Why do you want to be part of the Virgin Town Council?
Virgin is where I live and also where I work, as I run both my little bookstore and the community Post Office here. The health and happiness of the town matters very much to me. It took me some time to make the decision to run for re-election to Town Council; I am well aware of the commitment of time and energy required, since I am now in my fourth year on the council. I decided that, even though I think I have accomplished some good things over the past four years, there are other changes I could help make that would really benefit the town. I also actually enjoy serving on the council.
What are the three best things about your town?
Setting. Of course, Virgin is set in a beautiful place, which not only cheers me daily, it gives it a great economic advantage. In turn, the fact that tourism is an option for Virgin's economic health gives us another advantage: that all property owners have a greater-than-average interest in making sure the town's beauty is not compromised.
Character. Virgin has a character unique among the "upriver" towns. We don't have the commerce, nor the polish, of Springdale. Instead we have an authentic feel which, for me, adds to Virgin's charm. We don't have the cool, quiet agricultural feel of Rockville, nor its old-time neighborhood atmosphere. Instead, we have the elements to build just the kind of main street that the people here want.
People. Finally (third, but not least), the people of Virgin are civil, fair, and real. I'm grateful for my fellow volunteers on the council and planning commission. The mayor and four assorted members of the board each have strengths that complement the rest, and I'll venture to say we've all learned over the last few years to rely on those strengths. Our discussions have become more and more effective, and I have confidence that our process is ethical and fair. Also, other town officials, staff, volunteers, and residents have amazing talents, and do great things for us while we aren't looking.
Please state your top two priorities if elected to the Town Council; why are they important and what will you do about them?
We have got to update our general plan, particularly the portion dealing with capital facilities. I will continue to push for this. A current capital facilities plan has to be in place in order for the town to take advantage of various funding opportunities (for instance, if we specifically detailed the restoration of the old church at the town square as an ongoing capital project in our plan, we would be eligible for more grants to continue work the building), and documented plans allow us to ensure new development happens according to plan, in an orderly, financially feasible fashion.
Many people in Virgin don't want to promote any kind of commercial growth. I'm sympathetic; in fact, I admit I wish it were possible to keep things as they are, but I don't think this is a workable stance. I am afraid if we are caught snoozing in this department, a future administration may, by absolute economic necessity, approve development of uses, or in locations, that are contrary to the desires most of us have for Virgin. If we can see our way to adopt policies that actively encourage precisely the kinds of small businesses most of us would welcome, we may avoid being forced later on to face an unsightly sprawl of those we would not.
What’s your opinion about the Lake Powell Pipeline project?
The way things stand at the moment, I am not a big fan of this project. I am not convinced that we want to grow as large as proposals suggest. I am not convinced Lake Powell is a reliable source. I know that there is a whole lot of room for improvement in our usage levels, and that we can grow to a fairly dense population simply by developing our local sources. And in the current economic climate I am certainly not convinced that the growth that is proposed to pay for the project would come in time to prevent current residents from ending up with the bill.
What, if any, Vision Dixie Priorities would you support and encourage? How?
I was involved in the Vision Dixie project as a resident, a facilitator, and member of the technical committee, so I got to observe the process pretty closely. What I saw gave me confidence in the final result; the principles derived from the chip games really do reflect the wishes of the region's residents. The first principle, which is “plan regionally, implement locally” is key; the best way to accomplish the other principles will vary wildly between the cities and towns of Washington County. For example, our new policy to allow the owners of building lots located within reach of existing infrastructure to reserve water hookups for future dwellings is a small move to "direct growth inward" specifically applicable for our town, which has a limited number of hookups and a great deal of outlying vacant land. Some of the principles are more appropriately implemented on a regional basis; “reserving key areas for industry” is essential in the county, but may be less relevant in a town of our size, and in our special location. However, we have taken actions or adopted improvements in Virgin's codes and policies, both before and after the principles were released, that align with each and every one of the other goals in some fashion, and I want us to continue to do so.
Do you like/support voting by mail in your town?
I supported the county's decision to let us try this method for this election. If it works as well here as it has in so many other places, I will certainly support continuing the policy, as it is less expensive for taxpayers and more convenient for voters. I am very happy to hear about the great success of Springdale's mail-in vote for their recent primary election, as Springdale staff has generously offered to help Virgin through its first attempt.
Why should a person vote for you?
