Friday, November 22, 2013

Congressional Reform

Yesterday the US Senate voted to change it's own rules and limit the filibuster option (from the required 60 votes to 51) for judicial and other nominees.
  
Democrats ditch historic U.S. Senate rule blamed for gridlock


This is not limiting all filibusters - just those to block judicial and executive branch nominees.  So Senators can still go "Mr Smith goes to Washington" on legislation - just not nominees...

To be honest I don't have a strong opinion on the use of filibusters when it comes to nominees.  But what this move represents is real change in the way Congress gets its work done.  I welcome the change.

People often complain that the problem with Congress is the people we send there - that "we just need new people."  I disagree.  We send new people to Washington all the time.  The problem with Washington is not the people, it's the rules of the institutions themselves.

If we want real change we need true congressional reform.

The current rules have been manipulated by both parties to the point that nothing is getting done.  Some might argue that's a good thing.  But when you consider how many things do need to change and how long and difficult it is to get a new law passed; you start to realize that something in the process needs to change. Something in the way legislation is debated and passed, or that a nominee is approved, a hearing is conducted, that monies are appropriated; Something in the way Congress conducts its business needs to fundamentally change.

I'm looking for new leaders willing to change the way things get done.  

New people with the same ideas don't get us anywhere.  Just as people with new ideas working in a broken system don't get us anywhere.  The good ideas and solutions to many of our nation's problems are out there.  But they will never see the true light of day under a defunct system.

The root cause of the problem in Washington is the process.  


UPDATE (11/25/2013):

Here is a nice follow-up article from the Christian Science Monitor that provides some context to my argument:  Washington blows up: Has American politics hit an all time low?

Also, The Provo Daily Herald published my letter to the editor. Funny though, the title they selected for the letter was kind of the opposite of my argument - it's NOT the people. It's the RULES: We need new people in Washington.


Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Economic Cooperation


I love to see this type of cooperation! 

In a recent article The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce and Corporate Alliance, a business networking company have come together help each organization achieve their goals.

On the surface you might thing the two would be competing for business.  But if you know how each works you can see how they really do compliment each other.  Also, if you know either of the groups leaders you wouldn't be surprised to see this sort of strategic partnership.

I got to know Vale Hale during my run for city council and found him to be very forward thinking, reasonable, humble, and open to new ideas.  I've known Corporate Alliance President Jeff Rust since high school.  We played against each other in basketball and Jeff was always better than me as I remember it.  Jeff too has those leadership qualities you would expect to see from a successful businessman. 

I'm proud of these two leaders and wish them well in their endeavors.  This is a great model for our community.  I believe there are opportunities for example, for Provo and Orem to better work together and embrace and respect each others strengths.  Why can't Provo help promote the Timpanogos Storytelling Festival and why can't Orem help promote Provo's Freedom festival? 

We can and we should.

Visit the following links for more information on each organization:

Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce

Corporate Alliance

Monday, November 11, 2013

Let us Never Forget - PFC Lloyd E Frandsen


As I thought about Veteran's Day today my mind didn't focus on the recent military efforts but those of my own family.  My family doesn't have a long pedigree of military service.  I have an uncle that served in Vietnam, but I've really never talked to him about his service.

My grandfather served shortly at the end of World War II.  As I understand it, he was sent over just as things were wrapping up and mostly avoided any serious conflicts.  He told me about breaking rifles in half on a ship and throwing the barrells over one side and the stocks over the other in a harbor somewhere near Japan.

My grandpa's older brother however did serve and die in World War II.  His name was Lloyd Elwood Frandsen.  My grandfather and he were quite close and my grandpa has told me a few stories about the two of them growing up in central Utah.  My father Lloyd was named after his uncle, my middle name is Lloyd, and my oldest son Connor's middle name is Lloyd as well.

I'm proud that I'm able in some small part to keep the memory of my great uncle alive.  I know he was special to my grandfather and I'm sad that the only stories I know of him are of his childhood and not of him as an adult.

As his grave marker indicates above, he was killed on March 11, 1944 on Bougainville Island which is part of the Solomon Islands.  I did a little bit of research on the WWII Pacific Theatre today and was surprised to find this little bit of black and white war footage taken from Bougainville on, of all days, March 11, 1944.

Bougainville, March 11, 1944 war footage.

