Provo City Council candidates answer questions on housing, supporting students and recreation (2024)

Last week, the Daily Herald sent out a short questionnaire to Provo City Council candidates with five questions in an effort to provide citizens with information on candidates’ views regarding local issues.

Candidates Craig Christensen and Stan Jensen are running for District 1, Becky Bogdin and David Lewis for District 3, Gary Garrett and McKay Jensen for Citywide II and current City Councilman Travis Hoban is running unopposed for District 4. Hoban did not respond to the questionnaire.

County clerks will mail out ballots through Nov. 14, and every active registered voter will receive one. Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 20 or placed in a drop box before 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 21.

In-person early voting will be held from Nov. 13-20 at the Utah County Administration Building during normal business hours.

Drop boxes and Election Day voting sites will be offered in various locations throughout the county and can be found on Utah County’s website, www.utahcounty.gov/Dept/clerk/elections/.

The following responses are in the candidates’ own words.

Provo is in the process of redoing its housing zones. Do you think there should be a zone for smaller homes, modular, container and other types of homes that would be less expensive? What solutions do you have to reduce housing costs in Provo?

Craig Christensen:

“We need to be thoughtful about how we expand our population in Provo. Creativity in how we find ways to provide more housing needs to be balanced with awareness of how it impacts traffic, infrastructure and safety. Building more townhomes, condominiums and duplexes in appropriate places allows us to keep more green space open.”

Stan Jensen:

“I believe zoning in some areas for smaller homes that could be less expensive is an option that should be explored. Housing costs are a real concern in Provo and nationwide. The brutal truth is that some parts of this cost we have little control over, such as construction costs and mortgage and lending rates, which are dramatically higher today than they have been for years. Also, one result of running a city well and it being attractive with parks, trails, natural resources, good public safety, etc., is people wanting to move here, and the result of rising demand is rising prices for housing. We can and should keep taxes and fees and city-provided utility costs from rising excessively and run our government efficiently to limit those costs of living here. Also, we should avoid over-regulating construction work and other operational parts of building and maintaining housing to avoid adding unnecessary excess costs.”

Becky Bogdin:

“Due to sewer limitations, our green build areas in west Provo will only support three units to the acre overall.

“I like the idea of having land trusts and finding ways to have more home ownership in Provo.”

David Lewis:

“Two years ago, construction costs increased by 22%, outpacing income and creating a bigger gap between home sales price and affordability. We need to look at options to help reduce housing costs and zoning can be part of that solution.”

Gary Garrett:

“I definitely feel we need to get creative in addressing the challenges faced by new or young families in the current housing market. Adjustments to housing zones could be a way to help them in their search for a starter home or a step-up home.”

McKay Jensen:

“Creating diverse housing zones that accommodate smaller homes should absolutely be implemented in Provo. Inclusive and modern zoning promotes owner occupancy and affordability.

“Zoning is an excellent way to allow different housing products people want to buy. We also need to work with developers to build and sell units, not just rent them. We also need to attract companies with good-paying jobs so that our neighbors can afford to raise a family here.

“Reducing housing costs in Provo is vital and requires a multi-faceted approach. First, encouraging mixed-income developments can create a balanced housing market. Implementing policies that incentivize affordable housing units and owner-occupancy is also a must. And, most importantly, fostering a community dialogue that involves residents, policymakers, and experts in city planning can generate innovative ideas and ensure that the solutions implemented align with the needs and aspirations of the people in Provo.”

University students make up many of Provo’s residents. How would you represent and support the city’s student population?

Stan Jensen:

“I was a BYU student thirty years ago and have two children currently living in apartments near BYU where they attend school. I am familiar with the issues students face, which are often similar to issues other residents deal with. They would like their cost of living to be lower and to enjoy good public safety, parks, trails, open spaces and good transportation options, including active transit. My priorities for the city include limiting city spending so taxes and fees don’t continue to grow too fast and focusing the city on efficiently meeting its core responsibilities: public safety, preserving neighborhoods, parks, trails and open spaces, and maintaining and improving infrastructure and transportation options.”

Craig Christensen:

“The reason I have used university interns on my campaign is that I feel it is important to bring them into their city government and experience our ‘democracy at work.’ We need to engage more of our citizens in the governing process, including students. Listening to students’ concerns is the first step to helping to find solutions to their concerns.”

David Lewis:

“University students are the future of our country, and we need to hear from them. They need to be invited to the community discussion — which they have — we need to listen to their comments, ideas and suggestions. I have already witnessed many university students involved in community service, and it is much appreciated and needed.”

Becky Bogdin:

“District 3 is more unique as it has some students west of the freeway and a bigger concentration in the Franklin and Franklin South neighborhoods. The neighborhood program is a great way for students and all residents to bring concerns to the public and the council, as well as find solutions to those issues.”

