2025 municipal primary election: Get to know the residents running for seats on Orem City Council
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- The exterior of Orem’s new city hall is pictured Tuesday, April 22, 2025.
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- Orem City Council candidate Quinn Mecham is pictured in an undated photo.
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- Orem City Councilwoman LaNae Millett is pictured in an undated photo.
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- Orem City Council candidate Doyle Mortimer is pictured in an undated photo.
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- Orem City Council candidate Angela Moulton is pictured in an undated photo.
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- Orem City Council candidate Crystal Muhlestein is pictured in an undated photo.
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- Orem City Councilman David M. Spencer is pictured in an undated photo.
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- Orem City Council candidate Steven White is pictured in an undated photo.
Utah Valley voters will narrow down the list of candidates for their respective cities via municipal primary elections on Aug. 12.
As Election Day approaches, the Daily Herald has been inviting candidates for local office in some of Utah County’s cities to respond to a questionnaire to discuss their campaigns.
In Orem, there is no mayoral primary because there are just two candidates: incumbent Dave Young and Karen McCandless.
But in the race for City Council, 10 candidates are vying for three open spots, and the results of the primary will whittle the field down to six candidates for the general election.
In this series, get to know the Orem residents who are running for seats on the City Council.
The candidates are: Quinn Mecham, Doyle Mortimer, Angela Moulton, Crystal Muhlestein, Truman Van Cott, Steven White, Archie Williams and Tommy Williams.
Incumbent council members LaNae Millett and David M. Spencer are also seeking an additional 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):
Quinn Mecham
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“I have served for six years on the Orem Natural Resources Advisory Commission, as well as on a school board and on the Utah County Good Governance Advisory Board.”
Why are you running for this position?
“Orem has been a wonderful place to raise my family, and I’m running as a way of giving back to my community a little bit of what we’ve received by living here. I have taught courses in good governance at BYU for 12 years. My personal and professional passion is building strong communities.
“I care deeply about conservative values of transparency, fiscal responsibility and in making wise long-term investments that will pay off for our children. I believe that we should keep national partisan politics out of local elections, and that we need to return to Orem’s traditional values of trust, mutual respect and collaboration to become the community that I know we want to be.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“We have to make wise growth decisions that preserve our remaining agricultural lands and prioritize starter homes and retirement homes. We need to better manage traffic coming through Orem and develop regional partnerships with other cities and neighboring universities to deal with the regional challenges of housing affordability, economic growth and transportation.
“We need to revitalize our commercial sector and bring in larger employers, as well as create more spaces for pedestrian shopping and entertainment. This will help expand our tax base.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“We need more active citizen input into city decisions because we will always make better decisions when everyone is involved. I also support spending limits on local elections, in order to enable as many people as possible to run for office.
“As I’ve focused on for years, we need to prioritize our remaining orchards, agriculture and green spaces. In the process we can build stronger, more cohesive neighborhoods, and ensure real neighborhood input into development decisions. We also need a policy on short-term rentals, allowing people to make income from their properties under clear rules that protect the character of neighborhoods.
“I think that Orem can have the best parks, recreation, library, restaurants, local businesses, and community events of any city in Utah county. We should accelerate our forward momentum in each of these areas.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
LaNae Millett
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“I served for decades in the PTA, school community councils, on city boards and commissions, and as precinct chair, vice chair, and delegate. Public service is part of who I am. As a current city councilwoman, I serve on the Utah Lake Authority Board, the ULCT Commission on Housing Affordability, the Cultural Arts Commission, the Orem Community Foundation Board, the America 250 Committee, and the Station Area Plan Committee. I am also the liaison to the MyHometown Initiative and often attend MAG/UDOT transportation meetings. I am a member of the Utah League of Cities and Towns. In 2024, I was honored with the Best of State — Elected Local Official Award. I’m a mother of five with a bachelor’s degree in business finance from BYU. I worked professionally for ten years. My skills and experience uniquely qualify me to be effective on day one of my new term.”
Why are you running for this position?
“I am running for re-election because I care deeply about Orem’s future and want to continue the positive momentum and improvements we’ve built over the past four years.