There is no sound and it's hard to see the context of the footage, but it does in some way bring me a bit closer to my great-uncle Lloyd.  I also better appreciate the final moments of his life and what his surroundings were at that time. I never met Lloyd E Frandsen, but I'm proud to be his great-nephew and hope that I can always respect his sacrifice and service.

You can read more about the Bougainville campaign here.


Friday, November 8, 2013

Whew!

I've posted a few things on the campaign facebook page and the Herald did a short follow-up article after the election, but I wanted to thank everyone again for their help and support and share a few post-campaign feelings. 

Losing (at this point by just 65 votes) is both disappointing and humbling.  Its nice to know that I had as much support as I did.  If you get blown out then it's pretty clear that people didn't particularly appreciate your message, but to lose by 65 is something in a way, if you have to lose, is something I think I can be proud of.

And kudos to Dave really.  I enjoyed getting to know him and sincerely feel he'll do well on the Council.  I have a lot of respect for Dave.  In the immediate days after the election I really didn't feel any animosity at all towards him or his campaign team.  They worked hard and so we did we.  

Some have said with the election as close as it was indicates that the city is divided somehow.  I don't think that's the case at all.  I like to think that people were impressed with both Dave and me as candidates and felt that either of us would serve Provo well.

The question I get asked the most is if I'm going to run again.  I tell people that it feels like I've just gone through child-birth, and to ask me so soon after the pain of a campaign, well I'm not particularly thrilled at the idea.  But I am keeping my signs for now and will make that decision in the far off future. 

In the meantime, I've really enjoyed talking about the issues, and want to be a part of the ongoing dialogue.  So I hope you'll check back on my blog for regular updates and posts. 

Lincoln (7) helping dad with a big sign
Finally, the last thing I want to say is how much I've enjoyed campaigning with my family!  I was gone a lot of evenings and Saturdays, but the most loyal and best, most hard-working campaign staffers I had were, Amy, Connor, Lincoln, Autumn, and even little Britton!  They can drop door-hangers in an entire precinct in three hours!  It really is impressive. 

The day before the election, Lincoln (our deep thinker) said; "Dad if you lose then we get to spend more time with you.  If you win, then we get to ride in the 4th of July Parade float." He then paused for a moment to think then said;  "I hope you win!" 

I wasn't quite sure what to make of that really...;)

Friday, November 1, 2013

Did you see the debate?

On Wednesday night the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce sponsored a debate with all of the candidates running for office in Provo.  I thought it was a great opportunity for people to see the candidates head to head.

Click on the following link to watch the debate:

Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce Debate

Since this is the only debate that's been publicly recorded I invite you to watch and decide for yourself.

The first part of the debate covered the Mayor's race.  To get to my opening statement please forward the video to the 32:30 minute mark.

I think you'll find I had a number of specific and reasonable ideas including; a better working relationship with BYU (39:00 minute mark), retail economic development (47:15 & 66:30 minute marks), Bus Rapid Transit - BRT (57:00), working with the school district (50:35) and Ethics Reform (72:30).


www.RyanFrandsen.com

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Unity - A Page from Mayor Curtis' Book





Four years ago, then Mayoral candidate John Curtis called for greater unity in our city as part of his campaign platform.  I believe we’ve made important inroads in this area and I want to continue these efforts.

Campaigns often by their nature can be divisive.  I believe for the most part my opponent and I have each run issues-based campaigns.  We’ve had the occasional skirmish here and there but nothing substantive.  It has been an honor to run WITH Dave. And really, that’s the word – with - I’ve come to use more often than the term “against.” 


I really like our new city slogan; “Welcome Home.”  And just like in a home you have different members of a family with different opinions and desires.  The home has different rooms, features, a front yard, and a back yard. But all of those things make up that home.  I hope that I can be the type of representative that can recognize when certain areas of our home-city are being ignored.  Or that I can be the voice for a minority opinion that happens to be right, but may not be popular. 

In Provo we have many common values, beliefs, and characteristics that bring us together.  I hope that we can continue to build on these foundational pillars.  At the same time Provo is growing.  There is competition for resources, attention, and differences of opinion on the direction we take our city. 

Taken April 3, 2009 after a meeting in John's home.
I hope we can continue to have these discussions about these important issues in a respectable and constructive dialogue.  One of the things I’ve really come to admire about Mayor Curtis is that he really believes a good idea can come from anyone – regardless of party affiliation, area of the city, economic status, student, renter, homeowner, etc. 