I take my commitment as a council member seriously. I try to find solutions to everyday town problems, to ease regulations for uses the Town wants to encourage, to adopt policies to protect the expectations of existing owners, to get rid of vague or confusing restrictions common to many towns, sometimes due to the use of "boilerplate" ordinances, to correct conflicts in town documents, to encourage opposing interests to work together on controversial issues, and to be a helpful resource for town staff and for citizens. I push myself to examine all sides of a sticky question, because I dread regretting my vote on any agenda item (and, yes, I'm afraid this sometimes makes meetings longer). I participate in trainings, seminars, projects and groups around the region and keep an eye out for opportunities Virgin may otherwise miss, or actions taken by other entities that may have an impact on our town. I have learned a lot about applicable laws, planning techniques, regional opportunities, and our own town documents. Because I talk to residents every day, mentally comparing what I hear to the results of the public opinion survey I worked on as I ran in the previous election, I have a pretty good idea of the range of concerns our residents have. I think my convictions about what is generally best for Virgin are similar to those of most people here, and that encourages me to keep working.
What is the best way for people to learn more about you?
I almost could not be more available, since I run the local post office and my bookstore next door. I am there five or six days a week. I also read my email: virgingoods@peoplepc.com.
Showing posts with label Candidate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Candidate. Show all posts
Springdale: John Callahan, Candidate for Town Council
Why do you want to be part of the Town Council?
My professional background leads me to believe that I can be a very positive asset to the future of Springdale. I have experienced dealing and negotiation with City, County, State and Federal Governments including testifying in front of Congressional Committees and Sub Committees to secure project funding on behalf of the organizations I represented. While lobbying, I developed skills that would be a benefit to our community and especially to assist and learn from existing Town Council members and members of the Community.
What are the three best things about your town?
Simplicity, Diversity and Small Town atmosphere.
Please state your top two priorities if elected to the Town Council; why are they important and what will you do about them?
Preservation of our pristine environment. Springdale is “Going Green” and I would be very supportive and active in this area. There are many changing priorities that face our town. If elected I would certainly be on top of those priorities.
What’s your opinion about the Lake Powell Pipeline?
With our materialistic tendencies always in the back ground, I would fear major destruction to our very delicate Southern Utah environment. Such an undertaking will encourage development speculation that will create an additional demand on an already taxed burdened areas including Springdale with no direct benefit to our community.
What, if any, Vision Dixie Priorities would you support and encourage? How?
While I agree with the majority of the Vision Principals the studies are not Springdale specific, therefore scrutiny and sound evaluation should prevail.
Do you like/support voting by mail in your town?
The American right to vote is such and honor and should never be compromised. If we can prove this method assures us that all legitimate votes are counted, by all means, we should use this method which appears to be cost effective.
How do you see the Town Council’s elected role in enforcing ordinances such as the recently adopted ‘Dark Sky’ ordinance?
I see enforcing of ordinances, that are constitutional, a duty of the Town Council.
Parking has become a problem in Springdale – How would you deal with this issue?
I know that there have been several potential solutions offered to the town, but I am not familiar with all the issues that affect a reasonable solution.
Why should a person vote for you?
I have been a property and business owner in Springdale, Utah for the past 18 years. My wife Harriet and I have operated the Frontier Plunders Antiques, Inc. since moving to Springdale. I am currently semi-retired and the Site Manager for the Redhawk Apartments in Springdale.
I have been involved in and worked with State, local and national politics for the past 30 years in various capacities. As President of a five (5) state Housing Authority Association I have lobbied for funds through Congress and Congressional Subcommittees testifying for the need of funds for housing assistance to low income persons.
I have been the President of Boards of Directors for several social programs including Medical Clinics, Manpower and Employment Agencies.
I have vast construction management experience that has taken me to several States in various management positions, heading multi-million dollar projects mostly in residential construction.
As the President of Callahan Consulting Services, I provided training and consulting services to many Public and Native American Indian Housing Authorities, and American Indian Tribes in the development of administrative programs that were geared to receiving Federal, State and private funds. My consulting included monitoring established programs to meet Federal and State regulations
Since I am semi-retired I certainly have the time and with my diverse background I feel I have the ability to devote my efforts to the betterment of our Town of Springdale.
What is the best way for people to learn more about you?
