2025 Meet the Candidates

- The meeting was a “Meet the Candidates” forum for Nibley City Council, with candidates answering moderated questions and closing with final statements; no votes were taken because this was a candidate forum rather than a decision meeting. - Mayor Jacobson explained that the mayoral race had been canceled under a new state law and Resolution 25-29, which resulted in Mary Larry E. Jacobson being elected unopposed. - All candidates emphasized growth management as the city’s biggest challenge, especially balancing development with Nibley’s identity, rural feel, and long-term livability for families and future generations. - Traffic and safety on 12th West drew strong opinions: some candidates supported the traffic-calming design as a necessary speed reduction measure, while others said it created safety concerns and should be studied and adjusted. - Housing affordability and moderate-income housing were major discussion topics, with candidates proposing a mix of zoning changes, varied housing types, deed restrictions, and development agreements to expand options without overwhelming neighborhoods. - Candidates generally agreed that Nibley needs more commercial development, especially along highway frontage, to provide local jobs and services, but they stressed it should be carefully planned and compatible with the community. - Parks and recreation, youth sports, and community events were repeatedly cited as Nibley’s strengths, and several candidates praised the city’s strong sense of community and public participation. - Trails and open space were discussed at length; candidates broadly supported more trails and preserved open space, but strongly opposed using eminent domain to take private property for recreational trails. - A recurring action item was improving communication and transparency with residents, including better notices, newsletters, emails, backyard meetings, and more opportunities for public input before decisions are finalized. - Troy Rabau highlighted youth involvement as a priority, including creating a youth seat on the planning commission and better using the Nibley Youth Council; in closing, candidates asked for voter support and pledged to serve openly and responsibly.