Sandy’s General Plan: Introduction
This will be a series of thoughts on our City’s General Plan.
I think it is best to start with this document as the base for any conversation about our city. It is the result of extensive community feedback and expert planning.
Guiding Change Without Losing Ourselves
As a candidate for Sandy City Council, I believe we can embrace progress while staying true to who we are. Section 1 of the General Plan—“Pace of Progress”—reminds us that change is inevitable, but how we manage it determines whether we thrive or fracture. I’m running to ensure our city changes in a way that supports families, protects neighborhoods, and reflects our shared values.
We’re Nearing Build-Out—Now What?
Sandy is approaching physical build-out. That means we can no longer rely on outward expansion to keep our city thriving—we must focus on redevelopment, revitalization, and smarter land use. I support strategies that help us adapt to this new reality by investing in the places we already have and planning deliberately for the future.
A Generational Crossroads
Right now, we’re at a critical turning point. The choices we make today will affect Sandy for decades to come. The General Plan identifies this moment as a chance to evolve thoughtfully, not reactively. I want to make sure our decisions are based on community input, long-term vision, and a commitment to preserving the soul of our city.
Creating a Clear Vision Through the General Plan
The General Plan provides a framework to guide land use, transportation, sustainability, and economic development. But a framework means nothing without leadership that listens. I will prioritize transparency and community engagement, making sure this Plan remains a living document shaped by the people it serves.
Balancing New Growth With Existing Neighborhoods
One of my core campaign priorities is protecting the integrity of our established neighborhoods. Growth doesn’t mean we need to sacrifice what makes our communities livable. I’ll advocate for compatible redevelopment that respects the character of each district while allowing for new housing types and vibrant public spaces.
Building on Sandy’s Strengths
Sandy has so much going for it—excellent schools, strong infrastructure, natural beauty, and a central location. The General Plan recognizes these as competitive advantages. I’ll work to enhance what we already do well and fix what’s holding us back, whether that’s connectivity, affordability, or equitable access to services.
Taking the Long View With Every Decision
Too often, cities get stuck in short-term thinking. But the challenges we face—like housing costs, transportation congestion, and environmental degradation—require a long-range approach. I support policies that consider impacts not just next year, but for the next generation.
Infill and Redevelopment Done Right
As we shift from expansion to infill development, we need to get it right. That means demanding high-quality design, accessible public amenities, and a mix of uses that meet real community needs. I’ll work to ensure redevelopment benefits the residents who already live here, not just new arrivals or outside investors.
Avoiding the Pitfalls of Reactive Growth
Without careful planning, change can bring gentrification, strained infrastructure, and loss of identity. I’m running because I want Sandy to lead—not just respond. The General Plan outlines a vision, but it’s up to us on the City Council to make that vision real with policies that prioritize stability, affordability, and sustainability.
Let’s Move Forward—Together and Intentionally
Pace of progress isn’t just a planning term—it’s a question of values. How fast we change, where we change, and who benefits from that change are decisions that impact every resident. As your councilmember, I’ll work every day to ensure Sandy moves forward thoughtfully—so we’re not just change, we’re changing for the better.
Look for thoughts on the other (7) sections!