PLATFORM

Seeing the BIG picture for Ogden

"I come from proud a family with a heart for public service. The values instilled in me have kept me fighting to improve our community. Put me to work for you. I will make sure public funds are wisely used and accounted for. Fiscal responsibility will be top of mind. I'll continue to improve our schools, and make public safety a priority. I will use my experience as a business owner in the private sector to find solutions to our biggest challenges, navigate the complicated public issues, and get things done in Ogden." ~ Sebastian Benitez

Education

Kids learn best when they feel safe. Our buildings, teachers, and families play a big role. Rather than relying on government program after program to reach our kids, let's make family involvement a greater priority and reward community involvement. We're all in this together and the children we help today may be our teachers, physicians, and leaders of tomorrow. I plan to update our infrastructure and repurpose existing buildings to house education, rather than wasting thousands of tax payer dollars on new construction. I will make sure our schools have adequate sidewalks, crosswalks and safety zones. I will fight for school choice to create competition in education, resulting in a better product for all. I will cap salary increases and administrative bonuses. I will create an learning culture where both parent and teachers feel supported. When we work together for the best outcomes, our kids succeed.

From Ideas to Action

• Led the effort to build sidewalks around Wasatch Elementary

• Improved park bathrooms and playgrounds

• Advocated for body cameras and better pay for police officers

• Fought to lower property taxes

• Holds city officials accountable for the use of city funds

Housing

Ogden has too many empty houses and buildings. I will create incentives to utilize and repurpose these buildings, providing affordable housing, community beautification, and more single family homes. Many of our older neighborhoods lacks adequate sidewalks, creating a safety hazard for residents. We can do better. I will see that more sidewalks are installed in the most needed areas.

More Work to Be Done

• Protect home ownership

• Reduce property crime

• Demand higher standards from our schools