Tuesday, October 27, 2020

Utah 2020 Amendments

 I am Yes for A B C and D

No on E F and G

For E, Sen Mayne does a good job. Hunting and fishing are essential and undeniable parts of Utah’s cultural identity and economy and protected in statute.

We love and cherish many things about our great state. Few are so vital they must be enshrined in our state’s most sacred document.

The Second Amendment in the U.S. Constitution and our Utah Constitution guarantee our rights to keep and bear arms and 

individuals’ rights to protect themselves and their families. These sacred constitutional liberties are not about hunting and fishing. We should not dilute them by adding to them or defining them as something they are not.

If we do not carefully scrutinize what goes into it, the entire document will lose value. That is not to say that we should not protect hunting and fishing—we absolutely should. But if we do not draw a line between rights that are fundamental and privileges that extend from those rights, we will no longer be able to tell the difference.

Nobody is threatening our right to hunt and fish. Any threat is hypothetical or imaginary. The Utah Division of Wildlife Re-sources is an agency of outdoor sports professionals and enthusiasts dedicated to preserving and managing Utah’s vibrant hunting and fishing traditions, culture, and industry. The protections and promotion that they provide is woven deep into the laws of our state and are not going anywhere.

Legislative supporters of Amendment E admit that the amendment will not make any meaningful difference in how hunting and fishing is managed in the state. It will have no meaningful impact on people’s access to hunting and fishing. These activities are and will continue to be open to all. Without the amendment, you will still be able to hunt and fish, and the state will continue to promote and protect these activities as they always have.

No one is even considering taking away our hunting and fishing rights, so why are we considering inserting unnecessary language into our constitution?

By adding this amendment, we will dilute our fundamental rights, like our right to protect ourselves and families, our right to free speech, and our right to peaceably assemble.

Vote NO to protect the power of our constitutional rights. Vote no on amendment E.

- Senator Karen Mayne and Representative Marsha Judkins

On Amendment F: "As the Utah Constitution now dictates, the session would still need to begin in January and run for only 45 consecutive days, with the exception of federal and state holidays. The only change included in Constitutional Amendment F is removing the specific January start date from the Constitution and instead specifying the January start date in statute. The Legislature would be enabled to set the start date by passing a bill. This will allow for more adaptability in determining a start date."

Currently citizens, businesses, taxpayers, and legislators can plan in advance for years for the start of the session. Will they also change the candidate filing deadlines at a wim? I don't trust the flexibility as written. The session may be one or two days longer with the holidays but the session date could shift greatly.


Amendment G, according to the official voter guide and the unbiased calculation section, is expecting to help balance the budget by allowing $600 Million to be used from the education fund to pay for something currently funded by the general fund. It basically removes $600 Million from the education fund per year. The UEA and others cut a deal so this would not be worse than it could be. I doubt higher ed got such a deal. Since sales taxes are better than expected and income tax is worse than expected as of July 1st, the deal could be worse than expected. I am a no vote on G. Is it better than the tax reform? At least the voters get to decide.


Utah GOP ad Oct 27

 from my friend Judy

"I have tried to keep politics off of JUDY’S CORNER except to copy something that someone needed from the 2019 Tax Referendum page but I have to repost this because of the unethical flyer sent out by the Utah State Republican Party in retaliation to a flyer sent out to several select areas by the Democratic State Party. This flyer unlike the Democratic one is absolutely a lie and FALSE!

Please read and tell your friends that this is flyer is unprofessional and deceitful.

———————————————

********************************

It has just come to my attention that several Democrats that not only voted against SB2001 but helped to get signatures to repeal have had a mailer sent out by the Republican party saying they didn’t try to stop the tax on food! 

Remember all Democrats voted AGAINST SB2001. 

Please if you are in Representative Suzanne Harrison, Represenative Elizabeth Weight, Carol Spackman Moss, Representative Brian King, Rep Joel K Briscoe or Represenative Karen Kwan’s area tell your neighbors it is rubbish! You can even have them call me and I can tell them the truth! 

