Democrats, Republicans and Independents recently presented their concerns about returning to partisan politics during a public hearing before the Grand County Council.
An initiative passed in 1992 changed the three-person partisan commission to a seven-person non-partisan council. The measure passed 55 percent to 45 percent.Local leaders of the Democrat and Republican parties, concerned that the lack of partisan politics weakens the political process and discourages voter turnout, asked the county council during the Nov. 13 hearing to consider returning to the partisan system.
Norm Shrewsbury cited the Utah Constitution Section VI, Article 4, which states a new form of government may not be changed for six years and then only by public election.
Lance Christie added that the non-partisan revision was the reason for the voter turnout in 1992. He also said he feels the candidates and elections have improved as non-partisan.
Councilman Bill Redden said that upon legal advice, the council may vote to return to partisan politics or vote for an election before the six- year minimum expires. The council vote must be 5-2 in favor of a return to partisan elections.
Peggy Taylor, chairman of the Grand County Republican Party, said party politics is vital for the political process. County government is now securing election judges and other support, which was previously provided by the two political parties. Appropriate checks and balances for candidate approval, state support and youth education of the political system are all services performed by political parties.
Several representatives from the Democrat Party cited the need for dialogue on party platforms and mentioned the power of grass-roots organization and the importance of individuals to learn the views of candidates at party caucuses.
Former County Commissioner Merv Lawton said the issue should not be "a council decision, but from the people at an election."
The 70 citizens at the hearing were evenly divided on the issue of partisan politics. A vote on the issue is expected soon.