No big rush to file for office
Opening-day action points to Provo mayoral rematch
While Friday was the first day Utah County residents could file for the 23 mayoral posts and bevy of accompanying city and town council seats that will be on the Nov. 8 ballot, the registration rush was less than overwhelming — much, much, less — in Utah Valley.
"Why hurry? It's only opening day," said Salem City Recorder Jeff Nielson, perhaps putting some perspective on the picture that dominated the south end of the county.
Things were a tad livelier further north, however, where a rematch for Provo mayor appears in the making.
Dave Bailey, who lost to Mayor Lewis Billings four years ago, filed on Friday. Billings, who won that contest by just 362 votes, said Friday he will run for a third term.
Also in Provo, former Mayor George Stewart filed for the seat being vacated by Councilman Dave Knecht, while Councilwoman Cindy Richards filed to run again. Councilman Paul Warner has not yet decided whether he will run again.
American Fork could be the most interesting valley site on election night due to the potential for political shift. Along with the mayor's post, three City Council seats — two four-year spots and one two-year — will be on the ballot. That represents a majority of voting members on the council. Colin Strasburg, who is seeking the two-year seat, was the only candidate to file Friday. Mayor Ted Barratt has not publicly announced if he will seek re-election.
Mayor Mike McGee has filed to keep his seat. He was appointed mayor by the City Council a year ago when Brad Sears resigned. Eric Richardson, a member of the city's planning commission, and Cherelle Bowman, a vocal opponent of the two initiatives defeated in the special election, have filed for council seats.
In Orem, the mayor's seat and three council seats are up for election. Councilwomen Karen McCandless and Shiree Thurston filed on Friday along with Mayor Jerry Washburn. City Recorder Donna Weaver said Councilman Dean Dickerson has indicated he intends to file later.
Lindon will elect a mayor and two council members. Mayor Jeff Acerson has indicated his plans to run again, according to Maurina Jolley, receptionist for the Lindon City Office, but she hasn't heard from the council members.
In Pleasant Grove, Mayor Jim Danklef filed for re-election and will face Councilman Mike Daniels, who is looking to switch spots on the council. Incumbent Jeffrey Wilson filed to run for re-election to the council.
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