I just addressed an issue that said the Democrats were unethical because a news article questioning the integrity of a Republican that was based on fact which caused a stir. That article was based on fact, the flyer sent out against these individuals is not! 

Shame on those who sent out the flyer! Let’s hope that all that participate in these shenanigans down in defeat!!!

Last week it was the Democratic Party that tried to tell voters in special areas that specific Republicans voted for SB2001 when they didn’t. 

This type of campaign strategy does not work in Utah!

I DETEST Dirty Politics!

One week left....stay tuned!"



Rep Spendloves ad

 One Representative voted to raise the tax on food and fuel, take $680 Million from public ed and add taxes on several services and change the way we fund roads. In otherwards  they voted for 2019 SB 2001. Now they send out a flyer bragging they voted to repeal that bill (after we got enough signatures to put the bill on the ballot through the referendum process) and tried to imply someone calling them on their original vote was untruthful? Perhaps this flyer deserves some kind of Pinocchio award? Deceptive at best.

Leadership races

 The Utah House and Senate Leadership races is an important vote. It is a mistake again, to have the vote so close to election day and not later as the votes will not all be counted for the legislature. In 2010 I was not a member when the vote took place. In 2012, I did not know by the time of the leadership vote if I won or not so I was not able to vote. In 2014, when I did win, I again did not know yet and was not allowed to vote. The Democrats have delayed their vote in the past for this reason. Hopefully, enough people will turn their ballots in now so on election night there will be a better view of likely house and senate members. The final vote isn't until the start of the session but by then, traditionally the races are done and everyone votes for the leadership of both parties as was chosen in November. I believe the leadership vote should be delayed 2 weeks. Perhaps if it appears the current speaker has lost or could lose on election night, I will get my wish.

Leadership races for the state House and Senate should be at least 2 or 3 weeks after election day so those that are voting are decided by the voters.

Oct 16 Bad Flyer

For those that don't know, in Utah per the state constitution, any bill passed by less than a 2/3 vote of both houses is subject to referendum. 

If passed by 2/3 It also can have an immediate effective date, instead of waiting 60 days to take effect. 

As you likely know, it takes a lot of signatures to get the bill on the ballot to block it. The legislature didn't get the 2/3 for 2019 SB 2001 last December. 

Why, when the Republican leadership of both houses backed the bill did they not get 2/3 of both houses? 

Initially the bill passed the senate with 2/3 (20 votes) with 2 Republican's voting against it. They listened to the voters in their area and voted No. It then went to the House. They needed 50 votes for 2/3. They got 43. Not 2/3. 

That is when I thought, this bill is subject to Referendum. I started immediately asking if there were others that thought it was a terrible bill. There were on both sides. There were changes in the bill and it went back to the Senate. One Senator had left and so the bill got 19 votes. If the bill had got 50 in the House, they would have had the UHP go get the Senator to bring him back if required. They didn't. 

The bill passed and eventually would be signed by the Governor, even after he knew we were gathering signatures. Referendums can't be done without $4 Million and UEA had already caved at that point. 

Well, we proved them wrong. We got 170,000 signatures in 29 counties. We only needed about 116,000 votes in 15 counties. 

Now, Some [...] in the democratic party is going after some of the 11 Republican Representatives that voted with the people and against the leadership of Speaker Wilson. They are saying their party leadership backed the bill. They forget to mention the legislator voted against the bill and listened to the voters. If the democratic party wants to go after the leadership on this bill, or after these legislators for a different reason, fine, but don't go after the heroes for this bill. Without them there would not have even been the possibility of a referendum.

Saturday, June 27, 2020

Mayor Jenny Wilson and Your Mandatory Face Mask

Neighbors and Friends,

I am hopeful that you are well and safe.

