Candidates vying for at-large Ogden City Council seats discuss priorities as primary election nears

Rob Nielsen, Standard-Examiner
The Ogden Municipal Building, shown Thursday, June 29, 2023.OGDEN — The following is a questionnaire that was distributed to candidates for open seats on the Ogden City Council.
At-large Seat A and at-large Seat B are both open this year — as are seats for districts 1 and 3, whose candidates will have their responses printed separately.
The Aug. 12 primary election will see voters narrow down the field until each contest has two candidates each.
The Standard-Examiner received responses from most candidates before the assigned deadline. Only Marcia White, running for at-large Seat A, did not respond. Answers and formatting have largely been kept as submitted to the Standard-Examiner.
At-large Seat A
“Sarge” Sheri Morreale
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“I’ve proudly called Ogden home since 2004. I’m a retired Army Veteran — served until 1992 — and I also spent 23 years as a volunteer firefighter and EMT. Service has always been at the heart of who I am. I’m married, have seven wonderful kids and I’ve always believed in showing up for my community. After retiring, I ran a small business here in Ogden for 5 years. One of the things I loved most was talking with folks, helping where I could and sometimes even closing for a few hours just to volunteer at the Ogden Rescue Mission. For years now, I’ve worked as a peer support specialist, helping veterans, seniors and individuals with disabilities — because everyone deserves support, respect and someone who listens.”
Why are you running for this position?
“I’m running for City Council because I want to continue serving. I believe in affordable housing, especially for our elderly, low-income families and homeless neighbors. I stand firmly behind our police and firefighters — they risk their lives daily and deserve fair pay and strong benefits.People call me ‘Sarge’ because I lead with the heart, don’t give up and always bring a smile. I’m here to listen, serve and help Ogden grow stronger together.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
No response provided.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
No response provided.
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
No response provided.
Alicia Washington
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“I’ve been part of many community initiatives, including the Do Right By Marshall White Campaign, and Town Hall Conversations on Race. I also served on the Ogden City Arts Advisory Committee, and have worked as a campaign organizer for past candidates running in Ogden City races.”
Why are you running for this position?
“I’m running to build a better Ogden together. Part of this process includes working to restore the balance of power between City Council and City Administration, continuing to improve our infrastructure, investing in our neighbors and our neighborhoods. The time has come for a fresh perspective on the most pressing issues our community faces. To prioritize open processes, improve our green spaces, and invest in our neighbors instead of displacing them through increases in cost of living that don’t improve quality of life for all residents.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“Some of the biggest challenges in running for an At-Large Seat are taking the entire city into account during decision making processes, not prioritizing one district over the next. Also, expanding employment opportunities throughout Ogden City, and solution-based housing that includes home ownership and affordable rental options.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“First and foremost my priority is to represent all of Ogden. The city extends much further than 25th Street or the East Bench. The different careers I’ve held throughout our city have given me insight to the beautiful mosaic of Ogden while gaining insight into the uniqueness of each Ogden District. Ensure the voices of the community are centered in the conversations. When elected to serve, my job is to listen to community members and make your concerns into actionable items and representative results.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
John H. Thompson
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“political – none other than trying to keep to speed on ongoing proposals and situations in Ogden as well as having filed for some 15 or so various other elected positions. Organizational experience would be some 26 years of being a Marine. This would include the first two goals of any Marine, accomplish the mission and the welfare of your people.”
Why are you running for this position?
