Sandy’s General Plan: Section 5 - Economic Development
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.
A Strong Local Economy Means a Stronger Sandy
As a candidate for City Council, I believe our economic development strategy must center on people—residents, business owners, and workers who call Sandy home. The General Plan outlines a framework that recognizes Sandy’s role as a regional hub for culture, retail, and employment, and I am committed to ensuring we utilize this position to support community well-being, job access, and long-term resilience.
Economic Stability Isn’t Just a Metric—It’s Peace of Mind
Sandy’s stability hinges on thoughtful planning and smart investments. I support policies that provide predictability to families and businesses — ensuring steady jobs, moderate costs of living, and responsible growth. By promoting investment and entrepreneurship, we can create an economic climate where local businesses thrive, and workers of all skill levels have pathways to success.
Sandy’s Location Is Our Advantage—Let’s Use It Wisely
Sandy’s central location on the Wasatch Front, with multiple access points to I-15 and three TRAX stations, gives us a unique edge. I’ll support economic development strategies that leverage this positioning to attract high-quality jobs, foster vibrant commercial areas, and reduce commuter burdens. Thoughtful land use policies and infrastructure planning will help make these connections real for everyday residents.
Corporate and Local Businesses Both Deserve Support
We need a balanced economy—one that attracts corporate investment while uplifting small, locally owned businesses. I will champion programs that retain our unique local flavor, reduce barriers to entrepreneurship, and create diverse commercial centers that feel like an extension of our neighborhoods. Economic vitality doesn’t have to come at the cost of community character.
Tourism Can Be a Long-Term Asset for Sandy
From our trails to our theaters to our Stadium, Sandy is a gateway to some of Utah’s greatest attractions. But we’ve only scratched the surface. I support expanding tourism infrastructure, improving visitor experiences, and investing in events that invite people to stay longer and spend locally. Tourism done right will boost our economy while preserving the things that make Sandy special.
Retail Is About More Than Shopping—It’s Community Building
Sandy has over 7.8 million square feet of retail—some of the most in the region. These centers should be more than just places to buy things; they should be places to gather, connect, and create culture. I’ll push for revitalizing aging retail spaces into vibrant, mixed-use hubs that serve both economic and social needs.
Revitalize, Don’t Just Expand
With Sandy nearing build-out, we can’t depend on new construction alone. I believe redevelopment is our biggest opportunity. I support transforming underperforming commercial centers into thriving community anchors through strategic investment, updated zoning, and public-private partnerships that foster innovation and community pride.
A Balanced Tax Base Protects Our Services
Sandy relies on diverse revenue—from sales tax to property tax—to fund everything from parks to public safety. I’ll work to protect and enhance this balance by promoting smart growth, supporting mixed-use development near transit, and ensuring that new projects contribute meaningfully to our financial health without raising the tax burden on residents.
Community Voices Must Guide Economic Policy
Residents are clear: affordability, neighborhood integrity, and job access matter. My campaign is rooted in listening first. I’ll advocate for land use and economic development policies that reflect community input—policies that protect character, expand housing options near jobs, and prioritize walkability, not just commercial revenue.
Let’s Build the Future Without Losing What We Love
This plan outlines the “how,” but leadership determines the “why.” I’m running because I believe Sandy’s economic future must reflect our shared values: opportunity, stewardship, and well-being. With a thoughtful and inclusive approach, we can ensure Sandy remains a place where families thrive, businesses grow, and community comes first.