I will take a page from the Mayor’s book.

As your next city-wide representative I will work to be more inclusive in giving all residents of our city a voice. 

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Ethics in Provo

A number of people have indicated along the campaign trail that they are concerned about elected officials profiting whether financially or personally in some other way from their public service.  I want to share two ideas I would work towards implementing to help ensure the public trust in those we elect locally.

1. A two year “cooling off” period.

I would like to see former council members looking to lobby the city, wait at least two years before representing clients before the city – whether it be the Planning Commission, Council itself, Community Development, or seeking any type of contract with the city.

The idea of former officials turning around and lobbying the very bodies they were once a part of so soon after leaving office is in my opinion inappropriate.  This is what is referred to as the “Revolving Door” of politics.  The relationships and influence among former colleagues is too familiar immediately after leaving office.  This is something I’ve been concerned about at all levels of government for some time.  I wrote a short blog post about this topic over four years ago.  You can see my original post – “The Never Ending Revolving Door” here.

Our state legislature a few years ago passed a similar measure requiring a one year gap. I would like to copy that policy at our city level but I feel that two years is more appropriate given our city’s two year election cycle.


2. A city lobbyist registry.

Provo does not currently maintain a lobbyist registry.  Our State requires a lobbyist to register with the Lt. Governor’s office. I feel we should know who the lobbyists are in our city.  The state has already outlined a fairly reasonable registration and reporting process as a potential template to look to for Provo.

I’m anxious to start this dialogue.  I believe these two measures would likely meet little resistance from the Council and would go a long ways to establishing trust in our local officials.

This isn’t something I’m writing about for political expediency or simply because I’m a candidate.  Ethics in government is something I’ve been watching for some time.   I’ve listed several ethics related blog posts I’ve written over the years below.


Transparency ( 9/30/2009)

Declaring Conflicts of Interest on the Provo City Council (9/23/2010)

Ethics involving anonymous letters (7/13/2010)

My thoughts on offering staff positions to campaign staffers before the election (9/30/2009)
 

Friday, October 11, 2013

Can’t get into Zions or Bryce? Try Provo




Many of us have looked at our at federal government with great frustration and disdain over the last week or so as the Fed’s have shutdown our national parks.  With the federal government owning so much of our land in Utah, this is a big deal.  The surrounding communities near the Parks rely heavily on those tourist dollars to sustain their local economies.  It appears a short term solution from our Governor will temporarily fund the national parks. I’m pleased to see the proactive measures he’s taken.

While people were literally locked out of our great parks I wondered why more people don’t consider visiting Provo?  Provo Canyon’s colors are wonderful right now.  Sundance and Deer Creek Reservoir are just minutes away. The Canyon boasts two beautiful waterfalls – Bridal Veil and the Upper Falls with one of the best river trails in the country.  And let’s face it, if Rock Canyon were anywhere in Southern Utah it would be a state park or a national park by itself – it is that beautiful, and has a number of great hiking trails, and rock climbing features for climbers of all skill levels.

Oh, and did I mention the huge fresh water lake on our western border?  Boating, fishing, and camping are all available. 

In the Economic Development Strategic Plan the hospitality and tourism industry was cited as a potential economic opportunity for Provo to pursue.  With all our wonderful amenities I say why not? 

Provo is blessed with a number of natural treasures.  We may not be Zion’s or Bryce but I invite all those who are disappointed to not be able to see our national parks to spend a few days in the heart of Utah County.  I think they’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Shutdown Solution - Let's get Local

Last night after dropping some campaign door-hangers with my family we went to Macy's for ice-cream (I've found ice-cream is the primary currency with my kids when it comes time for campaign help).  I think I might as well set up my campaign headquarters at the Macy's Deli because I probably bumped into six or seven supporters that stopped to ask me how the campaign was going.

One friend lamented how frustrated she was at the Federal Government shutdown.  Although, I'm running for local office this topic often comes up during my discussions on people's doorsteps.  Having spent some time back in Washington DC, first as a graduate student on the Senate side, and then as a Legislative Analyst on the House side a few years later, I can certainly sympathize with the frustration.

Even working on Capitol Hill I could sense how difficult it was to truly make a difference.  Even a member of Congress was still just one of 535 people clamoring to be heard; let alone the single citizen trying to petition the Federal Government for some sort of change.  That's why I'm excited for the potential opportunity to serve locally.

