Bolstered, no doubt, by a recent statement by LDS Church leaders that members should support their neighborhood caucuses - Republican or Democrat - 15 Woodland Hills residents met Tuesday night for what they believe to be their town's first ever Democratic caucus.

“I don't think I would have been here if [church leaders] hadn't said that,” said Byron Adams. “It is a great hope of mine that people realize [being a Democrat] is not akin to being a Mormon who owns a liquor store.”

Floyd Cottam, who held the meeting at his home, said there are at least 40 Democrats in this hillside city in southern Utah County. He believes the church's announcement gave city Democrats extra motivation to come together.

“They got a little shot of adrenaline in the arms - that it is OK to be a Democrat,” Cottam said.

Not everyone was ready to credit the statement. Scott Abbott, who isn't a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said frustration with local and national issues spurred the gathering.

“We don't care what got you to do it,” Abbott said to organizer Jerry Johnson. “We're just happy that you did.”

Added resident Dalton Wright: “It's the increasing diversification in Utah and the growing discomfort . . . that usually riles up the electorate.”

The diverse group, which included a filmmaker, ("The Work and the Glory: American Zion" director Sterling Van Wagenen), a molecular biologist and a retired schoolteacher, chose delegates while discussing education, the environment, growth management and immigration.

thollingshead@sltrib.com