The incumbent, Ken Richey, is honorable, trustworthy, open, and has done a fine job in the position for almost 4 years. We all hope, I hope, that we always have two good, qualified, and dedicated public servants running for office. That’s the case here.

We can only vote for one. That’s our system. How do you determine, among qualified, dedicated candidates, for whom to vote? Many times its time and election dependent meaning what are the specific, current issues being debated. We have different criteria and here’s mine:

Ken (and other candidates) were interviewed by the S-E editorial board. It seems to me that Ken concentrates on the “big picture” items going on in the City – the airport, WonderBlock, downtown 25th St and Union Station, housing, infrastructure, streets, my least favorite, the Olympics, and economic development. Granted, all important areas.

But what about the average citizen, Ogden resident, Oscar Ogden who’s making the median of $38K or less? I’m sure Ken cares about them but thats not what he wanted to talk about. Heath has, in my readings and listening, always emphasized the average ‘Joe’, the one who pays the sales taxes, property taxes (direct or indirect), and parking fees. His saying of “Who benefits, who is harmed (or pays)?” resonates with me. Big projects cost big money and the question is who’s going bear the most of the costs? Do those people that bear most of these the ones that will benefit the most from the project? Is the pay in at all equal to the pay out? That’s my priority and I believe that’s Heath’s also.

No one has ever shown me that economic development has reduced my tax burden. Heath wants that answer. The average Joe Ogden isn’t going to be flying out of the airport, nor leasing space in the WonderBlock, or renting commercial space there, or buying a condo. Are those bonds, debts, and loans going to reduce my taxes in the future? They haven’t yet and don’t believe that will ever happen. But keep believing that if you want to.

If you need help, Heath is the one who will call you back, find out why someone did not return your phone call, and he’ll get you that explanation why a decision was made and it was the best decision to be made. He’s interested in the utility bill, the building fees, is it easy doing business with the City, and is the City treating everyone with the same dignity, respect, and consideration.

To borrow from a local jeweler’s ad, ‘You will have a friend on the City Council’ if it’s Heath.

Those are my reasons. Whatever yours are, please vote.

JH Thompson

Ogden