County Commission District One:
BRITTNEY BOHANNON MELTON
Please introduce yourself with a little about your background and life in Moab. Please note any political endorsements you may have.
I have called Grand County home my entire life. I am a wife, mom and small business owner. I have an amazing support system with my husband and kids, parents who live here, my brother and sister and their families who live here, and my incredible employees. When I speak or act, I look through the lens of all I just mentioned. I am also a volunteer coach for our youth and city recreation programs. I love working with youth and seeing people come together through sports. My vast experience in leadership roles has prepared me for the county commission and to hit the ground running from day one. I believe that a strong community starts with good leadership.
What made you decide to get involved in local government and run for office?
I started paying attention to what was happening in our local government and I saw a complete disconnect from the commission and the rest of us, the working people of the valley. When the commission is so far out of touch with the people they are supposed to represent it is concerning. I felt the lack of transparency, accountability and financial responsibility needed to be addressed. As commissioner, I plan to represent all who call Grand County home.
What’s an example of a great ordinance or political move you’ve seen in the last few years here in Grand County? What is one you believe was a misstep?
I feel like the intentions of the HDHO were good; however, it didn’t work due to the extensive deed restrictions. I remember a developer begging the county multiple times to change one word in the deed restriction and explained how it would solve a lot of the problems like lendability. The commission did not budge and now a lot of those units sit empty. We need a commission that listens. I am the one who will hear those who bring concerns.
How do you hope to communicate and work with the public in Grand County?
In this technology world there are multiple ways to communicate. Social media is just one of those ways, it is important to leave all lines of communication open, like email, phone, open houses, print, and most importantly face to face. I will also seek those out who have a stake in the issue. All parties will be invited to the table to weigh in. The best decisions are made with the most amount of information. It is important to hear what each stakeholder has to say about their wants and needs and then work together to find a solution.
County commissioners often have to work with—or at odds with—state government. How would you personally try to negotiate this sometimes difficult relationship?
I believe you attract more flies with honey than vinegar. Being cordial and inviting goes a long way. Relationships require work and open and honest communication. It is time to start working with the state, that way when we need them to come through for us, they will. Right now the state is withholding our tax revenues. We saw our county commission chair and vice chair hold
that information from the rest of the commission. They sat on a 60 notice and told no one. Putting county tax revenues at risk is not good leadership.
What three steps would you advocate for to put the county on a firm footing for the future?
We need a good foundation to build on. My foundation would start with transparency, accountability and affordability.
Transparency— I have consistently talked about the need for greater transparency in our local government. We are all now seeing, in real time, what happens without true transparency – the state is freezing our tax revenues. Our community is now demanding greater transparency, for good reason, and it’s one of the main reasons I’m running.
Accountability— We have an integrity issue especially from my opponent. Integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is looking. If you say housing is important I expect your voting record to reflect that. She abstained from critical housing issues recently. And has voted against housing on multiple occasions. Our elected officials should be held to account. Affordability— I believe the entire community is concerned about affordability. I also believe the current leadership has ignored this as an issue, and has ignored working families for far too long. We now have families and workers who can no longer afford to work and build lives here. They need to be our priority; it’s time to start putting politics aside and start working for them.
TRISHA HEDIN
Please introduce yourself with a little about your background and life in Moab. Please note any political endorsements you may have.
I grew up throughout the West (Colorado, Wyoming, and California), where my father worked as a timber faller and later in life owned a small logging company near Mt. Shasta. After college, I began my career teaching in the inner-city of Tacoma before deciding to work in outdoor education, which brought me to Moab. I began my time in Moab working for Canyonlands Field Institute, Four Corners School of Outdoor Education, and then within the school district, where I have been since 2006. I am attracted to the out of doors (once an avid runner) and still a climber and hunter.
What made you decide to get involved in local government and run for office?
I have always loved serving the communities I am part of. As a hunter, I was the Co-Chair of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for years here in Moab, the Chair of the Regional Advisory Council for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR), I am currently a board member for Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and a Hunter Education instructor for the UDWR. I was a founding member of the Friends of Indian Creek, a climbing advocacy group, and a middle and high school cross country coach here in our public schools. Because of all these “hats,” I was encouraged by a wide variety of community members to run for office, as I bring a diversity of experiences and perspectives to the role.
What is an example of a great ordinance or political move you have seen in the last few years here in Grand County? What is one you believe was a misstep?
