Taresa Hiatt/Letter 2017

As I frequently do for local elections, I sent a letter to each candidate for city council of Payson during the November 2017 Election, Payson, Utah County, Utah. The only response I received was from Taresa Hiatt.

Letter Sent

I am a blogger looking to find out more about the candidates for the available City Council seats in Payson, so I am emailing all of the candidates to find out more about them.

What inspires you to seek a seat on the City Council of Payson?

How would you describe the job of a City Councillor?

What responsibility do you see individual citizens as having in promoting their own welfare, and the welfare of society, and what kinds of limitations you see to that responsibility?

If you are elected, how might you be able to act as a check against abuses perpetrated by other government officers?

Response

I am seeking a seat on City Council because I have not seen any significant change in Payson for many years. I have been talking to many people about different issues and concerns. I feel that all citizens have a say in government and who runs their city. For too many years, there has been very little accountability to the citizens. Payson has not moved ahead. Why? That is a question everyone is asking. I personally feel that some people have had too much control in what happens in our city. I have heard the same concerns from many citizens. I think that all Payson residents need to stand up and say, "No more, start listening to our issues and concerns or we will vote you out." I am committed to the people. I know I don't have all the answers but that is why I am willing to listen to people and talk about their concerns and ideas. Five people on a city council do not have all the answers, and they are not the smartest people in the city. I will give of my time to investigate each issue that I am confronted with. I know that I will make a big difference because I work until I find a solution to the problem.

The Job of the City Council Member is to make the best decision, based on research, for the betterment of the city and its citizens. Accountability is a must and closed door policy needs to be limited. We answer to the public. The City Council needs to start realizing that their actions or inactions have an effect on the city, whether bad or good. These five people must put aside their differences and make decisions based on knowledge and not feelings.

I personally feel that all citizens should be involved in how their city is governed. Each person is responsible for finding out where each candidate stands on the issues. Everyone has a voice, but if they choose not to use it, then their concerns are never heard or expressed. All ideas presented should be for the betterment of all citizens and the city. Also, the citizens should do everything in their power to help make Payson successful.

If there are abuses being carried out by other government officers, I will find a way to take care of the problem. There is no reason that people should abuse their powers when they are supposed to be protecting and serving the citizens. This won't happen on my watch.

If there are any other questions I can answer, please do not hesitate to ask.

Thank you,

Taresa Hiatt