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EAGLE MOUNTAIN, Utah (AP) -- Four Brigham Young University graduate students have proposed a four-point economic development plan to help the city of Eagle Mountain grow.
The students are enrolled in BYU's master of public administration program and studied Eagle Mountain for months. Their plan focuses on accessing professional networks, coordinated planning strategies, branding and incentives to businesses.
The students proposed a plan to city leaders last week. They say focus should be placed on drawing high-tech companies interested in renewable energy to the city.
In the study, students Scot Godferson, Andrew Gleaves, Del Brady and Dale Frost compared Eagle Mountain with 12 cities in Salt Lake and Utah counties and tried to predict its ability to attract businesses.
Many people that we spoke with felt Eagle Mountain city is still an unfinished city.
–- Scot Godferson
Eagle Mountain has the fourth-highest educated work force among those cities and ranked strongly in cost-cutting variables including low taxes, available land and low median home prices that could attract businesses.
City Administrator John Hendrickson said the city recognizes the need for both business and residential growth. Eagle Mountain is preparing to launch a $250,000 advertising campaign aimed at boosting economic development. It features billboards, TV and print ads and economic development materials for companies.
The recommendations from students mirrored the city's existing plans. City leaders say they will consider using the students' research in future economic development materials.
"Many people that we spoke with felt Eagle Mountain city is still an unfinished city," Godferson said. "The city should continue the marketing campaign they've started and expand it to industry websites and publications."
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Information from: Deseret News
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