Court Allows The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Join Heber Valley Temple Lawsuit

HEBER, Utah (ABC4) — In January, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints filed a motion to intervene in a lawsuit against Wasatch County over the construction of the Heber Valley Temple.

On April 30, a 4th District Court judge granted the motion.

Democratic candidate Brian King issues statement on Bangerter decision

The controversy surrounding the construction of the Heber Valley Temple is not necessarily over the nature of the religious structure, but rather over its size, light, and location. The debate has focused largely on light pollution as the area is known for its dark night skies. Other concerns include traffic in the area and loss of view of the mountains.

In November 2023, the Wasatch County City Council voted in favor construction of the temple, although petitioners who own homes near the proposed site have argued that the building would negatively impact their view, privacy and tranquility.

In January, the church said it should be involved in the lawsuit filed against Wasatch County because it owns the property, has filed an application for the development and wants to build the temple.

After hearing oral arguments in April, a judge granted the Church’s motion to intervene, meaning it will be allowed to join the Heber Valley Temple’s lawsuit. He also denied a motion to dismiss the lawsuit filed by Wasatch County.

The court ruled that the Church “has met its burden by demonstrating that (Wasatch County) is incapable of diligently representing its interests,” adding that during oral argument, Wasatch County’s attorney “asserted that the county council’s commitment to defending this case was not unwavering. and new county council members might feel differently.

Following the ruling, the court said the Church had three weeks to respond to the order.

For breaking news, weather, sports and streaming videos, visit ABC4 Utah.