West Valley City • New York City has Central Park. Mayor Mike Winder wants something similar for Utah's second-largest city — and not just for the recreation opportunities.

Proposition 3 — which would provide money to complete the community's trail system, build neighborhood parks and create a large "village green" in the City Center area — "is absolutely critical from an economic development standpoint," Winder said.

Property values increase in neighborhoods next to trails, and companies look at a city's green space in deciding whether to relocate, the mayor said.

One opponent of the measure agrees that Proposition 3 could have an economic impact, but says it would be a negative one — creating higher taxes for businesses and discouraging them from locating in West Valley City.

If Proposition 3 passes, some of the money would be used for a 4- to 7-acre green space in City Center, accompanying a retail project that is just west of City Hall and adjacent to a new TRAX station that begins service next summer. Proponents want a water feature that flows down the length of the park, similar to one in the St. George's town square, and a pedestrian promenade, such as the one in Boston's Rose Kennedy Greenway.

A park could be crucial for the operators of a four-star hotel who are now considering whether to locate in the City Center redevelopment area, as well as other potential tenants, Winder said. He said the city cannot disclose which hotel is interested but that it is a well-regarded national chain and that the building would be seven stories.

Kevin Fayles, chairman of the West Valley Parks and Trails for Families Committee, which is campaigning for the bond, also said parks would help drive economic development and draw employers.

"I feel when people hear what's included, they'll be supportive," Fayles said.

But lifelong West Valley resident Bill Barton says the price tag is too high, at $25 a year over the next two decades for the homeowner with an average home valued at $177,000. He pointed out that the city already has the second-highest property tax in the valley after Salt Lake City.

In addition, a tax hike would hit businesses even harder because they don't receive the 45-percent reduction from market value on buildings and land that home-owners get on a primary residence, Barton said. The tax increase for businesses having the same $177,000 value is estimated at $45.49 a year.

"Most businesses pay closer attention to property taxes," said Barton, who heads Citizen Speakup, which is campaigning against Proposition 3. "I think businesses are very cognizant of any costs."

Neither side has conducted a poll but an annual survey by West Valley City in the spring asked whether residents would support a measure with the same elements as Proposition 3. The results showed 45 percent of the respondents supporting a tax increase, 51 percent opposing it and the rest not sure.

Despite the split, Winder is hopeful that West Valley residents will vote yes.

"What's Manhattan without Central Park?" he asked.

pmanson@sltrib.com —

Proposition 3

West Valley City citizens will vote Tuesday on a general obligation bond that would provide up to $25 million to build parks and trails in the community.