Issues/Concerns
Accountability and Transparency
The lack of government accountability and transparency significantly threatens democratic principles and public trust. When governments operate without adequate mechanisms for public oversight and accountability, it can lead to various problems, including:
- Erosion of public trust: Lack of transparency and accountability can lead to mistrust and suspicion, potentially causing a loss of faith in government institutions and reduced citizen participation.
- Increased potential for corruption and misuse of power: When officials are not held accountable, corruption, abuse of power, and other malfeasance result. Examples include misusing public funds, engaging in fraudulent like bribery or embezzlement, and manipulating election results.
- Ineffective governance and decision-making: Limited transparency and accountability can make it difficult for citizens to understand how decisions are made and whether they are fair and equitable, potentially hindering effective governance.
As a retired Sr. Special Agent, I will work with our mayor, other council members, and the brave members of our police department to help prevent internal and external threats to the greatest extent possible. I will fight for transparency in all we do so residents always know how their elected officials support their best interests instead of biased decisions and efforts.
Fiscal Responsibility
My plan includes a thorough review of Bluffdale's finances and residential taxes to guarantee that your hard-earned money is utilized wisely and effectively. My goal is to ensure that essential services are well-funded, contributing to a safe and peaceful community where everyone thrives and enjoys a harmonious quality of life over cosmetic desires and non-essential infrastructure.
I believe that cities should be treated like businesses, managed with the same level of accountability and responsibility. This approach requires elected officials to engage more meaningfully with residents, foster transparency, and accept responsibility for their actions. Good leadership and strong business skills are vital for successfully running a municipality, and I am committed to bringing these qualities to the table. If we continue to elect individuals with a lack of experience, or only city management experience with now corporate or leadership experience in large organizations, we risk continued inefficiency and lack of transparency.
Priority Support for Public Safety
As a candidate for Bluffdale City Council, my primary focus is on ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents and homeowners. I served in uniform and harms way throughout my life. Our police and fire employees risk all for us like I did. Like my fellow soldiers, I have their backs. I will fight for needed equipment, training, and staffing in order to better protect our residents and their families.
I am dedicated to finding solutions without playing the blame game over funding shortfalls or the typical issues that many municipalities face across the country. With my background as a soldier, leader, and corporate executive, I bring a unique set of strategies and skills that enable me to collaborate effectively, persuade others, and explore innovative solutions to complex problems—abilities that are often overlooked in city management and politics.
Affordable Housing
In Utah, state law mandates that all municipalities must provide a certain number of affordable housing units to meet the growing demand for accessible living options. While affordable housing is essential for supporting a diverse community, it’s important to address the concerns that often accompany high-density housing, such as potential increases in crime and challenges to public safety.
To navigate this requirement effectively and ensure the safety of our residents, I will push for Bluffdale adopting several strategies:
1. Community Engagement: Before implementing new affordable housing projects, engage with residents to gather input and address concerns. This collaboration fosters trust and allows for adjustments to plans based on community feedback.
2. Smart Urban Planning: Incorporate mixed-use developments that blend residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. This not only promotes community interaction but also helps create environments where residents feel safe and connected.
3. Enhanced Security Measures: Work with law enforcement to implement safety programs in high-density areas, such as increased patrols, community watch programs, and improved street lighting. These measures can help deter crime and make residents feel more secure.
4. Quality Over Quantity: Focus on the quality of affordable housing rather than just meeting numerical targets like Herriman. Partner with reputable developers who prioritize building safe, well-maintained properties that contribute positively to the community.
5. Support Services: Provide access to support services for residents in affordable housing, such as job training and counseling, to help them succeed and integrate into the community. This can reduce the likelihood of crime related to economic hardship.
6. Advocacy with State Officials: I am committed to meeting with state officials to advocate for greater local control over housing policies. By allowing the city to manage its own housing needs, we can tailor solutions that align with the unique characteristics of Bluffdale and prioritize the safety and well-being of our residents.
By implementing these strategies, we can create a balanced approach to affordable housing that meets state requirements while safeguarding our community. My goal is to ensure that Bluffdale remains a safe and welcoming place for all residents, regardless of their income level.