I believe that the Commission, planners, and staff have worked diligently to find creative solutions to our housing crisis, and I support these efforts, including the High-Density Housing Overlay (voluntary density bonus in exchange for a percentage of units restricted to local workforce), supporting the Moab Area Community Land Trust which has and will produce approximately 532 housing units for locals, and the Alternative Dwelling Ordinance (allowing RV parks for safe seasonal alternative housing). I believe that one misstep by the County was our hesitancy to critically evaluate Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) sooner. CUPs allow property owners to use their land for a purpose that may not otherwise be allowed in that zoning district. Our county is now burdened with litigation surrounding a variety of CUPs that have encumbered both our county staff and neighborhoods.
How do you hope to communicate and work with the public in Grand County?
As a commissioner I communicate with the public (my constituents) daily. I take immense pride in responding to commission emails in a timely and thoughtful way. I try to always answer my phone and call folks back quickly when I am not available. I love running into and chatting with folks on the street, in the market and at events. But I can and will always improve—I have spoken to many constituents while canvassing who would like if I communicated with them proactively more often, and so making extra time for those check-ins is something I will do. Most people just want to know that their representatives are listening to their concerns, and that is a responsibility I take seriously.
County commissioners often must work with—or be at odds with—state government. How would you personally try to negotiate this sometimes-difficult relationship?
I strive to serve the best interests of OUR community, recognizing our needs are often unique in the state. We have to work within the confines of state statute, but can also be a leader in challenging and shaping legislation when it does not serve our community or is downright harmful to us. I work with our lobbyist and representatives to advance our interests and find common ground based on shared values, even when we disagree on methods. Grand County has not only a unique environment, but also an amazing, distinct local culture that I hope will someday be appreciated statewide, and face-to-face interactions and sharing the humanity and good heart of our residents to those upstate is how we make that happen.
What three steps would you advocate for to put the county on a firm footing for the future?
1. Continue our development of comprehensive flood mitigation strategies for Spanish and Castle Valley, focusing on long-term infrastructure improvements to address increasing flood risks (and actually TAKE these actions!). 2. Continue supporting innovative, affordable, resident-focused housing initiatives through the Planning and County Commissions to meet community needs. 3. Strive for a real balance between tourism and quality of life by attracting responsible and excited visitors who respect our local environment and our local residents, providing resources to support small businesses in all sectors, and ensuring through all this we provide great services for youth, our elderly residents, and local families of all kinds.
County Commission District Two:
MELODIE MCCANDLESS
Please introduce yourself with a little about your background and life in Moab.
My name is Melodie McCandless. I grew up in Moab and am raising my family here. I am a proud alumni of Grand County High School and USU Moab. I love this community. Over the past 30 years, I have spent thousands of hours support- ing our town through volunteer service. Throughout those years I’ve been able to bring people together from all sides of the community for a common goal. I have always had a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of others, I was a volun- teer EMT and ran on the ambulance for almost 20 years. As my kids have gotten older, I transitioned to volunteering in positions that helped our youth, including volunteering in schools, leading Girl Scouts, serving on various school planning, budgeting, hiring and community council committees, as well as coaching years of city rec sports. I have also worked for Nicholas and Company for the past 25 years, selling wholesale food to businesses in our community.
What made you decide to get involved in local government and run for office?
My vision is to build a more unified Moab. I want to join forces with the City and see how we can come together, help each other and support the community more efficiently. Together I believe we can tackle the hard issues of improving the qual- ity of life for locals, which I believe starts with being able to afford life’s neces- sities, including secure housing and stable incomes. I believe we also need to be investing in our education system where our kids and young adults can receive a quality education and technical training here in Moab. I see value in a community where we work together and care for one another. We have a lot of hard work ahead of us to make sure our community’s needs are met. My life has been defined by working hard for this community and we’ve still got a lot of hard work to do.
What’s an example of a great ordinance or political move you’ve seen in the last few years here in Grand County? What is one you believe was a misstep? I don’t think the Commission has handled the state audit well. Because of this,
our revenue is suspended and they will need to find a solution soon so we can pay for essential services like the sheriff’s department and emergency services. An update about the situation from our current Commission would be nice. I also believe the County should be working more closely with the City to find a solution to reduce cost of living expenses like the new city property tax.
I am impressed with the improved use of the Old Spanish Trail Arena. The 4th of July County Fair was amazing and I am excited to see it continue to grow. The soon to be Archery Range, pickleball courts and playground will be a great asset for the community.
How do you hope to communicate and work with the public in Grand County?
