Jensen, 38, knows that two of the most pressing issues in his rapidly growing Salt Lake County district are transportation and water, and he has put himself in a position to help his constituents deal with them.

His productivity on the council and on those planning and decision-making boards make him a valuable representative who gets our endorsement for re-election in November.

Jensen also authored the state township law and is working to get it extended to give residents of unincorporated areas of the county "some breathing room" free from the threat of annexation while they decide if they want their communities to become cities.

He makes his living as a captain for the county's Unified Fire Authority. His close ties to county employees could create a conflict, but, so far, he has no record of favoring his colleagues over the interests of his constituents. We hope he will continue to be accountable to all county residents.

Jensen's opponent on the November ballot, Steven F. Shamy Sr., 50, has been involved in improving his West Valley City neighborhood, joining with other activists to rid the formerly notorious Harvey Street of gang-related crime. A Trailways bus driver, he was driving a "fun bus" headed for Wendover that was held up by a gunman on I-80 in 1997. Shamy says his military experience helped him respond calmly to the robber's demands and helped all his passengers survive.

Shamy is undoubtedly a man who doesn't hesistate to help his neighbors, and, as he puts it, he "has his ear to the street." However, he has little political experience and has never held elected office. He was defeated in a run for the West Valley City Council last year.

Jensen and Shamy agree on many issues, including the county's role in providing county-wide services such as firefighting and law enforcement services, and the need for a stronger county ethics policy.

However, we feel Jensen is in a better position to help guide county government as it evolves.