“As a city councilwoman, I’ve worked hard to keep Orem a family-centered, fiscally responsible and safe community. I’m proud to have helped establish Orem’s identity as Family City USA by protecting neighborhoods, blocking high-density apartments and promoting owner-occupied housing that strengthens our community.
“Recently, we completed Orem’s new city hall — built with no new taxes and no debt. We even secured a grant to install solar power on the roof — an example of what careful, conservative stewardship can accomplish. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, but there’s more to do. I’m committed to continuing this work — strengthening Orem families, protecting neighborhoods and securing a bright future. I am running to represent Family City USA and to be a conservative voice on our Orem City Council.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“One of Orem’s biggest challenges is growth. Orem stands at a crossroads. Most of our residents want to see Orem remain Family City USA. But there are some who want Orem to become like Salt Lake City. They want to build 10,000-plus high-density apartments throughout the city. They want to install Bus Rapid Transit on an already overcrowded State Street. They want Orem to grow beyond the capacity of its current infrastructure. Their wants would be disastrous.
“I respectfully disagree with their approach. I believe Orem’s growth must be carefully planned and thoughtfully managed. I’m a strong advocate of growth through renewal and restoration throughout our city.
“We have the opportunity to renew aging neighborhoods, prioritize single-family, owner-occupied homes and strengthen Orem families. By restoring infrastructure, supporting local businesses and investing in our neighborhoods, we can move Orem forward — while protecting the values that define Family City USA.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“My priorities remain the same: protecting Orem’s neighborhoods, strengthening Orem’s families and securing Orem’s future.
“I will continue to protect Orem’s neighborhoods from encroaching, high-density apartments and focus on revitalization, beautification and safety. Our neighborhoods are the heart of Orem. Preserving their character is essential. I believe Orem’s neighborhoods are what make Orem exceptional.
“I will continue to promote programs that strengthen Orem’s families and help them to thrive. I proudly support Orem’s parks & recreation, the SCERA, cultural arts, and senior services — resources that bring families together and enrich our community. I will always champion Orem’s police, fire, emergency and public works departments. These vital services keep our families safe, our neighborhoods secure and our city running smoothly.
“I will continue ensuring that Orem’s future is carefully planned and thoughtfully executed. I will listen to residents and work side-by-side with the community to keep Orem Family City USA.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
“You can learn more about me — my accomplishments, values, and endorsements — by visiting VoteLaNae.com. Follow along on social media for updates and insights; Website: VoteLaNae.com Facebook: VoteLaNae; Instagram: lanaemillettorem; Informational videos on my YouTube Channel:@VoteLaNae; Email: VoteLaNae@gmail.com; Cell Phone: 385-404-1413 (call or text). I am always happy to talk to Orem residents about our amazing city.”
Doyle Mortimer
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“I have held several positions in the Republican Party over 50 years, including Utah Co. Republican Party Treasurer, 3rd Congressional District Vice-Chair, member of State Republican Party Executive Committee, two-time Utah County Convention Chair and many precinct positions. I was also a member of the Utah State Legislature for two terms.”
Why are you running for this position?
“I want to see Orem continue to be the best city. I have great experience as a consensus builder, and I can assist with unity in Orem leadership.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“We have a new school district that we need to support in every way possible to ensure a great education for our students. We have an aging population who are still so vital to our city. We need to be vigilant in our support of them. Home values are out of control. We need to support home ownership and find creative ways to support affordable housing for seniors and first-time home buyers.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“First, we have great city employees. I want to know them and support them. I am especially concerned that our public and fire safety departments are fully funded to protect our city.
“I want to promote increased unity in the city council. We also need to continue to support business development to keep our tax base strong.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
Angela Moulton
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“I have been an active member of the Utah County Republican Party. I am currently serving as the vice-chair of my precinct. I am also a county and state delegate. Last year I ran for House District 58.”
Why are you running for this position?
“I commit to bring civility back to our Orem City Council. I will ensure that all voices are heard and respected. I do not have a personal agenda, I only want to serve Orem. I’ve seen how rapid growth, rising housing costs and infrastructure issues are putting pressure on our families and neighborhoods. I will promote affordable, responsible housing that is sustainable, and in tune with Orem’s values.