Each member of our community needs to be valued and listened to. The county has many boards and special service districts where community members can actively take part in planning and decisions on all aspects of our county. I think the important part for me as a commissioner is to listen to the advice from those boards. If those community members and stakeholders do not feel like their time and contributions are being respected and appreciated, it is hard to keep volun- teers coming to those positions.
County commissioners often have to work with—or at odds with—state gov- ernment. How would you personally try to negotiate this sometimes difficult relationship?
I will take the time to visit and connect with state lawmakers to make sure Grand County’s interests and needs are represented. I think it’s important to establish a better working relationship with the State and I will work with law- makers to find the best solutions on issues that are important to Grand County. We need State support to fund many of our county’s pressing infrastructure needs. The State needs to know we want to work with them, which means visiting more often, having a respectful open line of communication and listening to feedback.
What three steps would you advocate for to put the county on a firm footing for the future?
1. Finding solutions for affordable housing and removing unnecessary barriers for home ownership.
2. Investing in a strong economy to ensure a better quality of life for locals. I believe quality of life starts with being able to afford secure housing and life’s necessities.
3. Building stronger relationships and collaboration between the Commission, the special service boards, the City and State for a more effective, representative local government.
JASON RAMSDELL
Please introduce yourself with a little about your background and life in Moab.
I recently retired from 30 years as a National Park Service Ranger at many parks across the nation. For 20 of those years I was a Law Enforcement Officer protecting visitors, employees, and our public lands. I moved to Moab in 2003, and purchased my home in 2004 while I worked at Arches National Park. I worked at Arches for three years, then moved across the west to other national parks. During those years I returned each winter to coach wrestling at Grand County High School. I returned to Moab in 2015 to work at Canyonlands National Park for nearly 7 years. Since retirement, I serve with Grand County Search and Rescue, coach at the high school, and substitute teach at the elementary school.
What made you decide to get involved in local government and run for office?
I am new to local government, but not to public service. After 30 years work- ing with and for tourists in our national parks, I wanted to work with the local government, communities, and residents who host them. I have worked in many “gateway” communities, and I’ve seen firsthand how many have succeeded—and many have done poorly managing difficult issues related to public lands, recre- ation, tourism, and the needs of locals. Moab is my favorite gateway community, and I want it to succeed and have a vibrant tourism economy, excellent emergency services, high quality schools, affordable workforce housing, and healthy public lands.
What’s an example of a great ordinance or political move you’ve seen in the last few years here in Grand County? What is one you believe was a misstep?
The Grand County Commission is doing great work on the affordable housing issue in Moab. The High Density Housing Overlay is a great step forward in creat- ing affordable housing units. Approximately 300 units have (or will be) made for our workforce which is vital for our economy. The County has made a few tweaks to make it more accessible, and more work is needed, but it is a great start to addressing the issue. A recent political misstep is some of the Commissioners insinuating that other Commissioners had nefarious and “illegal” intention on the use of TRT funds. While some mistakes were made, none seemed intentional and these attacks hurt the credibility of the Commission as a whole and are not in the best interest of our community.
How do you hope to communicate and work with the public in Grand County?
Having worked in the federal government for 30 years, I have learned that pub- lic consensus, comment periods, public meetings, stakeholder input, face to face meetings, understanding and listening to opposition points, and communicating by multiple methods is the key to success on difficult management issues. I look forward to engaging with the public and listening for great ideas on our commu- nity issues from anyone that cares about our community. I believe most people have good intent and most want our issues solved collaboratively.
County commissioners often have to work with—or at odds with—state gov- ernment. How would you personally try to negotiate this sometimes difficult relationship?
I don’t believe it has to be a “difficult relationship”. I believe that the Grand County Commission can have a professional and effective relationship with the State by focusing on good communication, respectful dialog, advocating for our unique issues and strengths, and having a strong presence up north by in-person visits, lobbying, and virtual meetings. Sticking with a Commission position that it feels is right, legal, and best for the community might be difficult, but the relation- ship doesn’t need to be difficult.
What three steps would you advocate for to put the county on a firm footing for the future?
One, continue to work on affordable workforce housing. All solutions and options should be explored and capitalized on. Without affordable workforce hous- ing, the impacts are felt throughout the community.
Two, focus on our vibrant economy. This includes providing quality visitor expe- riences, impact mitigation messaging, strong branding and leadership in sustain- able tourism, encouraging diversity of economy, and wise use of taxes and County funds.
Three, work on making Moab a great place to live for residents. Which means reducing noise, well staffed and funded emergency services, strong infrastructure, flood event protection, adequate health care services, healthy public lands, and high quality schools.
