Welcome to the City Journals Voters Guide!

2025's General Election Day is on Nov. 4.   (See other important dates and SLCounty information in our Voting Information Overview page at the Valley Journals here.) 

In preparation, we surveyed our readers (like you!) to ask which local topics would determine important voting decisions for local races. We then asked your local candidates those reader-suggested questions. Candidates were asked to limit their answers to 200 words.These are their answers: 

___________________________________________________________________________________

In South Jordan, Jason T. McGuire and Stacy Hughes are running for District 5. 

 

Q: Do you believe current property tax revenue is being used effectively? How so? 

Jason McGuire: When discussing property taxes, we need to acknowledge that only a small portion of the total amount you pay actually goes to the City of South Jordan. The majority of your property tax dollars are directed to the Jordan School District and the State Basic School Levy. Roughly $0.14 of every dollar paid in property taxes is allocated to the City, and those funds are being used wisely and efficiently to support public safety.

The City of South Jordan uses its portion of property taxes to fully fund our police department and cover approximately half of the operating costs of our fire department. When compared to other cities in Salt Lake County (accounting for property taxes, public safety fees, park fees, etc.), South Jordan continues to maintain a lower property tax rate than most—including Herriman, Riverton, and West Jordan.

Still, I recognize that property taxes can be a burden for many families. That’s why I remain committed to promoting strong, responsible economic development to broaden our tax base and reduce the city’s reliance on residential property taxes. My goal is to keep South Jordan financially sound while minimizing the tax burden on our residents.

Stacy Hughes: Property tax revenue is a vital component of a thriving community. While I appreciate that much of South Jordan’s tax revenue supports essential services, I am committed to ensuring that every dollar is used efficiently, effectively, and transparently. I will focus on initiatives such as practical policing through community engagement, cleaner communities through water-wise plantings and energy-efficient practices, and a strategic plan for responsible, thoughtful growth. These priorities reflect my belief that a City Council must act as careful stewards of both the land and the tax revenues entrusted to us by our residents.

I will advocate for funding decisions that deliver long-term benefits to families, neighborhoods, and local businesses while keeping in mind that many residents are facing financial pressure. This means balancing short-term needs with investments in infrastructure, safety, and sustainability that will strengthen South Jordan for years to come. My goal is for residents to feel confident that every dollar is spent wisely and strategically. By focusing on resilience, sustainability, and smart growth, we can make South Jordan not only a stronger city today but also one that is prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

Q: Thinking about fiscal responsibility, what values should your local budget reflect? How do you plan to balance those values? 

Jason McGuire: The City of South Jordan’s budget must reflect the values and priorities of our residents—and I’m proud to say it does. Our budgeting process is guided by key strategic priorities developed by the City Council and Mayor, city staff, and input from residents through the city’s annual community survey. These priorities include safe communities, reliable public infrastructure, a balanced regulatory environment, desirable amenities and open space, strong economic development, sustainable growth, an engaged community, and fiscally responsible government.

To ensure we are truly aligning our spending with community values, the city uses a priority-based budgeting model. This means city employees track how their time is spent, allowing us to assess the full cost of programs, services, and events. More importantly, it helps us determine whether we are investing city resources—both time and taxpayer dollars—into areas that matter most to our residents.

Our goal is to be transparent, efficient, and responsible stewards of public funds. I am committed to maintaining a budget that not only supports essential services, but also strengthens our quality of life, encourages thoughtful growth, and reflects the values of those who call South Jordan home.

Stacy Hughes: I believe our local budget should reflect the values our community prioritizes: transparency, sustainability, and compassionate support for those who need it most. South Jordan’s budget must fund public safety, essential services, long-term infrastructure, and programs that strengthen neighborhoods and improve quality of life. Balancing these priorities requires thoughtful decision-making and accountability for every dollar spent.

I am committed to planning for the city’s future growth while ensuring that today’s residents continue to enjoy the amenities, safety, and livability that make South Jordan such a special city. This means making data-driven, evidence-based choices, evaluating the long-term impacts of funding decisions, and prioritizing investments that deliver measurable results.

I want every taxpayer to feel confident that their hard-earned tax contributions are being spent wisely. By focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and balanced investment across South Jordan, I aim to build a budget that not only meets our immediate needs but positions South Jordan for continued success well into the future.

