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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 mayoral candidate Shanna Francis, right.

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Ogden Valley mayoral candidate Andy Newton.

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Ogden Valley mayoral candidate Kyle Reeder, left.

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Ogden Valley mayoral candidate Janet Wampler.

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OGDEN VALLEY — The 2025 municipal primary election will be held Aug. 12, bringing with it the first opportunity for Ogden Valley residents to take part in the shaping of their new local government. During last 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 of the new city’s mayoral candidates — Shanna Francis, Andy Newton, Kyle Reeder and Janet Wampler — a series of questions. Candidates were asked to provide answers of roughly 150 words. Their responses are presented below. Some responses have been lightly edited for stylistic purposes or clarity.

This feature is the final part of a series on Ogden Valley’s mayoral and city council candidates.

Shanna Francis

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

“Undergraduate and graduate degrees in political science, including an MA in public administration. Part of a think-tank from the University of Utah law school providing support for the Iraqi government, publishing a book for their use: ‘Iraq — Guide to Law & Policy.’ Founder and co-owner of SR Communications, publisher of The Ogden Valley News, serving as CEO and lead journalist since 1998.

“Employed by the Utah Association of Conservation Districts under the auspices of the Utah Dept. of Agriculture, partnering with the state’s soil conservation districts, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Resource Conservation & Development, the U.S. Forest Service, Farm Bureau and other local, state and federal agencies involved in natural resource conservation and development. Provided resource and technical services. Also developed and wrote water management and conservation plans.

“Worked for Ogden City in both their community development and planning departments. Served on Weber County’s Ogden Valley Planning Commission from 2018-2022. Board member, OV Land Trust.”

Why are you running for this position?

“Ogden Valley deserves a mayor with boots-on-the-ground, in-the-trenches experience. For thirty years, I’ve addressed and dealt with policy, growth, planning and zoning issues. My graduate work and experience in public administration and land-use planning make me uniquely qualified to serve. I’ve been addressing community issues for decades, attending public hearings, board meetings, roundtables, district meetings and committee meetings throughout Northern Utah, representing farmers and ranchers, property owners, families and water-right owners.

“I’ve been yelled at, threatened with lawsuits, shamed, called names and bullied for standing up for what’s right. It’s what I do — and what I’ve been doing for OV for decades. As mayor, I have a proven record of not backing down when it comes to representing the people. I’ve also spent years writing about these issues, trying to educate the public about them through my work with The Ogden Valley News, bringing public awareness of the Valley’s policy concerns.”

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

“By far, out-of-control, unsustainable growth that’s overtaxing limited infrastructure and water resources as noted by recent water studies undertaken by the state. Also a challenge: state and county laws and policies that have contributed to massive rises in housing costs.

“The county’s willingness to subsidize development in Ogden Valley is unconscionable. Land-use decisions, policies and ordinances are contributing to unfettered growth, unsustainable tax hikes and the resulting limitations on the number of young people and families who can afford to live in OV.

“Every decision our leaders make directly and indirectly impacts property taxes, including the increasing misuse of public infrastructure districts. The impact on taxes is not only driving out young families from OV, but established families, too — the heart of every community — who volunteer in local organizations, teach at our schools, run local PTOs, work at the local market, coach sports teams, take turns carpooling and care for neighbors.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“Build and lead a cohesive city council/mayoral team, ensuring sustainable development reflective of the visions and goals outlined in the general plan. Build a solid framework for planning and zoning ordinances that prioritizes the needs of local families and stakeholders. Adopt a consistency ordinance ensuring all development complies with the general plan.

“Protect and manage land and water resources in accordance with best practices and standards, and scientific study recommendations, including the protection of prime watershed areas. Also, work with the state to advocate for current water rights holders and users against undue development pressures threatening these rights. For example, Cache County leaders stood up for their constituents in the battle over well digging on top of Powder Mountain, gaining legal concessions and protection, whereas Weber County leaders did not.

“Work with governmental, private and nonprofit organizations and businesses to confront the current affordable housing crisis.”

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

“Learn more at https://shannafrancis4mayor.net/ and see that my vision for OV is like most others’ — the protection of our ‘rural character’ and quality of life. Development patterns should be compatible with the general plan and complement the valley’s natural environment to ensure its distinct sense of place is protected. This includes the protection of open space; farms and ag lands; hillsides and viewsheds.

Due to natural resource and physical environment limitations, the development trajectory we’re currently on is unsustainable, specifically when it comes to water quality and supply, traffic, dark sky preservation and our sensitive watershed that sustains not only OV, but the rest of Weber County. My mission is to represent the current and long-term interests of the community, primarily, our families, and to implement this mission in a fair, honest and unbiased manner based on current research and studies addressing OV’s natural resources and infrastructure limitations and capabilities.”

