Jimmie Hughes: These are my three priorities for St. George

Thank you for the opportunity to share some thoughts about my efforts to represent the people of St. George as your Mayor. I am grateful for the efforts of some in the media who provide opportunities to reach and educate the public.

Rather than spend the limited space I have here talking about who I am, I want to get right to the point of why you should vote for Jimmie Hughes for St. George Mayor.

If you want to learn more about who I am, please go to my website www.jimmiehughes.com or my Jimmie Hughes for St. George Mayor Facebook page.

When I talk with residents, I often get asked two questions: “What will you do as mayor?” and “What will you do differently than the current mayor?”

To me, those are the same questions. Asking what I will do as mayor and what I will do differently is the same question — because my plan for leadership is exactly where we can do better. Three main things come to mind.

First, showing up

The mayor’s primary role is to be an advocate for the city. That means being present — not only in our neighborhoods and community events, but also in the meetings that shape our future. As mayor, I will show up and represent St. George in meetings with our state and federal partners, with private sector leaders, and in the many board meetings that come with the office. Our city deserves a mayor who is engaged, visible, and proactive in making sure St. George’s voice is heard at every table where decisions are made. Asking what I will do as mayor and what I will do differently is the same question — and the answer begins with showing up consistently.

Second, public input

Public input is a necessity, not just a formality. Too often, residents feel their voices are invited only after decisions have already been made. Leadership starts with listening, not lecturing. Listening does not mean just returning a few phone calls, texts, or emails, but requires really listening. As mayor, I will ensure that public input happens early in the process, before choices are locked in. I will create more opportunities for meaningful dialogue where residents’ perspectives help shape the outcome. When the people of St. George are heard, our city makes better, stronger decisions. I welcome public input and public comment early and often. Asking what I will do as mayor and what I will do differently is the same question — and the answer is strong leadership that listens.

Third, avoid property tax increases

Families and seniors are already under pressure from rising costs of living. They shouldn’t be asked to shoulder higher property taxes on top of it. As a current city council member, I led out and voted against the mayor’s supported property tax increase — and still helped pass a budget that funded a $90 million increase for police and fire, our number one priority. That’s the kind of fiscal discipline and prioritization we need. As mayor, I will continue to ensure we meet essential needs like public safety, roads, and water without raising property taxes. Asking what I will do as mayor and what I will do differently is the same question — and the answer is protecting taxpayers while funding priorities responsibly.

These three commitments — showing up, public input, and no property tax increases — define not only what I will do as mayor, but also what I will do differently than the current leadership. In my view, those questions are one and the same.

St. George is a remarkable city. We have the opportunity to protect our quality of life while preparing for the future. That requires leadership that is accessible, transparent, and accountable to the people. I am committed to providing that leadership.

So when you ask, “What will Jimmie Hughes do as mayor?” and “What will he do differently?” — remember, they are the same question. And the answer is clear: I will show up. I will listen. And I will protect taxpayers while prioritizing public safety.

I ask for your support and your vote. Together, we can ensure that St. George remains a city where families thrive, businesses prosper, and every resident has a voice.

- Jimmie Hughes is a candidate for mayor of St. George