Environmentalists sue Utah Inland Port Authority

• Environmental groups have filed a lawsuit against state leaders.
• The suit claims the port authority violates the separation of powers.
• Concerns include harm to the Great Salt Lake ecosystem.
• Local residents report negative impacts from industrial development.

September 23, 2024 — Environmental advocacy groups, including Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment and the Center for Biological Diversity, filed a lawsuit against Utah Governor Spencer Cox and state legislative leaders last week. The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of the Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA), alleging that it violates the state’s principle of separation of powers. Not only do the plaintiffs raise questions about the legality of its formation, but they also question the impact of UIPA projects on local communities and the Great Salt Lake ecosystem.

The plaintiffs argue that the Utah legislature improperly controls the UIPA. They claim this undermines the governor’s authority to appoint board members and execute laws. The lawsuit suggests this structure prevents the public from holding state officials accountable for decisions impacting local communities and the environment.

Deeda Seed, a senior campaigner at the Center for Biological Diversity, stated, “This lawsuit aims to reverse the Utah Port Authority’s disastrous record of using public money to fast track massive industrial development that’s accelerating the collapse of the Great Salt Lake ecosystem.” The lawsuit seeks to reverse all board decisions made since the port authority’s restructuring in 2022.

The Center for Biological Diversity reports that residents in areas affected by UIPA projects have expressed their concerns. For instance, Macayla Anderson, a Grantsville resident, described how the port authority’s developments have negatively impacted her family’s quality of life and property value. Similarly, Chris Eddington from Tooele Valley reported feeling blindsided when his property was included in a project area without his knowledge.

The lawsuit alleges the UIPA has approved significant industrial developments near sensitive wetlands and agricultural lands, often without thorough assessments of potential environmental and public health risks. Michelle White, the plaintiffs’ attorney, emphasized the severe consequences of these developments on local communities.

According to a Fox News article republished by the Great Salt Lake Collaborative, the UIPA’s executive director, Ben Hart, responded to the lawsuit, expressing confidence in the authority’s operations and asserting that they have been following the law. He indicated that the port authority’s efforts aimed to balance development with environmental protection. Governor Spencer Cox stated that he would monitor the lawsuit closely. He expressed skepticism regarding the claims of harm to the Great Salt Lake, asserting that the administration has worked to ensure that developments protect the lake.

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