County Commission District Three:
HOWARD TRENHOLME
Please introduce yourself with a little about your background and life in Moab.
My name is Howard Trenholme. I am an immigrant from Scotland and arrived in the US in 1988. After visiting Moab for the first time in 1996, I moved here the following year to open the Red Rock Bakery which is now a family business. My daughter is at the helm allowing me the opportunity to serve Grand County as an unaffiliated candidate for County Commission District 3. Since moving to Moab, I have spent the better part of my time giving back to the community by serving on numerous boards as well as being a DJ at KZMU for 24 years.
What made you decide to get involved in local government and run for office?
Running a coffee shop for almost three decades has given me remarkable insight into this exceptional community. Since 2000, I have also been actively involved in local boards and committees, as well as hosted KZMU’s premier public affairs and interview show, “This Week in Moab.” I am passionate about our community and have volunteered my time to serve locals. Over the last few years, I have seen families and businesses pay the price for the current commis- sion’s mismanagement. The lack of transparency and mismanagement from the current commission propelled me to run. I am passionate about representing locals and I have a vision for our county. As commissioner, I will reduce financial hardship, support the local economy and create more attainable and affordable housing.
What’s an example of a great ordinance or political move you’ve seen in the last few years here in Grand County? What is one you believe was a misstep? It seems collaborative efforts between the City and County are further in the past. Back in 1992 before I arrived the City and County worked in concert to keep City property taxes at zero thanks to the efforts at the county to keep Moab buzzing, with visitors mainly covering the costs of City operations. That neat and unique policy disappeared in 2024 because the County failed to support this initiative. Now, for the first time in over 30 years, residents in Moab will be pay- ing property taxes in large part because the County did not work with the City. In late 2019, with my direct lobbying efforts in my position as Chairman of the Travel Council, Grand County signed onto the State of Utah’s renewable energy initiative, joining Moab City and Castle Valley’s commitment. Sadly nothing has happened since then in this regard at the county level. These are just two exam-
ples of many missteps of late.
How do you hope to communicate and work with the public in Grand County?
I plan to work with the public by actively listening to constituents and encour- aging their participation in decisions. I will also listen to the team of advisors who educate and inform the Commission. Being transparent is a requirement of holding a position of power and I will be fully accountable to the people. The County Commission represents almost 10,000 people who live and work in Grand so we must act accordingly.
County commissioners often have to work with—or at odds with—state gov- ernment. How would you personally try to negotiate this sometimes difficult relationship?
Working with the state does not have to be difficult. Grand County is a sub- division of the state and must act accordingly. Recently, our relationship has descended into chaos. Lack of transparency within the Grand County Commis- sion has led to lack of trust and a loss of faith. The rules are clear and the checks and balances are in place to prevent intentional wrongdoing which has been occurring and places the people of Grand County at incredible risk. We should never have found ourselves in a situation where our tax revenue is suspended. Best government is from the ground up and if the Commissioners had been lis- tening to advisory boards, we would not be in the trouble we are with the State.
What three steps would you advocate for to put the county on a firm footing for the future?
Demonstrate strong leadership by working as a team with our partners at the city, state and federal levels of government and by listening and working with our advisors. Be accountable to the locals, all of them and not just a favored few. Be transparent and open in all public matters and in the handling of public funds by working in concert as a commission.
Doing it for the locals is my top priority.
JACQUES HADLER
Please introduce yourself with a little about your background and life in Moab.
I’ve been in Moab for 25 years and have worked as a backcountry guide, the manager of a Main St. bike shop and outfitter and small business owner. My two daughters were born in Moab and attend HMK and MLHMS. Both have been students of the month this year. My wife runs a nonprofit and a couple of small businesses. I’m a volunteer DJ at KZMU and I coach the Middle School Mt. Bike team. We spend our free time exploring our beautiful public lands by 4×4, raft, rope, bike and foot.
What made you decide to get involved in local government and run for office?
Back in 2020 I was asked by a few people to consider running for commission and decided to make the plunge because I love this area and community and wanted to bring my experience running a business and with the local outdoor recreation economy to local government. I quickly realized that there is so much to learn and absorb and spent many hard hours getting up to speed. I pride myself on bringing people together, being able to work with just about anyone, and having a strong work ethic. I listen well and am thoughtful and deliberate when making decisions, all traits that are beneficial to public service.