Andy Newton

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

“I am currently on the board of our community water company, Pineview West Water Company. Previously, I served on the Ogden Valley/Weber County Recreation/Transmission Special Service District for four years, two of those years as board chairperson.

“In the past, I was a founding member of the 501c3 children’s charity Parent-Plus, Inc. Much earlier in my professional career, as a private contractor, I administered and completed small community/municipal/commercial infrastructure projects such as bathrooms, handicap access and commercial kitchens for local town and governmental agencies. In general, I have not previously participated in local, state or federal politics.”

Why are you running for this position?

“There was a call to action to serve the community. The Ogden Valley Incorporation Team has achieved the monumental task of getting incorporation on the ballot which resulted in strong voter turnout for incorporation. The need for city council and mayoral candidates was announced and I responded to the call.

“While I have not participated in the incorporation process and have been watching from the sidelines, I understand the issues and see light at the end of the tunnel. I have lived in the Ogden Valley for 15 years and very much believe it is a special place that is under severe development pressure fostered by the Weber County administration with support from the State of Utah.

“I see and understand the change brought about by generational families taking the opportunity to move on while other families choose to remain on their land, juxtaposed by an overriding influx of newcomers that are moving to the Ogden Valley and bring with them different value sets.”

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

“Survival of the new municipality is the first and foremost objective. Whether it is the building of a new municipality, starting a business or the break-in of a new piece of machinery, the initial start-up period is the most critical time.

“There will be community pressure resulting from the start-up pains which include limited revenue and reduced services. And there will be rolling changes and adjustments before stability is reached. External forces include the potential for legal challenges from developers, land owners and other entities.

“The big picture includes the impact of the 2034 Olympics, the expansion of Powder Mountain Resort and planned redevelopment of the federal lands surrounding Pineview Reservoir, which are all designed to further increase the number of visitors and residents.

“Meeting the needs and expectations of shareholders in the new Ogden Valley municipality will take balance and communication. Continuing development is a challenge, but seems to be the new reality. The end goal is reserving the rural character of the Ogden Valley lifestyle for those who live here. Strategies that challenge developers to provide beneficial infrastructure that serves the full-time and legacy resident community is one example. We will also be engaging with the schools, churches, state and federal government, and the commercial businesses that provide our sales tax revenue.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“The creation of a cohesive and well-functioning city council is challenge No. 1. Building a team that can work through competing viewpoints, share ideas, listen to each other and find common ground under internal and external pressures will be key. Working together with our different personalities, individual backgrounds, established value systems and allegiances, and a host of other variables will require good leadership.

“On behalf of the residents, develop a positive relationship with Weber County, vested developers, businesses and land owners that leads to open communication and the opportunity for corrective action is Challenge No. 2. This starts with review of the current development landscape to fully understand the scope of approvals and future intentions.

“Ultimately, we can get ahead of the curve and create a long-term action plan that brings a much more relaxed governing environment than the current hyper-sensitive and adversarial atmosphere.”

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

“https://www.ogdenvalleymayor.org/ is my campaign website. There are many open sources where voters can find information on myself as well as candidates, these include: https://www.weberelections.gov/ and https://www.vote411.org/”

Kyle Reeder

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

“I am an attorney with 15 years of experience in business law, negotiation and governance. My work has focused on helping organizations, property owners and small businesses solve problems, plan for the future and create agreements that are fair and clear. I bring strong skills in persuasion and negotiation, which are essential for building consensus and finding practical solutions to complex issues. While I have not held elected office before, I have extensive experience with governance and decision-making that translates directly to local leadership.

“In our community, I’ve hosted farm-to-table events and regularly meet with farmers, small business owners and neighbors to discuss how we can preserve the valley’s character while planning for smart, sustainable growth. These experiences give me a strong foundation to help our new city start off with transparent, effective and community-focused governance.”

Why are you running for this position?

“I’m running for mayor because I believe the future of Ogden Valley depends on strong, ethical and engaged leadership. If we as residents aren’t fully involved in our city’s governance, we risk letting outside pressures or short-term thinking shape the valley in ways we will regret. I believe I have the experience, skills and steady approach needed to be an effective mayor. I am someone who can listen, bring people together and guide our city through its first critical years.

“I want to make sure decisions about growth, infrastructure and development reflect our long-term vision as a community, not outside interests. Serving as mayor is my way of helping protect our rural beauty, open spaces and small-town character, while encouraging everyone in our community to be engaged stewards of the valley’s future.”

