Last week, the Daily Herald sent out a short questionnaire to Orem City Council candidates with five questions in an effort to provide citizens with information on candidates’ views regarding local issues.

In Orem, six candidates are running for three open seats on the City Council — Jenn Gale, Chris Killpack, Jeff Lambson, Matt McKell, Crystal Muhlestien and Spencer Rands. Voters will select and vote for their top three candidates on the ballot.

County clerks will mail out ballots through Nov. 14, and every active registered voter will receive one. Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 20 or placed in a drop box before 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 21.

In-person early voting will be held from Nov. 13-20 at the Utah County Administration Building during normal business hours.

Drop boxes and Election Day voting sites will be offered in various locations throughout the county and can be found on Utah County’s website, www.utahcounty.gov/Dept/clerk/elections/.

The following responses are in the candidates’ own words:

High-density housing is a controversial topic in the city. What are your thoughts about high-density housing in Orem? Can you suggest any alternatives to deal with population growth in the coming years? What solutions do you have to lower housing costs?

Chris Killpack:

“I’m committed to managing the city’s growth responsibly to ensure that Orem continues to thrive while preserving our unique character. This means that future development respects the character of our neighborhoods without high-density housing encroaching on residential areas. Where there is appropriate space and buffering from single-family homes, higher-density units like townhomes, twin homes and apartments are options to provide additional housing. Larger-scale apartments near the university would also work well. There are competing aspects to consider: property rights, state mandates, Orem residents’ current and long-term needs, and more. I’ll work for all residents so everyone can live in Orem. This will include raising awareness of incentives, such as those for first-time home buyers who qualify.”

Jenn Gale:

“High-density housing is definitely a challenging topic in Orem. On the one hand, residents want to preserve the wonderful way of life we have here, and they’re concerned that increased density could adversely impact traffic, strain infrastructure, and overcrowd our city. On the other hand, senior citizens, students, young families and others can’t afford or don’t want a single-family home and need housing that works for them in the city they love. Both sides of this issue have individual needs and important points. We have to recognize that we can only move forward as a city as we work together to find a happy medium. We can live up to “Family City USA” by welcoming families of all shapes and sizes.”

Crystal Muhlestein:

“Orem currently has a large amount of high-density housing. Orem already provides this well. Unlike many other cities in Utah County, Orem is 95% built out. We don’t have the space to continue building freely. As Orem develops and redevelops land, we must be mindful of the strains on our infrastructure and layout of our city and build things that highlight Orem. Accessory dwelling units are a great alternative to handle population growth while also preserving our amazing neighborhoods and supporting our infrastructure needs, like roads and water. Most of the factors that are contributing to housing unaffordability are out of the hands of a city. Orem must work to keep taxes and fees low and be fiscally responsible with the money taxpayers entrust to the city.”

Spencer Rands:

“When we look at apartments, we must not repeat the mistakes of the past. We must make sure that any new development fits that area, has sufficient parking, and that the roads/infrastructure can handle that development. If a development does not fit those criteria, then we need to go back to the drawing board and find solutions that work for Orem.”

Jeff Lambson:

“Growth is one of the biggest challenges we face, not only in Orem but throughout the county and state. The reality is this will continue to be a challenge in the future. Utah County is anticipated to double in population by 2050. The key is to manage that growth through a thoughtful, methodical approach. I have approached growth through smart, reasonable development where it makes sense and directing it away from neighborhoods and areas where it does not.

“When strong concerns were expressed by residents through open, civic dialogue, about the State Street Master Plan, (SSMP), I heard those concerns and voted to put a moratorium on that plan. This vote stopped the potential of thousands of high-density apartments from being built. Now that we have standards in place promoting responsible growth and proper infrastructure, we will be working on beautifying and improving State Street while working to maintain balance with adjacent neighborhoods.”

Matt McKell:

“We have very little available land in Orem for high-density housing, so it requires we be very careful and deliberate in where it is placed. We also do not have the infrastructure for multiple apartment complexes in Orem. Increased traffic and congestion are a concern. Orem is in high demand because it is a great place to live. Let’s be careful that we keep it that way and not bend to change and growth that others say are inevitable.”