Community Engagement
As a forward-thinking leader, I am committed to prioritizing the concerns of Bluffdale’s citizens, just as I have done with clients, foreign dignitaries, customers, and employees. I pledge to respond to inquiries within 72 hours. I will advocate for regular town hall meetings and community forums, ensuring that citizens receive notifications about these eventswith enough advanced notice that those that want a say will have a say. Additionally, I will establish a personal online platform for feedback and will work with my the mayor and my peers to create advisory committees to represent diverse community interests.
My leadership will be characterized by transparency and open communication. I will foster a collaborative environment where your input directly influences our policies. Together, we can build a Bluffdale that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of all its residents.
Community Safety and Preparedness
My experience in organizational threat analysis and safety, active-shooter, anti-terrorism, and counter-intelligence has prepared me to advocate for the safety measures we need to protect Bluffdale, especially given the ongoing risks and potential for unrest. Recent riots and uncivilized behavior, along with threats like natural disasters, wars, and conflicts, remind us how crucial it is to be proactive. We also need to be aware of the risks to our water supplies and electrical grid, which are essential for our daily lives.
With my background in emergency education and preparedness, I’m committed to collaborating in the development of tailored disaster plans for our community that address these unique challenges.
I will work hand-in-hand with law enforcement and emergency services to enhance our community’s safety and create a coordinated response strategy. Additionally, I plan to organize workshops and training sessions to equip families with the skills they need to handle emergencies, civil disturbances, and the impacts of natural disasters, including possible disruptions to our vital infrastructure.
By preparing our residents, we can build a sense of security and resilience, ensuring that everyone is ready to respond in times of crisis. Together, we can safeguard the well-being of all Bluffdale families and strengthen our commitment to maintaining peace and stability during difficult times.
Intercity Traffic Corridors
Recent developments, such as the agreement between Bluffdale and Herriman cities to open an intercity corridor along 13800 South, raise important concerns about safety and security for our residents and their families. While increased connectivity can offer benefits, it also presents risks. The potential for additional corridors between these cities, combined with the high-density housing issue in Herriman, could lead to increased crime in Bluffdale. The more open corridors we create, the more opportunities there are for criminal activity, putting our community at greater risk.
I recognize that unrestricted travel can heighten security vulnerabilities, which is why I am committed to supporting inter-jurisdictional transportation plans that prioritize the safety of our community. It’s essential that we consider how these changes impact our residents and ensure that citizen input is part of the decision-making process.
If a residential road is considered, I for one will push back. Whereby retaing the safety and welfare of our residents and children.
Air Quality and Environmental Safety
I am deeply concerned about the ongoing air quality issues in our community, particularly the operations of Geneva Rock. The Division of Air Quality (DAQ) has permitted them to continue working despite their significant emissions of dust and silica, which are harmful to the health of our residents and the environment. The south valley is currently shrouded in dust, posing serious risks to respiratory health and overall quality of life.
I commit to taking immediate and decisive action to address this issue:
1. Advocacy for Stricter Oversight: I will work tirelessly to advocate for stricter oversight and enforcement of air quality regulations. We need to ensure that companies operating in our community are held to the highest standards of environmental safety.
2. Review of Permits: I will conduct a thorough review of Geneva Rock's operating permits and practices by the DAQ. We cannot allow companies to operate in a manner that jeopardizes public health, especially while they are still working on compliance measures such as sprayer bars.
3. Community Engagement: I will push for regular community forums to keep residents informed about air quality issues and to gather feedback on their concerns. Transparency and accountability are essential in restoring trust between our community and regulatory agencies.
4. Collaboration with Health Experts: I will collaborate with environmental health experts to assess the impact of dust and silica emissions on our community and to develop effective strategies for mitigation.
5. Promoting Sustainable Practices: I will advocate for sustainable practices and technologies that reduce emissions and protect our air quality, ensuring that businesses contribute positively to our community.
My vision for Bluffdale is rooted in community service, health, safety, preparedness, transparency, and fiscal responsibility. I believe that together, we can tackle these critical issues and strengthen our beloved city. Thank you for your support as we work towards a bright and secure future for Bluffdale!