The question is: Will money translate into votes?

Jenny Wilson, a Democrat seeking the at-large County Council seat, tops all council candidates with more than $80,000 raised, compared to Republican incumbent Steve Harmsen. He has self-funded most of his nearly $15,000 war chest.

Democrat Dina Blaes, who wants the open District 4 seat, raked in almost $50,000 against Republican Mark Crockett's $29,800. And Democrat Chris Cage has brought in about $5,000, versus Republican incumbent Marv Hendrickson's $2,100.

District 2 is the exception. Republican Councilman Michael Jensen has the lead in the money race with $15,000 while Democratic challenger Steve Shamy Sr. has barely topped $1,000.

County government has been controlled by Republicans since 1995, with the current county mayor's office and County Council under GOP leadership. Of the nine council seats, Democrats hold three, none of which are up for re-election this year. They need two more to have a majority on the council.

With the spate of county scandals, County Democratic Party Chairwoman Nichole Adams says the council races are important for Democrats.

"There are a lot of important things [county projects] that need to be done, but the Democrats don't have the votes," she said, adding that the council is made up of all men. "There needs to be better representation of Salt Lake County on the panel."

But in a Republican-majority county, the GOP probably has the better chance of retaining the council seats.

"The only way the Democrats can win is by money, by outspending," says County GOP Chairwoman Tiani Coleman. "But that doesn't necessarily mean money will equal a win."

Wilson says the number of contributors to her campaign shows a strong base of support. She had more than 550 different donors, she says, some of whom gave twice. Her largest donation this period is a $3,000 check from developer Rick Howa.

"The trick to a campaign is being committed and involved in the community," Wilson said. "And I feel good that so many people have been supportive."

Harmsen counters that he hasn't really been fund-raising. "I'm just not out actively shaking the trees," he said. "If I need to, I will. . . . [But] I'm certainly not worried about doing what I need to do."

Harmsen put in nearly $10,000 of his own money and got $1,000 contributions each from the Salt Lake Board of Realtors and Utah media guru David Simmons, who owns numerous radio stations.

tburr@sltrib.com