How would you improve transportation throughout the city? Do you support increased public transit and active transportation — and if so, in what capacity and where?

Jeff Lambson:

“I feel the increased levels of congestion in our city. No one wants to sit in unnecessary traffic. We must remember that part of the congestion we feel in Orem is from neighboring cities. Provo is the 4th most populated city in the state, and many Provo residents pass through Orem on a daily basis, often multiple times. Additionally, Vineyard is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. Residents from both neighboring cities come to Orem to work, to shop, to eat, and to enjoy life. While we dislike the additional traffic, we are grateful for their business. Every dollar they spend here relieves a little bit of tax burden for Orem residents.

“After years of planning, we have a good transportation grid system in place. My preference is to see how to maximize what we already have instead of purchasing homes to widen streets.”

Crystal Muhlestein:

“There is much we can do as a city to improve transportation and decrease traffic. We can utilize technology to help our traffic lights work more efficiently, modify roads for efficiency, and work with surrounding communities to ease our traffic burdens. Public transit is a great option for many people, especially when it is more flexible in where it picks up and drops off customers. Fixed lines, like BRT and TRAX, are harder for people to utilize because they cannot easily get to the transit stop or from the transit stop to their final destination. Until this problem is solved, we must focus on solutions, routes and options that offer flexibility to the patrons of public transit. Bike lines are another great option Orem can expand on. The Murdock Canal Trail is a great example of thinking outside of the box and coming up with a great solution that serves the community.”

Spencer Rands:

“If there is a demand and a need for public transportation, then I support it. What I do not support is dedicated lanes for buses on busy streets that increase traffic congestion while only benefiting the few who use them. I would much rather see dedicated bus pull-outs on either side of the road where a bus can get out of traffic while passengers safely load and unload. We need to find solutions that benefit both those on public transit and those in private cars.”

Chris Killpack:

“I will advocate for best practices being utilized, along with seeking out new technologies and involving residents in decision-making to align with the principles of responsible urban development. Developing a long-term plan and considering tradeoffs are essential for sustainable transportation growth. Bike paths, buses, and other modes of transportation — where warranted — are part of a balanced public transportation process. Through careful planning during this crucial time, we can prepare for the future of Orem and its residents.”

Matt McKell:

“I believe there is a place for public transit but do not agree with a dedicated bus line down State Street in Orem. That kind of public transit would increase traffic and hurt exiting business access points. Transportation can obviously be improved to alleviate traffic where possible through a study of traffic flows and congestion points.”

Jenn Gale:

“Utah County is expected to double in size in the next 20 years. This will significantly impact traffic and congestion in Orem as people come here to work, shop, access healthcare, and get to Provo Canyon and BYU. Addressing transportation proactively will allow us to keep commerce moving and save residents the headaches associated with gridlock. Unfortunately, there is not one magic bullet to solve this problem. We need to approach it deliberately and proactively, and above all, we’ll have to collaborate with surrounding cities, UDOT, UTA, and the state to be successful. This is not a problem we can solve ourselves.

“Orem is the 6th largest city in the state, and like all cities our size, public transportation is becoming more and more critical. But how and where we use it really matters. We shouldn’t rush into it without a long-term plan and knowing the tradeoffs.”

Utah Valley University saw record enrollment this year. If elected, how would you support Orem’s growing student population?

Jenn Gale:

“As a graduate student myself, I’m a huge fan of higher education and what it can do for individuals and communities. UVU is such an asset and a major driving force in our city! The university provides jobs, bolsters our economy, and produces graduates who will be our future workforce and leaders. Balancing student needs with the community’s needs is essential.

“We’ve already made great strides in that direction. For example, the bridge over the freeway was the result of collaboration between Orem City, UVU, UTA, and UDOT. It has enhanced student safety and allowed them to walk to class instead of driving. It has also helped reduce congestion on Orem’s roads. Solutions like this are a win for the students and a win for the city.”

