Provo has already seen where this attitude leads. Handley ignored neighborhoods when he voted to allow basement apartments everywhere in Provo and when he stripped away elected Neighborhood Chairs without even asking residents for their input. Thankfully, Handley is stepping down. Now voters must choose between two candidates with completely opposite views on whether elected officials should listen to the people they represent.

Hannah Petersen’s answer to Handley’s question was simple and powerful: “Most of the time, what is right is what the residents are supporting. One of my core values is to not always assume I know what’s right. I think the leadership that has been best in our community are the people who really do value and respect the priorities of the citizens.” That’s the kind of humility and respect Provo needs.

Jeff Whitlock, on the other hand, has already proven he’s cut from the same cloth as Handley. Recently while serving on the Planning Commission, he ignored the concerns of 90% of residents in Southeast Provo and sided with developers to cram in 110 homes in Buckley Draw on lots so small they can’t support families with children. He’s also promised, without asking taxpayers or showing the price tag, to create a new full-time city position to advance BikeWalk Provo’s agenda. 

Hannah Petersen represents listening, respect, and responsible use of taxpayer money. Jeff Whitlock represents arrogance, disregard, and developer-driven decisions.

The choice is clear: if you want a City Council that respects neighborhoods instead of steamrolling them, vote for Hannah Petersen.

David G. Wright is a Provo resident.