“I am the only candidate with professional experience in public education in the Alpine School District, and that matters as we transition to a new school district. I have the knowledge and background to work constructively with the new school board to support a strong educational future for Orem’s children.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“Orem faces several pressing challenges. Rapid population growth strains roads, utilities and public services, requiring strategic infrastructure plans to maintain and replace aging infrastructure. Housing affordability is another critical issue: with rising home prices, middle-income families struggle to find owner-occupied options. Balancing responsible growth with preservation of open green spaces and parks also demands careful planning. Transportation and traffic congestion, particularly during peak commute hours, call for expanded transit options and improved bike and pedestrian infrastructure. As our city population increases, we need to collaborate regionally through MAG and UTA to address countywide transportation and growth issues. Finally, we need to embrace water conservation amid Utah’s drought and require forward-looking policies to ensure Orem’s long-term resilience and quality of life.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“As a member of the city council, I will be a strong voice for civility, respect and collaboration in city governance. My short-term priority is creating space for every resident to have a voice in the decisions that shape their neighborhoods, and ensuring that city government is responsive and reflective of its citizens. My long-term priority is promoting infrastructure that is both sustainable and aligns with the values of our community. I believe in planning wisely today to strengthen the city we will pass on to future generations. This includes: improving transportation infrastructure to reduce traffic congestion, and promoting affordable, responsible housing that is sustainable. I also will support our new school board as they create a new school district for our children.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
Crystal Muhlestein
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“House District Chair in Utah County Republican Party, Orem Historic Preservation Advisory Commission, PTA and SCC”
Why are you running for this position?
“Serving in my community has been a priority my whole life. I am ready and willing to use my skills, strengths and time to serve Orem. I will prioritize Orem as Family City USA. Orem has the benefits of a larger community, with a wide variety of shopping, restaurants, businesses and services. And Orem has the charm of a smaller town, with strong, community-focused neighborhoods where everyone knows one another, children can run and play and we feel safe. This is unique in our country. A community like this does not happen by chance, and I would like to focus my efforts on maintaining Orem as a destination for families.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“Orem is 95% built out. How Orem manages development and redevelopment will be crucial for the future of our city. Orem must say no to high-density housing and instead focus efforts on economic development. Orem has some of the lowest municipal property taxes in the county because the business and commercial areas bring in enough revenue to offset costs. Maintaining that balance will be important in keeping Orem affordable.
“Past administrations have brought high growth and high-density housing to Orem. Orem must focus its efforts on catching up its infrastructure needs with that growth. Many areas were neglected during those years of growth, like police, fire and traffic concerns. Orem has made strides in bridging those gaps, but we must continue to focus on strengthening our infrastructure to ensure a high quality of life.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“1. Vote no on high-density housing — we have more than enough for a community of our size.
“2. Prioritize our first responders, and ensure they have the resources they need to keep our community safe.
“3. Alleviate traffic concerns and help our roads run more efficiently.
“4. Be a wise steward of the tax dollars entrusted to the city and be fiscally responsible.
“5. Represent YOU on the city council by listening to constituents and helping to resolve issues and citizen concerns.
“6. Preserve Orem as Family City USA. This will be my guidepost for all decisions.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
David M. Spencer
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“I currently serve on the Orem City Council and am running for re-election. I decided to run for the city council while volunteering with Orem Youth Baseball when I learned the city planned to remove key baseball fields for a parking lot. This was just the beginning of my commitment to protect Orem’s neighborhoods and make sure residents have a voice. I led out to change the State Street Master Plan and took 10,000 high-density apartments off of State Street. Since then, I have been actively involved in numerous city projects, including the All-Together Playground, the Hillcrest Park, the Lakeside Sports Park, the new debt-free City Hall, a new 10 million gallon water tank, other water infrastructure upgrades and efforts to reduce traffic and preserve open space.”
Why are you running for this position?
