Hooper City is experiencing tremendous pressure from the State and other entities to increase density and development. What is often referred to as “affordable housing” is merely a euphemism for “profitable housing”, and is far from affordable for the homebuyer. While I am a strong advocate for private property rights, I also appreciate that there are certain necessary concessions that must be made when living in a community. Hooper’s infrastructure challenges are unique. Our sewer system and lack of property tax revenue bring challenges that other cities do not face. We cannot grow faster than we are able to sustain. Increased housing equals increased costs.

I played a strong role in the recent update of our General Plan. A concerted effort was made to listen to what you, the citizens of Hooper, wanted. Careful consideration of the desires of the community, our unique infrastructure, and the upcoming installation of the West Weber Corridor resulted in a General Plan that will aid in protecting and preserving our city for years to come- if we adhere to it. An impressive amount of community feedback was received during the plan revision. It is clear that Hooper has a strong desire to preserve our rural heritage. I share those sentiments. I believe in our General Plan, and I am committed to respecting and honoring it. I will work together with the community, council, and commission to find a balance that will allow us to grow responsibly and in a way that will protect our quality of life.