I can be reached at our place of business, Frontier Plunder Antiques, Inc. during regular business hours. I also live there and would invite you give me a call so that we can set up a time to discuss your issues and ideas. You can even catch me cruising my electric golf cart around town almost any time of the day. Just trying to keep Springdale “Green.” Stop me, yell at me and we can discuss your concerns and ideas.
Rockville: John Farrand, Candidate for Town Council
Why do you want to be part of the Town Council?
I want to be a part of the Rockville town council because it would be a privilege and an opportunity to be of service to the citizens of Rockville. I feel a responsibility and a comittment to our community to become involved in the active leadership required to serve all residents of this town and to protect our natural resources and the town's future development.
What are the three best things about your town?
I love Rockville because of its beauty, its cleanliness, its small size, its charm and peaceful ambiance. There are lots of good folks who live here, some with memories of a simpler past and all of us with the dreams to keep it as close as possible to the way it now exists.
Please state your top two priorities if elected to the Town Council; why are they important and what will you do about them?
I am sure there are lots of things that the town of Rockville could use, this is probably true of any town, but I also believe that every government has to be fiscally responsible before it should act on something that we want or need and to be certain that we can afford something before putting heavy taxes on those who live on limited incomes. My priority is to help Rockville continue in the direction it has been going and to keep it the type of community it is now, and to make it a haven from the problems of big cities.
What’s your opinion about the Lake Powell Pipeline project?
Every growing community needs more water. If funds can be found to finance this project- then I would say the Lake Powell Pipeline is something that Rockville should consider thoughtfully. That is, if it dosn't require a big tax hike!! How would it impact Rockville? We need to discover new ways to meet our looming water crisis. How are other communities like ours handling similar problems? A balanced budget and fiscal restraint are two factors that concern me and I promise to adhere to these principles.
I share the same concerns and desires that the citizens of Washington County expressed through the answers given on the questionaire of the Vision Dixie plan. Let any future plans that may tax our budget rest for the present until the important national issues that we all are faced with are settled. In the present economy, I feel a lot of these projects should probably be postponed until such time as we have financial stability.
Do you like/support voting by mail in your town?
I think voting via mail can work. If the process saves time and money and will benefit the residents,
I say "Let's give it a try."
Why should a person vote for you?
Serving the town of Rockville would be a serious commitment. I try to keep every commitment I make. I put the needs of the community ahead of my personal feelings. I am honest in my dealings with my fellow citizens and deal fairly with all.
What is the best way for people to learn more about you?
Just call me! Talk to me I am a good listener and I usually get the facts correctly.
I would be happy to share my talents and background with anyone who would like to know more about me.
Springdale: Jonathan Zambella, Candidate for Town Council
Why do you want to be part of the Town Council?
I have always been drawn to public service. Since moving here from Pennsylvania 13 years ago, where I served on my local town's Planning Commission, it has become very clear that even a small voice can make a big difference in the quality of life of our community. I served under the last three Springdale Mayors on the Planning Commission, and chaired the commission for the last two years of my service. Simultaneously, I served as a board member and Chair of the Rockville/Springdale Fire Protection District for five years. These volunteer positions heightened my awareness and gave opportunity to develop keen skill sets. It is only appropriate that I continue to give back to the community that has helped me grow as a businessman, father, and husband. For me, giving is not work, it is joy.
This was a great exercise. There are many things I love about Springdale, and prioritizing them put a big smile on my face:
1) Location, Location, Location - Springdale's unique location at the gate of Zion National Park brought me to it, and after traveling much of the globe, this is still the place I want to live, raise my son, and grow old with my wife. No matter how complicated the politics have been in Springdale over the past 13 years, I still feel very light and energized, as the sandstone castle which surrounds us keeps me in perspective, while inspiring me toward greatness.
2) Time - Over time Springdale has become a better and better town. Unlike many gateway towns which grew too fast, disconnecting the physical attributes of the townscape and community from the surrounding resources, Springdale has held steadfast with the vision of its pioneer settlers and the conservative environmentalists who have shaped our town as we know it today. Their vision is a gift to our future. As a town council member, we have the unique opportunity to truly grow Springdale in a sustainable way, from both a resource and social perspective, without having to undo grave errors of the past.
3) Openness - Springdale hosts an eclectic and alternative population of townspeople with room for everyone's views and perspectives. Truly, we must be the most unique and varied population in Utah. I have always felt the social atmosphere of Springdale to be open and interested in diversity and change. This openness enables everyone to pursue their potential. As a government we benefit from this with negligible crime, immense volunteerism, creative community members, and vibrant businesses.
