This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

I live near the Jordan River in West Jordan. Our neighborhood was fighting a nearly 224-unit apartment complex going in near Gardner Historic Village for over three years. We were successful until the developer sued the city and received a higher density of 272 units.

People are scared to fight back, because they are afraid of being sued with a SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) from the developers, too.

This is a shame because that area is part of America's Great Outdoors Initiative. AGOI established that green space around the Jordan River area needs preservation at all costs. Kids in the city need a place to observe the unique opportunities to see wildlife and the natural beauty of the Jordan River. Not everyone can afford to visit the state and national parks in Utah. Most everyone can walk or ride their bikes and enjoy a peaceful beautiful natural area. Increased development is diminishing the chances for an experience in nature.

It is time that city councils in Utah County, Salt Lake County and Davis County unite to save the remaining open space areas for our children and our grandchildren.

JayLynn Thomas

West Jordan