boats, to enhance recreational use.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the city's commitment to developing Chief Toker Reservoir as a community asset while navigating the complexities of water management and funding. The formation of a community committee is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of this recreational area, with further updates anticipated as plans evolve.