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Senate committee unanimously recommends two UDOT commissioners for reappointment
Summary
The Senate Transportation, Public Utilities, Energy and Technology Confirmation Committee unanimously recommended the reappointments of Natalie Goughner and Kevin Van Tassel to the Utah Transportation Commission after brief remarks from each commissioner and a public endorsement from the Wasatch Front Regional Council.
The Senate Transportation, Public Utilities, Energy and Technology Confirmation Committee met to consider reappointments to the Utah Transportation Commission and voted unanimously to favorably recommend Natalie Goughner and Kevin Van Tassel to the full Senate.
Natalie Goughner, who introduced herself as “a UDOT transportation commissioner” and said she has served nearly six years after being appointed under Gov. Herbert, spoke briefly about her experience working with UDOT staff and leadership and said she looks forward to serving another term. After a check for public comment and a motion from Senator Ravey, the committee voted by voice to forward her nomination to the full Senate; the chair ruled the motion passed unanimously.
Kevin Van Tassel spoke to the committee about current commission priorities and projects. He said the environmental impact statement for the Heber Valley project is nearing completion and highlighted emerging needs in the Tooele area. Van Tassel estimated the Heber Valley bypass project “could be” in the range of about $750 million to $800 million. Andrew Gruber, executive director of the Wasatch Front Regional Council, told the committee the council and other metropolitan planning organizations strongly support both commissioners’ reappointments, praising their knowledge and service.
Senator Ipsen moved to recommend Van Tassel’s reappointment to the full Senate; after no discussion the committee voted by voice and the chair ruled the motion passed unanimously. The committee then adjourned.
The committee’s favorable recommendations will be transmitted to the full Utah Senate for confirmation; the transcript does not record a numerical roll-call tally or individual named votes on either motion.
