I believe in a balanced approach to housing density. It needs to make sense and work with the city as a whole. Mixed-use has its place, but not everywhere. There needs to be adequate (not minimal) parking, facilities, and amenities provided in considering development. Transitions need to be well-planned from neighborhood to neighborhood. I don’t believe in just building Murray City out to the maximum extent.

Encourage neighborhoods to have a united presence, such as a “Neighborhood Watch”. Supporting our police department and develop an approach with appropriate personnel for those who are distressed, homeless, have mental illness, or otherwise disadvantaged in helping to provide a path for counseling and other support programs.  

No Answer.

The answer to this changes depending on my mood. Last week was Chipolte, Village Inn, and The Art Garden Cafe. This week is either Woody’s, Zupas, or Desert Star Theater for Dinner & Show. Murray has great restaurants from which to choose.

I am Daren Rasmussen and have lived in Murray for over 25 years. I graduated from USU with a degree in Hydrogeology Engineering and have worked with the State of Utah as long as I have lived in Murray. I have a wife and 3 children. I have served with school community councils, Jordan River Commission, MYCC Parent Volunteer, church service (homeless, addiction & mental illness), American Cancer Society committees, and youth leader. I now hope to continue that service on the Murray City Council- District 4. For more information go to DarenForMurray.com 

There is a real need for housing. I believe in a measured and balanced approach to zoning including balancing property rights with public well-being. Any zoning changes would need to be critically reviewed to make sure necessary infrastructure can be appropriately provided such as transportation corridors, utilities, emergency services, etc and that it makes sense and provides for a cohesive productive community.

Source: https://www.darenformurray.com/policy.html

​Advances in technology have allowed us to enjoy clean water, reliable energy, and fast internet. Currently, the biggest problem in these areas is the lack of water. In concert with everyone helping to conserve and efficiently use water, other stake holders, such as water companies and the state, are exploring solutions. Conservation and protection of stream corridors help with retaining water in the system. A shift from snowpack to rain events has us looking into storing more water in reservoirs in lower elevations. Arid-friendly landscapes are being promoted through various agencies & organizations. It will take all of us to be successful in this endeavor.

Source: https://www.darenformurray.com/policy.html

Generally, Murray does a great job using the tax funds to provide public amenities and support. I hope to encourage fiscal thriftiness and attentive spending. When there are new programs that require investment, I would undertake exhaustive research and thorough public input as well as specific goals we expect from the investment.

Source: https://www.darenformurray.com/policy.html

Preservation of heritage is one of the best things we can do with our time. In order to prepare our prosperity, we should teach them of our history. I also see the benefit of updating and innovating our section of State Street to attract quality businesses and productive consumer spending. Valuing both heritage and business can be done simultaneously through careful study and public outreach before informed decision making. One possible solution is to create a memorial of Old Murray in its prime while allowing innovative development of the land. We have an incredible legacy in Murray of independence and forward thinking. Let us honor our past as we continue to emulate that Murray spirit.

Source: https://www.darenformurray.com/policy.html

There are countless benefits for a quality K-12 education in the community. We can continue building on our relationship with both Murray and Granite School Districts. We can support our youth through efficient spending, volunteering, fundraising, and attending High School events. I believe we have room to improve our support of Murray City School Disctrict and our students. My three children have attended Murray schools and all graduated from Murray High School. My wife graduated from Cottonwood High School. I have served on the Community Councils of both Hillcrest Junior High School and Murray High School working to help with implementing new technologies and programs. I have known the superintendent since college and the high school leadership and staff since moving to Murray. They have all impressed me with their work ethic and ability to continually make improvements where there are difficulties or new ideas and innovations.

Source: https://www.darenformurray.com/policy.html

Although Murray City safer than most cities, there are small crimes that targeted solutions may resolve. Through exhaustive research and problem solving, I believe Murray can be even safer. We should educate ourselves on abuse and violence to see the signs in our neighborhoods. We should fund programs to treat and prevent these problems. The national trend, by some, to not value life and property has made it difficult to feel safe, even in Murray. We can improve trust between local authorities and citizens through understanding, training, and outreach. Cohesive communities will address mental health and personal responsibility issues more than any program or code.

Source: https://www.darenformurray.com/policy.html

Our parks and public spaces are a valuable asset to Murray and the entire valley, as they create places for families to enjoy create positive memories together. Sports and outdoor recreation also help create a healthy lifestyle, both physically and emotionally. I’m proud to have great public areas within walking distance of every Murray resident.  I enjoy the parks and recreation amenities that Murray has and their ability to incorporate some of the needs of the local schools. Improvement decisions need to be made carefully to provide the best product for the future as well as current needs and that the budget is spent wisely. The Jordan River Corridor in Murray is a great asset and needs to continue to be maintained and improved.

Source: https://www.darenformurray.com/policy.html

 In addition to recreation, Arts & Theater also create positive memories for our Murray families. Continuing these traditions and constructive outlets is important to have a well-balanced and diverse community. We have all learned new things by watching plays and productions. Inclusivity and kindness are often themes in the plays and the opportunity to participate in the Arts is invaluable.

Source: https://www.darenformurray.com/policy.html