Paula Smith
For St. George City Council
CANDIDATE Q&A
Question #1
What steps do you plan to take to ensure that there is a sufficient supply of affordable housing for PRIMARY residents, including those in lower income brackets?
As a resident of St George, I understand the importance of affordable housing. However, it's not a city or government position to ensure affordable ... READ MORE
As a resident of St George, I understand the importance of affordable housing. However, it’s not a city or government position to ensure affordable housing. The economy and free market principles will drive the housing market. We can take a more calculated approach to growth and encourage developers to focus on non-nightly zoned and higher density in suitable locations (and suitable conformity). This could prevent over-saturation of short-term and resort communities in the housing market and allow for more primary residential options.
Younger buyers, in particular, may respond positively to this strategy as it could provide housing opportunities enabling them to remain in St George. Additionally, expediting the building and approving process could be a game-changer in achieving these goals.
Question #2
What specific projects do you support that are currently underway, other than water management, to improve the infrastructure in the city i.e transportation, utilities, public buildings, parks, open space, telecommunications, master planned developments?
It's great to see the 3000 widening project underway. This stretch of road has always been problematic, causing traffic bottlenecks and posing a hazard to the schools ,,, READ MORE
It’s great to see the 3000 widening project underway. This stretch of road has always been problematic, causing traffic bottlenecks and posing a hazard to the schools in the vicinity, given the lack of sidewalks and the high volume of vehicles traveling at a faster pace. Completing this project will alleviate some of these concerns and make the area safer.
Question #3
How do you plan to balance the need for public safety with the need for individual freedoms and privacy?
The balance is written within the Constitution—limit laws by requiring that they not infringe on a person's constitutional rights without due process. We do not need ... READ MORE
The balance is written within the Constitution—limit laws by requiring that they not infringe on a person’s constitutional rights without due process. We do not need to change what our founding fathers wrote. I support our public safety departments, and they are a priority above all other departments.
Question #4
How do you plan to balance the need for new residential development with concerns about urban sprawl and preserving the natural beauty of the area?
Incorporating open spaces is essential to preserving natural beauty. We can leave the space untouched (or minimally maintained). We do not need to add a fully ,,, READ MORE
Incorporating open spaces is essential to preserving natural beauty. We can leave the space untouched (or minimally maintained). We do not need to add a fully functioning park to every open space. This not only helps us save money, but it also provides an excellent gateway to natural beauty. It’s important to keep trails intact so the public can continue accessing them and incorporating that access within new development (where this is reasonable). The area behind the communities along Snow Canyon is a perfect example of how this can be achieved. A few have trailheads at the base, mixed within the community. These are just a few ideas, but ultimately, it’s up to the residents to decide what they want.
Question #5
What specific business sectors or industries do you believe would have the greatest positive impact on growth in the Greater Dixie area?
Competition is healthy. I'd like to see the new hospital open. With more providers available, we'll have ... READ MORE
Competition is healthy. I’d like to see the new hospital open. With more providers available, we’ll have more options regarding our healthcare needs. Additional specialists in the area will help alleviate long wait times and extended appointment times. The new hospital will also create jobs, which is always good for the local economy.
Question #6
Do you believe that there is a need for more entertainment options, such as bars, restaurants, and music venues, in the city?
Absolutely. If the private sector is willing to invest in this area, it could lead to more job opportunities ... READ MORE
Absolutely. If the private sector is willing to invest in this area, it could lead to more job opportunities and a boost in the local economy. Additionally, having more entertainment options available could also help improve residents’ quality of life, providing them with more options for leisure and recreation.
Question #7
How do you plan to balance the needs of agriculture, Golf Courses, and residential water users to ensure equitable access to water resources?
My position is to leave agriculture and farmers alone. Stop the war on farmers. I'm extremely ... READ MORE
My position is to leave agriculture and farmers alone.
Stop the war on farmers.
I’m extremely impressed with how our water district handles things in our area. Despite the numerous bureaucratic hurdles they must overcome, they’re doing a fantastic job of staying on top of everything. Although it’s frustrating that things take so long to get done, I’m thrilled to learn that they’re actively collaborating with our farmers and agriculture to keep expenses low and minimize financial impacts. Overall, they’re doing an outstanding job, and I appreciate their hard work. They are actively addressing options and solutions for high-demand users, and I appreciate they are watching other states and proactively utilizing the case studies similar states provide to benefit our area.
Please visit my website to learn more about my platform, views, and stances. www.PaulaSmithCityCouncil.com