SALINA MUNICIPAL ELECTION

MAYOR: BRENT BEACH   I was born and raised in Salina. I have a wife who will support me as mayor. Together we have eight children, 16 grandchildren with one on the way and one great-granddaughter. I have been active in local politics most of my life. I have a vested interest in what goes on and into building and taking care of the community. I spent 31 years working at the Utah Department of Transportation where I held various leadership positions. I am currently working part time for Horrocks Engineers. I am currently serving as the chairman of the Sevier County Republican Party. In my spare time you can find me serving in my church, doing home repairs renovations, working out in my garden and helping others.                

The thing I love most about Salina are the people, the quiet neighborhoods, our heritage, the pride in this community and the lifelong friends that I have here. I love the monuments and museums that we have that give us the ability to remember our ancestors and the sacrifices that they endured. The warmth and resilience of our neighbors create an environment where everyone looks out for one another, making Salina more than just a place to live—it’s a place where bonds are forged for life.

The inspiration to run for mayor springs from a lifelong dedication to Salina and a deep sense of responsibility toward the community that has shaped me. Having been born and raised here, I have witnessed firsthand the hard work, resilience, and pride that define our city. My years of service—as a member of the city council, chairman of the Sevier County Republican Party, and throughout my employment with the Utah Department of Transportation— these opportunities have given me a unique perspective on what our community needs to thrive. Above all, the people of Salina are my greatest inspiration. The friendships, the sense of neighborliness, and the quiet strength of our residents make this a place worth investing in. My desire to foster open communication, promote economic growth, and keep our city financially responsible stems from a genuine love for this community. I am inspired to serve as mayor because I believe my experience, dedication, and vision can help make Salina an even better place for all of us—today and for generations to come.

My qualifications for the mayor position are deeply rooted in a lifetime of commitment to Salina and decades of hands-on experience in public service. I spent 31 years with the Utah Department of Transportation, where I held numerous leadership roles that refined my skills in project management, budgeting, infrastructure planning, and team building. These positions gave me practical insight into the complexities of municipal operations and a clear understanding of how to deliver results efficiently and responsibly.

I am also deeply engaged with our community outside of formal positions, whether serving in my church, volunteering with local projects, or lending a hand to neighbors. My passion for helping others reflects my belief in giving back and building lasting connections. These real-life interactions keep me grounded in the values that have shaped Salina: neighborliness, resilience, and pride in our shared heritage.

Together, my professional background, leadership experience, and unwavering dedication to community service have equipped me with the tools and perspective needed to lead Salina forward as mayor. I am committed to open communication, responsible governance, and fostering the growth and well-being of our city for all its residents.

 If elected mayor, my primary goal is to ensure that Salina remains a vibrant, welcoming, and sustainable community for generations to come. I intend to prioritize the maintenance and improvement of our essential services—water, sewage, electricity, sanitation, and transportation infrastructure—so that every resident continues to enjoy a high quality of life. I will work diligently to foster sustainable economic growth by encouraging new businesses to invest in Salina and by supporting the development of additional housing opportunities, all while protecting the character and heritage that make our city unique.

Open communication between city leadership and residents will be at the heart of my administration. I believe that transparency and collaboration are key to building trust and making informed decisions that reflect the community’s needs and values. I am committed to responsible financial management, ensuring that our budget is used wisely to benefit the greatest number of people without placing unnecessary burdens on our citizens.

Ultimately, I hope to nurture an environment where neighborliness thrives, local businesses prosper, and families feel secure and supported. In every decision, my guiding principle will be to leave Salina stronger, more resilient, and better prepared for the future. My vision is for our city to be a place where the warmth of our community, our shared pride, and our enduring resilience continue to set us apart and inspire all who call Salina home.

MAYOR: BRODY AMES

My name is Brody Ames, I’ve lived in Sevier County since I was eight years old and was raised by my single dad, which taught me resilience and gave me a real understanding of what working families face every day. I graduated from North Sevier High and have spent my career in customer service, where I learned patience, compassion, and how to find solutions by working with people from all walks of life.