McKay Jensen:

“Even though students come and go, Provo will always have students. Many of us came to Provo as students, and then never left!

“To keep Provo vibrant, we must recognize that the gap between student wages and the cost of living in our city has never been wider. Many of our self-supported students are truly struggling. Additionally, changes in BYU policies for off-campus housing have left a void where students don’t know where to turn for guidance and help. I believe the city could fill that void with a tenant relations office.

“I would also prioritize open communication, advocating for affordable housing near campuses, supporting local student-friendly businesses, improving safety measures, and fostering a sense of community through events and recreational spaces. The goal is to create a City Council that actively understands and addresses the unique needs of the student population in Provo.”

Gary Garrett:

“Not just students, but 60 percent of Provo residents are renters. I will work to improve circ*mstances and processes connected to tenant/landlord relations. Also, the south campus parking situation needs to be reviewed again for solutions to ease parking strains. I will also support alternative forms of transportation, such as UVX.”

If elected, what are your plans for outdoor recreation, such as bike paths, parks, trails and recreation centers? How do you feel about the new regional sports park and what kind of impact do you think the new sports park will have on Provo?

Craig Christensen:

“I love our foothills and bike paths. Biking up to South Fork is a highlight for me. Our parks, paths and green space are vital to the mental health and well-being of Provo citizens. The amenities of our Rec Center and Parks are a signature part of our Provo quality of life. The new sports park will bring millions of dollars in economic development to Provo and provide a wonderful asset to all of us who live here.”

Stan Jensen:

“Outdoor recreation and transportation on bikes and other alternative transportation means are key assets of Provo. I and all my family members regularly bike, jog, and walk on Provo trails and paths. We must do better at protecting and improving these resources. We have suffered from having some of our trails cut by careless development and irresponsible building projects. Going forward, we should not make those mistakes and should look to connect gaps in trails where possible, like some areas along the Provo River Trail and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. The regional sports park should have positive impacts on Provo’s outdoor activities and contribute economically. I am also optimistic about the second phase of additional fields and pickleball courts.”

Becky Bogdin:

“Maintenance and creation of bike paths, parks and trails take money. Provo is doing a great job creating and maintaining what we have on a budget without raising taxes. I am hopeful the new sports park will generate enough revenue to enhance some of these amenities.”

David Lewis:

“I ride and walk on the bike path regularly; I love the trails and bike paths. I plan to continue to support and maintain the bike paths and parks.

“We do have a section of trail that needs repair and maintenance now, and that is the trail from where the Provo River was diverted into the Provo River Delta to Utah Lake. This part of the trail is part of the Provo River Delta project, and over the next year, an additional trail will be completed in this area, and the existing trail is planned for repair.

“Regarding the new Provo Regional Sports Park, I am looking forward to its completion in the fall of 2024. I think it will have a very positive economic impact on Provo as we host local, state and regional competitions. I think this park also serves to fill the need for additional fields for local practice and competition.”

Gary Garrett:

“I will support providing Provo Parks and Rec with the resources they need to maintain and improve Provo trails and parks. I am a huge fan and supporter of the Provo Rec Center, having co-chaired a citizen’s task force to pass the Rec Center bond. Provo’s parks, trails, and recreation are key to Provo’s quality of life and to the physical and emotional well-being of its residents. As a center for regional and state athletic competitions, Provo’s new sports park has the potential to add significantly to Provo’s economy.”

McKay Jensen:

“I would prioritize the development and maintenance of our bike paths, parks, and trails. These spaces are not just for recreation, but they also promote healthier lifestyles, decrease traffic congestion, and improve quality of life. I would advocate for increased maintenance and expansion of these facilities, and the involvement of stakeholders to better determine the locations and designs for new projects and improvements to existing amenities. It’s important we keep commitments to all corners of the city.

“Regarding the new regional sports park — I’m optimistic. I view it as a potential boon for Provo. Such a facility can put Provo on the map as a destination for regional tournaments, potentially driving tourism and boosting our local economy. I would also like the city to track the economic impact, and prioritize some of the new revenue to support other park projects and improvements that were bumped down the priority list in favor of the sports park opportunity.”

Do you support the growth of the Provo Airport? Do you support international flights? Why or why not?

Stan Jensen:

“The airport is an asset to the city, and I support its continued growth, provided it is consistent with market demand. Infrastructure is often a strong ally to business and provides more services as long as it is matched accurately to demand. You can build infrastructure too fast or too slow, and getting it right is important because too much and too little infrastructure both have material drawbacks. I support the concept of international flights in Provo, but the exact timing and the related volume tradeoffs with the costs and overhead to deal with the complexities of international flights is something that requires careful analysis.”