Speaker Boehner and Nancy Pelosi will never drive our streets. Their children and grandchildren will never go to our schools.  They are so far removed from our daily lives that in many respects it's insulting when they claim they understand what the average family or small business needs or goes through everyday.

While we all feel a sense of helplessness regarding our government at the federal level let's do what we can in our local communities.  We best understand our local challenges and are better equipped to come up with solutions. Heck, I'll take Mayor John Curtis over Harry Reid any
day!

So to Congress, I say - grow-up, get back to work, and try to stay out of our way would you?

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Getting to Know Each Other

As I’ve been meeting new people, one of the first questions they ask is about my background.  Really, I think I’m just like many of you.  I’m committed to my family and community, and I have demonstrated that commitment through my civic service and business experience.


Family and Education

Like a lot of us in Provo – my wife Amy and I met at BYU.  We have lived in Provo for over 12 years and we have four (smart and super cute) children.

I studied political science at BYU.  As an undergraduate I had the special opportunity to be an intern at the Utah State Legislature for my dad, Lloyd Frandsen who represented South Jordan.  I guess you could say I really got my start in politics by helping my dad with his campaigns.

Following graduation I worked in the market research industry for a few years before entering business school at the University of New Mexico where I earned an MBA with a concentration in Policy and Planning.


Am I Qualified?

I believe I have a unique mix of professional government and private sector experiences that Provo needs right now. Soon after earning my MBA I took a position at Nu Skin in their marketing research department. I was, along with many others, subject to cost cutting measures while at Nu Skin and was laid off in 2006.   I can empathize with those who have had to drive home and tell their spouses that they have just lost their job. It was an experience I hope to never go through again. I know first hand how critical economic stability is.

Through some fortunate connections I soon found a job working on Congressman Chris Cannon’s re-election campaign.  Following the successful campaign I was hired to work in the Congressional office in Washington DC as a legislative analyst.  It was a thrill and an honor to work with some of the brightest minds in our nation’s capitol.  I assisted the Congressman on issues regarding military affairs, education, social security, and small business.

Following my time in the Congressman’s office I worked as the Chief Operating Officer with Franchise Foundry, a business development firm.  We helped launch a number of start-up franchise systems with numerous units throughout the country.  Currently I help young businesses establish credit lines and secure other sources of funding as the Small Business Funding Director for Prosper Inc. in Provo.


Am I Really Committed to Provo? 

I have served on the Provo City Planning Commission and I am currently a board member of the Provo Foundation. I’ve volunteered and worked on several local campaigns including Mayor Curtis, Laura Cabanilla, Gary Winterton, and Gary Garrett.

Click this link to see my family's recent volunteer efforts with the flood damage clean-up in Lion's Park.


I love to spend time with my family (my campaign schedule has to work around soccer games.) BYU football and basketball, gardening, Downton Abbey and Dancing with the Stars make up my ”just for fun list.” I also have a fondness for chocolate donuts.

The best part about a campaign is meeting people. I hope to meet you soon.  Please visit my events page for upcoming debates and cottage meetings.  If you have specific questions call anytime.

Sincerely,

Ryan
801.369.5790

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Cottage Meeting

I had a great time visiting the Riverside Neighborhood last night.  Special thanks to Kim Scoville for hosting and Jeff Rust and Gary Winterton for being the co-hosts.
From left to right: Jeff Rust, Ryan Frandsen, Councilman Gary Winterton.

Monday, September 23, 2013

Coming Together

Me with former Neighborhood Chair Kristi Jensen
Over the weekend my family and I helped clean up some of the flood damage in Lion's Park.  The huge storm Provo experienced several weeks ago left the west-side stair case covered in rocks, mud, and dirt.

It was tough work for sure!  When we arrived at 9am, there were just a handful of volunteers and the task looked daunting.  We were met at the bottom of the hill by a volunteer coordinator from Parks and Recreation.  She directed us to some 5 gallon buckets that people were already starting to fill half full with rocks and dirt that had eroded from the hillside to the bottom of the hill and steps. We then had to carry those buckets up the steps and deposit the dirt and rocks into the different trenches that the water had carved out of the hill.

With just a handful of early arrivals we started carrying the buckets up the hill.  It was heavy and hard work.  My kids together with some other children, would take the buckets that had been carried up the steps, dump them in the trenches then run them back down the hill to be refilled and carried back up the hill.  We did that for about 20 - 30 minutes, until the cavalry arrived.  More and more volunteers started trickling in from the neighborhood and then a large group of BYU students arrived and the machine really got rolling!

