JACKSON, Wyo. — Nine candidates for the Teton County Board of County Commissioners are vying to advance from the Aug. 18 primary to the Nov. 3 general election, where they will compete for three open seats on the board. On a crowded ballot, each person is working hard to stand out.
Ahead of the Tuesday election, Buckrail sent a five-question survey to the candidates. So far, we’ve posted their thoughts about current housing policies, local transportation, ways to channel local wealth, and approaches to collaborating with other electeds. Today, consider the way each respondent tackled the following prompt:
There are nine candidates in this primary field. What makes you stand out from all of the other candidates running? Explain why you think you would be the best choice for this position.
In alphabetical order below, see unedited answers from: Democrats Dr. Brent Blue, Karyn Chin and Ali Dunford; incumbents Wes Gardner, Mark Newcomb and Luther Propst; Independent Alex Muromcew; and Republicans Melchor Dylan Moore and Vicky O’Donoghue.
Blue:
Being a long term resident with common sense approaches to our valley’s problems. Being able to say “no” to special interest groups. Also being able to work with all political sides without prejudice.
Chin:
I’m running because I believe Teton County needs leadership that reflects the people building lives here today.
Over nearly 20 years in the Tetons, my experiences have given me a broad understanding of this community and the people who make it work. I’ve seen Teton County from the restaurant dining room, the trail, the visitor center, neighborhood doorsteps, and community meeting rooms. Those perspectives matter.
I also believe it’s time to make room for a new generation of leadership. Experience is valuable, but so are fresh ideas, new energy, and leaders who understand what it takes to build a life here today, not just decades ago. Our world is changing, and our leadership should evolve with it.
Most importantly, I have a clear governing philosophy. More than a decade ago, our community adopted the vision of “Community First, Resort Second.” We’ve talked about it long enough. It’s time to start delivering.
Dunford:
What makes me stand out? 1. At 37, I’d be the youngest commissioner. This community needs the perspective of younger generations at the decision-making table. 2. I’m the only candidate who doesn’t own a home in Teton County. Over 40% of Teton County residents are renters and renters deserve a voice in the decisions shaping the future of our community. 3. I live in Alta, and commute to Jackson like thousands of workers this valley depends on. Our community’s vast commuting workforce needs a voice on the commission. 4. The commission currently has only one woman – we need more female representation on the board. Why am I a good choice for this position? I bring systems thinking, risk management, and climate and sustainability expertise that the commission currently lacks and desperately needs.
Gardner:
I come to every issue with humility and curiosity. While always striving for practical solutions, I am willing and able to engage in deeper conversations that guide policy. I am comfortable in chaos and capable of making decisions under duress often with incomplete information. I’m unafraid to ask tough questions and offer a dissenting perspective or vote.
I’m the only Commissioner who has lost a campaign; I cherish the opportunity to represent you. I’ve already knocked nearly 1,200 doors, evidence of my willingness to put in the sweat equity the job requires.
I am creative, patient, and empathetic, while also being practical and possessing a facility for numbers. As a private sector employer with fifty employees, I understand the power of supporting staff. I always treat staff respectfully and sing their praises when their work is good. I’m also not afraid to hold staff accountable when necessary.
Governing in Teton County is no easy task. It is serious work that requires thoughtful and diligent leadership. I hope that you will support me as your Teton County Commissioner.
Moore:
Teton County deserves a Board of County Commissioners that reflects the full diversity of viewpoints within our community, including the voices of conservative residents who often feel underrepresented in local government. As a sixth-generation Jackson resident, conservative Republican, openly gay candidate, and Spanish and Mandarin speaking community member, Melchor Moore brings that diversity to Teton County governance, as well as a lifelong commitment to public safety, constitutional rights, and the traditions of Wyoming’s ranching, hunting, fishing, and outdoor heritage. He is committed to making decisions based on the interests of local families and transparent government, and believes public policy should be guided by the people of Teton County rather than by the priorities of well-funded special-interest organizations.
Muromcew:
Nine candidates for three open seats. I hope we can have a broader range of experiences and perspectives on the next County Commission. One, my deep relationships across the Valley and across the State. Two, I have served on non-profit, for profit, and government boards. I know who to work well with people with differing views and reach consensus so that we get things done! Three, through my experience as a County Planning Commissioner, I already understand the rules and regulations that govern so much of how this Valley operates. Four, my private sector background gives me a unique skill set that I can bring to the County Commission especially when it comes to developing affordable housing projects.
Newcomb:
My combination of vision — rural land and habitat protection, housing opportunities in town, putting the brakes on job growth — with a thorough knowledge of our strongest policy-implementing tools — budgeting and land planning, set me apart from the other candidates. Six years on the County Planning Commission was the best possible introduction to the most powerful tool our County has to shape our destiny — planning and zoning. Our rural protections have largely been effective, but they could be improved. We are currently addressing rural subdivisions that detract from our rural values, an effort I support and helped bring to the fore. I have also, on my own accord, taken a detailed look at the amount of development allowed within the rural parts of the county and identified needed amendments to address very large rural buildings, ponds, berms and landscaping that clearly generates huge number of jobs. The jobs generate a lot of traffic, including truck traffic over Teton Pass that can be deadly when drivers are poorly trained and equipment is not maintained. And add pressure to our scarce supply of workforce housing. I will prioritize badly needed adjustments to rural development standards. My experience with budgeting helps me direct scarce revenue where it’s needed most to best serve the public, implement our priorities and look down the road to prepare for future needs.
O’Donoghue:
What distinguishes me is the breadth of my firsthand experience. I bring the perspective of a teacher, coach, driving instructor, small-business owner, nonprofit leader, former 4-H participant and someone raised on a family farm and in a family restaurant. I am not a career politician, and I am not entering this race with predetermined answers or obligations to established political interests.
Through Jackson Hole Driving Academy, I work directly with young people and families throughout Teton County. I see the effects of traffic, growth, affordability and public-safety decisions in people’s daily lives. Transportation, especially, is not theoretical to me — I teach safety on our roads every day.
I am willing to ask questions that may be uncomfortable: What did a project actually cost? What measurable result did taxpayers receive? What studies have already been completed? Were residents genuinely heard? Who is accountable when a program does not produce the promised results?
I am also concerned that Teton County is moving too quickly. Growth decisions must account for roads, water, sewer, public safety, schools, wildlife and community character. Urgency should not be used to avoid careful examination.
I do not claim to know everything. Good leadership begins by listening, obtaining reliable information and being willing to change direction when the facts require it. I would bring independence, persistence, practical experience and respect for people from every part of our community.
I believe Teton County needs a commissioner who will listen first, put safety first and insist upon transparency and disciplined spending. That is the voice I would bring to the Commission.
Propst:
- Experience. I have served two terms on the county commission following a career in which I worked all around North America to promote conservation and community in communities near public lands.
- Confidence from community members. Endorsed by the JH Professional Firefighters. Endorsed by conservation leaders, including Yvon Chouinard, and recommended by Shelter JH.
- Demonstrated record of saying No to proposals that undermine our community and landscape.
