Name: Jeanne Bowen

Race: Utah County Commission Seat B

Email: bowenjeanne@yahoo.com

Phone: (801) 210-0421

Occupation: property tax collector

Age: 41

Education: BA – English secondary education

Website: votebowen.weebly.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vote4bowen/

What are the biggest issues facing Utah Valley and how do you plan to address them?

One of the biggest issues facing Utah County is the budget. The main job of a commissioner is to set the budget. We recently watched Sheriff Tracy resign due to issues with the sheriff office’s budget. While working in the Treasurer’s office, I listen to the tax payers who call and tell me how wonderfully low our taxes are in Utah County compared to much of the U.S. This is great to hear since we have been able to do so much with very little, but I support a much needed tax increase that the current commissioners are considering. Taxes haven’t increase for the County portion in over 30 years. With inflation and growth, we cannot sustain our current level of service. We are losing sheriff employees to Salt Lake and surrounding areas because they can make $5 to $10 more an hour. Everyone expects a certain level of service from the government and we need to make sure we are providing those services.

What sets you apart from other candidates?

Because I work for the county, I believe I have a unique perspective on the job of county commissioner. An example of this is the discussion of changing our form of government. I see value to changing our county government to five part-time commissioners and a full time mayor. Our current form gives the legislative and executive power to only three people. And all it takes is two to vote the same way.

What relevant experience do you have for this position?

I currently work for Utah County in the Treasurer’s office. I actively watch the commission meetings to follow what is discussed and how the commissioners vote. I speak to the elected officials and county employees, so I know what is happening in the different offices. I am a past president of the Utah County Employee Association, and I am still currently on the board. I am on the Utah County Wellness committee. I like to get involved. A large part of what the commissioners do is set the budget. I work for a company keeping their books. I understand budgets and balancing.

What previous elected positions have you held?

I have never held an elected office before.

Is there anything else you want your readers to know about you?

One of my biggest strengths is dependability. I was the student with perfect attendance. I am the employee who never calls in sick. I believe in being honest in who you are. I am the same person both at work, at church, at home, and with friends. I am open-minded and know there is so much for me to learn. Knowledge and learning truly matter to me. I don’t have all the answers, but that is why you surround yourself with very smart people.