2025 Municipal Primary Election: Get to know the residents running for seats on the Provo City Council
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- A photo overlooking Provo from City Hall toward “Y Mountain” is pictured Thursday, May 1, 2025.
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- Provo City Council candidate Sam Blackburn is pictured in an undated photo.
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- Provo City Council candidate Sally Clayton is pictured in an undated photo.
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- Katrice MacKay was inaugurated Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022, as one of two new women on the Provo City Council.
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- Provo City Council candidate Hannah Petersen is shown in an undated photo.
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- Provo City Council candidate Adam Shin is pictured in an undated photo.
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- Provo City Council candidate Jeff Whitlock is shown in an undated photo.
Primary season is underway in Utah Valley, where Provo and many other cities will hold a municipal primary election Aug. 12.
As election day approaches, the Daily Herald is inviting candidates for local office in some of Utah County’s cities to respond to a questionnaire to talk about their campaigns.
Provo residents will vote to narrow the current list of 10 City Council nominees down to six, who will compete for three seats in the November general election.
In this series, get to know the Provo residents who are running for seats on the City Council.
The candidates are: Shay Aslett, Sam Blackburn, Sally Clayton, Tim Jafek, Hannah Petersen, Adam Shin, Tom Fifita Sitake and Jeff Whitlock.
Incumbent council members Katrice MacKay and Rachel Whipple are also seeking another term.
Candidates were contacted via their official campaign email, if one was available, and were asked to respond to each question in 150 words or less.
Some responses were lightly edited for stylistic purposes or clarity.
Here are their responses (listed in alphabetical order):
Sam Blackburn
What position are you running for?
Provo City Council – District 5
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
I’m still a college student, so not a lot! I’ve canvassed in several local and statewide races.
Why are you running for this position?
I’m running to lower the cost of housing in Provo, especially for renters!
The majority of Provo residents are renters, yet city policies often ignore their needs. Current zoning laws and building restrictions make it far too difficult to construct new housing, which drives up rents and forces many residents into less desirable locations, far from school or work.
This lack of affordable housing not only hurts students and young families but also weakens Provo’s economy and tax base. By encouraging responsible development and reforming outdated regulations, we can create more housing options and stabilize rental prices.
I’m running to be a voice for the majority of Provo residents who rent and to ensure their interests are represented in local government. Everyone deserves a city that prioritizes affordability and opportunity.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
Provo is divided between two groups with competing priorities. On one side are established families and homeowners who focus on long-term stability. On the other are students, young people and renters, who together make up about 60% of Provo’s population but lack real representation in local government.
The City Council is overwhelmingly middle-aged and often prioritizes policies that benefit homeowners over renters. One of its stated goals is to increase the homeowner occupancy rate in Provo, which effectively sidelines the needs of the student and renter majority.
This divide creates tension in decisions about housing, zoning and city services. Provo’s biggest challenge is ensuring that all residents (whether they’re families, students or long-term renters) are treated fairly and have a voice in shaping the city’s future.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
1) Allowing more apartments near BYU. Since 2002, Provo’s Residential Conservation zoning has prohibited redevelopment in student neighborhoods closest to campus. This has created a severe housing shortage and driven up prices citywide. I would work to end this zoning designation so students can live closer to campus and free up family neighborhoods.
2) Holding landlords accountable. Some landlords face no consequences for violating tenant rights. I would push for stronger penalties and enforcement to protect renters.
3) Improving parking and transportation. Provo needs both increased parking supply and better alternatives to driving. I would invest in walkability and public transit to make it easier for residents — especially those without cars — to get around safely and efficiently.
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
Instagram and TikTok: @samforprovo
Sally Clayton
What position are you running for?
Provo City Council – District 2
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
Degree from Harvard in government, worked in local congressional office early in my career, ran a Utah based nonprofit called Humanitarian XP, 10 years in the technology and finance fields.
Why are you running for this position?
I want to ensure that there is a capable, qualified candidate in every local election who will listen to the community and voices of everyone.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
Provo is a fairly complex city that needs to meet the needs of families, students, temporary residents and lifelong members of the community. Our local ordinances and policies need to be quite varied across the city to meet the needs of those different populations. We need to ensure that elected city officials represent the people’s needs and not just the interests of the larger institutions that have a lot of power and influence in our city.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
My priorities would be thoughtful and diversified zoning decisions that prioritize the community members’ needs, smart budgeting and spending, balancing development and protection of open space (as both are critical for Provo) and listening to all voices in the community.