1) As a lifetime entrepreneur, I am deeply committed to learning and growing. Not a day goes by where I do not push myself to learn something new and be more thoughtful with my words and actions. My number one priority is to be a thoughtful, mindful, and balanced conduit for the townspeople's needs. This includes working with residents, business owners, developers, our planning commission, fire district, community volunteers, Zion National Park, and sister communities to maintain and build the best Springdale possible.
2) Managing public budgets is sometimes tricky, balancing current needs with future costs. In Springdale, we have spent a great deal of money in the last five years for infrastructure and community services, leveraging our communal sales tax. As a budget manager, I am progressive, yet hesitant, being sagacious and creative so I can vote for improvement without us having to incur debt. It would be my desire to help the town of Springdale operate without large debt while developing realizable incentives for our business community to continue to work as aggressively as they do to earn sales tax for the town.
I truly believe the Lake Powell Pipeline is analogous to the creative lending which has crippled much of our economy. Supporting this project looks favorable only in the short-term, and the only valid reason to do it is to protect our water rights. There are many powerful reasons not to do the project. It is an example of our entire region living beyond its means, ultimately driving our communities into a fiscal troubles, promoting development beyond the resources natural ability to support it, without ever guaranteeing the benefits of the promised water. Lake Powell water levels are consistently diminishing, but the costs of this project are rising, both financially and politically. As a taxpayer, I am strong opponent to this project. As a council member, I am open to yield to the voice of Springdale and press our regional governments to do so as well.
The ten guiding principles of Vision Dixie all have immense value. Within this program Springdale is obligated to continue to speak clearly and profoundly with outlying communities and the county commissioners. Often perceived as a liberal community, Springdale's voice is essential to help balance development in southern Utah, in particularly to the Route 9 corridor. As a gateway community, Principles 4 (Provide Rich, Connected Natural Recreation and Open Space) and 10 (Focused Public Land Conversion Should Sustain Community Goals And Preserve Critical Lands.) are at the core of our land-use ordinance. We need to continue to encourage sustainable cutting-edge development or renovations such that the resource is never diminished, not just in Springdale, but as far as the eye can see from our mountain summits.
By far, Principle 7 (Direct Growth Inward) strikes me deeply. Spending the last 15 years of my life as an educator, it is very clear that healthy mind yields healthy body, which in practice becomes the mindful body. It is the mindful body at the core of community. Great leaders do no take people, they give people the tools to take themselves. They help them learn how to give without depletion. They help create a community of mindful bodies, where every"body" gives, and thus no one has to take. I dream of this, I believe in this, and being a component of the town council is one small step toward being capable of this.
This strikes a cord with me, mostly in the wallet. It is simply the most fiscally sound practice for small towns to adopt and I hope Springdale will continue to set precedent for the county by delivering an even higher count of ballots to the Post Office than they did for the primary.
I believe the institution of the park shuttle system has been a blessing on the town and its visitors. Helping manage the visitor experience and reduce congestion inside the park has provoked visitors to better prepare for their trip and spend more time in Springdale. Though some proprietors have noticed a decrease in lunch-time traffic, I have heard them say that dinner-time service has continued to grow. Hoteliers who once fretted of parking congestion within their establishments between check-out and check-in have had minimal problems with overlap, even as hotel stays increased through 2008. The parking issue is before us, but is not an unsolvable problem. In recent ordinance revisions to the Central Commercial zone, and pending changes to the Village Commercial zone, allowances have been made which will promote modification and development of properties for better visitor parking. I especially advocate specific projects which utilize underground parking. This type of building will become the cutting edge in Springdale. Additionally, the town has opportunity to work with pending developments on Lion Blvd. to obtain perpetual public parking at no cost. Combining these ideas with a more cooperative Utah Department of Transportation effort to implement cross walks, and Zion National Park's upcoming revisions and signage for shuttle parking, the needed change for better parking is of nominal cost and eminent.
This is an unusual election, where the 4 town council candidates are all a great choice, and everyone in the town will benefit either John, Colin, Donna, or myself working with the incumbent council. As a candidate I offer long term experience working in many volunteer positions within the Town of Springdale, Fire District, and managing a thriving small business. I have many successful years managing employees, million dollar budgets, and completing difficult and ominous tasks. But I believe it is my mindful approach and ability to discern critical areas of need by listening, teaching, and constantly invoking the opinions of others with respect and grace that can help the town continue to succeed as the nation's leading gateway community.
