HEBER CITY — Construction has begun on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Heber Valley Utah Temple, even as a neighborhood lawsuit over its size and lighting continues.
The temple was first announced by President Russell M. Nelson on Oct. 3, 2021, during general conference, the same day he unveiled plans to reconstruct the Provo Utah Temple. Groundbreaking took place Oct. 8, 2022, with President Nelson presiding. In his remarks, he reflected on Heber Valley’s pioneer-era Church history and predicted the area would remain “a fruitful seedbed for devoted and dedicated members.”
Nearly three years later, the project remains at the center of a legal battle. Fourth District Judge Jennifer Mabey ruled July 23 that construction could move forward, rejecting claims from Red Ledges residents who argue the 210-foot temple exceeds zoning limits and will bring excessive lighting and noise. The residents appealed to the Utah Supreme Court the following week…