Crystal Muhlestein:

“UVU is a great asset to Orem. I hope to work with UVU to come up with solutions to some of the problems we are seeing, like student housing and parking. As UVU works to serve more students, we must work with them to ensure infrastructure needs are met for students and all Orem residents.”

Chris Killpack:

“Education leads to opportunity, and I applaud those pursuing higher education, technical training, or any other educational avenue. My MBA from BYU helped me to be a successful business owner on State Street. As educational needs continue to evolve, we need to be entrepreneurial. Here are a few great examples of that principle. First, UVU has expanded its campus beyond Orem with satellite campuses in Heber, Payson, and Thanksgiving Point, as well as online learning, to name a few ways. These are vital alternatives to coming to Orem. There are over 10,000 high school students who are taking concurrent enrollment classes through UVU who are counted among students! Second, the bridge over I-15 with a FrontRunner stop has helped to improve congestion that was brought about through collaboration. Third, student housing near campus has also helped students travel to campus without the need for a vehicle.”

Spencer Rands:

“UVU is a huge asset to Orem and the surrounding communities. As it stands now, students have to compete in the same housing and rental market as everyone else. I would work to help UVU build real student housing on its campus that is only for students. This would make housing for students more affordable while freeing up space in the privately owned housing for non-students.”

Matt McKell:

“Again, what a great problem to have. Orem City Council would need to work hand in hand with the leaders at UVU to address the growing student population. I was not against the apartment complexes built just east of UVU because of the demand for student housing in the area. I believe we need to be careful where we build apartments so city services are not negatively impacted and residential neighborhoods are listened to and consulted with.”

Jeff Lambson:

“We are lucky to have UVU as part of our community. Some of my children are UVU graduates. (Go Wolverines!) We have seen firsthand the commitment that UVU has to each student and their success. Programs like concurrent enrollment — allowing high school students the opportunity to get a head start on their college education at a very low cost — are an amazing benefit offered to all of Orem’s high school students. UVU’s open admissions, affordable cost, and commitment to student success provide more than 30,000 students (many of whom live in Orem) with educational opportunities they may not have had otherwise.

“UVU has worked with community partners on projects like the bridge over I-15. This project allows housing that is close enough so students can walk or take a bus ride to school while at the same time reducing the parking need at UVU. This decreases traffic and congestion on Orem roads. I look forward to collaborating on future projects that will be win-win situations for all involved.”

This November, the city’s CARE tax is up for renewal, which supports art, recreation and parks. How would you support the arts and outdoor recreation as a City Council member?

Jeff Lambson:

“I am a HUGE supporter of the CARE Tax! CARE stands for Cultural Arts and Recreation Enrichment Program. It blesses our citizens, city and community in countless ways — all for one penny from ten dollars of tax revenue. Whether through cultural arts, parks or recreation, these dollars are used in a marvelous way to strengthen groups and individuals physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. For example, SCERA, the All-Together Playground, splash pads, dog park and dozens of local non-profits are just the beginning of a long list of organizations and projects that receive these funds. These projects and funds have returned to the community something far beyond what they receive.

“Before serving on the City Council, I served for two terms on the Orem CARE Tax Commission. I now serve as a City Council advisor to the current Commission. I have seen firsthand the blessing that this program is to Orem’s citizens. I will continue to support this program and encourage you to Vote YES for the CARE Tax.”

Matt McKell:

“I support the CARE tax and have voted for it in the past. We have great parks and rec centers, and the SCERA Theatre is a tremendous asset to the city of Orem. We need to continue our emphasis and support of these amenities.”

Chris Killpack:

“The CARE tax has provided vital resources to support art, recreation and parks in Orem. As a private citizen, I have supported the CARE tax, and as a City Council member, I would encourage and recommend this funding. These funds are used for programs like SCERA, our parks, arts, and other recreational activities that benefit our community.”

Spencer Rands:

“I currently serve on the CARE commission and have seen how these funds benefit our community. As a council member, I would continue to ensure that these funds are spent wisely for the benefit of Orem residents. Additionally, I would encourage a strong and vibrant business community that would benefit both Orem residents and the CARE funds.”

