Amy Wicks for Ogden City Council At-Large Seat C
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hen it comes to describing the work of Ogden City Councilwoman Amy Wicks the past four years, we think the word "independent" best sums it up. If she has any reservations about a decision, she's not the kind to simply go with the flow.
That's one reason the Standard-Examiner's editorial board is recommending her to Ogden voters for at-large council seat C.
Currently serving as the city council's vice chair, Wicks has been aboard for a bumpy ride during her first term as a member of Ogden's governing body. The past four years have been as rocky as ever -- Ogden's politics are never sedate -- and Wicks has found herself at odds with other council members and the mayor's administration on various issues.
Wicks says she feels like the council and the people of Ogden have been left in the dark on some issues, including redevelopment plans. She would like to see a more open, cooperative and informative relationship between the administration and the council -- and so would we.
Wicks' opponent in the race, Royal Eccles, appears to be an affable, competent candidate. But the editorial board was not convinced he would have been as independent as Wicks.
There were a couple of issues that seemed to highlight the difference between Wicks and Eccles clearly for board members. The first had to do with the proposed development of a resort in Malan's Basin east of Ogden and the city's possible annexation of that land.
Eccles noted that the land was private property, and he supported "whatever" the owner/developer "wants to do" with it, since the potential for tax revenue to the city is considerable.
When Wicks responded, she also supported private property rights, but said she recognizes that the trail system on Ogden's bench is a "unique asset." She advocated a more careful approach to any proposed development to make sure everyone benefits.
Likewise, Eccles said he's a big fan of offering tax incentives to developers and businesses Ogden wants to invest in the city.
Wicks was somewhat more circumspect. She said tax incentives "have their place" -- and, indeed, she's supported some with her votes over the past four years -- she sees limits: Don't underestimate the value of your town, she says. Focus on creating a business-friendly environment but be careful not to give too much away.
She was pretty blunt, too, when it came to discussion of Ogden's $100 million-plus needs in water and sewer repairs and replacements. Though the city's rate study is ongoing and not expected to be complete until mid-November, she said she doesn't see a way to avoid a tax increase. Ogden's an aging city, she said, so the expense is great.
We were also impressed with Wicks' ideas for confronting gang violence in Ogden. She would like to speed up the schedule for hiring new police officers, and have them specialize in, say, anti-gang enforcement.
Another good idea is to partner with local youth groups and establish more Neighborhood Watch organizations in Ogden.
We think if voters compare the candidates as we have, Wicks should be their choice.
Watch video of interview with Amy Wicks
Watch video of interview with Royal Eccles
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