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The Eden area in the Ogden Valley, photographed April 4, 2022.

Tim Vandenack, Standard-Examiner file photo

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Ogden Valley City Council candidate Fred Blickle.

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Ogden Valley City Council candidate Cari Cutler.

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Ogden Valley City Council candidate Charlie Graff

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Ogden Valley City Council candidate Kay Hoogland.

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Ogden Valley City Council candidate Benjamin Prall.

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Ogden Valley City Council candidate Dan Davenport.

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Ogden Valley City Council candidate Don Hickman.

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The 2025 municipal primary election will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 12, bringing with it the first opportunity for Ogden Valley residents to take part in the shaping of their new, local government. During November’s general election, Ogden Valley voters overwhelmingly supported incorporation and opted for a five-member city council to be selected by district and an at-large mayor.

Voters are now tasked with narrowing the field of candidates for the 2025 general election.

To help readers better understand their respective platforms and qualifications, the Standard-Examiner asked each city council candidate a series of questions. Candidates were asked to provide answers of roughly 150 words. The responses from candidates in Districts 3 and 5 are presented below.

Some responses have been lightly edited for stylistic purposes or clarity.

This feature is part of a series; information on candidates from District 4 will be published at a later date.

District 3 (Two-year term)

Fred Blickle III

What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?

“I have worked for municipalities and authorities throughout my 40-year career as a civil and environmental engineer, including Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Authority, multiple water municipalities and authorities in Florida, Detroit-Wayne County Airport Authority, O’Hare International Airport, Port of Seattle and others. I have managed small to multi-million-dollar projects and project teams, and have run a successful engineering business throughout my career.”

Why are you running for this position?

“I believe that our valley is at an important juncture; perhaps the most important time in its modern history, where we can step forward as fearless architects of our future success to improve conditions not only for ourselves but for future generations. I possess important and relevant experiences in water resources, environmental sustainability and civil infrastructure that will be valuable as we move forward as a community. In speaking with my friends and neighbors, I believe that I can firmly and fairly represent the interests of valley residents and visitors.”

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?

“First, we need to quickly come together as a team — a mayor and five council members, all new to the positions and each other — to act quickly and effectively to establish planning and land-use regulations and ordinances, budgets, service agreements, staffing decisions, purchasing contracts and other new city business matters.

“I am used to working on and leading project teams throughout my 40-year career; teams that came together quickly and worked effectively to achieve project goals. I am very familiar with this type of role and have been very successful with it. Past experience matters in this role. After the new city business components are established, we are faced with running the new city in a sustainable fashion, considering proposed businesses and development without depleting our natural resources and in concert with the wishes of the residents. I think it’s important to have a vision, develop a plan and then work the plan. I am the right person for this role.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“No. 1, establish the business practices for the new city. No. 2, establish and adopt ethical conduct and conflict of interest criteria for our newly elected mayor and council members. I am used to working under these throughout my 40-year engineering career, which is required as part of state licensing. No. 3, review and confirm our vision and plan. This has started with the transition teams, and I will continue to assemble input from the valley residents so we are clear on what the majority of our residents want for our valley and its future. Personally, I really like that we have no stoplights in our valley. No. 4, the plan follows, and we have a very good start with the Ogden Valley General Plan (2016, revised 2019), which requires some modification. No. 5, follow the plan in our ongoing reviews of proposed businesses and developments. Sustainability is central to these reviews — water, wastewater, infrastructure, fire and police protection all should meet the capacity for existing residents and any proposed developments.

Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?

“Email: Fred@keepOVlocal.com. Facebook: Fred Blickle for Ogden Valley City Council Seat 3.”

Cari Cutler

What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?

“While my experience isn’t in partisan politics, as a community association manager, I’ve essentially run a smaller version of municipal government. I recruit and advise homeowners to serve on boards, review and recommend budgets, draft agendas and administrate meetings — all directly transferable skills for city council.”

Why are you running for this position?

