Sandstrom, who resigned in December, knocked off incumbent Jim Ferrin in the June primary, then cruised to victory in November's general election to represent Utah's House District 58.

“It takes a lot of courage to even say 'I'm willing to serve,' ” Mayor Jerry Washburn told applicants. “It's a challenge, but it is a rewarding experience to be a member of the City Council.”

Among hopefuls were an information technology specialist, two college students, an attorney and a food scientist.

After a brief “what I bring to the table” statement, candidates were grilled by current council members.

“I feel like I'm coming before the Supreme Court,” applicant Carl Hernandez said.

Only two of the 10 applicants are women - and they happen to work closely together.

Margaret Black learned during a piano lesson with Camille Harris that her student also was applying for the vacant council seat.

“I have been very impressed by the things I've heard tonight and I would be happy with any of these people,” Black said. “But of course, I'm hoping you choose me.”

Harris, 18, was the youngest to apply for the post.

“Rather than a detriment, my age is a benefit,” Harris said, pointing out the average age of Orem residents is just under 24.

Land-use issues, education and the distribution of the city's arts tax were common themes of focus for applicants.

Most made it a point to tell the council they are applying without any agenda.

Many also hinted at their involvement or membership in the LDS Church.

The council will choose from the applicants during a special meeting Monday and the new council member will be sworn in during Tuesday's regular council meeting.

Washburn said this will be third time during his administration that a council member has been appointed rather than elected.

“I think that we have selected well in the past and I'm confident that that will happen again,” Washburn said.

Added Councilwoman Karen McCandless: “A lot of people have asked how we make the decision . . . It's a lot of blood, sweat, tears, prayer and thought. It is not a decision the City Council takes lightly.”

toddh@sltrib.com

10 council

applicants

* Hal Allen, banker

* Margaret Black, piano teacher

* David Chao, mortgage planner

* Camille Harris, BYU student

* Carl Hernandez, attorney, professor

* Edward Lalone, UVSC student

* Art Leifer, food scientist

* Truman Pratt, owner, auto repair shop

* Joseph Ruffolo, IT specialist

* Derek Whetten, real estate agent