"I have had flexible time over the past eight years to devote to the important responsibilities of my elected office," she said.

Saxton, 54, said she has "developed a keen understanding of the depth and the breadth of the workings of city government" during her time on the City Council. Among her strengths, she says, is her responsiveness to her constituents, her experience in the budgeting process and her ability to work with residents and city officials to find solutions to problems.

"The point of the election is to figure out who can be counted on to get the job done," she said. "I am a roll-up-your-sleeves-and-get-it-done kind of leader."

Saxton was part of the crowded field to replace Rocky Anderson as mayor until June, when she withdrew from the race to seek re-election on the City Council.

Garrott, 40, believes it's time for a change, saying the city "needs visionary and proactive leadership to deal with our most pressing issues — downtown redevelopment, historical preservation, transit-oriented development and maintaining the quality and affordability of our neighborhoods."

If voters choose him over Saxton, Garrott said, the City Council will have "a new majority that will be able to make a lot of progress with the new mayor."

"I come without the baggage that has impeded successful coalition-building during my opponent's tenure and pledge to inaugurate a new era of good government and visionary leadership if I'm elected," he said.

• District 6 (upper east side, University of Utah area)

Buhler's bid to become Salt Lake City's next mayor opened the door for a pair of political newcomers to seek his seat on the City Council.

Roger McConkie, 45, said he's running for City Council to "help restore civility to Salt Lake City government."

"Throughout my career as an attorney, I have found common ground between opposing parties," he said. "I will do the same (on the City Council) by embracing diversity and encouraging a spirit of tolerance and cooperation, all for the good of District 6 and Salt Lake City."

McConkie said maintaining the character of neighborhoods is the largest issue facing District 6.

"We need to preserve the architectural integrity of the area while allowing for modest expansion within the existing overlay," he said.

To do that, McConkie said he supports a "coordinated effort involving our community councils, residents, land-use professionals and city government to develop zoning requirements that make sense for our neighborhoods."

It's also important, he said, to respect the rights of property owners during that process.