I hope you’re having a great October! Election Day is getting closer, and if you are registered to vote, you should have received your ballot. If you haven’t, contact the Utah County Clerk at (801) 851-8683 or vote.utahcounty.gov/home. If you have any questions about voting or registering, or if you want to track your ballot, go to vote.utah.gov.
BALLOT CONFUSION
There has been some confusion in Utah County about what needs to go on the ballot envelope. The instructions say that you must put the last four digits of your social security number or valid Utah I.D. However, on the envelope, there is only a place to sign your name and no place to put digits.
Last week, I called the Utah County Clerk, Aaron Davidson, and asked him about the discrepancy. He said that no digits are necessary, but if someone puts digits next to their name, it is not a problem. The important thing is that you sign the envelope!
So why do the instructions say to put digits? Last session, the legislature passed a law that required digits on the envelope–that’s why they were required in the Primary. However, according to Aaron, a problem with the law is that it instructs the County Clerk to only verify the digits are correct instead of the signature even though signatures are a more secure way to verify that a voter is who they say they are. The law actually did not go into effect yet, so this time around we are only doing signatures. Aaron did not want to spend additional money on reprinting the instructions, so they are incorrect.
LOSING BUSINESSES
KSL recently highlighted an analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data showing that the Provo-Orem-Lehi metro area ranked last among 375 metros in retail business growth, experiencing a 12.5% drop in our brick and mortar retail business over the last five years. Meanwhile, Utah overall saw an increase of 2%, and the Salt Lake City metro area increased its retail business by 10%.
Our local businesses are the economic heartbeat of the city and this is an opportunity to build on what’s already great about Provo.
Imagine Provo where Center Street is even more alive in the evenings with people attending events, eating out, listening to live music, and gathering with friends. A city where small businesses can flourish in every neighborhood, bringing energy and opportunity close to home.
As your mayor, I will prioritize:
- Streamlining and clarifying the permitting process so starting or expanding a business in Provo is simpler and faster.
- Encouraging neighborhood-friendly retail, services, and hospitality, especially in under-served areas where local commerce can thrive.
- Proactively supporting and investing in local entrepreneurs who have already invested in our city.
- Collaborating with Provo’s Downtown businesses and other partners to plan and implement a vision for this unique area.
With the right support and smart planning, we can make sure Provo is the place to start, grow, and succeed in business. Becoming more friendly to entrepreneurs and local businesses is vital for our economic future.
I believe it is time for fresh ideas and new energy in Provo. You can learn more about me and why I’m running for Mayor by visiting, marshajudkins.com, by attending one of my cottage meetings, or by reaching out to me personally.
Marsha Judkins
EVENTS
Monday, October 27
Cottage meeting hosted by Aaron Wheatley
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
865 E 200 N