I’m running for mayor because I love Salina and want to see it thrive. My priorities are affordable housing, stronger community engagement, and more opportunities for youth. I believe in transparency, accountability, and leading with both heart and common sense. I want to ensure Salina remains a place where families can afford to live, young people feel proud to stay, and everyone has a voice in shaping our future.

Question 1.

What I love most about Salina is the sense of community and connection we have here. People look out for one another, step up when someone is in need, and celebrate each other’s successes. Growing up in Sevier County, I experienced firsthand how a supportive community can shape you, and that’s something I want to protect and strengthen for future generations. Salina has small-town values with big-hearted people, and that combination makes it a special place to live and raise a family.

Question 2.

What inspired me to run for mayor is my love for this community and my belief that it’s time for my generation to get more involved. I was raised here, I’ve built my life here, and I want my future family to have the chance to do the same. I’ve seen how hard working families have to push just to make ends meet, and I believe local leadership should reflect that understanding.

What I hope to bring to the role is a fresh perspective, rooted in real-life experience. I’m not a career politician — I’m someone who knows the value of hard work, listening, and finding solutions. I want to bring openness, accountability, and a focus on affordable housing, stronger community connections, and opportunities for our youth. Most of all, I want to be a mayor who listens first and works hard to make Salina the best it can be.

Question 3.

The experiences that best qualify me for this position come from both my professional and personal life. I’ve spent my career in customer service, where I’ve learned how to communicate clearly, stay calm in difficult situations, and work with people from all backgrounds to find solutions. Those skills translate directly into leadership, where listening and problem-solving are key.

On a personal level, being raised by a single parent gave me a deep understanding of the challenges many families in our community face. I know what it’s like to live paycheck to paycheck, and that perspective keeps me grounded and realistic about the issues we need to address. I’m also deeply connected to Salina, having grown up here and been supported by this community. Those lived experiences give me the determination to work hard, lead with empathy, and represent the people of Salina with honesty and dedication.

Question 4.

If elected, I hope to accomplish a few key things that I believe will strengthen Salina for the long term. First, I want to address affordable housing so that working families and future generations can continue to live and thrive here. Second, I want to create stronger community connections by making sure every resident feels included, supported, and heard. Third, I’m passionate about bringing more opportunities and activities for our youth — giving them reasons to be proud of Salina and invested in its future.

Overall, my goal is to make sure Salina grows in a way that keeps our small-town values intact while also preparing for the needs of the next generation.

Question 5.

Salina’s small-town identity is one of its greatest strengths, and I want to make sure we preserve that while still supporting thoughtful growth. I believe that growth doesn’t have to mean losing who we are — it means planning carefully, listening to the community, and making decisions that benefit everyone. I want to support local businesses, create opportunities for families and youth, and make sure new developments fit with the character of our town. By staying connected to residents and keeping our values at the center of every decision, we can grow responsibly while keeping the heart of Salina intact.

COUNCIL MEMBERS

Hi!  My name is Chelsea Beach and I am a candidate for Salina City Council.  I am a native of Salina, having lived here my entire life. I graduated from North Sevier High School in 2005. I am married to Judd Williams, also a Salina native and we have 3 children.

I am running for city council because I have a strong desire to be of service to this wonderful community.  I love the citizens of Salina and want to share my time and talents serving in this capacity,  

I have a desire to learn how the city works.  I want to explore new and existing avenues for grants and monies to clean up and beautify our town.  I have ideas for beautification projects to enhance our little community.

I want to look into business growth that will assimilate into our current business infrastructure and will allow more well paying jobs for our citizens, while maintaining the small town flavor we all know and love.

Safety for our citizens, especially our children, is my main concern.  I want to work closely with our law enforcement agencies, schools and community members to increase safety for everyone. 

I am concerned with the way our tax dollars and city fees are allocated.  I would like the opportunity to work with the mayor and other councilpersons to budget and use our monetary resources more wisely and with discretion.

I have been self-employed for 2 years, worked as an assistant manager of a local business for 15 years, been an administrative assistant for 2 years and am currently employed by Fierce Firearms as a lay-up tech. 

I am a people person and am open to listening to the concerns and opinions of all citizens.  I will approach all situations and problems objectively and with fairness.  I will research and do my due diligence to ensure the best outcome for all involved.