Q: Many residents reported concern for government oversight and transparency. What systems would you support to hold local officials accountable when transparency standards aren't met? 

Jason McGuire: Utah already has strong oversight and transparency laws in place, including the Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA), the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act, and the Transparent Utah website. These tools are designed to ensure accountability and public access to government information.

If cities or elected officials are not complying with these established laws, they should be held accountable—and reported through the proper channels. Transparency is not optional; it’s a fundamental responsibility of public service.

Stacy Hughes: I believe accountability and transparency are essential for building trust between residents and local government. To ensure South Jordan officials are responsible to the community, I support clear oversight, publicly accessible spending reports, regular audits, and easily accessible City Council meeting agendas and minutes. Residents should easily see how decisions are made, how funds are spent, and which projects are prioritized.

I also support open access to city leadership, accessible meeting protocols following best practices for people with disabilities, and positive channels for resident feedback. Conflicts of interest should be clearly disclosed, and when standards aren’t met, corrective actions must be swift, transparent, and publicly documented.

Accountability isn’t just about reacting to problems—it’s about creating a collaborative process guided by plans and results, not political posturing or “back-room” partisan deals. Residents should feel confident that their voices are heard, their tax dollars are protected, and city officials act with integrity and responsibility.

By implementing clear oversight and encouraging active community engagement, we can strengthen trust, improve outcomes, and ensure that South Jordan’s leadership remains committed to the best interests of all residents. A transparent, accountable government builds a stronger, safer, and more resilient city for everyone.

Q: What is your stance on local government cooperation with ICE? 

Jason McGuire: Local law enforcement should not be used in cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The role of local police is to serve and protect our communities—not to enforce federal immigration law. Just as the FBI operates independently from local law enforcement unless emergency mutual aid is required, ICE should do the same. When local police become involved in federal immigration actions, it undermines trust within immigrant communities, discouraging people from reporting crimes, seeking help, or cooperating with investigations out of fear of deportation.

Public safety is best served when all residents feel safe interacting with local law enforcement. Keeping these roles separate ensures our local police officers can do their jobs effectively.

Stacy Hughes: I believe our local government’s top responsibility is ensuring the safety, well-being, and trust of all residents and that federal immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, best funded by federal programs and federal tax dollars. To be responsible stewards of city resources, we must focus on issues that directly impact our community’s safety and quality of life, while respecting federal authority over immigration.

Residents should feel safe reporting crimes, participating in local programs, and engaging with police without fear. Cooperation with federal immigration enforcement should not divert our limited local resources, compromise community trust, or compromise the constitutional protections every American deserves.

My approach to practical policing prioritizes community engagement, public safety, and enforcing local laws. I support policies that allow law enforcement to focus on protecting neighborhoods, responding to emergencies, and keeping residents safe, rather than diverting time and resources to well-funded and nuanced federal immigration matters better handled by federal agencies.

By keeping our focus on local priorities, we can strengthen relationships between residents and first responders. I want South Jordan to be a city where every resident feels secure and supported, confident that local tax dollars are spent wisely, and that leadership is committed to fairness, inclusion, and safety. Together, we can build a stronger, safer, and more compassionate community.

Q: How will you plan roads, schools, and commercial areas for the population South Jordan is going to have, not just the people here now?  

Jason McGuire: Wise growth has been a priority of my time in office, and as I seek reelection, I remain committed to planning for South Jordan’s future. I’ve consistently advocated for keeping our city’s master plans current. I’ve served on key planning committees, including the General Plan, the Arts Master Plan, and the Parks, Open Spaces & Trails, and Recreation Plan. Additionally, I’ve been active in attending meetings with the Wasatch Front Regional Council, advocating for South Jordan’s transportation needs and pushing for expedited timelines on critical infrastructure projects.

As we plan for future growth, particularly on the west side of South Jordan, I’ve worked closely with developers to ensure that new developments are more than just residential units, that they include commercial areas, parks, open spaces, and trails. I’ve also been a strong advocate for the development of Downtown Daybreak, a project that will bolster our commercial base now and in the years to come.

Lastly, while planning for schools is the responsibility of the Jordan School District, we actively share growth data and plans with them, providing the most accurate information to support their efforts in planning for the educational needs of South Jordan’s students.