Craig Christensen:

“More than 700,000 passengers went through the new Provo airport terminal this past year. That is remarkable for a new airport. I am glad the city has had the foresight to provide the leadership to enhance the airport, build greater capacity for international flights, and secure federal and county funds to pay for most of it. This is a wonderful amenity to our community and a great example of what leadership can create!”

David Lewis:

“I do support the growth of the Provo Airport. We have improved the Airport parking over the last two years with additional temporary parking, and I think that needs to be a permanent parking improvement.

“Regarding international flights, I have not researched the need or market demand.”

Becky Bogdin:

“The airport has been very successful since opening its new terminal. I like how, so far, the airport has been able to expand without raising taxes. I believe the airport needs to be self-sustaining and grow as the funding becomes available.”

McKay Jensen:

“​​I wholeheartedly support the growth of the Provo Airport, particularly if that growth prioritizes passenger travel over cargo and logistical service. A well-developed passenger airport can be a significant catalyst for local economic growth aligned with Provo’s natural identity as a destination city. This growth can lead to job creation and can also position Provo as a more prominent player in the regional economy.

“I see international passenger flights as a natural progression for a growing airport and a significant enhancement. However, all development at the airport should be conscious of the potential impacts and the concerns of local residents. We must balance growth with community well-being. Before committing more of your tax dollars, the city should perform a cost-benefit analysis and show citizens any ongoing expense. It’s imperative that new growth is strategic, sustainable, and in line with Provo’s broader goals as a people-first, high-quality-of-life city.”

Gary Garrett:

“I support the expansion of Provo’s airport for the convenience of Provo and Utah County residents and for the added tax revenue to Provo City. New tax revenue sources can help us control other fees and property tax rates that affect residents.”

Overall, how do you plan to serve the residents of Provo?

Craig Christensen:

“Just as I have for the past four years, I plan to continue to use my entrepreneurial and business skills to address some of Provo’s biggest challenges. As a volunteer, I have advocated for Provo against the islands in Utah Lake, the sale of Bridal Veil Falls, and protecting our foothills from dangerous development. I love Provo and its family-oriented way of life. We need to keep Provo charming, our historic downtown vibrant, and our business community robust. I will continue to be a champion for our values and beauty that make this city remarkable to live in.”

Stan Jensen:

“Our recent growth and increases in density has been too fast and caused traffic congestion and other negative impacts on quality-of-life issues here. We must manage growth (slow it down) and listen to citizens’ and neighborhoods’ input before making major zoning and development changes. Set clearer goals for the mix of owner-occupied to rental residences and the mix of single-family homes to multifamily that maintain high percentages of owner-occupied and single-family homes. We must budget efficiently and not continue expanding government spending and our taxes and fees at rates that exceed inflation and population growth. Finally, we need Provo’s government to keep its focus on its core responsibilities: 1) Public Safety (police, fire, and emergency responders), 2) Protecting and Preserving Neighborhoods, 3) Improving and Expanding our Parks, Trails, Open Spaces, and Natural Resources, and 4) Maintaining our roads and infrastructure, and avoiding political extremes and contention.”

Becky Bogdin:

“I plan to serve the same way that I have served as a neighborhood chair and as an area representative: Listening to concerns and trying my best to find solutions.”

David Lewis:

“I plan to listen to Provo Residents.

“These are my four priorities:

“1. Careful Financial Stewardship

“2. Sustainable Trails and Parks

“3. Safety and Services Support

“4. Responsible Growth

“Geneva Road is a state road; we do not have a plan from the state for the scope and schedule of its improvement, and it is very important that we have a plan from the state for Geneva Road improvement. This will be a great benefit for a growing area of Provo with regard to safety and traffic flow.”

Gary Garrett:

“Growth in Provo City is inevitable. Utah County is projected to rival Salt Lake County in population by 2065, according to a Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute report. People move to Provo and to Utah County for its quality of life. Growth brings business and industry, but it also strains resources. I will work with city, county, and state officials to help Provo not only plan for growth but also follow the plan.”

McKay Jensen:

“I’ve dedicated many years to serving our community, from the Provo School Board to the Neighborhood District Program, and Mountainland Technical College. I believe in Provo and our vibrant community’s potential to innovate and positively impact the future.

“Our city is growing, which presents opportunities AND responsibilities. We need experienced leaders who understand the importance of prioritizing needs over wants.

“I promise to be an advocate for safe neighborhoods, quality growth, broad economic development, necessary infrastructure, and critical public safety services.

“We deserve a Provo where our hard-earned tax dollars are respected, where every voice matters, and decisions are made together.

“Together, we can create a Provo we’re all proud of — a place where our children, grandchildren, and generations to come can thrive.

“Learn more at mckayjensen.com.”

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