Residents of Red Ledges who sued Wasatch County over the Heber Valley Temple have spoken publicly for the first time in three years, days before the Utah Supreme Court hears oral arguments Friday. Spokesperson Bruce Van Dusen said the timing reflects the lawsuit's escalation to the state's highest court.

The case challenges the county's approval of the temple's construction in the Heber Valley, with residents arguing the project violates zoning and land-use standards. The church maintains the temple meets all legal requirements and serves a growing congregation in the Wasatch Back region.

Red Ledges is an upscale residential and golf community near the proposed temple site. Residents have not disclosed the substance of their forthcoming public statement, but Van Dusen indicated they felt compelled to speak as the case reaches its most prominent stage.