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

“One of our biggest challenges is starting from scratch to build a city government that is effective, transparent and trusted from the very beginning. At the same time, we must manage growth in a way that preserves the valley’s rural charm and scenic beauty. Development will happen, but it needs to be guided by a clear plan instead of happening to us.

“Supporting local businesses and agriculture is also critical. They will be the backbone of our economy and part of what makes Ogden Valley unique. Another challenge is helping the valley come together as a cohesive community, building unity and working toward shared goals rather than letting outside pressures divide us.

“Finally, we need to protect water, farmland and open space to maintain the resources and landscapes that define the Valley and make it a place we all want to call home.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“My first priority is to establish a strong foundation for our new city with a charter and enforceable ordinances that ensure ethical, transparent and accountable governance. I will focus on managing growth responsibly so new development enhances the valley’s rural character instead of eroding it. Supporting local farms is key because when agriculture remains viable, it preserves scenic corridors and open spaces that define Ogden Valley.

“Another priority is building strong relationships with state and county leaders, neighboring cities and local agencies, so our small city has a seat at the table on issues like water, transportation and emergency services. We also need to identify sustainable revenue streams to fund essential services without losing the valley’s unique character.

“Finally, I want a local government that is approachable and collaborative, where residents feel informed and involved in shaping our shared future.”

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

“You can learn more about my campaign and my vision for Ogden Valley at https://www.ogdenvalleyfirst.com/ or by emailing me directly at ogdenvalleyfirst@gmail.com.”

Janet Wampler

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

“I bring a strong blend of public service and professional experience to the role of mayor. With an MBA, Six Sigma certification and a background as a U.S. marketing director, I specialize in budget management, strategic planning and business development. In addition, I’ve been a dedicated public servant to Ogden Valley for over a decade.

“I’ve led community initiatives, served on local boards, taught at our schools and organized our local blood drives. I serve on the Ogden Valley Planning Commission, where I lead meetings, public hearings and collaborate with municipal departments. My focus on transparency and results earned me the role of Transition Team leader, guiding our city’s preparation for incorporation. I have worked tirelessly over the past year — managing large teams of resident volunteers, revising our land-use codes, consulting with the tax commission, researching essential documents and deadlines — all to ensure a successful launch for Ogden Valley.”

Why are you running for this position?

“I’m running for mayor to ensure a seamless, successful launch for Ogden Valley. I care deeply about our community and have the time, energy and experience to lead our new city forward. For over a decade, I’ve served Ogden Valley — as a volunteer, board member, organizer and leader. I’ve chaired the Ogden Valley Planning Commission and led the Transition Team through incorporation, working to lay a strong foundation for our future.

“I know the challenges we face because I’ve already been actively involved in addressing them. Launching a new city is no small feat; there is a steep learning curve to master and we can not underestimate the impact to our residents if we are not prepared on day one. Out of the four mayoral candidates, I believe I am the most qualified. I’m ready to serve full-time to ensure Ogden Valley remains united and strong — for today and for future generations.”

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

“Ogden Valley faces three major challenges: utility capacity, limited access and the 2034 Winter Olympics. First, growth must never outpace our resources. We’re already short on both water and power. I have a plan to support local water districts and shield them from developer lawfare. I’ve also been working on solutions with Rocky Mountain Power and, as mayor, will see them through.

“Second, traffic congestion is straining our limited entry and exit routes. I’ve been actively working with the county and UDOT to address this urgent issue.

“Third, the 2034 Olympics is fast approaching. Key decisions are already being made — without local representation. This global event will impact our valley for decades. We need a mayor who can stand up for our interests, secure outside infrastructure funding and protect our way of life. I’m ready to be that voice and that leader. See my website for full details.”

If elected, what would be your priorities?

“Our new city faces three immediate priorities. First, we must build a strong foundation by securing essential service contracts–such as snow removal, garbage pickup and emergency support — and by adopting municipal codes that reflect our rural values. We must establish transparency, clear conflict-of-interest rules and a removal process for anyone found in violation of those rules.

Second, managing growth by both rewriting our current inadequate land use codes and eliminating the county’s newly adopted and most harmful code (i.e. the form base zone). As mayor, I’ll make certain all of our ordinances align with the general plan and give us the legal tools to push back against aggressive developers.

“Third, maintaining financial discipline. I’ll build a lean startup government–delaying costs, minimizing overhead and avoiding tax increases. I have the leadership, budget and team management experience our city needs right now.”

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

“Mobile: 801.686.8385, email: wamplerformayor@gmail.com, website: https://www.wamplerformayor.com/, social media: https://facebook.com/wamplerformayor/“