Manti City Council awards bid for new water treatment plant
MANTI—The Manti City Council took several actions at its July 15 meeting that directly affect daily life, future growth, water reliability and community pride.
Water Treatment Plant Moves Forward
The biggest-ticket item was awarding the bid for the new Water Treatment Plant. After seven companies submitted bids, Nelson Brothers Construction received the contract at approximately $3.4 million. Sunrise Engineers and the city attorney confirmed Nelson Brothers was the most qualified bidder with proven experience on similar projects, including Mount Pleasant’s plant.
The project stays well within budget. Council members asked about opportunities for local labor and subcontractors; while not required by the bid, residents hope Nelson Brothers will include local workers where possible. Construction is expected to improve long-term drinking water quality and capacity as the city grows.
Water Conservation Paying Off
Kory Hatch’s culinary water report brought good news mixed with a warning. June 2026 usage reached 26.5 million gallons, high, as expected in summer, but residents are using noticeably less water compared to other years despite city growth and the sports complex.
Spring production is down (Springs currently producing 700–800 gallons per minute instead of the usual 1,400), yet the town is meeting demand without heavy reliance on Sister Springs, which can run dirty after monsoons. Officials will monitor closely and only use Sister Springs if absolutely necessary. City Creek repairs are complete, and the system remains stable for now. Conservation efforts by residents are making a real difference.
Shaping Manti’s Future
McKay Muhlestein updated the council on the General Plan process, now about halfway complete. Planners have gathered 190 survey responses so far and plan door-to-door outreach through the Eagle Scouts. Residents consistently value preserving history, protecting farmland, maintaining the small-town feel, supporting families, and avoiding unwanted development.
The city’s original pioneer layout, with homes, schools, and shops close together and farms on the outskirts, remains a model. Demographics show steady 1.2% annual growth, healthy age balance, and strong community assets like the temple, tabernacle, volunteer spirit, and public facilities. Council will receive focused recommendations in August or September.
Community Events & Local Pride
The July 3–4 celebrations drew strong praise. The Manti Youth Council event hosted 200 young people with 600 pounds of chocolate eaten and great live music, plus the fun of a Color Throw. Fireworks coordination drew comments, and restrooms at the pickleball park were noted as needed. Organizers will debrief and suggest improvements for next year.
The recent ATV event was another success: 103 riders (51 registered, including visitors from as far as Florida), beautiful wildflowers, no major incidents, and a $6,395 profit after expenses. Sponsorship by Rocky Mountain ATV, local food, and updated logos for the t-shirts added to the experience, boosting hotels, restaurants and the trailer park as well as other businesses. Participants are talking about returning with family and friends in the near future.
Other Notable Items
- A senior professional development project by Kristy Oliver documented nearly 400 early burials (1849–1880) in the Manti Cemetery, updating records and making them publicly available online with FamilySearch links. You can find it at the city website.
- The Annexation Policy Plan and updated Subdivision Ordinance both passed unanimously.
- Financial advising contract awarded to Kruse and Associates for five years.
- Veterans Memorial location finalized after reviewing five sites.
- Residents are encouraged to learn about the upcoming Rural Health Tax vote to avoid higher city-assessed fees. It will be on the November ballot.
- Mary Pipes reported on local business diversity in the county and confirmed City Creek repairs are complete.