What’s an example of a great ordinance or political move you’ve seen in the last few years here in Grand County? What is one you believe was a misstep? I’m really proud of helping to get our ‘responsible rec’ and trail ambassador programs off the ground. These programs go a long way toward establishing and promoting tourism while staying positive and keeping our unique and world class assets viable for future generations of visitors and locals. The best way to promote our area is with a message of stewardship AND it helps to ensure that
tourists pay for the effects of tourism.
As for a misstep, the first thing that comes to mind is the zoning of the prop-
erty currently slated for the Kane Springs resort development project. There are unresolved questions about the 1992 rezone, subsequent zoning maps, and potential errors that need to be sorted out. This is a great example of why considering the future when engaging in planning and zoning changes is so important.
How do you hope to communicate and work with the public in Grand County?
Communication is my strong point! In my many years running a Main St busi- ness and on the commission I’ve met so many locals in so many different walks of life. I love listening to people and always take the time to chat. I frequently take calls from constituents. As an elected official I’ve always advocated for public engagement on all issues. I’ve taken the time to get to know local news folks, from the papers to KZMU. I’ll always be approachable and go out of my way to hear people.
County commissioners often have to work with—or at odds with—state gov- ernment. How would you personally try to negotiate this sometimes difficult relationship?
I have a lot of experience in this area! I know how hard it is to engage with a state government that is often at philosophical differences with Grand County. The key to engagement is developing relationships and respect. I’ve taken the time to get to know many legislators, especially our own Senator Hinkins and Rep. Lyman. I always make the trip to the capitol during the legislative session to personally advocate and lobby for Grand County issues. I attend as many state conferences and summits as well as Utah Association of Counties events, they are great places to develop relationships. I also work closely with our lob- byist to engage lawmakers and encourage them to visit locally.
What three steps would you advocate for to put the county on a firm footing for the future?
In the last 4 years we’ve worked hard and done a great job of balancing the budget and practicing fiscal conservatism. We are in a good place in this respect and we’ll keep working on saving funds for capital projects that will keep the county humming well into the future.
I’ll continue working on the kinds of teaching and messaging programs that will keep our tourism economy thriving responsibly and protect our unique pub- lic lands in perpetuity while minimizing the burden of visitor impact to locals. I will always encourage, support and work closely with county administration, staff and fellow electeds in doing the real, hard work of running the county smoothly and efficiently. They are the true heroes!
County Commission – At-Large:
ASHLEY KORENBLAT
Please introduce yourself with a little about your background and life in Moab.
I fell in love with Moab in 1996 and began building Western Spirit Cycling in 1997. I have been employing locals year-round for nearly 30 years. My husband and I raised our son here. We coached both youth soccer and mountain biking and got to see tiny kids grow into strong athletes proudly representing Grand County High School. As I built my business and raised my son, I got involved in local issues through boards and commissions around the state. From the HMK Community Council, to the Utah Legislature’s Quality Growth Commission, and the Moab Chamber of Commerce. I learned how to work effectively with others to solve complex problems and got to know all kinds of people working on the challenges and opportunities that affect Grand County.
What made you decide to get involved in local government and run for office?
My experience building an outdoor recreation company and working closely with public lands has made me a respected voice on recreation economy issues in the West. I have been hired by cities and counties from New Mexico to Mon- tana to consult on many of same challenges we face here in Moab. Through this rural economic development work, I have learned about policies, grants, and programs that can make a real difference. With my son out of the house, it is time for me to use what I have learned to serve my community here in Grand County.
What’s an example of a great ordinance or political move you’ve seen in the last few years here in Grand County? What is one you believe was a misstep? Grand County’s High Density Housing Ordinance (HDHO) has led to projects like the Arroyo Crossing neighborhood, which has made a significant contribu- tion towards meeting our needs, but the program can and should be improved going forward. A recent misstep was the effort to draw lines across private prop- erty to keep public lands accessible. Easements across private property can work for both the public and the landowner, but drawing an arbitrary line is the worst way to begin this conversation. Instead, I suggested a policy that would review all subdivision proposals for connectivity opportunities in a manner that
respects private property rights.
How do you hope to communicate and work with the public in Grand County?
In my consulting work, I have extensive experience gathering public input and working with all stakeholders involved in an issue. To solve any problem, it is critical to understand everyone’s perspective. Taking the time to really listen to the con- cerns of everyone involved makes it possible to craft effective solutions. I am always open to creative ideas and informal brainstorming sessions with constituents.
County commissioners often have to work with—or at odds with—stategovernment. How would you personally try to negotiate this is sometimes difficult relationship?
