Hollie McKinney – 2023 Candidate Information (Fairfield Mayor)

Questions and Answers

Why are you running for city council and what motivated you to get involved in local government?

I have served on the town council for almost 8 years. I have decided to run for Mayor because I believe I can provide strong effective leadership. I see a need for improved organization, communication, efficiency and decision making. I am running for mayor for the Towns sake not for my self interest.

What relevant experience or skills do you bring to the role of city council member?

I have strong communication skills and pay attention to detail. I have been Fairfields Treasure since being on town council. I work closely with our recorder completing state audits and keeping files organized. I have negotiated and updated our CUP with the town’s largest business. I have organized the town’s Christmas Celebration down to the details of having Christmas lights installed on almost every resident’s homes. I also organize having a food truck come to town quarterly to get residents out to socialize and pick up dinner that the town pays for. There are many other tasks that I have taken on and fully executed.

What do you see as the most pressing issues facing our city, and how do you plan to address them?

The potential growth is indeed a pressing issue, and it is important to address in a thoughtful manner. The majority of residents are opposed to growth. We need to develop a comprehensive long-term growth plan that aligns with the values and character of Fairfield. This plan should consider factors such as infrastructure, transportation, housing and the preservation of open spaces while also protecting Fairfield’s rich history. The focus of this plan should gear towards maintaining and enhancing the existing infrastructure, promoting local businesses and preserving the natural environment. By prioritizing these aspects, you can work towards maintaining the small -town atmosphere that we all love. By having a clear vision in place, you can assess development proposals based on their compatibility with the town’s goals. I want to engage the residents in the decision making process regarding growth and development. I think reviewing and updating zoning codes and regulations often to ensure there is a balance between accommodating growth and preserving the unique character of the town would be ideal.

How do you plan to engage and involve the community in decision-making processes?

I want open and transparent communication. I will Utilize methods such as sending out text messages, emails, and surveys to gather input and feedback from community members. I will Ensure that the questions asked in the survey are relevant and address concerns and priorities. I want the community members to feel comfortable reaching out to me and the council. Every person in town has my phone number and they know where I live. I want to encourage residents to engage in discussions at town meetings and feel comfortable reaching out to discuss their thoughts and ideas.

What is your stance on fiscal responsibility and budget management?

How do you plan to balance the city’s financial needs with the expectations of residents? My stance on fiscal responsibility and budget management is that it should be a top priority in governing the town. I believe in ensuring that taxpayers’ money is spent wisely and transparently. If the community is engaged through meetings and opportunities for input with the budgeting process it not only ensures their voices are heard but also provides valuable insights and perspectives that can contribute to sound financial decision making. I am the only one on the council that sits in a state audit every year and I plan to continue doing that. I will also actively seek Grants that are available for small towns.

What is your position on sustainable and environmentally-friendly initiatives, such as renewable energy, waste management, or green spaces?

I am a strong advocate for preserving green spaces within Fairfield. These green spaces are what makes Fairfield a desired place to live. We have had Solar and Battery storage proposals brought to us several times. I remain neutral to some of the ideas. I recognize the importance of conducting thorough studies and assessments to understand the potential impacts on health, agriculture and wildlife. It is crucial to strike a balance between sustainability and maintaining the well-being of our community. Fairfield is home of Two large landfills. I have taken on the role of renewing the contract with IRL landfill and helped coordinate with them the ladies that clean up HWY 73. I keep a good relationship with IRL because they play a vital role in our community. I am also in the process of negotiating a contract with North Point landfill. Currently North Point has gone unchecked from the town because the town was told we didn’t have jurisdiction over them. They need to be held accountable and be a part of the community and this would include them taking responsibility cleaning up trash along the roadways.

How do you plan to address affordable housing challenges in our city? Are their specific policies or initiatives you would advocate for?

I fully support Accessory Dwelling units (ADU’s). I would support streamlining the construction of ADU’s. This would provide affordable housing options and utilize existing infrastructure. I would also advocate for current residents that want to hook onto the water system to be able to do it at a discounted rate vs the same rate as a standard impact fee for new development.

What is your stance on economic development and attracting businesses to our city? How do you plan to promote local entrepreneurship and job growth?

Fairfield is very unique in this area. I would estimate that almost 1/3 or more of Fairfield residents are self employed with successful businesses, 1/3 retired and 1/3 travel to work. One thing we all have in common is we choose to drive out here for a reason- peace and quiet. I support local Entrepreneurship while understanding the value of peace and quiet. I will not actively seek businesses to come to town. If there is a business a resident or landowner wants to develop and it aligns with the desires of our community we would be willing to work with them and look at their unique situation. I will do everything I can to preserve the town’s unique character.

How do you prioritize public safety and community well-being? What ideas or strategies do you have for enhancing public safety and building stronger neighborhoods?

Prioritizing public safety and community well-being is of utmost importance. I fully understand that we need to address our fire protection immediately. We are currently trying to get UDOT to reduce the speed coming through town and trying to get a turn lane coming off HWY 73. As far as a stronger, safer neighborhood…..I’m pretty sure most residents hold strong value in the Second Amendment. We are strong and self-sufficient. I am confident that most of our residents are ready to protect themselves and their neighbors very well if needed and undoubtedly we would. We all know and watch out for each other. We know what cars and what kids belong to who. We have sheriffs that are on duty and here when needed. We all like it that way.

How do you plan to collaborate and work with other council members and community stakeholders to achieve your goals?

As mayor, I would take on the role of delegating responsibilities and tasks to Councilmembers based on their expertise and interest. By utilizing each member’s strengths and skills we can maximize efficiency and productivity in goal achievements. I think by utilizing technology, such as iPads and other electronic devices would greatly improve efficiency and organization. By providing council members access to working documents and agendas in advance, we can ensure ample time for review and preparation. Regular updates and progress reports on ongoing projects will also be essential in tracking our goals and holding ourselves accountable. I want to avoid documents being sent out an hour before a meeting for review. Organizing ,delegating and following through goes a long way when it comes to achieving goals.

Can you provide examples of situations where you have successfully built consensus or resolved conflicts in a diverse and potentially divided community?

Successful resolution often begins with active listening and understanding different perspectives. Encouraging open and respectful conversation is essential in finding common ground. Most times having that simple conversation along with explaining the details help resolve conflicts.

What is your vision for our city in the next five to ten years? How do you plan to involve residents in shaping that vision?

My vision for our Town in the next five to ten years is to maintain the unique charm and qualities that make Fairfield special. I understand the desire to maintain the small-town character of Fairfield. However, I also acknowledge that growth is inevitable. As new development opportunities arise, I will ensure that residents are actively involved in the discussions and decisions-making processes. By fostering an environment of honest and open dialogue, we can work together to find a balance.