Your vote for me is a vote for increased safety, fairness and competence.

David Torgerson

My name is David Torgerson. I was born and raised in North Sevier which has played a significant role in shaping who I am today.. I have been married to my wife, Lisa, for 19 years. We are blessed with 3 amazing active kids. Our family values time together. One of the primary reasons I am drawn to the role of a city council is the opportunity to provide leadership and make a positive impact in our community. I look forward to working alongside fellow community members to create a brighter future for Salina. Together, we can build a community that not only meets the needs of today but also paves the way for a prosperous tomorrow.

  1. What do you love most about Salina and our community?

I love the history of our community, our youth and residents. Our community is rich in history, with each corner telling a story of its own. From the historic buildings to the tales passed down through generations, our neighborhoods are stories filled with the past and present. This rich history not only provides a sense of identity and continuity but also serves as a foundation for future growth. By preserving our heritage and honoring the contributions of those who came before us, we maintain a connection to our roots while looking forward to the future with hope and determination.

I believe in the power of community and the impact that collective efforts can have on improving our neighborhoods. The young people of our community are a driving force for positive transformation and growth. Their passions for a variety of interests including sports and commitment to making a difference should inspire everyone around them to contribute actively to our community’s well-being. It is the blend of youthful energy, welcoming residents, and rich history that makes our community truly special. These elements can and should come together to create a vibrant, supportive, and dynamic environment where everyone can thrive.

  • What inspired you to run for City Council?

One of the primary reasons I am drawn to the role of a city council is the opportunity to provide leadership and make a positive impact in our community..I look forward to working alongside fellow community members to create a brighter future for Salina. Together, we can build a community that not only meets the needs of today but also paves the way for a prosperous tomorrow.

  • What skills, experiences and community involvement do you feel best qualify you for this position?

My background in coaching and being involved in different aspects in the community has given me a unique insight into the role of our city council. The skills and experience I’ve gained will help navigate and advocate effectively for our community. I am prepared to make a significant impact on our community’s future. My involvement in the community has given me a deep understanding of local issues and the needs of residents.I have built strong relationships with many residents and businesses.These connections are invaluable for gathering diverse perspectives and fostering trust between the council and the community. I feel that these opportunities have given me a great perspective and I want our town to grow and succeed now and in the future.

  • What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected?

I believe in the power of community and the impact that collective efforts can have on improving our town. My goal is to be a voice for the residents, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed. By fostering open communication and collaboration, I aim to build a stronger, more inclusive community for everyone. Accountability and transparency are essential elements of effective governance. I would advocate for open dialogue between the council and the community, ensuring that decisions are made transparently. This commitment to transparency builds trust and encourages civic engagement. I am committed to finding practical solutions that benefit all residents.

  • Salina has a strong small town identity- how will you help preserve what makes it special while supporting future growth?

Engaging the community in open dialogues is crucial for effective planning. Encouraging residents to participate in town meetings, surveys, etc ensures that their voices and concerns are heard. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the town’s future.

Salina’s history is a significant part of its identity. Also creating sustainable sports and activity programs for youth that extend through high school and adults is essential for fostering lifelong skills, health, and well-being. These programs not only enhance physical fitness but also promote teamwork, discipline, and leadership. By investing in our youth, we are preparing them to become future leaders and active members of the community. Our local businesses are the backbone of Salina’s economy and community. These enterprises provide essential services and products, create jobs, and contribute to the unique character of the town. Supporting them is crucial not only for the present economic stability but also for the future prosperity of Salina. By focusing on these areas and others, Salina can successfully navigate the challenges of growth while preserving the unique identity that makes it a special place to call home. Through collaboration, celebration of history, and support for local ventures, Salina can continue to thrive while maintaining its cherished small-town charm.

Kevin Mickelsen

I have lived in Salina for over 25 years with my family.  I have participated in many community events. I have served on the city council for the last 4 years. I have learned a lot from this responsibility. I appreciate the great support in business throughout the community over the years.

Question #1:   What do you love about Salina and our community?

Answer:           The things I like about the community are. The small-town feel. Getting to know people in the community in many different aspects of life (Work, Play, Events, and so forth).