I have worked on projects and committees for Republican Governors Hunts- man, Herbert and Cox on public land and economic development issues. This work has led to long term relationships with state legislators, county commis- sioners, and staff at all levels. As a Grand County Commissioner, I will represent Moab effectively and in a professional manner at every opportunity. A concerted effort is required to improve our relationship with the state, and I am uniquely prepared to lead this effort.
What three steps would you advocate for to put the county on a firm footing for the future?
We live in one of the most spectacular places on the planet and everyone wants to visit. We have the opportunity to create an economy that works for everyone. We have the resources to provide for all of our residents. While there is much to do, here are my top three priorities:
1. Improve our Economy – On the tourism side, we need to fine tune our mar- keting efforts and work with our land managers to inspire and educate visitors to fall in love with Moab. Additionally, we need to better support the rest of our businesses and professionals whether they be nurses, plumbers, or budding entrepreneurs to create a balanced economy.
2. Build Affordable Housing – Build on our successful programs while work- ing hard to make the county a more reliable partner for the new investors and developers required to meet our housing needs.
3. Support County Employees to Better Serve our Community – Our county employees do great work under challenging circumstances. I will work with county leadership to build a work environment that supports staff and helps them deliver the services we all need.
BRIAN MARTINEZ
Please introduce yourself with a little about your background and life in Moab.
I originally moved to Grand County because of a work opportunity but stayed because of the community. Twenty-two years ago, I showed up in Moab on a bicycle and lived at Lions Back campground in a tent while I worked at Cataract Canyon. I eventually found my place at NAVTEC Expeditions where I am cur- rently the general manager.
I have two boys, and as a father, I take every opportunity to help my sons create connections with the land. Some of our favorite activities as a family are mountain biking, dirt biking and being on the river.
I believe I can provide a unique perspective to the commission because my lived experience is relevant to the issues we face today. We need commissioners who will look out for locals and find solutions to the rising cost of living.
I feel honored to have been endorsed by Congressman John Curtis who will likely be Utah’s new senator starting next year.
What made you decide to get involved in local government and run for office?
I’m running because I believe our local workers, families, and small business owners have been ignored for too long. Now, more than ever, we need commis- sioners representing who we are as a community. We need someone who will acknowledge the problems we face and who will commit to solving them. I am running to make sure everyone in our community has a voice.
What’s an example of a great ordinance or political move you’ve seen in the last few years here in Grand County? What is one you believe was a misstep? I have not seen many ordinances passed or progress made on our most press- ing issues like increasing affordable housing and helping our local workers/
economy.
While not specifically a County initiative, the installation of traffic lights on
north Main St has been an important safety improvement. And I hope to see traffic lights installed soon at Aggie Blvd.
The County’s mishandling of the State Audit has been a clear misstep. On-go- ing financial mismanagement has created mistrust with the community and damaged our vital relationship with the state, to the point that our tax revenues have now been frozen. It’s an unacceptable situation that we should have never been in.
How do you hope to communicate and work with the public in Grand County?
I’ve talked with a lot of people in the community and I am hearing over and over that the current commission is out of touch. They’re not listening, and their priorities don’t align with our community’s biggest needs. I’ll represent everyone in our community. I want to have an open line of communication with the public directly, and through diverse community participation on our boards. I will be up front and honest. I won’t pretend to have all the answers and I’m willing to have uncomfortable conversations. Importantly, I will always put the people of Grand County first and ensure the welfare of our community is protected.
County commissioners often have to work with—or at odds with—state gov- ernment. How would you personally try to negotiate this sometimes difficult relationship?
Our current leadership continues to push the limit, damaging trust and our relationships in the process. That’s not helpful. I believe government does work. And I believe lawmakers will work with Grand County to make changes that support our community if we respect the legislative process.
I am not reluctant to ask our state and federal partners to step up and help us. Everyone shares in the responsibility of our public lands yet Grand County keeps picking up the tab. I want to work with lawmakers to support the services we provide so mitigation funds can be better spent locally.
What three steps would you advocate for to put the county on a firm footing for the future?
1. Stabilize Our Economy: better support workers, families and small business owners. We also need to take greater action toward housing by closing loopholes in the land use code and lessening density restrictions. Let’s finally make it happen.
2. Financial Responsibility: where financial compliance and accountability is valued, and where the County values working with the City to reduce tax burdens. 3. Represent the Entire Community: Good leaders listen, set priorities, and bring together stakeholders. Most importantly, they act. We need to get back to basic, effective, responsible government that gets things done and represents
everyone in Grand County.
