Two candidates are running to represent District 2 on the Salt Lake County Council. The area includes Magna, Kearns, and portions of West Valley City, West Jordan, South Jordan and Herriman.
The west-side district’s current representative, Republican David Alvord, announced in January that he would not seek another term.
Republican Carlos Moreno, who bested former GOP state Sen. Daniel Thatcher in the June primary, is facing off against Democratic nominee Katie Olson for the seat.
The Salt Lake Tribune sent questions to candidates in the four County Council races scheduled for Nov. 5. The Tribune gave these candidates a deadline and word limit, and informed the candidates that their answers may be edited for clarity and length. Here’s how Moreno and Olson responded, listed in alphabetical order by last name:
Aside from affordable housing or homelessness, what is the biggest challenge the county faces, and how would you address it?
Moreno: Did not respond.
Olson: As a mom providing for my family, the cost of living in the county keeps me up at night. The county must be a team player with the cities, towns and the state to make sure we continue providing excellent quality-of-life resources for families — like parks, libraries and recreation — while making sure the tax burden stays low. I intend to modernize the county’s budgeting processes, right-size services, and stay focused on data-driven, truthful and compassionate policies.
Last fall, Utah housing markets were the least affordable in state history — and the Beehive State’s median home price was about six times larger than the state’s median household income.
What, if anything, should Salt Lake County do to make housing more affordable?
Moreno: Did not respond.
Olson: Density isn’t the enemy, but we can’t allow developers to abuse it for their profit. We should implement more multiuse zoning, require new developments to include affordable units and open space, and offer incentives to build affordable homes. Expanding first-time homebuyer assistance programs can help more residents achieve homeownership. Home repair and emergency mortgage assistance programs, along with aging in place initiatives, can help preserve housing stock and keep homes owned locally.
Smith Entertainment Group’s proposed downtown Salt Lake City sports district has been top of mind for many residents, especially the potential changes at Abravanel Hall.
What should happen to the concert hall?
Moreno: Did not respond.
Olson: Abravanel Hall is one of a kind! We should integrate it, creating a vibrant district that celebrates the culture of the county, while preserving its acoustics. This needs to be a true partnership with the state, city, county, and developer contributing funds without overburdening taxpayers.
What policy changes would you support to combat homelessness in Salt Lake County?
Moreno: Did not respond.
Olson: I would support Housing First programs and increase funding for mental health treatment. We must support our health department more in its prevention work. Prevention work is historically underfunded, but it is so much more cost-effective.
Do you support the half-billion-dollar bond that would fund expanded mental health treatment and criminal justice reform within Salt Lake County?
Moreno: Did not respond.
Olson: Yes.