“I am running for re-election because I care deeply about Orem and the direction our city is heading. I have always believed in common-sense leadership that puts families and neighborhoods first. Orem is 95% built out, which means our decisions now have a long-lasting impact. We need leaders who will preserve our open spaces, fight against overdevelopment and protect the quality of life we all enjoy. I have worked hard to solve real problems, including installing stop signs near schools after a child was hit by a car, securing better pay for police and fire to retain experience, and ensuring we built a new city hall without raising taxes. I am proud of my record and want to continue being a hands-on advocate who listens, responds and works hard to get things done. I believe in keeping Orem strong, safe, and family-focused.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“One of the biggest challenges facing Orem is managing growth while preserving our community character. With most of our land already developed, the pressure to rezone for high-density housing is increasing. I have led efforts to push back on overdevelopment, including removing 10,000 apartments from the former State Street Master Plan. Another major challenge is maintaining our infrastructure; especially roads, water and public safety, without raising taxes. We have made great strides with a new 10-million-gallon water tank, traffic improvements and investments in police and fire retention, but we must stay vigilant. Lastly, we need to support revitalization in our older neighborhoods and keep Orem a place where families can thrive. I am committed to addressing these challenges with conservative principles, community input and practical problem-solving.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“If re-elected, my top priorities will be to continue protecting neighborhoods, keeping taxes low and ensuring Orem remains Family City USA. I will continue opposing unnecessary high-density development and push for smart growth that respects our community character. I will also focus on public safety, working to retain experienced police officers and firefighters, and continuing efforts to improve traffic safety near schools and in neighborhoods. Fiscal responsibility will remain central to everything I do. We built a $37 million city hall with no tax increase or new debt; that is the kind of leadership Orem deserves. I will also prioritize investment in parks, recreation and water infrastructure to make sure Orem continues to be a safe, vibrant place to live for generations to come. Above all, I will keep listening, showing up when residents need help, and making sure the government works for the people.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
Steven White
What (if any) prior or ongoing political/organizational experience do you have?
“No professional political experience.”
Why are you running for this position?
“I’m running because I care deeply about Orem’s future and what it would look like for our kids. I’ve seen and experienced the growing frustration over traffic, overdevelopment and decisions which are clearly out of step with what residents want. Orem is a great city, but we’re at a turning point. I believe we need a course correction. I’m not a politician. I’m a resident, a parent, and someone who’s willing to work hard, listen carefully and stand up for what makes Orem special. That means protecting our neighborhoods, stopping high-density rezonings, significantly improving traffic, ensuring a smooth school district transition, upholding transparency, and better supporting police and fire. I want families to feel safe, heard and rooted in a community that values and prioritizes them, not developers and portfolio landlords. It’s your city. Let’s keep it that way.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your municipality?
“Orem is facing several challenges that threaten our quality of life if we don’t act thoughtfully. Traffic congestion is worsening, yet the city council recently (and controversially) approved more medium-density housing at the beloved Wilkerson Farm. High-density development has already strained infrastructure, we need to pause and reassess. Air quality and green space preservation are top concerns, not just for me but for most residents. The school district transition needs careful oversight to ensure stability and excellence for our students. Neighborhoods are seeing a rise in investor-owned and short-term rentals, which have eroded community character and safety. Many feel that decisions are being made without regard for their voices. Orem is still a great place to live, the challenge is whether we’ll put residents first and plan with care for the long term. We don’t have much space left, once it’s gone, it’ll be virtually impossible to get it back.”
If elected, what would be your priorities?
“It’s time to step back and ask: What kind of city are we becoming? Orem should reflect the people who live here, not just those profiting off it.
“I’ll support a full pause on high-density rezoning until we seriously assess traffic, air quality, infrastructure, and livability to give us time to rethink Orem’s growth strategy.
“I’ll push for real traffic solutions: better signal timing, smart and cost-effective tech, and reduced congestion through remote work and delivery options. I’ll support police and fire with the tools, staffing and community backing they need to keep Orem safe. I’ll fight the spread of investor-owned and short-term rentals that erode neighborhood trust and character.
“Our new school district deserves steady hands and clear-eyed leadership. Orem schools can be the best in Utah.
“You see it: traffic’s worse, air’s worse, and so are some neighborhoods. For a better direction, we need change.”
Where should people go to get more information about your campaign?
“My website, SteveforOrem.com or by emailing me at stevefororem@protonmail.com.”
Truman Van Cott, Archie Williams and Tommy Williams did not respond.
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