Manti City reviews DWR policy for removal of deer within city limits

MANTI—A biologist with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) talked to the city council last week about renewing the city’s agreement with DWR for removal of deer.

The agreement allows removal of up to 50 deer a year, but because the city uses only about five live traps, the average number harvested is five.

At the meeting Wednesday, Aug. 12, wildlife biologist Rod Nielson told the council that with an estimated city deer population of around 200 in the city, the current level of removal does not keep pace with population growth.

Residents experiencing deer problems are encouraged to report them now so harvesting can take place this season. Deer are removed only when residents request it, and only between Aug. 31 and Oct. 15 each year.

Heather Pyper, Sanpete County deputy clerk, presented a proposed 2027 Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between Sanpete County and Manti City for elections.

Citing postage increases and other rising costs, the contract would raise the fee more than 40 percent to $4 per ballot.

Pyper said the city currently has 2,034 registered voters. If enough candidates file to require a primary in addition to the general election, costs could increase accordingly. rise substantially. Pyper recommended the city always budget for a primary. A primary with 40 percent turnout would cost about $3,200.

In a presidential election year, at least 60 percent turnout is typical and would cost roughly $5,000; non-presidential years usually see about 40 percent turnout, or about $3,200. The council is reviewing the proposal for further discussion.

The council also heard a report about efforts to set up a disc golf course in Manti. The city has received a grant for the project and Elevate Utah has located baskets, which would help meet the grant’s matching-funds requirement. The course must be finished by Oct. 15 to use the grant.

Only the first nine holes would be built this year, with signage indicating the planned second nine so signs can be updated easily later. Astroturf tee pads would be used instead of concrete for greater flexibility and faster installation. City costs for the first nine holes would be about $1,000.

Justin Jenkins, a disc golf enthusiast and Ephraim Middle School teacher, praised the project, noting that disc golf is being introduced at the school and students would likely encourage their families to use the course.

Manti resident Nate Brown also offered to help and urged approval. Both men said they have baskets at home and invited council members to try the sport.

City Planner McKay Muhlestein and Councilwoman Mary Pipes reported on the newly formed Historic Preservation Committee. Current members are Muhlestein, Pipes, local artist Nikki Covington, Daughters of the Utah Pioneers representative Kay Crane, and Terry Spallino, a former member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Historical Department. 

The committee’s broad goals include enhancing the city’s appearance and building on its pioneer heritage through community events. Suggested activities include a traditional farmers market, a barn and historic homes tour, and a local mural artist competition for Main Street.

Committee members have begun working with the Utah State Historic Preservation Office, which recently toured Manti and expressed strong enthusiasm about the city’s many historic homes and buildings. Some renovation funds may be available through Preservation Utah, and the committee plans to educate residents about those opportunities.

Manti City Council meetings will now be held only once a month, on the second Wednesday. The remaining 2026 schedule is Sept. 9, Oct. 14, Nov. 11 and Dec. 9.

The decision to change the frequency of meetings was approved during the Aug. 12 council meeting.