Survey shows majority support for switching to primary; council to hold public hearing

Fruit Heights City Council reviewed results of a staff-conducted election survey that showed about 70% of respondents favored switching from the caucus system to a primary election for local offices, though council members cautioned the sample size is small.

The survey was described to the council as an initial, nonstatistical data-gathering effort. “We ended up with a really good turnout as far as people. They did a survey. It’s about 70% that you would want to switch to primary,” a staff member said. Other council members noted the respondents represented a small portion of the electorate; one council member said the sample represented roughly 4% of the voting population and that the results were not necessarily representative.

Council members discussed steps for public outreach and education, including additional survey review, public comment and a formal hearing. Staff indicated a public hearing would likely be scheduled in the second week of March or, alternatively, during early May depending on timing and notice requirements.

Councilors expressed concern that caucus rules and ballot wording (references to party symbols such as “pine and sagebrush”) can confuse voters and discourage potential candidates. They also discussed that the core problem may be low participation and a shortage of people willing to run for office rather than the nomination method itself.

No formal vote was held; council asked staff to refine outreach materials, post the survey questions for review and schedule a public hearing so residents can offer input before the council considers any ordinance or charter change.