Written by Paul Van Dam
I bought property here almost 40 years ago. No one would deny Washington County is one of the most beautiful places in the world. That’s why millions of people come here to enjoy its spectacular assets – and why we choose to live here.
Washington County faces an uncertain future. Decisions we make now will determine if this area remains a place of spectacular natural beauty, where our growing population can live in harmony with nature. We face unique challenges as well as the same ones that face every community in the Southwest. Our most important and valuable assets – our red rock vistas and extraordinary mountain and canyon environments – need special protection. Our growing population demands thoughtful planning on how we want our housing, transportation systems and economy to develop.
We’ve reached a critical point. We aren’t going to arrive at a plan for a sustainable future with a business-as-usual approach. Every choice will have consequences – like cuts in hillsides that remind us of poor past decisions. We can’t simply drift into an uncertain future powered by a misguided expectation that free markets can solve problems like water availability, land management and environmental quality. We need local governments that work together with all partners in our region, state and throughout the Southwest. Five County Government and DixieMPO are good starts. We need governments staffed with honest civil servants who serve the interests of all the people – not just their own – for today and for generations to come. That’s the approach I took as a District Attorney, as your Attorney General, and that’s what I would do as Washington County Commissioner.
I’ve been honored with the experience of serving in public office. I believe public service is part of citizenship. In addition to Utah’s Attorney General as well as Salt Lake County District Attorney, I ran for U.S. Senate in 2004. Each event was about 10 years apart. I believe in term limits and served only one term as AG and DA. I don’t believe elective office should be a career.
I’ve spent a lot of time the last few years researching issues about water, growth, transportation and public lands in Washington County. I’ve been involved, talked to a lot of people, and studied the issues raised by “Vision Dixie.” It’s a good roadmap but needs someone with passion to help push it. I want to be a part of making it happen. As George Harrison wrote, “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will lead you there.” But…where will it take us, is the question. Without proper implementation we could see this county become another Las Vegas, Phoenix or even the “Wasatch Front.” I don’t think any of us wants that. I’m running for Washington County Commission because I want to play a role in this growing community’s fight to maintain a healthy, safe and effective approach to the challenges ahead. I want to serve as your commissioner.
In short, it’s about our future.
Paul’s website is PaulVanDam.us