Living and working right in Springdale, I am available most days for one-on-one talks. But can often be found at work at Zion Adventure Company, and nearly every town hall meeting. Both are great places to obtain a sense of who I am as a citizen and leader. Zion Adventure Company(ZAC) is largely the outpouring of who I am as a man, representing my strongest ideals. But stopping by ZAC when I am not there and speaking with one of our 28 staff members could be the best way to learn about the man, his mission, and why he works so hard everyday.
I have always been drawn to public service. Since moving here from Pennsylvania 13 years ago, where I served on my local town's Planning Commission, it has become very clear that even a small voice can make a big difference in the quality of life of our community. I served under the last three Springdale Mayors on the Planning Commission, and chaired the commission for the last two years of my service. Simultaneously, I served as a board member and Chair of the Rockville/Springdale Fire Protection District for five years. These volunteer positions heightened my awareness and gave opportunity to develop keen skill sets. It is only appropriate that I continue to give back to the community that has helped me grow as a businessman, father, and husband. For me, giving is not work, it is joy.
What are the three best things about your town?
This was a great exercise. There are many things I love about Springdale, and prioritizing them put a big smile on my face:
1) Location, Location, Location - Springdale's unique location at the gate of Zion National Park brought me to it, and after traveling much of the globe, this is still the place I want to live, raise my son, and grow old with my wife. No matter how complicated the politics have been in Springdale over the past 13 years, I still feel very light and energized, as the sandstone castle which surrounds us keeps me in perspective, while inspiring me toward greatness.
2) Time - Over time Springdale has become a better and better town. Unlike many gateway towns which grew too fast, disconnecting the physical attributes of the townscape and community from the surrounding resources, Springdale has held steadfast with the vision of its pioneer settlers and the conservative environmentalists who have shaped our town as we know it today. Their vision is a gift to our future. As a town council member, we have the unique opportunity to truly grow Springdale in a sustainable way, from both a resource and social perspective, without having to undo grave errors of the past.
3) Openness - Springdale hosts an eclectic and alternative population of townspeople with room for everyone's views and perspectives. Truly, we must be the most unique and varied population in Utah. I have always felt the social atmosphere of Springdale to be open and interested in diversity and change. This openness enables everyone to pursue their potential. As a government we benefit from this with negligible crime, immense volunteerism, creative community members, and vibrant businesses.
Please state your top two priorities if elected to the Town Council; why are they important and what will you do about them?
1) As a lifetime entrepreneur, I am deeply committed to learning and growing. Not a day goes by where I do not push myself to learn something new and be more thoughtful with my words and actions. My number one priority is to be a thoughtful, mindful, and balanced conduit for the townspeople's needs. This includes working with residents, business owners, developers, our planning commission, fire district, community volunteers, Zion National Park, and sister communities to maintain and build the best Springdale possible.
2) Managing public budgets is sometimes tricky, balancing current needs with future costs. In Springdale, we have spent a great deal of money in the last five years for infrastructure and community services, leveraging our communal sales tax. As a budget manager, I am progressive, yet hesitant, being sagacious and creative so I can vote for improvement without us having to incur debt. It would be my desire to help the town of Springdale operate without large debt while developing realizable incentives for our business community to continue to work as aggressively as they do to earn sales tax for the town.
What’s your opinion about the Lake Powell Pipeline?
I truly believe the Lake Powell Pipeline is analogous to the creative lending which has crippled much of our economy. Supporting this project looks favorable only in the short-term, and the only valid reason to do it is to protect our water rights. There are many powerful reasons not to do the project. It is an example of our entire region living beyond its means, ultimately driving our communities into a fiscal troubles, promoting development beyond the resources natural ability to support it, without ever guaranteeing the benefits of the promised water. Lake Powell water levels are consistently diminishing, but the costs of this project are rising, both financially and politically. As a taxpayer, I am strong opponent to this project. As a council member, I am open to yield to the voice of Springdale and press our regional governments to do so as well.
What, if any, Vision Dixie Priorities would you support and encourage? How?
