Declared Conflict of Interest

City Council Meeting of November 21^st. presented me with the opportunity to reflect on the past and current members of the City Council. Going back ten years, I could not help but notice the change of methodology employed which brought forth the personalities of each member and their posture in presenting themselves. The Individual Values and Concerns for the Image they portrayed of themselves, To not only to be SEEN, but to be HEARD displaying those qualities. A GENUINE attitude that they care how the PUBLIC perceives them and their actions.

This observation was made during Public Hearings on two issues that may on their face appear minor or of small importance on zoning issues.

The first issue had to do with change from R-1-10 to AP on 15.77 acres and to OS on 28.77 acres on property located on the east side of Medical Center Drive at approximately 600 South.   (East of the new Hospital)

What made this meaningful was that IHC Health Services, Inc. was the applicant and that Councilman Pike, now Mayor Elect Pike is employed by IHC.

What stood out was that Councilman Pike clearly made it known that he was Excusing Himself from voting, but then to avoid any semblance of Conflict of Interest or Undue Influence on other Council Members he left the Council Chambers to allow the issue to be heard.

The second issue had to do with change from RE-12.5 to R-1-10 on 5.01 acres located on the east side of 2160 East Street and north of 2450 South.

What made this meaningful was that Denice Hughes was the applicant and that he is brother to Councilman Hughes, who followed the example outlined by Councilman Pike.  He too declared a Conflict of Interest and left the Council Chambers.

How refreshing to see that both men not only complied with protocol but that they did it in such a way that their Character stood out in a most positive way.

This can only bode well for the citizens of Saint George but it also stands as a good example to be followed by our recently elected council members, Randall and Bowcutt.

There was a third zoning change issue which took place during this council session that had to do with a change from RE-12.5 on 10.6 acres and from A-1 on 11.9 acres to R-1-10 located southeast of the intersection of Seegmiller Drive and 3000 East Street, south of the Bridle Gate Estates. Borely Enterprise Trust, Charles Larsen, Trustee was the applicant.

What stood out on this issue was that several citizens from the adjoining properties were present and contested the zoning change.  Both sides of the issue presented their arguments with a high degree of quality of expression and with civility.

What was most meaningful to me was that approval would bring with it an increase in density with a projected increase of 8 additional lots.

NOW, as expected Councilwoman Bunker put forth the effort to mollify both sides of the issue and the other council members contributed by recognizing past zoning efforts in this part of the community.

WHAT REALLY stood out was Councilman Jimmy Hughes who had the courage to speak out. Revealing his personal values and what he recognized as being in the best interest of the Little Valley community, while voicing recognition of past and future building expected in this area of the city and while acknowledging that he owns property in this area and what he would like to see for his family and friends. A quality of life which he and his family cherish.

My friends, isn’t it nice to see and experience a true sense of transparency take place in OUR city council meetings.

You may participate in monitoring “Promises Made and Promises Kept” by city government by contacting me at edbacausa@gmail.com                         

Thank you, Ed