With the BYU crew now helping we could form a sort of fire bucket brigade.  The buckets were still heavy but many hands made for quick work.  By the time we left the huge dirt pile at the bottom of the hill was removed and the crews started working up the hill shoveling off the dirt that had piled up further up the steps.

It was great to see so many people from the community come together and help.  Lion's park is a beautiful place. My children have played soccer games there and we've had a number of church and other activities in the pavilion.  It felt wonderful to be able to help with a project so close to home.

Thank you to all the neighbors who helped and thank you to all those BYU student's with the strong backs and shoulders!

Below are few more photos of the the crew in action.
Brent Hall filling buckets
Frandsen kids running buckets back down the hill.



Bucket brigade starting to take shape



The full machine in motion!

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Is Provo in Danger of Losing our Billion Dollar Row?

About a month or so ago, the online magazine PandoDaily published an article regarding Provo's "Billion Dollar Row" - the series of businesses (Ancestry.com, Vivint, and Qualitrics) all located in the Riverwoods business complex.  It was exciting for Provo to have these businesses highlighted.  It showed that Provo does have a legitimate big-business community.

In the last week I've spoken to representatives from two of the three businesses mentioned in the article.  Each indicated how difficult it is for them as primarily technology-based companies to attract and retain talent.  One of the three is actively looking to relocate.  As I spoke with them, two common themes emerged:

1) Provo has a perception problem
2) The Riverwoods is a difficult place to get to


The Perception Problem

Even with two major universities churning out new graduates every year, these companies are still looking for talent.  And it's not that BYU and UVU don't generate talent, it's that these companies value and need diversity of experience and ideas in order to develop new products and stay competitive in the global marketplace. To see a recent example see this article on the state of technology companies in Utah County.

Provo is seen as boring, unwelcoming, and lacking in diversity.  This is something that I don't necessarily agree with entirely, but perception is reality.  I don't think Provo can change overnight, but I believe it is happening.  We are starting to see a more diverse downtown with a bustling nightlife starting to take hold.  For the regular family this may not be a big deal, but for a company wanting to recruit experienced workers from throughout the country we need to continue to see these types of things happen.

I remember LDS President Hinckley during the 2002 Olympics welcoming the world to Utah and promising them they could get a drink here.  Now I don't drink, myself, but I agree with President Hinckley's thinking.  We are unique in Provo and that is okay, but folks need to know we really are a welcoming city and they can still have a good time here.

We have a wonderful quality of life here and we need to do a better job selling Provo.  If Rock Canyon were in southern Utah it would be a state park or national monument.  It is a city treasure.  Sundance is 20 minutes away.  Utah Lake makes up our western border, BYU and all it has to offer make Provo truly a destination place if we want it to be.  But for companies looking to attract talent we need to highlight these great amenities and toot our own horn!


The Access Problem

To the second concern; the problem with the Riverwoods (I work there) is that it is in the farthest north east corner of the city.  It is outside our commercial business area and traffic is slow getting there.  It takes me about 20 minutes to drive from 8th North in Provo to the Riverwoods on most days.  Many workers commuting there from other cities, exit I-15 then drive through Orem Center Street or 8th North in Orem to get to work.  They shop in Orem on their way to work and shop in Orem on their way home.  Provo should be capturing those retail sales!

I believe I have a relatively bold idea.  We need to take a serious look at the East Bay/Southern Provo Corridor.  Specifically, we need to consider expanding the Novell campus area for both professional office and retail space.  In my plan that includes developing on the golf course property.  If we want a golf course in the city there are a number of other areas we could look at (such as by the lake near the airport, or in Provo Canyon).  But I believe the current property could be put to better use.

East Bay and the golf course property is near the Frontrunner intermodal hub, I-15, and the Provo Airport.  That location would allow employees easy access via I-15 and bring in additional traffic to help bouy our stores in that part of town - namely the Provo Towne Center which has a number of empty stores right now (we almost lost Sears a year ago!).


Vision

I believe we need this type of vision and forward thinking if our city is to remain relevant economically.  These are strong wonderful companies that create jobs for our local economy and provide opportunites for our local talent to further develop their skills.  New spin off businesses are often generated from companies like these.  We are losing too many good businesses that once started in Provo to Lehi (Property Solutions and Omniture now Adobe are two examples) where they have easy access via I-15 and their employees can live in Salt Lake where the perception is that Salt Lake County has a better quality of life.  Provo can and we must do better. 



