Candidate forum at Pleasant Grove special meeting highlights safety, growth and sidewalks

At a Jan. 27 special meeting, 16 applicants interviewed for a Pleasant Grove City Council vacancy and conveyed a range of priorities that repeatedly surfaced across candidates.

Safety near schools and intersections was the most commonly cited concern. Candidate Joe Goff urged additional crossing improvements and blinking lights at crosswalks, saying local intersections in front of schools need upgrades. Denise Strickler and Peter Steele both emphasized sidewalks and safer pedestrian connections, with Steele proposing a doubled mileage of sidewalks and trails over other priorities.

Several applicants framed growth and economic development as central issues. Brett Robertson and Nils Fugel said building a stronger tax base and attracting higher-paying retail would give the city resources to fund services. Peter Steele and Dustin Phillips emphasized walkability and infrastructure investment; Jeff Snyder and Dustin highlighted the need to balance growth with preserving community character.

Communication and outreach also were recurring themes. Tina Fontana, who chairs the Arts Commission, proposed expanding communication channels beyond social media and newsletters and suggested more opportunities for residents to meet councilmembers in person. Multiple applicants said the council should be accessible and listen to residents’ concerns.

Alicia Tucker, who teaches constitutional studies, said the council’s responsibility for middle-income housing planning requires a smart-growth approach to avoid pricing out younger households. Several candidates noted water, rights-of-way and railroad coordination as technical but important governance concerns.

The meeting ended with the council using a secret-ballot process to narrow nominees and selecting Dustin Phillips as the appointee. Council members and staff thanked all applicants and encouraged continued civic involvement.