Just after midnight tonight (12:01 a.m. June 27, 2020) face coverings (masks) will be mandatory across Salt Lake County in retail and commercial establishments, restaurants while waiting to be seated and served, and at community gatherings by order of Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson. [update, now in effect]

Although Mayor Wilson has a letter of support signed by several County Council members, she did not bring her face covering mandate to the County Council for a vote; Mayor Wilson just told them in their Tuesday meeting what she was going to do.

This lack of transparency and accountability is concerning at best when one individual dictates a specific action and requirement for a million people in Salt Lake County. Our County Council members are elected to represent specific areas and districts. Denying the Council's opportunity to vote denies the voice of the people across Salt Lake County.

Even liberal Summit County officials understand this. They are taking their proposed mandate to its residents by calling a special meeting for a final vote.

Salt Lake County residents should not be denied a Council vote. Residents and Council members need to ask; Where are the COVID hotspots? We should know; Are the hotspots still in the homeless shelters, the jail, specific neighborhoods, or where? It is also important to know if there is a direct link of increased COVID cases to the massive protests downtown, attended by Mayor Wilson, Mayor Mendenhall, Mayor Andy Beerman, and others.

Controlling the action of a million people should at least require the vote of those Council members elected to represent us.

We need more members on the County Council who are willing to provide a balance of power the Mayor wishes to wield.

I need your support and your vote. The primary election ends on June 30, 2020.

Sincerely,

Fred C. Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2

Wednesday, June 24, 2020

I do not agree with government mandatory mask wearing

If a business decides that to be open and keep their staff and customers safe I need to wear a mask, I have one and can and have worn one. The county mayor and governor certainly can encourage.

I don't agree with government mandatory mask wearing.

Some people can not wear masks for medical reasons. Are they going to provide them a shield or require a note from a doctor?

I was meeting a group in a park. When it started raining and social distancing was not available I put on my mask. One of our group works at an assisted living center and she was wearing a mask and I did put on my mask to keep that facility safe. That was not required by some mandatory government rule.

[update]
In response to a doctor that doesn't believe someone has real issues wearing a mask and was telling them they were full of it:

If you think that some people can't wear them for medical reasons is bogus, I can introduce you to some people if you would like. Lung damage in Vietnam during the war there. Some that are asthmatic. Some have allergies. Some are on blood thinner and are sensitive to decreased oxygen. That question was asked the experts the county has 3 times on Tuesday, and they dogged the question. 2 of the times were from a member of the county council and the experts would not answer.

And yes, you are wearing a surgical mask. Many of the masks most people are wearing are hand made, are 2 layers of dense fabric. The reason you wear a mask is to reduce infection when you are in surgery. Thank You.

Many people have been traumatized by earthquakes and deaths in addition to this Coved-19 virus. If that means someone is going to feel better if I wear a mask or if I am going to feel better in some situations to wear a mask, that needs to be OK. I have one or two I can wear. That is not true with others. Back off. Some people still have PTSD from the earthquake.

  
[Update]
The county order has the following

Any individual within Salt Lake County who is age two and over and able to medically or psychologically tolerate a face covering shall be required to wear a face covering that completely covers the nose and mouth in public areas where consistent social distancing of at least six feet is not possible, reasonable, or prudent. Additional guidance can be found...

Face coverings are required in Salt Lake County:
  • at public gatherings, indoor or out, where consistent social distancing is not possible.
  • while waiting outside or inside retail and other public locations,
    including bars and restaurants until seated.
Face coverings are not required:
  • Outdoors when social distancing is easily and consistently maintained.
  • On a person with a health condition exacerbated by a face covering.
  • On children under 2 years old.
  • When wearing a face covering would prevent the performance of the essential functions of person’s job or work.
  • In circumstances not reasonably conducive to wearing a face covering, such as while swimming or engaging in strenuous physical activity*.
*It is impossible to account for every potential exception, so we ask Salt Lake County residents and visitors to use common sense and practice common decency when interpreting and applying the requirement to their public activities.

https://slco.org/health/COVID-19/faq/faq-facecoverings/


Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Have you voted yet

Have you voted yet?