“For years, I’ve held a personal goal to serve my community on the city council, a dream born from raising my own children in small, rural mountain communities across Utah. I was inspired by dedicated local leaders fighting for their communities, and I realized, ‘That’s the kind of tangible difference I want to make.’

“My deep care for Ogden Valley – its past, present and where we’re headed – drives this commitment. As a full-time resident of Eden, I’ve seen firsthand the pitfalls of unmanaged growth in other areas like Park City. This isn’t just a political aspiration; it’s a calling to utilize my real-world experience as an entrepreneur and HOA professional to ensure our valley’s unique character is preserved and thoughtfully planned for the future.”

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?

“The biggest challenges facing our new municipality center on the sheer magnitude of startup work and the steep learning curve for elected officials. We must efficiently review recommendations from startup teams to make informed decisions on vital hires versus outsourced contracts, all while prioritizing a sound budget.

“Getting essential services online — from a community website to hiring a recorder, treasurer and addressing criminal justice responsibilities — is just the beginning. We also face the complex task of thoroughly understanding our income sources, ensuring correct allocation and actively seeking new revenue. Re-adopting the minimally revised general plan and then developing municipal ordinances will be critical.

“Finally, a continuous challenge will be encouraging ongoing community participation and committee support, which is vital for elected officials to successfully build, sustain and represent the Ogden Valley City residents.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“If elected, my immediate priority will be to foster highly collaborative relationships. I intend to quickly get to know my fellow elected officials, understanding their talents and skills. This crucial initial step will enable us to strategically divide tasks, ensuring we work as efficiently as possible to establish our new city.

“While we are each elected to represent our individual districts, the bigger picture is clear — our collective success hinges on working together. This includes actively following and supporting the lead of our elected mayor, ensuring a unified approach to governance. We must unite to represent all residents of Ogden Valley. This teamwork will be essential as we tackle smart budgeting, thoughtfully preserve our rural character, ensure transparent communication and develop vital infrastructure for our entire community.”

Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?

“https://caricutler.com/”

Charlie Graff

What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?

“None.”

Why are you running for this position?

“I’m excited to serve Ogden Valley as a member of the city council. With over 20 years of running my own small business, I’ve learned perseverance, dedication and practical problem-solving. My experience has taught me how to balance growth with community values, ensuring fair, transparent decision-making that aligns with our shared vision. I visited for the mountains and recreation but stayed for the people and community that define our valley. I’m committed to improving the quality of life for everyone — families, seniors, children, and small business owners.”

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?

“Ethics, transparency and good governance — promote open data and accountability. Community and infrastructure — invest in parks, schools, roads and public facilities. Economic and small business growth — support local entrepreneurs and workforce development. Education and youth engagement — partner with schools to create opportunities and leadership pathways. Environmental sustainability and land use — preserve green spaces, promote renewable energy and respect our heritage. Transportation and accessibility — advocate for modern transit to reduce pollution and improve mobility. Community involvement and fairness — ensure all voices are heard and balance growth with preservation.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“What Charlie Graff will focus on: managing growth while preserving the rural character of Ogden Valley; addressing transportation challenges, including congestion in Ogden Canyon and improving alternative modes of transportation; balancing economic development with the preservation of open space and natural resources; ensuring adequate water supply and protecting water quality; and managing recreational facilities and trails, particularly around Pineview Reservoir.”

Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?

“https://ogden-valley.com/”

Kay Hoogland

What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?

“I was volunteer manager for the incorporation petition drive and the election campaign manager. I’ve continued with work on the transition team and lead the finance and administration groups, helped the agriculture and businesses roundtables and provided pro bono legal advice. Talented, generous volunteers play a vital role in all these efforts, inspiring me and everyone involved.

“Beyond incorporation, I’m president of Wolf Creek Resort Master Association and I advocate on STR regulations and other planning issues with the county. I brought greater attention to conflicts of interest on the planning commission, resulting in broader representation. I also serve on the boards of the Community Foundation of Ogden Valley and Mountain Arts & Music. My previous career as an attorney and manager at a law firm, Motorola and Tribune Company has equipped me with valuable skills I now use as a community volunteer.”