Friday, September 13, 2013

Joint School Board and City Council Meeting

Dixon Middle School
The Provo City Council held a joint meeting with the Provo School District several weeks ago week in the City Council conference room.  I was present at the meeting and enjoyed the discussion.  The Council staff posted a summary of the meeting on their blog that you can find here.

A couple of takeaways for me:

1) This needs to happen regularly and with this level of detailed discussion.  I understand these meetings are scheduled on a quarterly basis. The two bodies need to be communicating regularly and in detail.  While each serves a different purpose they still represent the same people - the citizens of Provo.

2) The current safety and condition of our public schools is the most important issue facing Provo as a whole right now (and few people even realize it).  The Council and the Mayor have been diligently working on a solution for road maintenance and construction.  This is clearly in their sphere of responsibility and I believe they are on the right track with the Utility Transportation Fund proposal.  But those dollars pale in comparison to the $132,000,000 need the School District has for school repair and replacement.

That's right over $130,000,000 in need! To put things in perspective the Rec Center bond was for $39,000,000.

Part of me is shocked that we're at this level of need.  But if you've been in several of our city's schools you will know they are in serious disrepair. Just as part of the campaign process I've been in three of our schools that left me bewildered at their condition - Rock Canyon Elementary, Wasatch Elementary, and Dixon Middle School (where my children are likely to attend) are old and in need of serious work.  Our children need a safe environment to learn and safety when it comes to our children is one thing I AM NOT willing to compromise on. 

The District is finalizing their numbers but they believe they need $90m to bring our city's schools up to par.  The gap between the $130m and $90m as I understand it will be made up in money already budgeted for maintenance and partly from money that would be saved by doing the repairs and updates now.

3) This is a game changer for the future of Provo.  If the City's residents approve the $90m bond (it would require a public vote in 2014) that adds a significant burden on us as taxpayers.  The City Council and Administration need to recognize this and that will have a real impact on the City's options for future plans.  Including projects such as rebuilding the fire station on North Canyon Road and future plans for the city center - both projects discussed at this meeting. 

As someone with a young family this is very important to me. I believe this is a classic "need vs wants" situation and this clearly falls within the "need" category.  We all need to start paying attention and get both informed and involved. I've had several conversations with various members of the School Board who are sincere, informed, and passionate about our children's eduction. Seeing the need that the District faces and given the data that's been presented so far I am inclined to support the District's bond efforts.   Certainly, the District will be coming forward with their formal plans and the details need to be discussed, but this is a big deal and we need to start paying attention and getting informed. Visit Provo.edu for the latest information.

Friday, September 6, 2013

A Thank You Zucchini

A prize zucchini and thank you note
One of the best parts of the campaign is meeting so many wonderful people.  I've had a number of people who have been gracious enough throughout the campaign to let me borrow a corner of their yard for a yard sign. 

This afternoon I dropped off a short thank you note to one of those families.  As I approached the housee I happened to catch the wife while she was out watering her garden. As we visited for a little while she said they had had a bit of a bumper crop (my word not hers) when it came to zucchini and she offered me two to take home! 

So not only did I get a great sign location but I walked away with two zucchinis. Zucchini bread here we come!

Thursday, September 5, 2013

District 5 Debate

Franklin Elementary School Gym
I attended the District 5 candidate forum last night at Franklin Elementary. The Forum was sponsored by the Franklin and Dixon Neighborhood Chairs.

It was a nice chance to visit for a few minutes with the folks from southwest Provo.

The organizers indicated they would like to sponsor a similar event for the City-Wide candidates next month.

I'm very much looking forward to it!

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Provo as a Model for the New GOP

Provo's own Jamie Littlefield wrote a thoughtful article in the Desert News this week featured in the "My View" section.  In the article titled "There's a good model city in Utah for the (New) Republican Party" Jamie outlines a number of things Provo has done to maintain its identity as a conservative town.

I'm not sure I've ever heard someone so succinctly and correctly describe Provo's style of conservatism as this:

"Provo has a unique brand of socially conscious conservatism: back-to-the-basics values that are practiced with people and practicality in mind.

