New City Proposal Faces Pushback in Kane County, Utah

KANAB, Utah — A plan to create a new city on 596 acres east of Kanab has sparked controversy among local officials. Kane County leaders express concerns over the proposed development, which includes 1,276 housing units and additional amenities.

The project, led by the Philo Development Group, outlines plans for 794 single-family homes, 374 multi-family units, and 108 vacation rentals, along with a potential resort hotel and parks. However, Kane County officials are not pleased with the developer’s approach, which they believe bypasses traditional approval processes.

County officials are particularly concerned that the developer is using a state law passed in 2024 that allows developers to seek preliminary municipality status directly from the state. This law was designed to expedite housing projects amid a statewide shortage.

Kane County Commissioner Celeste Meyeres argues this method undermines local governance and removes the county from the decision-making process. “It allows a developer to jump over all the time-honored processes that other municipalities have historically had to go through,” she said.

Whitehead, managing partner at Philo Development Group, disputes the county’s claims. He insists the company attempted to work collaboratively with local officials to obtain the necessary approvals before opting for the preliminary municipality route in January.

Former state Senator Curt Bramble, who sponsored the legislation, supports the law, citing frustrations with some counties obstructing housing solutions. Bramble emphasizes the need for feasibility studies to assess the viability of proposed developments.

Jordan Schwanke from the Utah Lieutenant Governor’s Office confirms several projects, including Willow, are in the pipeline, awaiting state approval. He noted that the process can take between three to six years.

While Kane County officials are continuing discussions with the state to address their concerns about the new law, the Philo Development Group remains hopeful to gain preliminary status by the end of the year, aiming to start construction by 2026.