Why are you running for this position?

“While working on the city transition team, I realized the city’s startup will be extremely time demanding, with a steep learning curve. I have demonstrated that I have the time and have already been scaling that curve. This work made me laser focused on ensuring we get this city started out strong. I am qualified, experienced and tested — from managing the campaign to working on transition and building partnerships within and outside the valley. My background in law, management and community service has given me the essential skills for this work, and my hands-on experience has prepared me to help our city through its crucial first years.

“This job isn’t part-time or for anyone just learning the ropes. It demands proven commitment, mature judgment and resilience. I hope to bring that and more to the table.”

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?

“Our biggest challenge is launching our city on a strong foundation so we can manage growth wisely, protect our rural way of life and create a government that truly serves residents. Developers continue to push for changes that put our valley’s unique character and resources — especially water in Wolf Creek — at risk.

“As we move to city governance, we must provide essential services, stabilize our finances and safeguard property rights, water resources and agriculture. We must set and meet higher standards while getting the work done. Past conflicts of interest have weakened public trust, making it crucial for the new city council to prioritize transparency and ethics from the very beginning. Building a solid and honest city government will be hard work, but by working together as a united community, we can meet this challenge.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“If elected, my priorities will be: strong city startup — build a city government that functions from day one, ensuring continuity of services and responsible use of resources. Frugal fiscal management — ensure rigorous stewardship of every taxpayer dollar with transparent budgeting and cost-effective solutions to keep our city sustainable; every penny counts. Smart, balanced planning — uphold the Ogden Valley General Plan, respect property and water rights and support agriculture; planning must reflect resident voices and preserve rural character. Ethics, transparency, and resident advocacy — adopt strong ethics and conflict-of-interest policies, guaranteeing all decisions are for the public good, with transparent operations and independent reviews and enforcement when needed. Cooperation and collaboration — foster teamwork and respectful dialogue throughout the valley and build strong partnerships with local groups, neighbors and public and private entities that can help our new city.”

Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?

“Website: https://kay4council.com/. Facebook: Kay Hoogland for Council.”

Benjamin Prall

What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?

“I am a former teacher, school administrator and, now, director of the North Fork Discovery Center. I’ve spent my career in public service and education. As a school administrator, I managed and trained large teams of people, I oversaw several large budgets of public funds and I worked with communities to solve various problems.

“I serve on the Trails Foundation of Northern Utah board, the Liberty Park Committee and have helped with Liberty Days for several years. I’ve coached, directed scout camps and groomed trails for Ogden Nordic. My wife and I are raising four kids here, and I want to ensure we grow wisely — protecting open space, managing resources well, keeping taxes reasonable and preserving what makes Ogden Valley special.”

Why are you running for this position?

“Ogden Valley is where I live, work and play. As an outdoor enthusiast, educator and longtime community volunteer, I’m running for city council to help protect what makes this valley so special. I’m committed to responsible growth, water and resource conservation, fiscal transparency and preserving the open spaces and recreation opportunities that define our way of life.

“With deep roots in the community and a strong background in public service, I’m ready to listen, collaborate and lead with care and accountability. I believe our future depends on thoughtful planning that reflects our shared values and keeps Ogden Valley a place where families can thrive and nature still has room to breathe. I want future generations to see the sunrise over Pineview, hear the crunch of snow underfoot and listen to the call of sandhill cranes each spring. Let’s protect what we love — together.”

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?

“Ogden Valley’s top three challenges are water security, responsible growth and infrastructure. First, we must protect our water by linking development to actual water availability, preserving recharge areas and enforcing strong conservation policies. Without a reliable water supply, nothing else functions. Second, growth should reflect our rural character, guided by a clear general plan and thoughtful zoning. New development must fit the valley, support community values and pay its fair share to avoid straining our resources. Third, we need reliable infrastructure — roads, emergency services and snow removal — to support current and future residents. With careful planning, partnerships and transparent budgeting, we can ensure quality services without losing what makes this valley unique.

