Growth is the dominant issue among candidates in Syracuse

It's an issue that's evident in the number of rooftops, the dwindling farmland, the crush of traffic in the morning and early evening.

Syracuse has a challenge with growth.

Over the past five years, population in this northern Davis County city has more than doubled. With the people has come a need to build new roads and utilities, to provide opportunities for recreation and leisure.

All with a limited budget.

While the city's administration says they have handled the challenges well, at least 10 residents say they can do better. On Oct. 4, these residents will face off in a primary election for the chance to become mayor or to hold one of two open city council seats.

Most of the candidates are political newcomers challenging two incumbents, Mayor Fred Panucci and councilman Lurlen A. Knight. Two are running against Panucci, the other eight are seeking a council seat.

A brief biography of each candidate is featured below.

• Panucci, 51, has been mayor for one term. He owns an advertising business and serves as vice-chair of the Davis Council of Governments. Panucci says the future of Syracuse is dependent on careful planning.

"We cannot afford to make mistakes," he said. "I believe it is essential for Syracuse to carefully manage our growth and I will continue to make this one of my highest priorities. Though our growth rate has been one of the fastest in the state, Syracuse continues to grow in a positive manner."

• Amy Buttars, 30, is a mother of three girls. She owns her own law practice and has never run for political office. Buttars is one of two residents seeking to unseat Panucci. She says planning for growth can be done better.

"We need to plan for growth in a way that accommodates everyone's ultimate desire of maintaining quality of life and not becoming a carbon copy of every other little city," she said. "I know we're going to get a Super Wal-Mart, but beyond that, what can we do to differentiate ourselves?"

• Bill Williams, Ph.D., is a 47-year-old "citizen soldier" running for mayor. He does Internet business research and is an active member of the Army Reserve. He once ran for Syracuse City Council.

"Rapid growth, while not a issue, creates the issues that my neighbors and I wake up to each morning," said Williams. "From schools to electricity, from traffic to secondary water, each of these 'issues' is exacerbated by the amazing rate that new residents are added to our bedroom community."