Stacy Hughes: South Jordan's future growth must honor our rich history and the values that make our community unique. I advocate for disciplined development that prioritizes infill over leapfrog expansion, ensuring that we build up, not out, and the belief that new growth should fund new growth through an approach that respects our existing neighborhoods, reduces infrastructure costs, and preserves open spaces.

By focusing on gentle density, we can create vibrant, walkable communities that integrate seamlessly with our surroundings and create a natural desire to walk, bike, or use public transportation. This means developing mixed-use areas where homes, schools, and businesses coexist, reducing the need for long commutes and fostering a strong sense of community.

Planning with foresight involves not just accommodating growth but enhancing the quality of life for all residents. It requires thoughtful zoning, investment in public amenities, and infrastructure that supports sustainable living. By aligning development with our community's needs and values, we can ensure that South Jordan remains a place where families thrive, history is honored, and the future is embraced responsibly.

Q: Saratoga Springs adopted term limits for their City Council members, capping service at three consecutive terms. What is your position on implementing term limits for South Jordan City Council, and why?

Jason McGuire: I have not heard from any South Jordan residents advocating for term limits for our City Council or Mayor. 

In general I believe the best form of term limits already lies in the hands of the voters and that's the ballot box - be an informed voter, research the candidates running for office, and be sure to vote in every election, especially your local municipality elections!

Stacy Hughes: I believe change in government is healthy and important for voters because it brings new ideas, fresh perspectives, and renewed energy to address community challenges. Predictable turnover in city leadership ensures our City Council benefits from innovative thinking while maintaining the continuity and experience our city needs.

Encouraging respect for term limits gives more residents the opportunity to serve, fostering diverse viewpoints and solutions that reflect South Jordan’s evolving needs. Fresh perspectives help the city approach long-term planning, infrastructure, and neighborhood priorities in ways that might not occur when the same individuals serve indefinitely.

Much like George Washington modeled, self-imposed term limits should be a core value for anyone serving in public office, and should not be necessary. But, not every public servant remembers these long-held American values, and in a city where many officers run unopposed this can be a challenge. Public service should be a contribution to the community, driven by a spirit of service—not a pursuit of personal accolades.

Strong council members should engage in mentorship and succession planning so emerging leaders can build on their predecessors’ work while offering fresh ideas. Fostering civic engagement and encouraging new voices strengthens our city. Thoughtful leadership turnover promotes innovation, accountability, and inclusivity, ensuring our City Council remains responsive, dynamic, and attuned to the community it serves.

Q: One main succinct reason/goal for why you are running for this election: 

Jason McGuire: I am seeking reelection to continue championing wise and balanced growth, strengthening public safety, and expanding economic opportunities. I remain committed to preserving and creating parks, trails, and open space, enhancing our infrastructure, and supporting a vibrant and thriving arts community. My goal is to ensure South Jordan remains a well-planned, livable, and connected city for all residents.

Stacy Hughes: It’s time for new ideas, fresh perspectives, and the unstoppable power of collaborative leadership based on plans, not politics.

Q: Background (residents have asked: What is your relevant educational/job experience? What previous government positions or offices have you held? How long have you been on the council?) 

Jason McGuire: I am currently concluding my second term on the South Jordan City Council. During my time in office, I have had the privilege of serving in a variety of roles, including on the Legislative Policy Committee, as the South Jordan Arts Council Liaison, and as a member of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan Committee, the Arts Master Plan Committee, and the General Plan Committee.

Professionally, I serve as the Director of Operations for a metal fabrication company and hold a B.A. degree from the University of Utah. Prior to being elected to the City Council, I was actively involved in both industry and community leadership—serving as a board member and former President of the Utah Steel Fabricators Association, as well as a member of the LiveDaybreak Community Council.

Stacy Hughes: With my background in manufacturing, business development, public affairs, and education, I’m ready to bring proven experience to represent my neighbors in District Five. As a mom, a Utah native, and longtime South Jordan resident, I understand the challenges that our growing city faces—and I’m asking for your vote. South Jordan needs new ideas!

Q: How can residents stay informed about your campaign? 

Jason McGuire: Visit my website: www.votejasonmcguire.com. - Follow me on social media: Facebook: Vote Jason McGuire - South Jordan City Council, District 5. - Instagram: votejasonmcguire.   - Email me at [email protected]

Stacy Hughes: www.stacyforsojo.com

Q: If you would like to explicitly state your political party, please do so here: 

Jason McGuire: The South Jordan City Council is a non-partisan office where we make decisions based on facts and not party politics.

