SALT LAKE CITY, UT — A new legislative proposal, Senate Bill 333, was unveiled this week in the Utah State Legislature, creating a pathway for funding public infrastructure projects around “major sporting event venues.” The bill, sponsored by Senator Jerry Stevenson, R-Layton, introduces a tax increment financing mechanism designed to capture property tax and sales tax revenues to fund infrastructure improvements for new or renovated facilities tied to major sporting events.
While the bill’s language is broad, it is widely seen as a precursor to preparations for the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. The bill’s provisions would enable the state to invest in necessary infrastructure improvements for the event, which could include the development of new venues or the upgrading of existing facilities.
“The goal is to focus on the infrastructure, not the buildings themselves,” Stevenson said. “We’re working to refine the bill to ensure it is specifically tied to new facilities, rather than large-scale renovations or building projects for sports teams.”
According to the bill’s language, the proposed “major sporting event venue zones” would allow local governments to capture a portion of the property tax and sales tax revenue generated by the events held at these venues. These funds would then be used to finance infrastructure improvements, such as roads, utilities, and other necessary public amenities surrounding the venues.
The legislation also addresses concerns about taxpayer funding. Stevenson was quick to clarify that the bill would not provide public funding for private projects, such as the renovation of the Delta Center for the Utah Hockey Club or plans by the Larry H. Miller Company to build a Major League Baseball stadium in Salt Lake City. “This isn’t a backdoor way of funding private sports facilities,” he explained.
Despite Stevenson’s assurances, some are questioning the broader implications of the bill. Billy Hesterman, president of the Utah Taxpayers Association, expressed cautious support for the bill, acknowledging the importance of preparing for major events like the Winter Olympics. However, he stressed the need to ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly. “We want to make sure these investments are done in a way that is protective of the taxpayer and ensures long-term sustainability for the state,” Hesterman said.
The bill was introduced on Tuesday and is expected to move quickly through the final two weeks of the legislative session. Lawmakers are keen to finalize the details of the proposal in time for the anticipated influx of visitors and investments tied to the 2034 Winter Olympics.