Responding to Neighborhood Needs

In most municipalities, council members are elected by the city as a whole. But, Provo is unique. Here, each district chooses the person they want representing their area.

Council members have a responsibility to listen to all of their constituents and serve as a voice for the neighborhoods that select them.

The Facts:

  • Residents rarely have up-to-date information about council decisions that will affect their neighborhood. Currently, residents need to attend a lengthy city council meeting or wait approximately two weeks after the meeting to access the minutes. Often, people miss the opportunity to share their opinion on the issues that matter to them. (See: Provo City)
  • The previous council decided to fund iProvo, a high-speed internet venture, without a vote from the tax-payers. iProvo was a colossal failure and has already wasted more than $8 million. In 2008, the city sold it to private company Broadweave, promising to take it back if it failed. Now that Broadweave doesn’t have enough funds to make payments without drawing from their surety deposit, the people of Provo may have to take on the massive $39.6 million bond. (See: Salt Lake Tribune, Reason Foundation, Daily Herald)
  • Council decisions often end in a stalemate when members fail to listen to all of their constituents. The previous council has had difficulty resolving the North Joaquin parking permit issue in a way that benefits long-term homeowners and renters because many were angered when the council made a plan before listening to both sides of the issue.  (See: Daily Herald)

The Sterling Solution

I recognize the opportunity and responsibility that district-wide elections hold. As a city council member, my door will be open to all residents of the district.  Homeowners, renters, long-term residents, and students will be welcomed.

I’ll also focus on transparency and provide my district with up-to-date reports on what the council is doing. Within two days after a city council meeting, I’ll post new information on a website accessible to everyone.

I understand that the council’s decisions have a real impact on the people of Provo and will avoid any major undertaking without getting the input of the residents.