Two candidates are running for the Salt Lake County Council’s at-large “C” seat.
Longtime council member Jim Bradley, who currently holds the seat, announced last year that he would not seek another term. Republican Rachelle Morris, co-founder of Utah-based venture fund RevRoad Capital, is running against Democratic South Salt Lake City Council member Natalie Pinkney for the at-large 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 Morris and Pinkney 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?
Morris: Public safety. We have not added a jail bed in 23 years, and our jail is operating at full capacity, straining on our entire community. I have done extensive research on the public safety bond — touring the jail, meeting with law enforcement officers, studying the bond financials, and consulting with council members. I support the bond and with my 18 years of professional investing experience, I will be a skilled advocate on behalf of residents to ensure the bond is fiscally managed well.
Pinkney: While exciting, our rapid growth challenges our infrastructure, resources, and quality of life. We must manage it sustainably through thoughtful urban planning, transportation investments, and protection of our natural spaces. By addressing growth proactively, we’ll preserve what makes our county special while embracing new opportunities. This approach will build a stronger, more resilient Salt Lake County for generations to come.
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?
Morris: Housing — in particular, affordable owner-occupied single family homes — must remain our priority. The housing legislation that was passed this year is a positive start. Now, county leaders must collaborate with municipal leaders across the county and be effective advocates for infrastructure appropriations to our county from the state. The expense and time required to build infrastructure (roads, water tanks, etc.) elongates the housing crisis in our county.
Pinkney: To make housing more affordable, we’ll focus on four key strategies: partnering with stakeholders to build more affordable units near transit and job centers, streamlining city regulations, developing county-owned land for mixed-income housing, and helping families become homeowners through financial assistance and education. These combined efforts will increase housing supply and accessibility for all Salt Lake County residents.
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?
Morris: This year I toured Abravanel Hall with councilman Jim Bradley and Utah Symphony leaders, and I am in frequent dialogue with the symphony. I will fight to preserve the integrity of Abravanel Hall and be an advocate for the symphony, ensuring our symphony enriches our community for decades to come.
Pinkney: Abravanel Hall is a historic treasure with incredible acoustics that is deeply loved by our community. We must save this irreplaceable venue, preserving its cultural significance while ensuring it continues to serve Salt Lake County’s vibrant arts scene for generations to come.
What policy changes would you support to combat homelessness in Salt Lake County?
Morris: Treat it like a crisis. Better triage to match services and needs. Monitor provider health, paired with accountability. Return public spaces to everyone, instead of only a desperate population with nowhere to turn in a damaged and futile system.
Pinkney: I would support expanding shelters, prioritizing stable housing, boosting mental health support, and preventing evictions. This approach addresses immediate needs and root causes, creating lasting solutions for our vulnerable residents.
Do you support the half-billion-dollar bond that would fund expanded mental health treatment and criminal justice reform within Salt Lake County?
Morris: Yes.
Pinkney: Yes.
