Opinion: Utah’s growth paradox

In 1849, fantastical rags to riches rumors from the California gold rush swirled among Utahns, and they were tempted to join the frenzied pursuit of instant wealth. Leaders in the area were alarmed, and appropriately warned Utahns against the lure of stories that were simply too good to be true, and against the temptation of allowing one’s life to be driven by material pursuits. Utah’s political leaders today are promoting a new kind of gold rush, and we should be just as resistant to their sales pitch.

Perpetual growth, infinite real estate development and seas of mega-warehouses are the gold of 2023. The Utah Inland Port Authority is bestowing its gold in the form of subsidies for our biggest construction companies and real estate developers so it is easier and cheaper for them to build more online distribution centers with massive warehouse farms, most of them near or right on top of Great Salt Lake wetlands. Every Utah cul-de-sac may be blessed with a port; nine are already in the works.

While the Utah Inland Port Authority extends taxpayer-funded “gold” to developers, it tells the public, “It will “empower” your community, increase your tax base. Your children will be offered great jobs right in your neighborhood. It will “fast track growth,” while improving air quality. For good measure, the Utah Inland Port Authority will “protect Great Salt Lake wetlands.” A 2023 gold rush indeed.