By Craig Blackwell
craig@newsroom.byu.edu
The Orem City Council voted last night to allow the Santa Fe Grill to be constructed in the existing strip mall of the Harmon's Grocery store complex.
The area of 800 N. and 800 East is quickly being developed as evidence of the grocery store and other new establishments. However, this area is zoned as PD-4 or professional development. This does not allow restaurants or even video rental stores.
Brandon Janis, of Mapleton, requested the city change the code and allow restaurants to be included on the list of possible businesses.
The city code does not allow a restaurant to have a drive through or a drive up window. That is one of the distinguishable features between a restaurant and a fast food establishment.
Neighborhood residents originally feared the restaurant would be a fast food establishment which would cause noise and problems. However, residents turned out in support of the restaurant when they discovered it would be a restaurant and located in the strip mall.
Sherry Young, a resident of the neighborhood said she was pleased when she and other neighbors were approached by Janis about the idea.
'We support Mr. Janis. We appreciate him coming to see us. Our only concern is that we are trying to preserve our neighborhood. The restaurant proposal is good, the open spots in the mall need to be filled up or it can be a hindrance to those who come into our neighborhood,' Young said.
Councilman Bill Pepperone said there are many residents very concerned over 800 North becoming more like State Street and that there have been several requests for the area to be zoned for professional use not commercial.
'There is a reluctance to create more commercial zones. However, as a resident of the area I think a restaurant would help the viability of the area and provide more opportunity to eat out,' Pepperone said.
Mayor Jerry Washburn also voiced his opinion in favor of the restaurant. He also made mention of other successful 'walking' communities such as Portland Oregon.
'A walkable community, bringing in a business that is close to a community will help to alleviate congestion. Also, it helps preserve a sense of community and being able to walk to these areas will make it so residents don't have to travel so far to these kinds of establishments,' Washburn said.
Most all council members were present except Judy Bell. Stephen Sandstrom participated via telephone and took part in the vote.
'If the neighbors are content, I am content,' Sandstrom said.
The City Council also recognized various residents for their contributions to the city and presented them with the OK2BKind Joe Nelson Courtesy Awards. Joe Nelson was a mayor of Orem who passed away while in office.
Cozette and Keith Jeppson were honored for their efforts to keep their neighborhood free of trash and providing garbage cans for an apartment complex.
Leroy Gunnell, who runs the public affairs of an Orem LDS Stake, has headed numerous courtesy programs. He has helped develop Home Teaching and Relief Society lessons and has giving many talks about making the city better.
Teresa Gorritti, a ESL Teacher at Orem elementary was honored for her unselfishness. She has provided clothes and shoes to needy students during the three years she has taught at the school.
Dr. Blayne Hirsche was recognized for providing hope to many disfigured kids not only in the community but in third world countries. He runs an organization called, 'Hirsche Smiles' that gives medical help to children with a cleft lip and pallette.