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
Katrice MacKay
What position are you running for?
Provo City Council – Citywide Seat
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
I’m the incumbent of the citywide seat
Why are you running for this position?
I’m running for re-election because I love this city — and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together.
Over the past four years, I’ve shown up — at neighborhood meetings, city events and council work sessions. I’ve listened, asked questions and worked to make sure your voice is heard.
I was raised in Provo. My parents believed in this community — its charm, values and way of life. Now I’m raising my kids here, and I want them to experience the same Provo I grew up with: safe, vibrant and full of opportunity.
I want Provo to stay beautiful and grounded. And I want to make sure we’re planning smart — so the things we love aren’t lost as we grow.
We’ve made real progress. I’ve built strong relationships and helped move good ideas forward. But there’s more to do — and I’m ready to keep going.
I’d be honored to continue serving you.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
Public safety is one of the smartest investments we can make. As Provo grows, we need to make sure our police force grows with it. That means supporting the officers we have — and making sure they have the resources to keep our streets, trails and neighborhoods safe.
We also need to grow our tax base. That means attracting more businesses that bring in sales tax revenue, while giving residents more shopping, dining and service options close to home. We can do that while staying true to what makes Provo special — great neighborhoods, open space and a high quality of life.
And enforcement matters too — not just public safety, but things like property maintenance, zoning and neighborhood standards. We’ve made real progress. Now it’s about keeping momentum, staying responsive and making sure our policies work for the people who live here.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
If I’m re-elected, I want to keep the momentum going — and make sure we stay focused on what matters most.
That means continuing to invest in public safety, support enforcement that keeps neighborhoods clean and orderly and grow our local economy in smart, sustainable ways. I’ll keep backing the council’s goal to increase owner occupancy — because strong neighborhoods start with people who put down roots.
I’ll continue to fight for parks and open space. As Provo grows, we must preserve what makes it special. Everyone deserves access to the outdoors — now and in the future.
Safe roads and sidewalks near schools will remain a top priority. So will retaining talented city staff, especially in police and fire. Holding on to experienced, dedicated employees helps us save money, strengthen services and protect the progress we’ve made.
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
Hannah Petersen
What position are you running for?
Provo City Council – District 2
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
District 2 board member, Neighborhood Representative, Southeast Provo Vice Chair, city zoning committee, local county and state delegate.
Why are you running for this position?
When you’ve lived in a place as long as I have, and truly love it, you feel a responsibility to serve and protect it. I’m a longtime resident of Provo and have spent the past 10 years as an elected neighborhood representative in District 2, gaining a clear understanding of our challenges and opportunities.
My professional background as a business owner trained in sustainable, environmentally focused community design will bring valuable perspective to the City Council.
I often remark that a City Council vote directly impacts me, my family and our quality of life often more than decisions made at the state or national level. That’s why I value leaders who are experienced, knowledgeable, hardworking, responsive and humble.
I am ready to serve as a Provo City Council member with no political ambitions — only a commitment to listen and lead with courage and integrity.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
Provo is beautiful and has so much going for it. As BYU grows and the Olympics return to Utah, our city will face increased interest from out’of’state investors. We must be proactive in protecting our housing, canyons and natural assets — while strengthening our neighborhoods and amplifying resident voices.
Affordable housing is vital, yet the very homes meant to be affordable for residents are often the most profitable for investors. We must approach this challenge with creativity and compassion.
Other pressing issues include aging infrastructure, rising costs of living, safe streets and communities, congestion, traffic, air quality and retaining the small businesses that make Provo unique. Thoughtful leadership can help us meet these challenges while preserving what makes Provo exceptional.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
Protect housing and neighborhoods: Strengthen resident voices and safeguard homes from excessive investor influence — keeping housing attainable for those who live here. Bring proven ideas and insights from the neighborhood level directly to the council.
Preserve natural assets: Actively protect Provo’s canyons and natural resources. Establish a permanent committee of professionals and residents to monitor, protect and advise on our canyons, lake, river and trails.
Raise the bar on development: Prioritize beautiful design, connected paths and open spaces in urban environments.
Affordable housing: Create an easy’to’use online tool to educate residents on housing options. Host and support events that provide real education and resources. Keep exploring innovative solutions.