“I know I could contribute to the quality of life of all Ogdenites. Based on some questions I’ve been asked in meet the candidate settings, many of our problems are still not solved. Transparency is an issue as well as, I believe, that the City Council does not take its role of oversight as serious as it should.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“Oversight of administration, transparency, development, Union Station, Wonderblock, unoccupied city property, departments not being familiar with city ordinances and interpreting them differently.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“I would try to understand and get a grasp of the budget process; I would advocate against the transfer of any enterprise funds to the general fund; I would try to get rid of people saying that its ‘hard to do business or work with Ogden City’; I would ask for a brief on City involved development since 2000 and see which were successful and which ones, did not meet expectations (and why); I would gather more information on the recent Wellness Study: and I would try to get the US flag back on top of City Hall, the old First Security Clock/Temp device working again, and do an annual City of Ogden Birthday Party every Feb.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
“Email: johnhthompson@aol.com; Ph 801.621.1808; Mail: 1506 24th Ogden 84401-2906; Facebook; John 4 Ogden City Council; LtGov’s Election page; or the One Ogden Podcase from Wed, 16Jul”
At-large Seat B
Bart Blair
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“I am currently serving my 4th Term on the Ogden City Council”
Why are you running for this position?
“When I first decided to run for Ogden City Council, I did it because I love this city and I wanted to get more involved. Over the years my love for this city has grown as I have been able to witness all the wonderful things Ogden has to offer. I am inspired every day by the amazing people that choose to call Ogden home. I love this city more than ever, but more importantly, I am proud of our city. I’m proud of Ogden’s rich history and I am very excited about Ogden’s tremendous future. I believe that I have represented Ogden well during my time on the council, and I know that I still have a lot to give to our community. I am certain that my experience on the council is a benefit as we look towards the upcoming challenges and opportunities ahead.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“As an At Large Council member, I represent the entire city. So the challenges facing my municipality, affect all of us. Some of those challenges include housing, an aging infrastructure and public safety. Affordable housing is a challenge everywhere, both on a state and national level. Rising construction costs, and limited land availability have contributed to the supply shortage. Creating and maintaining affordable housing options for our residents will always be the goal. Ogden is an older city with aging infrastructure. That means old pipes, damaged roads and uneven sidewalks. Replacing our old and cracked pipes, fixing our damaged sidewalks, and repairing our roads ensures a high quality of life to all of our residents. Public Safety will always be a major focus for Ogden. Having well trained and fully staffed police and fire departments benefit us all. Everyone deserves to feel safe and protected in our city.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“Financial Sustainability-As a council member, one of our main responsibilities is setting the city’s budget. My top priority is to manage the city’s finances through the budget by prioritizing our spending and ensuring long-term sustainability while still providing essential services. Parks and Recreation-Ogden is blessed with an abundance of recreational opportunities, whether it’s our parks, our trails or our new Marshal White Center. As a council member I will explore new and creative options to redefine and enhance some of our existing parks. I commit to collaborate on issues facing our trails and Mt. Ogden Golf Course. Economic Development-Continue to attract new businesses and expand our commercial districts. Continue to promote our downtown and support our local business owners. Infrastructure and Public Services-Address our aging infrastructure, such as road maintenance, sidewalk repair and our water and sewer systems. Housing-Address housing affordability and manage growth through zoning and planning ordinances.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
Kevin Lundell
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“As a chiropractor and small business owner, I’ve spent years helping people live healthier, stronger lives–through my practice at Lundell Chiropractic and as a former CrossFit gym owner. Running a gym was about more than fitness; it was about building a community. I’m proud we created a space that felt like home to so many. Since launching the Community Spread podcast in 2020, I’ve had deep, challenging conversations that expanded my perspective and strengthened my resolve to stand up for unheard voices. In its 2024 reboot, I’ve focused on local policy and real solutions that affect everyday people. My campaign is rooted in civic engagement and building an Ogden where everyone feels seen and heard. At my core, I’m a dad. Whether I’m coaching my son’s baseball team with a little Ted Lasso energy or supporting my daughter on stage, I’m always striving to lead with care, heart, and community.”
Why are you running for this position?