Jenn Gale:

“I feel like I could be the poster child for appreciating arts and outdoor recreation! I studied music in college and have always loved the arts. As a coach on the Orem High School mountain bike team, I’m out on the trails enjoying Orem’s outdoor recreation almost daily. Our family loves the parks in our city, and we visit them often. I’ve been heavily involved in Orem’s recreation and youth development programs for the past 18 years and have seen firsthand the good our CARE tax dollars are doing. As a council member, I’ll continue to support the arts and outdoor recreation as I’ve done all along.”

Crystal Muhlestein:

“I love the CARE program in Orem. As residents of Orem, my family often uses the many parks around our city. My kids have learned to play different sports through the rec center programs, and we love to see the plays, indoor and outdoor, at the SCERA. The many parks and programs the CARE tax helps fund are extremely valuable to our community and help to support Orem families. I will continue to support the CARE tax and work with our city staff to use that money wisely to serve our community.”

Overall, how do you plan to serve the residents of Orem?

Crystal Muhlestein:

“Throughout the campaign process, I have been knocking on doors in neighborhoods all over Orem, asking residents what they are most concerned with in our community. I am committed to continue listening and being a voice of the people. I want to support our local businesses because when businesses thrive, so does the city. I support our first responders, and I am committed to ensuring they have the resources they need to keep our community safe.”

Jenn Gale:

“I will serve Orem’s residents by 1) Building trust with our people, with our city staff, and with community partners, 2) Collaborating with individuals and organizations to find win-win solutions, 3) Listening to residents because every voice matters and every voice deserves to be heard, and 4) Leading with civility and respect.”

Chris Killpack:

“As a City Council member, my unwavering focus will be on the following key priorities:

“1. Building Trust: I’ll work tirelessly to foster trust and understanding within our community.

“2. Promoting Open Dialogue: By encouraging public dialogue and collaboration, we can find common-sense solutions that benefit us all.

“3. Sustainable Growth: I’m committed to managing the city’s growth responsibly, ensuring that Orem continues to thrive while preserving our unique character.

“4. Supporting Our Community: Our city’s employees and local businesses are the backbone of Orem. I’ll be there to support them every step of the way.

“5. Community Building through Service: Together, we’ll build a stronger, more cohesive community through service and inclusivity. We’re all in this together, and together, we’ll lift each other up.”

Jeff Lambson:

“As your re-elected city councilman, I will continue to 1) Listen to you, the citizens. As a concerned and thoughtful council member, I have truly listened to and represented the citizens. Whether it was voting against an Orem-only split from Alpine School District, voting for the moratorium on State Street, or many other situations, I have always and will continue to listen to you. 2) Protect our neighborhoods and value what makes Orem Family City USA — not just families in the genealogical sense, in all of their shapes and varieties, but as a community family, working together and looking after each other. 3) Support first responders and city employees. I am endorsed by both the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 33 and the Professional Firefighters of Orem, Local 2742.

“I will continue to work with and support local first responders and community partners to ‘Build a Better Orem.'”

Matt McKell:

“I have lived in Orem for over 21 years and have raised my five children here. Four of my five children have chosen to raise their families in Orem, and three have started businesses in Orem. I believe that my experiences as a CPA and as a Certified Residential Appraiser give me unique abilities and insights to serve on the City Council. I have audited local cities and counties and have helped numerous businesses in the valley with their Tax Preparation and Accounting needs. I now offer my 27 years of experience to the residents of Orem by serving on the City Council.”

Spencer Rands:

“I will serve the residents of Orem by making decisions that include the input I have received from residents. I will seek to learn and understand before making consequential decisions that affect the lives of Orem’s residents.

“Additionally, since Prop 2, there has been a lot of conversation about which candidates will work with Alpine School District and which will work against it. This is about doing what is best for Orem’s youth and working collaboratively with the school district for the betterment of Orem’s future. As your city councilman, I will re-establish consistent, constructive meetings between Orem City Council and Alpine School District. These meetings will enable Orem and Alpine School District to work together so we may better support our children and teachers.

“As parents of students in Alpine School District, we need a City Council that will work with the school district for our kids.”

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