For the past several years, Provo has succeed by ignoring extremist antics and staying focused on pared-down conservative ideals: practicing fiscal responsibility, focusing on individual freedoms, encouraging the private market and approaching social issues with reasonable solutions. Meanwhile, they're gaining traction with millennials by using social media and encouraging citizen engagement."

Back-to-the-basics values...and practicality in mind.  Amen!

In Provo we've been able to set ourselves apart from the rest of the country by following those basic principles. Jamie, goes on to list a number of examples of these principles in action - from back yard chickens to Google Fiber.

I was also encouraged to see Jamie comment that the younger generation, students, recent grads, and young families are really contributing to so many positive things happening in Provo.  If I'm elected I believe (I'll need to double check) I would be the only one on the Council with kids in elementary school - maybe even Jr. High.  I really feel we need that perspective represented on the Council.

I'm pleased to see this sort of article appear in the paper and do truly hope that those leaders in both of our nation's national parties do look to the good things we are doing here in Provo as a model for their own platforms and ideals.

Let's keep these good things happening in Provo and not roadblock progress.

Monday, August 26, 2013

Former Candidate Endorses Me!

John Breeding
The following letter to the editor was published in the Provo Daily Herald over the weekend.  John Breeding former city-wide City Council candidate endorsed my campaign!
I don't think I've ever seen a candidate work as hard as John Breeding did in the Primary.  We didn't and don't agree on all the issues but I believe we agree on the ones that count and I'm honored to have his endorsement and support.  
John garnered 666 votes.  And 16% of the overall vote. 
 
August 25, 2013



Last Tuesday the City of Provo held its' municipal primary election. Few people other than the candidates understand the extent of the sacrifice that is made by candidates and their families. I calculated that I personally spent roughly $15 and an hour and 15 minutes of my time for each and every vote that was cast for me Tuesday. There were campaigns that spent even more. I congratulate David Sewell and Ryan Frandsen for making it through the primary.

Both the Frandsen and Sewell campaigns have been in contact with me seeking my endorsement. In politics there are people who are rooting for you to fail and it can be unpleasant after the loss to then be asked to support their candidate. The decision to make an endorsement isn't as easy as it would seem to some. During the campaign I never considered David Sewell my opponent; he is in fact my friend.

Henry David Thoreau in his essay "Civil Disobedience" says: "What is the price current of an honest man and patriot today? They hesitate, they regret, and sometimes they petition; but they do nothing in earnest and with effect. They will wait, well disposed, for others to remedy the evil, that they may no longer have it to regret. At most, they give only a cheap vote, and a feeble countenance and God-speed to the right, as it goes by them...Cast your whole vote, not a strip of paper merely, but your whole influence."

So today I am letting go of whatever bitterness that may have been sent my way during the campaign and I am casting my whole vote. I am endorsing the candidacy of Ryan Frandsen without reservation. I will do whatever is necessary to see to it that Ryan is elected to Provo City Council. Between the two candidates, Ryan believes the government should play a more limited role. We need people who believe that vision comes from business owners and individuals making choices rather than from government.

John Breeding, Provo

Friday, August 23, 2013

Provo's Retail Base is Growing!

One of the primary reasons I am running is because I want to promote Provo's retail economy.  A strong retail base and the sales taxes associated with retail can help ease the pressure on property taxes.

In Provo right now there is no better place to see our retail economic growth than right along Bulldog Boulevard.  When I was on the Planning Commission last year we approved the project to allow the CVS Pharmacy to locate on the corner of Bulldog and University where the old Flower Patch business was located.

That corner was tired looking and the surrounding medical offices were only partially filled.  I think the new CVS will be a great addition to that corner.  Also, a Firehouse Subs will be located there as well.  But just as exciting and encouraging to me is to see the two businesses that are being displaced by CVS have ALREADY relocated to nearby locations within Provo.

El Azteca just moved a half block east in the Fat Cat's area, and the Flower Patch (where my kids remember going with me to buy my wife flowers after the birth of our youngest son) has just relocated to the old @12 Chinese restaurant in the Macy's parking lot.  The medical offices as you can see in the picture have relocated to 5th West.

I love to see businesses that are truly committed to Provo thrive here.

But the action on Bulldog doesn't stop there.  A new Chick-fil-A is being built on the corner of Bulldog and 5th West!  That is going to be a hot spot during lunch time. The area has also seen the new food truck buisness - Sweeto Burrito locate near Provo High and in the Macy's lot at different times.

