Here are American Fork City Council candidate Elizabeth Gray‘s answers to the questions I sent to all the candidates. Her answers are presented here unedited and without comment.

Note that not all candidates choose — or have time — to answer all ten questions. If any of them send more answers later, I’ll add them..

Qualifications, Platform, and Workload

Q: Please summarize your preparation and qualifications to serve on the American Fork City Council.

A: As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), I bring empathy and a deep understanding of community well-being to the table. My experience managing the local GameStop taught me valuable business and leadership skills. During that time, I actively promoted community engagement, hosting game release parties and participating in local events. These experiences have shaped me into a compassionate listener, a savvy business thinker, and a dedicated community advocate. I am prepared to leverage these skills to serve effectively on the American Fork City Council.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish, if elected? Are there programs and other measures you would promote? Are there others you would oppose or dismantle? Why?

A: If elected to the American Fork City Council, my primary goal will be to uphold and enhance the vibrant sense of community that makes our town special. A key priority is ensuring the safety and accessibility of our streets—whether that’s children walking to school, families biking in our neighborhoods, or residents accessing public transportation options, for example a safer route to frontrunner. I am committed to investing in improved infrastructure, including well-maintained roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, and efficient utility services. Recognizing our local businesses as the backbone of our community, I will advocate for policies that encourage growth while preserving our cherished small-town charm. Fiscal responsibility will be at the forefront of my decision-making, ensuring efficient and effective use of our taxpayer dollars. I am dedicated to improving communication with residents, exploring new avenues for engagement, and considering initiatives like an accessibility park. I promise to listen with an open mind and make decisions with integrity, always respecting the values that bind our community together.

Q: Are you able and committed to spend the time necessary from week to week to do well as a member of the city council? (Experienced city councilors have placed this in a range of 10-20 hours for a typical week.)

A: Absolutely, I am both able and committed to dedicating the necessary time to serve effectively on the City Council. I understand the significant responsibilities that come with this role, and I am fortunate to be in a personal career that allows the flexibility to dedicate the time to working for the city and its population investing 10-20 hours or more per week, as needed, to meet the expectations and needs of our community. Public service is a priority for me, and I am fully committed to being a strong, active, and engaged representative for the people of American Fork.

Other Questions

Q: Should a city’s budgeting and finances operate differently from a family’s? How and why (or why not)?

A: Yes, a city’s budgeting and finances should operate differently from a family’s, though both should be grounded in fiscal responsibility and prudent stewardship. A city, unlike a family, is responsible for providing essential services to a diverse population, including public safety, infrastructure, and community programs. It must balance various interests and prioritize spending in a way that promotes the common good. However, like a family, a city must live within its means, and avoid unnecessary debt. Transparency is key; taxpayers should know how their money is being used and have a say in major financial decisions, akin to a family discussing its budget around the dinner table.

Q: Does the proper role of local government differ in any substantial way from the proper role of the federal government? Please explain.

A: Local government is more directly connected to the community and should focus on immediate, local needs. Federal government operates on a broader scale, addressing national and international issues.

Thanks, Ms. Gray!

Thanks to everyone for reading. If you’re a voter, you have until Tuesday, September 5, to mail or drop off your ballot. Please Learn BEFORE You Vote.

Answers are also posted from Clark Taylor, Tim Holley, Austin Duke, and Christina Ballard, and Ken Sumsion. And don’t miss John Mulholland’s report of his interviews with most of the candidates.

Watch for answers from other candidates and more information and opinion coming soon. If you’re one of the candidates who hasn’t sent answers to the questions I sent, the invitation is still open.