Stacy Hughes: I am honored to be the only candidate for South Jordan City Council endorsed by Republicans, neighboring city leaders, industry experts in areas of business development, education, public safety, LGBTQ rights, sustainability, and the Women’s Democratic Club of Utah.

Q: What role do you believe local government should play in protecting open space and natural areas within your community?  Residents specifically asked: What actions will you take to help conserve the Great Salt Lake? 

Jason McGuire: As the state legislature continues to mandate increased housing density, it is more important than ever that we take steps to preserve our open spaces and natural areas. These spaces are vital—not only for recreation but also for the mental and physical well-being of our residents.

I am proud of my work to protect Mulligans from development, as well as my role in supporting enhancements to Bingham Creek Regional Park and helping to establish the Bingham Creek Regional Park Authority Board. Throughout my time on the City Council, I have consistently opposed any proposals to develop in the Jordan River wetlands or floodplains—areas that should remain protected for future generations.

Additionally, I’ve made it a priority to ensure that all new master development agreements include dedicated parks, open space, and trail systems. I’ve also championed waterwise initiatives like “Flip the Strip” to remove unused sod and conserve water. I’ve encouraged the City to lead by example by beginning the process of flipping its own park strips.

Stacy Hughes: I care deeply about preserving the Great Salt Lake and the open spaces that make South Jordan special. While water levels and environmental challenges are shaped by state and regional decisions, the City Council can take meaningful action locally to protect this vital resource.

I support policies that encourage water conservation, like incentives for water-wise landscaping, efficient irrigation, and low-water-use development. Thoughtful land use and green infrastructure—such as permeable surfaces and stormwater management—can reduce pollution and protect wetlands and natural habitats that feed into the lake.

Community engagement is key. I will advocate for education, volunteer programs, and partnerships with nonprofits and regional agencies to raise awareness and promote stewardship of the lake and open spaces. By combining science-based policy, collaboration, and community action, we can ensure South Jordan protects the Great Salt Lake, preserves natural areas, and creates a city where residents can enjoy healthy, sustainable, and beautiful surroundings for generations to come.

Q: If elected, how will you begin managing high-density housing, short-term rentals, and property value protections in your community?   (Residents specifically asked: Do you support holding builders accountable to a higher standard (like expecting builders to make needed improvements to streets and sidewalks)?

Jason McGuire: If reelected, I will continue to prioritize wise growth that supports a variety of housing options while preserving the character of our existing neighborhoods. I am committed to keeping South Jordan in compliance with the state’s moderate-income housing requirements, ensuring we remain a community that is both welcoming and well-planned.

I will also continue to advocate for regular updates to our impact fees—the fees developers pay to account for the impact their projects have on city infrastructure. This is essential to ensure that new developments contribute to and are supported by adequate roads, utilities, and public services.

While short-term rentals are protected under state law, we recognize the need to address their effects at the local level. The City is actively working to update our ordinance to include new requirements aimed at enhancing public safety and minimizing disruption to established neighborhoods.

Stacy Hughes: I believe in gentle density, mixed-use developments, and property value protections with an eye to balance, quality, and accountability. South Jordan is growing, and thoughtful planning is key to preserving the neighborhoods we love while welcoming new residents. I support well-designed, sustainable, affordable, attainable housing that fits our community’s character and minimizes impacts on traffic, schools, and infrastructure.

Short-term rentals can work when managed responsibly, but they should never undermine homeownership as a multi-generational wealth-building tool or destabilize established neighborhoods. Clear regulations must protect long-term residents and property values.

Builders must meet high standards, honor commitments, act honestly, and fund the infrastructure their projects rely on—streets, sidewalks, drainage, and public amenities. New growth should fund new growth, not burden residents.

My vision of development is rooted in fairness, foresight, and accountability. With disciplined planning and responsible development, South Jordan can grow safely, support vibrant neighborhoods, and remain a livable, sustainable city for everyone.

Q: What education policies do you support? Residents asked about school closures, capping class sizes, banning books, and restricting teachers to do their jobs. 

Jason McGuire: South Jordan does not have authority over education policies, additionally the South Jordan City Council and Mayor have been able to achieve significant success by focusing on the areas within our control. I encourage anyone with concerns about school closures, class size limits, book bans, or restrictions on teachers' ability to do their jobs to reach out directly to the Jordan School Board and when appropriate your state leaders.