All of this is so exciting.  We really have some real economic momentum happening in Provo.  Let's keep it going and not take a step back with this election!


*UPDATE

Just a day after I posted this article the Herald published an article about the City's growing sales tax revenue.  The City is up $600,000 over last year!  The article highlights the growth we are seeing in Downtown.  From Bulldog to Downtown - so many good things happening in Provo right now!

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

THANK YOU!

I just wanted to post a quick thank you to everyone who supported me. We survived the Primary and now on to the General Election in November.

Here is a link to the Primary results:
http://electionmap.provo.org/

Breeding:  16% (666 votes)
Frandsen: 24% (1014)
Sewell: 31% (1340)
Wright: 19% (793)
Lines" 11% (465)

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Vote!

              
                    

                  2013 Provo City Polling Locations



Precincts
Polling Location

PR18, PR35
Amelia Earhart

PR08, PR 09, PR33
BYU Conference Center

PR15, PR42
Canyon Crest Elementary

PR26, PR30, PR37
Centennial Middle School

PR 21, PR22
Dixon Middle School

PR16, PR41
Edgemont Elementary

PR34
Provo City Recreation Center

PR17, PR44
Franklin Elementary

PR27, PR31
Freedom Academy

PR23
Independence High School

PR19, PR20, PR24
Lakeview Elementary

PR28, PR29, PR32
Larry H. Miller Dodge

PR14, PR43
Provo City Center

PR07, PR10
Provo City Library

PR12
Provo Peaks Elementary (Farrer)

PR05, PR45
Provost Elementary

PR02, PR03
Spring Creek Elementary

PR 38, PR39, PR40
Timpview High School

PR04, PR06
UC Historic Courthouse (Rotunda)

PR01
Utah County Health & Justice Bldg

PR11, PR36
Wasatch Elementary

PR13, PR25
Westridge Elementary

Friday, August 2, 2013

Parking In Provo

This morning I received an email from a couple who live just south east of campus.  They expressed some frustration at the parking situation and the lack of enforcement.  I thought I'd share my response here:



(William),
Thank you for taking the time to contact me.  You know, in the past I think Provo has done a lot of studies for this or that but never taken action.  And so I wonder if they are really worth the time and money if nothing is ever going to be done.  However, I do believe there is one study I would push for immediately upon being elected.  And that is a city-wide comprehensive parking study(!).
When I served on the planning commission the one absolute issue I could always count on being raised by the neighborhood chairs when a new development came before us was parking.  I remember as a new member of the Commission turning to the city staff and saying surely we've done a study or we have some data regarding parking.  What does the data actually say? What are the facts?  And the staffer turned to me and shrugged his shoulders and said they've never done one.  I was shocked. As much time, inconvenience, hassle, you name it and any other number of problems parking has caused - Provo for whatever reason has never seriously taken on this issue and resolved it.
I believe parking is a problem with a solution.
I don't have all the answers.  And that's why I would like to start with the facts (a study).  I do understand to a good degree how we got here - family housing originally being proposed then whether a developer doing a last minute switch, or over time through zoning changes, lack of enforcement, whatever it may be parking has come to the point where a property owner can no longer expect to be able to park in front of their own home.
I spoke to a neighborhood chair just last night about this and he had some good ideas that I think are worth considering - removing the park strips in some areas and putting in diagonal parking, incorporating a parking permit for public streets that would allow you enough spots for your property frontage - visitor parking would then go to corner lots, where those owners would only get half of their street frontage (they could get the front or side of their property but not both). 
To your point on enforcement. As John Adams said - we are a nation of laws.  I'm generally a small government minded person but when a law is passed I believe we are obligated to follow it.  If we don't agree with it then we should work through the proper process to have it changed, but once passed as a community we need to obey and honor the law.  The problem with enforcement now is that it is spotty.  Enforcement seems to only happen when a complaint is made.  And I believe the penalties are often too lax so the violator can simply pay the fine, thumb their nose at the city, and business goes on as usual without any real change.  So we need consistent and fair enforcement but with incentives (appropriate penalties) for property owners to comply with the law.

Those are just a couple of ideas. I am certainly concerned and sympathetic to your situation.  I believe a good idea can come from anywhere if we are open-minded enough.  I would welcome any additional thoughts or ideas you have on this issue - as well as your reaction to some of the ideas I've suggested here.
Thanks again for taking the time to reach out.  I really appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts with you and your wife.
Sincerely,

Ryan