Aaron Richards is running for the Rexburg City Council. In an interview with BYU-Idaho Radio, he explained why he is running, what he would bring to the position, what issues he would focus on and more if he is elected. Election Day is tomorrow, with polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Below is a transcript of the interview. It has been lightly edited for clarity
Hannah: What led you to running for City Council?
Aaron Richards: I have a wonderful circle of friends that encouraged me to get outside of my comfort zone and be able to contribute at a higher level here in the local community. I've been on the Planning Commission for about six years. And so that's kind of given me a really nice introduction into the, you know, the public hearing process here in Rexburg. So, I took an opportunity to go to the next level.
Hannah: What sets you apart from other candidates running?
Aaron Richards: I'd say the biggest thing that sets me apart is 25 years in the residential development industry. Having worked as a developer, we're constantly presenting to multiple city councils in multiple municipalities, working in municipal utility districts, and actually building community, actually physically building community. So, having that kind of background, it's a very comfortable space to be working with ordinances and public hearings and understanding different ideas, having worked with so many municipalities to be able to take the best of what I've experienced from other cities, other towns, and see for opportunities to implement them here in Rexburg.
Hannah: What would you say is the biggest issue facing Rexburg right now?
Aaron Richards: Well, I don't think there is any one big issue. I think there’s probably a handful of things that could be improved upon. And really that will bubble up to the top as someone is in a council seat or involved at a higher level. Myself personally, I would put the current overuse of LIDs (Local Improvement Districts), as well as the amount of clearing of the streets during the winter season, and then opportunities to really get creative, roll our sleeves up and figure out how to get more affordable housing, which is, that's really more of a national issue, it's not a local issue, but if there are creative ways to get ordinances in place or entitlements that that would encourage affordable housing. You know, that's the piece that a City Council can be involved in.
Hannah: What message do you have for Rexburg as we approach Election Day tomorrow?
Aaron Richards: A message for Rexburg. I love you guys. We're a beautiful community, family-oriented community. And we just, we want to take those strengths and protect them. While also acknowledging that there's going to be growth. And we just want that growth to be smart growth, you know, and go vote.