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McAdams Promises Fiscal Restraint, Plans for Growth

Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams promised a leaner, more accountable county government this morning in his first state of the county address.

McAdams said a growing population is one of the county’s greatest challenges, pointing to poor air quality, congested roads and lack of adequate funding for public education.

“We must decide whether we will be shaped by our challenges or whether we will seize this as an opportunity to shape our future," McAdams said.

The Democrat’s three-part vision includes collaborating with local governments to provide regional services, bipartisanship and fiscal responsibility.

In his address, he announced his administration will conduct a county-wide efficiency review and continue efforts to address parking, transportation and environmental needs in the canyons.

“We can get this right," McAdams said. "And it will protect private property. It will promote safety, accommodate access. And preserve this resource for future generations. “

Salt Lake County Council Chair Steve DeBry praised McAdams’ pledge to find efficiencies and address transportation issues. The Republican added he supports the creation of a new public works service district, as long as that does not include a new tax district.  

Whittney Evans grew up southern Ohio and has worked in public radio since 2005. She has a communications degree from Morehead State University in Morehead, Kentucky, where she learned the ropes of reporting, producing and hosting. Whittney moved to Utah in 2009 where she became a reporter, producer and morning host at KCPW. Her reporting ranges from the hyper-local issues affecting Salt Lake City residents, to state-wide issues of national interest. Outside of work, she enjoys playing the guitar and getting to know the breathtaking landscape of the Mountain West.
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