The ten guiding principles of Vision Dixie all have immense value. Within this program Springdale is obligated to continue to speak clearly and profoundly with outlying communities and the county commissioners. Often perceived as a liberal community, Springdale's voice is essential to help balance development in southern Utah, in particularly to the Route 9 corridor. As a gateway community, Principles 4 (Provide Rich, Connected Natural Recreation and Open Space) and 10 (Focused Public Land Conversion Should Sustain Community Goals And Preserve Critical Lands.) are at the core of our land-use ordinance. We need to continue to encourage sustainable cutting-edge development or renovations such that the resource is never diminished, not just in Springdale, but as far as the eye can see from our mountain summits.
By far, Principle 7 (Direct Growth Inward) strikes me deeply. Spending the last 15 years of my life as an educator, it is very clear that healthy mind yields healthy body, which in practice becomes the mindful body. It is the mindful body at the core of community. Great leaders do no take people, they give people the tools to take themselves. They help them learn how to give without depletion. They help create a community of mindful bodies, where every"body" gives, and thus no one has to take. I dream of this, I believe in this, and being a component of the town council is one small step toward being capable of this.
Do you like/support voting by mail in your town?
This strikes a cord with me, mostly in the wallet. It is simply the most fiscally sound practice for small towns to adopt and I hope Springdale will continue to set precedent for the county by delivering an even higher count of ballots to the Post Office than they did for the primary.
7. How do you see the Town Council’s elected role in enforcing ordinances such as the recently adopted ‘Dark Sky’ ordinance?
Ever since I have lived here, and especially during our 2 year process crafting the current General Management Plan, I have been a proponent for the Night Sky ordinance. It is a critical piece of legislation for our town, enabling us to stay on track as a resource conserving community. I would venture to say that a great proportion of townspeople are already voluntarily bringing their household and business lighting into conformance with the ordinance. The liberal 7 year conformity period adopted is designed to help those larger businesses and the town itself to become Night Sky compliant. During this time period we have a great opportunity to work with these businesses and our streets department to integrate lighting plans which are energy efficient as well as economical to implement. If we do a good job educating the public, offering creative and economical solutions, and utilizing the resources other communities have already found effective around the globe, August 2016 conformance will be seamless.
Ever since I have lived here, and especially during our 2 year process crafting the current General Management Plan, I have been a proponent for the Night Sky ordinance. It is a critical piece of legislation for our town, enabling us to stay on track as a resource conserving community. I would venture to say that a great proportion of townspeople are already voluntarily bringing their household and business lighting into conformance with the ordinance. The liberal 7 year conformity period adopted is designed to help those larger businesses and the town itself to become Night Sky compliant. During this time period we have a great opportunity to work with these businesses and our streets department to integrate lighting plans which are energy efficient as well as economical to implement. If we do a good job educating the public, offering creative and economical solutions, and utilizing the resources other communities have already found effective around the globe, August 2016 conformance will be seamless.
Parking has become a problem in Springdale – How would you deal with this issue?
I believe the institution of the park shuttle system has been a blessing on the town and its visitors. Helping manage the visitor experience and reduce congestion inside the park has provoked visitors to better prepare for their trip and spend more time in Springdale. Though some proprietors have noticed a decrease in lunch-time traffic, I have heard them say that dinner-time service has continued to grow. Hoteliers who once fretted of parking congestion within their establishments between check-out and check-in have had minimal problems with overlap, even as hotel stays increased through 2008. The parking issue is before us, but is not an unsolvable problem. In recent ordinance revisions to the Central Commercial zone, and pending changes to the Village Commercial zone, allowances have been made which will promote modification and development of properties for better visitor parking. I especially advocate specific projects which utilize underground parking. This type of building will become the cutting edge in Springdale. Additionally, the town has opportunity to work with pending developments on Lion Blvd. to obtain perpetual public parking at no cost. Combining these ideas with a more cooperative Utah Department of Transportation effort to implement cross walks, and Zion National Park's upcoming revisions and signage for shuttle parking, the needed change for better parking is of nominal cost and eminent.
Why should a person vote for you?
This is an unusual election, where the 4 town council candidates are all a great choice, and everyone in the town will benefit either John, Colin, Donna, or myself working with the incumbent council. As a candidate I offer long term experience working in many volunteer positions within the Town of Springdale, Fire District, and managing a thriving small business. I have many successful years managing employees, million dollar budgets, and completing difficult and ominous tasks. But I believe it is my mindful approach and ability to discern critical areas of need by listening, teaching, and constantly invoking the opinions of others with respect and grace that can help the town continue to succeed as the nation's leading gateway community.
