Scott Neilson for Mayor

GROWTH: Growth is Spanish Fork’s top issue. While growth is welcome, I am a proponent of medium density, single family housing because I want Spanish Fork to maintain a more traditional feel that many residents have come to love. I do believe there is room for high density housing, but high density developments should not conflict with established neighborhoods where city residents prefer single family homes. In addition, Spanish Fork’s infrastructure should be managed to avoid increased traffic congestion, especially in new developing areas. Fortunately, Spanish Fork City’s General Plan is malleable and can be changed when willed by the city council. Given Spanish Fork’s geographic location, the city is primed to benefit greatly from proper growth, and I look forward to hearing from residents and businesses on how they believe such growth should proceed.

PUBLIC SAFETY: Spanish Fork has benefitted greatly from the many public safety officers and personnel who keep our city safe. I look to build upon that tradition by ensuring our public safety personnel have the tools and support necessary to succeed. Public safety also includes roads, bridges, and trails. As mayor, I will work to ensure new developments and roads are planned in such a way to reduce traffic congestion and accidents. 

RECREATION: Recreation is a wonderful and important part of the community, but recreation should not become a tax burden. I love Spanish Fork’s parks, trails, fields, and pickleball courts, but I opposed then and I oppose now using $65,000,000 (that number is growing) to build and maintain a recreation center that many residents will rarely use. While physical and mental health are important, neither should pose a tax burden on city residents. Now that the recreation center is near completion my goal will be to ensure it pays for itself without further taxpayer subsidy. 

TRANSPARENCY: Transparency in local government is essential for fostering public trust and ensuring accountable governance. When officials operate openly, citizens feel more confident in leadership intentions, reducing skepticism and promoting positive community engagement. For instance, transparent processes signal honesty, allowing residents to monitor decisions and hold leaders responsible. This openness is crucial in combating corruption, as it minimizes information gaps between government and the public. As mayor, I will work to improve the city's community outreach.