“I’m running for Ogden City Council with a bold vision for a local government that truly invests in its people and reflects the compassion of Ogden. When the city spent $2.2 million from the ‘Quality Neighborhoods Initiative’ to block housing for 25 disabled and chronically homeless residents (without needing to spend a single dollar to fund it), I knew we needed a different voice on the council. I believe in utilizing our government resources to fix sidewalks, improve parks, and ensure every resident feels safe and supported. As a small business owner, community advocate, family man, and baseball coach – service is at the heart of everything I do. I aim to advocate for a city where everyone belongs and thrives. I’m choosing to run to ensure our city stops blocking solutions and starts building a future that lifts everyone: one that mirrors the grit, care, and heart of Ogden.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“Rising costs of living and affordability are the biggest challenges Ogden community members face today. Families are feeling the financial squeeze from inflation, rising property taxes, and higher water bills. And the added rollout of paid parking downtown will mean that even date night costs more. Meanwhile, city revenues have grown by more than $110 million in the past decade, fueled by rising property values and the success of Business Depot Ogden. With that kind of windfall, residents should expect world-class infrastructure–smooth roads, safe sidewalks, and vibrant parks–or at least meaningful relief from these rising costs. But today, Ogden has neither. As your At Large Seat B representative for Ogden, I’ll fight for a more accountable, balanced approach–one that truly invests in our neighborhoods and working families.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
- “Affordability – When our city is experiencing unprecedented economic growth, but working families are still feeling the financial squeeze, the last thing we should do is make downtown date night more expensive with paid parking. Instead, city leadership should be laser-focused on lowering costs for you and your family.
- “Accessibility – Accessibility ranges from ramps and working sidewalks to policies, parks, and communication that includes everyone. I’ll prioritize inclusive public spaces, clear updates through social media and conversation, and housing solutions that work for all. Everyone in Ogden deserves to feel welcome, heard, and able to thrive in our community.
- “Public Safety – Public safety takes more than enforcement–it requires connection and trust. I’ll support well-compensated, fully staffed police and firefighters while also investing in community-based efforts that strengthen neighborhoods. When neighbors know and look out for each other and trust local institutions, Ogden becomes a safer, stronger place for everyone.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
“https://www.kevinforcouncil.com/ – @Kevinforcouncil on Instagram – Kevin For Council on Facebook”
Pieder Beeli
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“wrote for campus newspapers, Boy Scout leader, Home Bible study leader”
Why are you running for this position?
“Grow Ogden’s cohesiveness and happiness by enabling people to have a higher probability of becoming rich
- “encourage entrepreneurialism
- “celebrate PROFIT (of legitimate businesses) = SERVICE TO OTHERS + SELF-SACRIFICE
- “investigate allegations of misuse of city funds
“Entrepreneurialism is the heart and soul of a vibrant community.
- “Serve each other.
- “Interact with each other.
- “Bring joy to each other
“Government should get out of the way.
“The world has enough politicians who are VERY generous with OTHER PEOPLES’ MONEY!”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“Poor leadership. These bums vote 7-0
- “to put Ogden in a tax and spend death spiral (62% tax increase over 7 years far outpaces the income gains of the median Ogdenite household)
- “to continue our shameful regulatory burden which chokes off Ogdenites having a side business
- “to continue competing with free enterprise a competition in which the government has an unfair advantage
- “to not voice dissatisfaction with Ogdenites having a responsibility to fund OSD, without the liberty to direct its policies
“Moreover, these bums do not have the humility to recognize that government is parasitic by nature and therefore much minimize its scope. In contrast, it is the citizens who are the produces of wealth who are fleeced to fund the cosmetic preferences of too many ‘historical sites.'”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
- “Reduce regulations
- “Entice businesses to Ogden, especially those that promise salaries large enough to reside in Ogden,
- “Encourage entrepreneurialism, ‘I think you look good with a whole lot of money!’
- “Give Ogdenites the liberties commensurate with their responsibilities to fund Ogden School District (OSD).
“I wish to make romance great again. The sexual revolution has destroyed so much social power and led to needless violence and family disintegration. The gold standard of romance is marriage between a man and a woman who have saved themselves for marriage and are committed, under God, to a death-do-us-part family.
“This is not easy to do, but such romance aids a boy in becoming a man.
“The culture has enough 60 year old boys. We need more men.
“The coarseness of Western culture should also motivate homeschooling. Protecting a childhood from trauma and hostilities can pay large dividends.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?