In 2017, Kimball Arts Center (KAC) and Park City Municipal signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for a 0.85-acre parcel in Bonanza Park. As a City Council member since 2022, I immediately advocated advancing the project, the only councilor speaking out against an unnecessary multi-year $500,000 consulting study. Upon the other four councilors approving the study and delay, the mayor, another councilor, and I served as liaisons with council’s consent.
The city offered KAC various subsidized financial options, including the 2017 LOI price without inflation, additional requested land at 2017 rates, relaxed development requirements, facilitating fee waivers, public parking funding, and design control.
Concerns arose amid these discussions, including then-city staff presenting public engagement with bias, ignored task forces, insider dealings and an undisclosed conflict of interest by a potential development partner. Yet we continued to drive towards solutions.
Additionally, the city’s economic development director performed analysis finding KAC’s economic impact claims were inflated. My management consulting background shapes my “trust but verify” approach. I appreciated the transparency and despite the lower economic impact, supported a greater subsidy for Arts Fest. Now KAC receives increased, transparent operational support with clear qualitative and quantitative returns.
No single City Council member makes policy. All KAC communications reflected group direction.
Despite improved terms, KAC pursued a new solution near Kimball Junction for more land at a lower cost, citing consistency with their strategic growth plans, and importantly more convenient access for their patrons and employees outside of Park City.
Surprised, I proposed an annex on the Bonanza Park 5-Acre Site for KAC’s educational programs and community workshops, which was well-received, and collaboration continues.
A letter to the editor rife with political undertones misrepresented the situation, falsely blaming me for KAC’s departure and questioning my commitment to the arts. None of the signers were in all the discussions, most didn’t attend any, and many are tied to other candidates’ election campaigns (through public disclosures).
My family has long supported KAC and will continue to. We hosted our 2014 wedding at their previous location, volunteered at Arts Fest, and our daughters attend their amazing classes. I continue advocating for a robust arts presence at the 5-Acre Site with local nonprofits and educational institutions. Meeting records confirm these efforts.
This is a prime example of standing for the greater good without special interest influence. Ignore the false, politically-motivated narrative as we drive community solutions with KAC, the Arts Council, and many others.
This election, vote for honesty and community. VoteRubell.com
Jeremy Rubell
Park City Council Candidate