Some residents said other issues, like having more road options, maintaining open space and securing cable options, have more of an impact on their lives. The more public scandals that happen in the political arena, the less surprising it is, said seven-year resident Emily Smith.

"The first time (there was a city controversy) we thought it was because we were just getting started (as a city)," Smith said. "Then the next time, it was like, OK, this is how things are in Eagle Mountain."

Residents are quick to point out that Eagle Mountain is not all bad. The city is one of a handful of northern Utah County cities to have a library and its own fire department. There are tree-lined streets and well-manicured, winding sidewalks alongside affordable large homes and new townhomes.

Eagle Mountain spokeswoman Linda Peterson says the city is on the verge of approving a proposal for a grocery store, while a second gas station is already under construction and a car wash is on its way.

"It's a great place to live, and it's unfortunate when people read things or hear (negative) things on the news that tend to stick in people's memories," Peterson said. "If you read about how the city is doubling its sewer system or building a new regional park, people read it and smile and think it's a nice thing, but not something they're going to talk to their co-workers about around the water cooler or share with their neighbor. That's just human nature."

Three City Council seats and the mayor's position will be filled this November, and the variety of campaign posters plastered across the town reflects the ongoing fervor associated with the election. Resident Matt Smith says he wants candidates who can push the city's politics in a better direction.

"I want somebody that's honest and has good morals and has integrity," Matt Smith said. "We always have that hope (for candidates). We want to find that person that has what it takes to straighten things out."

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E-mail: achoate@desnews.com