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By Loni Stapley
Candidates responded to written questions from the public before taking time at the end of the forum to tell audience members why they are the best choice for the council. Incumbent Councilman James fielded a question about how the city is going to fulfill the water needs of Hyrum residents. "Well, we got a good start on it out here today," he said. James went on to say how amazing it is that residents still have water even with the drought and that he believes the future of Hyrum's water will be bright through the use of wells and dams. He urged residents to do their homework before casting their ballots in order to be responsible voters. He pledged to lead with common sense if re-elected and work for the good of the community. "It's been a definite highlight of my life to serve on the Hyrum City Council," he said. Stephanie Miller was asked what her top priority would be if elected. She said she will work to hear and understand the different viewpoints and ideas of Hyrum residents. "I want to be able to hear the input of the people in this community," she said. Miller urged people to vote for her because of her determination to make decisions based on the things that residents want. "It's important to do all I can to ensure the health and safety of the people who live here," she said. Rod Garner responded to a question about what talents and experiences he would bring to the council. "I have an ability to listen and I hope the residents of Hyrum take advantage of that ability," he said. Garner said people should vote for him because he wants to do what's best for the community and will make himself available to residents to hear their input. "I'd like to be of service to the community of Hyrum," he said. Bonnie Nielsen was asked what she would do as a member of the city council to take care of the fact that the football stadium lights at Mountain Crest High School are always on. She answered matter-of-factly. "I don't know, but that's something that I'll check on," she said. "It's good to ask questions and find someone who knows the answer or can find someone who knows the answer." Nielsen said she considers serving on the council to be a public trust and promised to work hard to educate herself on various issues. "I can work well with people. I listen. I study," she said. Incumbent Councilman Douglas Stipes answered a question about how he plans to maintain Hyrum's rural atmosphere if re-elected. He said he thinks Hyrum is a unique and special place and wants to keep it that way. "I would like for Hyrum to maintain the rural feeling of being in the country," he said. "How many towns have buffalo right in the middle of town? That is cool." Stipes urged audience members to vote for him because he loves serving on the council and wants to continue putting his talents and skills to use to better the lives of Hyrum residents. "I just love this job. It's probably the best thing I've ever done in my life," he said. Ron Beal was asked if there should be a limit on low-income housing. He recognized the fact that the city needs to fulfill the needs of all residents. "I know that there's a wide variety of needs within our community," he said. Beal said people should vote for him because he has time to serve now that he's retired and has a personality that works well with others. "It's my turn to give something back to my community that I've lived in for over 20 years," he said. "I can be the new face in city council." Election Day for the Hyrum City Council is Tuesday. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call (435) 245-6033.
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