Stacy Hughes: While education is the responsibility of the School Board, the South Jordan City Council can play a critical role by collaborating with the Jordan School District and local charter schools to support students and families. I believe every student deserves an environment that respects their dignity, values their unique experiences, and encourages curiosity and independent thinking.

I strongly support education, literacy, and fostering a love of learning. A city built on diverse perspectives, deep knowledge, and curiosity about human experience is best positioned to thrive in the years ahead. Banning books has never been the mark of a thriving and educated society. And, as the daughter-in-law of a respected Utah writer who has extensively shared the history and beauty of my pioneer ancestors, I have seen first hand the value the written word has on communicating a shared history in a way that fosters creativity and a passion for reading.

As a mother, I believe guiding my children’s reading, education, and exposure to ideas is my responsibility. I would never want the government to restrict a child’s intellectual growth or limit opportunities to explore, question, and learn. Instead, I advocate for policies and partnerships that empower students, support educators, and ensure South Jordan cultivates a community of lifelong learners who are curious, informed, and prepared to meet the challenges of the future.

Q: What are your priorities regarding funding of homeless shelters and assistance programs?  Residents specifically asked about safe spaces, quality of shelters, and accessibility of programs.

Jason McGuire: South Jordan carefully allocates its limited Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to support critical homeless shelters and assistance programs, including The Road Home, South Valley Services, and the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake. While we are committed to doing our part, homelessness is a regional issue that extends beyond city boundaries.

I believe homeless shelters and assistance programs should be addressed at the county level—particularly in counties of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class—with appropriate funding and support provided by the state. A coordinated, regional approach is essential to creating sustainable, long-term solutions. No city should be left trying to solve the homelessness issue on their own

Stacy Hughes: Every human needs a safe place to sleep, access to necessities, and a pathway to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And, as one of Utah’s most affluent communities, South Jordan is not immune to the impact of poverty. Homelessness is not only an individual challenge—it’s a community responsibility that demands compassionate, coordinated action.

I prioritize funding programs that support our most vulnerable—wounded veterans, seniors, disabled neighbors, victims of domestic violence, LGBTQ youth, and children—through high-quality, accountable, and accessible services. These programs must provide safety, hygiene, mental health support, food security, job training, and pathways to permanent housing and employment.

Preventing homelessness through rental assistance, affordable housing, and opportunities for residents on fixed incomes is just as important as emergency shelter.I support partnerships with nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and neighboring cities to maximize impact and sustainability of our social safety nets.

My approach is rooted in compassion, accountability, and results. By investing in effective programs, we can ensure dignity, opportunity, and a stronger, healthier South Jordan for everyone.

Q: How do you plan to assist your senior residents and those on fixed incomes?   (Residents specifically asked about seniors being able to age in place affordably, senior safety, food insecurity and nutrition for low-income households, and support programs.) 

Jason McGuire: South Jordan offers our senior residents some of the best senior programming in the state. Additionally, we collaborate with Salt Lake County Aging Services to provide meals and the city provides transportation to the community center to ensure every senior has access to food and activities. In the fall of 2023 we announced that in collaboration with Ivory Innovations we are working to provide a new senior center and affordable senior housing utilizing the city’s redevelopment funds. We hope to provide an update on this project soon.

Stacy Hughes: I deeply value the contributions South Jordan seniors and residents on fixed incomes have made to our community, and it’s our turn to give back. Rising HOA fees, housing costs, and limited access to food make aging in place challenging, and the city must act to ensure seniors live safely, affordably, and with dignity. Through my experience working with the National MS Society I have seen first hand the value well-run community programs can have on the dignity of people’s last years.

I support programs that help seniors maintain independence, including affordable housing, home maintenance assistance through Community Development Block Grants, and safe, walkable neighborhoods. Access to nutritious food is critical, so South Jordan must partner with programs to provide consistent emergency food access, especially for those who cannot travel to Draper or West Jordan for the nearest food bank.

Seniors also need access to healthcare, social engagement, and emergency preparedness resources. By focusing on housing, food security, safety, and support services, we can help seniors and residents on fixed incomes thrive—ensuring South Jordan remains a city where everyone can age with dignity, independence, and confidence.