     The participation of community members that strive to provide and dedicate their time to the community events. Salina and the surrounding towns all seem to pull together to help each other with different activities.  Recreation, Festivals, and several other Events throughout the seasons.

Question #2:   What inspired you to run for City Council, and what do you hope to bring to the role?

Answer:            What inspired me to run for city council was the work that I seen being done by the current Mayor and Council, and the strive to make Salina a better place to be.

Question #3:     What experiences, and skills, or community involvement do you feel best qualify you for this position?

Answer:             I have several years of experience working with the people of this community. Business, pleasure, and volunteering.  I have knowledge in business that can help support the city.

Question #4:      What do you hope to accomplish if you’re elected?

Answer:            The thing I would like to accomplish would be to help the city strive in moderate growth but keep the small-town lifestyle. Growth is a tough thing to control these days with all of the demands of new state laws governing the way cities are built and run. However, without some growth it is hard to sustain the costs of living for our city.

      I would like to see our youth have the best option, and opportunity to afford to reside in the community they live in. We have several great employment opportunities available here and many to come in the future. We just need to realize what we have.

Question #5:    Salina has a strong small-town identity – How will you help preserve what makes it special while supporting future growth?

Answer:   I would like to help preserve the things that make Salina home. The things that are important to me are keeping entertainment, and community involvement strong.

      I support the community leaders and volunteers that are willing put together their time to provide, Blackhawk events, Easter egg hunts, Memorial Day breakfasts, ballon festivals, parades, rodeos, car shows, truck shows, drag main nights, beatification projects, museum tours, and the list goes on.  All of these events are necessary to make Salina a special place to be.

     To preserve this way of life it will require hard work and some moderate growth in which I think has been happening steadily over the last several years. In the last 15 years we have gained several local businesses filling in our city limits on all ends of town and homes filling in voids throughout the city. I think we are finally starting to get used to the stoplight at the 4way and can you imagine if the freeway was to come through town as it did then. Change is inedible. However, if we do our best to pay close attention to this change in growth, we will have a great chance to control the steady growth we need.

TAMARA HALES

I am Tamara Hales, however my friends (which is basically everyone) call me Tammy. I have lived in Salina for over 35 years and even though I grew up in Idaho, Salina is my home. My husband, Newell Hales, and I have raised 4 children here and have enjoyed all of the opportunities we have had to connect to our community.  Those connections and camaraderie we’ve come to know are what I love most about our community.  There aren’t many places that you can let your children ride their bikes around town and know that there are people looking out for them. I love that I can go for walks after dark and feel safe. Even though at times there may be differences of opinion, everyone truly cares for one another.  I have seen people come together many times to support others in time of need and that is what makes Salina great.  

I have always been taught to be involved in my local government and last year I participated in the Central Utah Leader Academy.  We traveled to various communities, attended legislative sessions, and took part in the One Utah Summit in Cedar City.  While attending these events, I became even more aware of how wonderful the people are in Central Utah and I want to be a voice for all of those who want to be heard.        

I believe I have skills and experience that can be of use to our community and our city government. I have been involved in many committees and organizations while living in Salina and while working as the Director of the Campus Stores at Snow College.  I have witnessed first hand how things can be accomplished if we work together with a common goal.  I value the proper role of government and can see when it is over reaching.  I am currently serving on the Salina City Board of Adjustments and I feel very strongly about individual property rights. There are zoning laws for a reason and need to apply to and be understood by everyone. 

The people in this community mean a lot to me. I believe the city can do more to take care of its people. If elected, I want to effectively use city resources to beautify Salina without encroaching on property rights.  I hope to influence small but effective projects and repairs such as:

      – ensuring the streetlights are all illuminated

      – city sidewalks and potholes are safely and effectively repaired  

      – ensuring that non-resident landlords are more aware of unsafe property conditions and ordinances are enforced

In life, a community cannot stay stagnant.  It will either grow or digress.  We must choose to help it grow.  To protect and preserve the things that keep our small community special while supporting growth, it is important to consider how Salina’s infrastructure will support that growth.  We need to ensure that the growth can be accommodated by the city’s water and power resources.  

I was taught to be the change you want to see around you and hope to inspire that change in others.  

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