Cottonwood Heights officials knew that becoming a city would be costly, but after lobbying for months, they now have relief - from the government they left. A deal between Salt Lake County and the new city was reached Tuesday that will pay Cottonwood Heights more than $3 million, most of which is for open space or a possible park. The deal calls for $2.5 million for the open-space amenity, $500,000 as a reimbursement for canyon fire patrol and $78,000 to be forgiven in election costs. Cottonwood Heights Mayor Kelvyn Cullimore initially requested a $7 million refund from the county's municipal services fund. He called it "double taxation" because Cottonwood Heights residents paid into the fund before voting to become a city. He later compromised, while most on the County Council said they were comfortable offering a smaller grant. Council Chairman Michael Jensen said the long negotiation made him and others nervous. "There was some rhetoric on both sides," he said. "Hopefully, we can move forward and have a long-term relationship." Language added to the deal Tuesday prevents the city from requesting additional money, opens park access to all county residents and makes the money payable after the city's service agreements with the county are signed. The agreement passed, 7-0. - Derek P. Jensen