“Smart, sustainable decisions now will protect Ogden Valley for generations to come.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“If elected to Ogden Valley City Council, my top priorities will be protecting our water resources, guiding responsible growth and strengthening infrastructure and services.

“Securing a clean, reliable water supply is essential for our community’s health and future. I will ensure development aligns with realistic water availability and conservation goals. Managing growth thoughtfully means preserving our rural character, protecting open spaces, supporting well-planned housing and working to maintain access to trails and recreation. I’ll work to maintain and improve roads, emergency response and essential services to meet residents’ needs without overextending budgets. Fiscal responsibility and transparency will guide all decisions, ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely.

“Finally, I’ll prioritize community engagement, listening to residents and fostering collaboration to build a resilient, sustainable Ogden Valley that reflects our shared values and secures a high quality of life for generations to come.”

Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?

“https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578623903031”

The Standard-Examiner did not receive a response from District 3 candidate Marshall McGonegal.

District 5 (Two-year term)

Dan Davenport

What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?

“Prior Davis County delegate and current Weber County delegate.”

Why are you running for this position?

“I’m running for city council because I believe our valley deserves leadership that listens, protects and plans thoughtfully for our future.

“Soon after moving to Ogden Valley, I became frustrated by elected officials ignoring Ogden Valley’s voices and concerns, which is why I supported the recent incorporation to ensure local control. Now, I’m ready to take the next step as District 5’s city council member to safeguard what makes our valley extraordinary.

“Our valley’s quiet pace, interaction with nature and small-town character are at risk. We must act to preserve them. Too many beautiful small mountain towns in Utah have become like every other city on the Wasatch Front. Without action, unchecked growth could erode what we love most. I am committed to responsible governance that respects residents and balances growth.”

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?

“I believe the greatest challenges facing our valley are unchecked growth focused on short-term gains rather than long-term planning and vision, excessive bureaucracy stifling small businesses and farms, unregulated short-term rentals, property rezoning without community input, water management issues and imprudent infrastructure investments.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“I’m committed to responsible governance that puts residents first. I also advocate for a city charter to ensure community involvement, transparency, strong ethics and thoughtful growth.

“My priorities include protecting our open Spaces — enforce strict zoning to prevent overdevelopment and preserve the natural beauty that defines our valley. Smart infrastructure — invest wisely in transit solutions that improve connectivity while maintaining our small-town character. Supporting local agriculture — create incentives to strengthen our farming community, fostering sustainability and resilience. Utilization of existing commercial areas and buildings before rezoning. Supporting small, locally-owned businesses — streamline the application process and limit ‘red tape.’ Regulate short-term rentals and support internal accessory dwelling units, or IADUs, within single-family homes, provided the homeowner occupies either the primary residence or the IADU.”

Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?

“Facebook: Dan Davenport for Ogden Valley City Council District 5, or email ddavenportovc@gmail.com.”

Don Hickman

What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?

“38 years leadership in the Air Force and business.”

Why are you running for this position?

“I believe that I have the talent, temperament and time to help make sure that our new city is functional and effective on day one (Jan. 5, 2026). The first year is critical as the new city stands up; we must create a city government, establish essential services, establish a planning commission and promulgate city ordinances. As a business and community leader, I have the breadth and depth of experience necessary to help the new city succeed.”

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?

“We have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a new, functioning city. This is not an easy task. Disregard of the Ogden Valley Planning Commission’s recommendations and unchecked development propelled the vote to incorporate. Now, we have to do the hard work. Council members who’ve never worked together before must come together for the common good. On Jan. 5, we must have essential services in place — roads and snowplows, law enforcement, trash pickup — a new planning commission formed and plans for promulgating city ordinances and establishing other government services.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“Create a small, effective city government; provide essential services on day one; ensure we stay within budget starting day one; adopt a revised general plan and land-use ordinances; and appoint and empower an expert planning commission.”

Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?

“https://www.donhickmandistrict5.com/”

The Standard-Examiner did not receive a response from District 5 candidate Donald Griffiths.