Invest in infrastructure and quality of life: Plan ahead and save for future repair. Follow a traffic and congestion plan, support air quality and budget for safer streets and stronger communities.
Support and retain small businesses: Champion policies that help local businesses thrive while attracting and keeping startups and young adults.
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
Facebook or Instagram: @ Hannah4provo
Adam Shin
What position are you running for?
Provo City Council – Citywide
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
I’ve served on the Provo City Planning Commission.
Why are you running for this position?
I’m running for Provo City Council to solve problems that are going unsolved.
City revenues are declining, infrastructure costs are rising and homeownership is slipping out of reach for more and more families.
Serving on Provo’s Planning Commission, I’ve seen the need for thoughtful, principled solutions. I believe local government works best when it supports personal freedom and individual rights.
I love Provo. Our city has incredible opportunities ahead. I’m excited to get to work.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
First: Our long-term economic outlook. Provo’s economy is shrinking. Sales tax revenue has fallen by over $1 million a year since 2022, adjusted for inflation. Every city department has been tightening their belts, downsizing plans and delaying projects.
Second: Infrastructure maintenance. Our roads are showing their age. Miles of water lines are overdue for replacement. We’re running $10 million a year short on water repairs. There’s hidden debt under our feet, and the longer we wait, the more costly it gets.
Third: Our housing crisis. Families are being priced out of the market. Renters are spilling into family neighborhoods. Starter homes are being bought up by investors, and we’re falling behind on enforcement.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
- We need to get our economy growing again. A strong tax base means better city services and more money in your pockets. I’ll fight to attract jobs, revitalize our downtown and make Provo the best city in Utah to start a business.
- It’s time to address our infrastructure debt. The path we’re on isn’t fiscally responsible. We need a plan to start fixing our oldest streets and water lines before the costs explode on us.
- I’ll go to work tackling our housing crisis. We need more homes on the market — at more price points — so families aren’t pushed out. Smart infill growth should be encouraged near downtown and BYU where the demand is highest.
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
Jeff Whitlock
What position are you running for?
Provo City Council – District 2
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
Provo Planning Commission chair, McKinsey & Company consultant to state governments, startup founder/current business owner, former chief of staff at local tech company, and Utah Valley Refugees board member.
Why are you running for this position?
I’m running because I love Provo and want to ensure it remains a place where families can thrive. As a father of three young children, I want to plan for Provo’s future so my kids can call this Provo home in 30 years.
District 2 deserves strong representation, especially the southern part of our city. I want to listen to residents’ concerns and be their voice on the council.
I bring a unique combination of experience to Provo. I have experience in business, government consulting and city service. This gives me the tools to tackle our biggest problems: housing, aging infrastructure, financing and growth.
Provo is at a critical juncture. We need leaders who understand our complex challenges and can deliver solutions.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
Provo faces big financial challenges. Declining sales tax, while confronting aging infrastructure needs and service inflation. This creates a gap between our responsibilities and resources.
Our constraints make this especially difficult to solve. We have limited developable land for growth. A lot of our property is nontaxable. We have a large student population with limited spending power. Provo also has limited local industry.
Meanwhile, our roads, water systems and public facilities need significant investment. We need to fund these without raising taxes on residents already facing rising costs.
The path forward requires a strategic plan. We need economic development to attract businesses and out-of-city shoppers. We need smart growth that maximizes our limited land resources. We also need to develop local industry to increase household incomes.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
(1) Listen and represent District 2: Listen and incorporate District 2 voices into everything I do. Work hard, be accessible, follow the data, listen to all perspectives and respond to feedback.
(2) Invest in public places and natural resources: I’ll protect our canyons (no Slate Canyon waterpark) and foothills, embrace our lake and river as part of Provo’s identity (River Overlay Zone) and work to invest in District 2 parks and trails (Upper Bicentennial Park).
(3) Strengthen Provo’s economy and finances: I’ll emphasize policies that increase sales tax revenue by helping local businesses.
(4) Find balanced housing solutions: Many want stronger neighborhoods, but our housing situation continues to get worse. We need a new strategy — solutions that protect neighborhoods from the immense investor pressure while addressing our housing crisis.
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
https://whitlockforprovo.com/issues
Note: Aslett, Jafek and Whipple did not provide responses to the questionnaire. A campaign email contact for Sitake was not available.
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