Growth is major issue in southern Utah elections

ST. GEORGE — All five candidates for two St. George City Council seats agree that growth is a top challenge for elected leaders.

An Oct. 4 primary will trim that list by one, leaving four candidates to face each other in the November election.

"Smart planning is smart growth as it relates to neighborhoods, water, traffic, land use, education and the arts," said Gail Bunker, who wants to keep her appointed seat on the council.

"The City Council must continue to plan now and for the future to provide a positive, healthy, aesthetic and safe environment for citizens, new members of the community and tourists," she said. "I strongly support strong hillside ordinances, smart growth initiatives, downtown revitalization and community arts."

Bunker, executive director of the Southwest Symphony Orchestra and Chorale, was appointed to the council in April to serve out the term of Sharon Isom, who died earlier this year.

Suzanne B. Allen, a homemaker, is also seeking re-election to the council and said she relishes the chance to continue working on the numerous projects under way in St. George.

"People from all over have discovered the beauty and quality of life in our area, and we find ourselves as one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the nation," said Allen.

"Challenges arise with growth and progress, and we are addressing the issues with traffic, attainable housing for our children and those in the workforce, assuring the availability and sustainability of water sources and public safety," she said. "Our economy is healthy, and new businesses and industry are choosing to come here. The arts are flourishing and our quality of life is envied."

Newcomer Benjamin Scott Nickle, a 24-year-old student who also works with troubled youths, said residents would benefit if the council seats were divided into districts.

"I am committed to a city government that serves at the community level and that honors commitments that it makes," said Nickle, who currently serves on the Bloomington Community Council.

"The current City Council has ignored past commitments made with residents in my community," he said. "Residents want council members who are willing to be vocal, step up and defend them. Not ones that passively sit by and simply vote. Preservation of quality neighborhoods is vital to me. An active voice can make a big difference."

The issue of dividing St. George into districts has percolated for more than two years. Current council members have voiced opposition to the idea, as has Mayor Dan McArthur, and recently held nearly a dozen neighborhood meetings with area residents to discuss specific concerns.