Why I’m running for mayor
I have served on the City Council for almost five years, with two different mayors and city managers. I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t. Our elected body needs processes that are carried out with greater care and strategy, that give stronger voice to the public and department heads, and that build people with civility.
In the aftermath of the first referendum petition in Clinton history, residents are eager to know their voice is reflected in the plans of their elected representatives. My proven record of thorough, transparent communication shows my genuine love and respect for the people as the foundation of our community.
DIGGING IN
the people
“Marie is always the one digging for the facts, putting in hours and hours of research.”
– LARETTA BEESLEY
– JOAN YOUNG
“Marie is the BEST!!!!!“
“A true friend of the people, who represents the citizens of Clinton, the values, with an eye to the future as well as an appreciation of the past. She has my total support.”
– JOHN FUIT
“Her communication skills are exceptional.”
– SIERRA COOMBS
– GARY BARNEY
“The leadership Clinton has been craving.”
“She’s smart, calm, pragmatic, and always seeks to understand all the different angles of a problem. She’s done an exceptional job on the city council and would make an incredible mayor.”
– TARGHEE CHILD
[Read more]
THE ISSUES
Process & Planning
- Public participation: State law requires a minimum for transparency and public hearings. Leaders should go beyond that when they know a topic matters to the public.
- Strategic planning: There is currently no strategic plan for the city’s operations or budget. That needs to change. … [Read more]
Housing
- Prioritize small single-family lots to help the housing shortage.
- Emphasize ownership.
- Don’t line corridors with apartments.
- Don’t zone for huge acreages of townhomes that look like walls and walls of sameness.
- Nestle attached units in smaller pockets, behind commercial as appropriate. Blend well.
- Protect Clinton’s less urban family-focused character.
- Consider infrastructure, and ensure building and impact fees are updated so Clinton doesn’t lose potential revenue. … [Read more]
Commercial growth
Clinton doesn’t have an economic development plan. We should have one. There will be elements of economic planning in our General Plan update, which is finally underway, but we need a strategic plan for how to professionally market our city to the kinds of business and commercial developments that residents want. … [Read more]
Taxes
- We should only raise property taxes when necessary, and only by the amount necessary to balance the budget in accordance with state law.
- What’s “necessary” should be decided through transparent, strategic planning that includes public input early in the process.
- We shouldn’t raise taxes simply to put money into the city’s savings account. … [Read more]
Public Safety
When I first joined the City Council in 2021, I listened carefully to the concerns of our new police chief, who felt the department was understaffed for Clinton’s population. I successfully advocated for a new officer that year. …[Read more]
Infrastructure
I pushed to get an additional $250,000 last year in ongoing funds to maintain our streets. The Council agreed, and we are working to catch up on slurry seals and other basic maintenance that prolongs the life of our infrastructure. Streets, water lines, sewer lines — it’s all incredibly expensive. …[Read more]
Recycling
The Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District, which controls the landfill and recycling center, plans to require every city to have a citywide recycling program or face fines. …We don’t know when that requirement will begin. … [Read more]
MEET MARIE
The wheat is a subtle nod to our Clinton City logo and our agricultural heritage. In historical writings, wheat is used as a symbol for good people. The wheat is a reminder this work is not about me. It’s about the people of Clinton. With careful attention, we can preserve the things we love while we grow.
Marie Dougherty for Clinton Mayor 