Holladay hopefuls civil and optimistic

HOLLADAY — For the most part, candidates for mayor of this east-side suburb have gone out of their way to say nice things about their opponents in Tuesday's primary election.

When asked about their own attributes, they first say something kind about the other candidates. When asked why they would make a good mayor, they first point out that one or more of their competitors in the five-person field also would make fine mayors.

And when asked about the city's recent and somewhat ugly political history — which culminated in an August special election that changed the city's form of government and effectively ousted current Mayor Dennis Larkin — they prefer not to dwell on the past but instead look to the future.

And can anyone blame them?

With all that's gone on in Holladay City Hall since the city incorporated in 1999, it's no wonder the would-be mayors are trying to keep things clean.

"We need to do our part to try to bring civility to the community," said candidate Jay Todd, a 67-year-old retired magazine editor.

"One of the key campaign issues is to try to establish a higher ethic of public discourse — both our city leaders, but also amongst our citizens. There are various camps that continue to send out their newsletters that are antagonistic toward each other."

Dennis Webb, a 54-year-old software developer and entrepreneur, says one of Holladay's most significant resources is its people, and that can be seen in what he considers a strong field of candidates for mayor.

"We need to tap that talent and be positive," he said. "It's a matter of looking ahead."

Bob Neslen, 44, a former member and chairman of the Holladay Planning Commission, also takes the high road when discussing Tuesday's vote, which will narrow the field from five candidates to two.

"It's been very civil, because I know Jay Todd and Dennis Webb and myself said we wouldn't go negative, and we haven't," Neslen said. "I certainly have more experience than they do and have spent more time in the trenches than they have, but they're great guys."

Margaret Keate, a staunch supporter of Larkin, also sees the bright side of things.

"There's some fine candidates running," Keate said. "With the exception of Bob Neslen."

Whoops.

"Both Jay Todd and Dennis Webb would be fine," she added.