#EM2019 – CC Question – Service

While not specific to residents of Eagle Mountain, I did serve four years active duty military, including two overseas tours for Operation Iraqi Freedom, and then a few more years in the National Guard after that. This wasn’t entirely selfless as I used the opportunity to pay for college, and the medical insurance was very important for my young family at the time. But I could have achieved those in other ways as well. A deep sense of patriotism and love of country is what pushed me into military service. I also volunteer my time as an instructor in my Church, though this isn’t purely selfless either as I always feel I get more from the lessons and ensuing discussion as the instructor/facilitator than the attendees do. This also doesn’t serve all residents of EM, just those in my neighborhood. I also spend time picking up trash in the Eagle Mountain Bike Park, though this isn’t purely selfless either because I hike back there a lot and want to enjoy nature without encountering trash. I also have five kids, all under the age of 10. That requires a lot of my time outside of work. I guess the difficult answering this question comes down to what is meant by “service.”

Before being elected, I engaged, years ago, in the fight against the prison coming to Eagle Mountain. Volunteer regularly in neighborhood clean-up. Have helped multiple residents take advantage of the municipal match grant program to get projects finished in their neighborhoods. As a council liaison, I have served and attended Planning Commission, Youth Council, Library Board, MAG (county roads board), Cemetery Board, Senior Council. I am currently serving as Mayor Pro Tempore. I regularly visit and speak with Scouts and Cub Scouts on their rank advancement and badge requirements. I regularly visit with and speak with residents on the phone, electronically, and in-person, working to help solve city problems. I have participated each year (except one) in the community cleanup. I cook residents pancakes and bacon each year. ? I have also served as a both a state and county delegate and precinct chair for EM08. I have helped the Eagle Mountain Kestrel Project multiple times with Kestrel bandings. I have regularly served in various volunteer capacities for my church, both formally and informally. I regularly give more than the 20 hours expected for councilmembers studying packets, agreements, and other historical records, speaking with residents and developers, solving issues, and otherwise serving in the community.

I am always involved in the community, whether by volunteering locally or simply showing support and attending local events. Showing up is the first step. I also serve as vice president on my HOA board and actively contribute in church activities. I have also spoken with the mayor, current councilmembers and other board members, chairs or directors about serving on local boards.

I have visited and built relationships with under represented groups in Eagle Mountain to ensure everyone’s rights are protected and that their voices are heard.

This is easy. (A chance to brag) I have participated, or been involved with almost every city board there is. And continue to do so. I’m currently on the Planning Commission, as is Rich Wood, but have also helped or severed on the Parks and Rec board, Cemetery board, Youth Council, Veterans board, and Arts Alliance to name a few. I’ve got a voting record that speaks for itself on Planning Commission, and have proven results saving the city hundreds of thousands of dollars a year putting on events within Pony Express Days and other events throughout the year, without infringing on tax burden. Not just words, thoughts, and warm feelings, a record that I’ve already accomplished.

I have served on the planning commission for the last 20 months.

Sadly, this is an area that I have lacked. We have lived here for about two years and the things I have done directly relating to service of the residents here has been minimal. One of the reasons I am running for city council is that I believe this is one of the best ways I can serve the residents. While there are other capacities that many of the residents currently serve I believe my motivations, experience, and mindset are what make this type of service a good starting point for me.