What is the best way for people to learn more about you?
Living and working right in Springdale, I am available most days for one-on-one talks. But can often be found at work at Zion Adventure Company, and nearly every town hall meeting. Both are great places to obtain a sense of who I am as a citizen and leader. Zion Adventure Company(ZAC) is largely the outpouring of who I am as a man, representing my strongest ideals. But stopping by ZAC when I am not there and speaking with one of our 28 staff members could be the best way to learn about the man, his mission, and why he works so hard everyday.
Virgin: Larry Amodt, Candidate for Mayor
Why do you want to be the Mayor of Virgin?
I fell in love with Virgin 42 years ago, served on P & Z for over 12 years, and during that time I have come up with some programs I'd like to see implemented in the town I love.
What are the three best things about your town?
The best thing is the people. We have diversity, talent, caring, cohesiveness, and creativity. The town has a strong sense of community and service. The service proffered the Staples after flood is a great example of this.
Please state your top two priorities if elected to be the Mayor; why are they important and what will you do about them?
- Create a town that enhances family life,
- and attracts the right kind of businesses.
What’s your opinion about the Lake Powell Pipeline project?
It's too early to tell. When all the reports are done it will be the time to make a decision.
What, if any, Vision Dixie Priorities would you support and encourage? How?
Do you like/support voting by mail in your town?
We'll know after Nov. 3
Why should a person vote for you?
I have innovative ideas to help guide us into the kind of town we want. I'm able to implement and I'm more than willing to listen to our citizens needs.
What is the best way for people to learn more about you?
I'm always willing to talk, and I'm as honest, and forthright person, who will be open to your needs. And I am interested in your concerns and will take them to heart.
Rockville: Pamela Leach: Candidate for Town Council
Why do you want to be part of the Town Council?
To me, it is important to be involved in the community in which you live, especially in a small town setting, and the Town Council is one way of being involved.
What are the three best things about your town?
My husband Ron and I moved to Rockville because of the beauty of the area, the open rural setting and the friendliness of the residents.
Please state your top two priorities if elected to the Town Council; why are they important and what will you do about them?
I hope to help support and maintain the General Plan which was created by the residents of Rockville. I also want to help Rockville move forward responsibly and in a manner which protects what makes Rockville special and provides for its residents without over burdening our resources.
What’s your opinion about the Lake Powell Pipeline project?
I am very concerned about the cost to the tax payers of Washington County. The recent rise in property taxes have already created a burden to propety owners and the additional taxes needed to build the pipeline will only add to that burden. There is also the question of whether it will actually provide the amount of water needed for the growth that is being encouraged in the County.
What, if any, Vision Dixie Priorities would you support and encourage? How?
I support Vision Dixie's principals which support maintaining air and water quality and conserving water, which protect our scenic landscapes, public lands and and encourage sustainable and responsible growth.
Do you like/support voting by mail in your town?
Yes, I think the voting by mail is an excellent idea. Having the opportunity to review information about issues and candidates on the ballot and then vote in the privacy of your own home I hope will encourage more residents to vote.
Why should a person vote for you?
I hope that residents will vote for me because they feel I have shown a genuine concern for our communities well-being and that I will continue to support the General Plan.
What is the best way for people to learn more about you?
Stop and talk to me whenever you have the opportunity.
Rockville: Allen G. Brown, Candidate for Mayor
Why do you want to be the Mayor of Rockville?
For me, public service is one of the highest ideals to which one may aspire in America.
What are the three best things about your town?
- Its friendly, supportive people.
- The scenic beauty of its surroundings.
- Its non-commercial nature.
Please state your top two priorities if elected to be the Mayor; why are they important and what will you do about them?
- Maintain Rockville’s natural beauty and serenity, since it is the highest priority of the community.
- Control development through zoning and ordinances.
What’s your opinion about the Lake Powell Pipeline project?
It is a poor substitute for controlling growth and conservation.
What, if any, Vision Dixie Priorities would you support and encourage? How?
Protect the natural environment. Support clustered development. Enhance transportation corridors.
Do you like/support voting by mail in your town?
[It] enables seniors and handicapped to more easily vote. [It] saves taxpayer money better spent on other necessities.
Why should a person vote for you?
More than four decades of positive administrative experience and public service.
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