Layton candidates look at planning, controlling expected growth

LAYTON — If the primary election in September was any indication, the race for Layton mayor is going to be a close one.

Incumbent Steve Curtis, a 30-year resident of Layton, spent 10 years on the City Council before being elected as mayor in 2005.

Curtis says the city has sound fiscal management and engages in disciplined economic growth. He touts successes during the past four years, including 1,175 new businesses in Layton, the replacement of 100-year-old infrastructure down Gentile Street, landscaping Layton's interchanges and the future development of a high-tech business park.

But Curtis wants to focus on economic stability, expanding the city's job base and maintaining a balanced budget. Eventually, Layton could have 120,000 people, nearly twice its current population, and proactive planning will protect the well-being of Layton's future residents, he said.

Bob Stevenson, 55, is the national store brands manager for Nestle and a former three-term city councilman.

Stevenson says he has the experience, understanding of issues and community relationships to become an effective mayor of Davis County's largest city. He is challenging Curtis for the mayoral seat and wants to emphasize efforts to keep taxes down, improve public safety and promote greater transparency and accountability in Layton city government, including an open-door policy for residents.

Four candidates are seeking two open seats on the Layton City Council, as well.

Incumbent Mike Bouwhuis is president of the Davis Applied Technology College and is completing his first full term on the City Council. Bouwhuis wants to bring economic growth and family-sustaining jobs to the city and says he has helped keep Layton's budget balanced, even during the economic downturn.

Barry Flitton, 68, is a retired former vice president of information technologies for a financial services company. Flitton touts his experience in budgeting, public relations and negotiations. He says Layton should focus on infrastructure projects while costs are down and attract successful businesses.

Adam Gardiner, 22, is a sales associate for Express Locations and has worked as an aide in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the Utah House. Gardiner sees a need to manage growth, protect property rights and bring new businesses to the city.

Sherri Tatton, 46, is the owner of Costume Castle and Crafts and says she would like to create a more business-friendly atmosphere in dealings with the city. Tatton is in favor of allowing residential ownership of chickens, rabbits and goats, and says she would like Layton to have a dog park. She would also like a "shop local" campaign and to bring attention to areas that need better traffic flows.

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