The GOP primary election ends June 30th and if you haven't received your ballot in Utah, call your county clerk tomorrow.

https://slco.org/clerk/elections/

You can also go to the Utah Lt. Gov. Election website at:
https://vote.utah.gov/

Click on the like to read what information candidates that are on your ballot turned in
https://votesearch.utah.gov/voter-search/search/search-by-address/candidates-and-issues

 If you have questions, you can call me or email me at:
mailto:fred@fredcox4utah.com

Some information about me can be found at:
http://www.fredcox4utah.com/ 

It has links to recent posts, videos of town hall meetings, endorsements, etc.

This has some good information about me.
http://fredcox4utah.blogspot.com/2020/05/vote-fred-c-cox-for-salt-lake-county.html


One of the best ways to vote is to drop off your ballot all ready to mail but at the County Clerk Elections Drop Box.

those locations are at:
https://slco.org/clerk/elections/vote-by-mail/ballot-drop-box-locations/


Vote for Fred C. Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2


Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Survey on Behalf of Black Lives Matter Utah

I received your survey and have tried to return it several times. It obviously assumes what I believe fits it the little dots, which is pretty limiting, is not always true and it is not helpful in being transparent.

If you will send a survey back without that limitation, I will be able to send it on.
In the mean time a few related statements:

Since 2009 I have lost track of how many protests I have been to. I was at one on February 8 and May 2.

[I was invited to speak at both].

I led the 2019 Utah Tax Referendum as the original sponsor. [1 of 5]. We got 170,000 signatures and the legislature and governor backed off.

I have no issue with protests. I disagree with the violence and property damage that happened a few [weeks] ago. There is no excuse for that. That is wrong.
The reason for the protests is valid. Too many people die because they are treated wrongly by those that should care.

I have worked with police officers in the past who are wonderful. Others are not. I do not know what some racism feels like but do know what prejudice feels like. I have been with others who were afraid because of racism.

We need more people to associate with others of different backgrounds, whether a different race or not. We can learn to care about others and that can help.

The government should be color blind and treat everyone fairly.

I am not sure reducing the Salt Lake County Sheriff budget by 6 million right now is a good idea. They need better and more trained officers not less.

When You reduce a police budget and then when crime goes up raise it back again, we get newer less experienced officers which can be a larger problem.

I joined a group recently to help fight racism.U-CARe. (United Coalition Against Racism)

Their statement for the group has this:
All people on the color wheel are invited to join us to fight racism and stereotyping through positive community events where people of all racial heritage meet, interact, find commonalities and unite against racism. We especially encourage inviting local law enforcement and their families to be part of the group.

Citizen or Civilian Review Boards are a good idea and should not be discouraged. My city (West Valley City) already has a Professional Standards Review Board (Citizens' Review Board) and more are needed.

We need better and more trained officers. The annual neighborhood watch parties when you can talk to the local police in a park helps create relationships.

The legislature has passed good laws for the use of body cameras. There has to be some protection of the person and the inside of their house, etc. from showing up on the 6pm news. These laws do need to be even better and I would support that.

Understanding how to deal with mental health issues in a non violent manor is key. New funding to provide for others, besides the police to help is needed.

I fought moving the prison from Draper, which would have saved $ Hundreds of Millions. We need a prison and some of the blocks in Draper needed to be replaced as they were not safe for anyone and did not help prisoners from coming back. I was a volunteer with my wife at the Draper prison for 2 years. We need more of that.

We need to remember that both the individual being stopped or arrested and the police officer have constitutional rights and should be treated fairly.

Fred C. Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2.

I had previously posted this:
http://fredcox4utah.blogspot.com/2020/06/question-regarding-protests-about-civil.html
and this
https://fredcox4utah.blogspot.com/2020/06/endorsement-of-utah-fraternal-order-of.html

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Licensing regulation reform question

Dear Mr. Cox,
Could you comment on the need for licensing reform (e.g., for nurses, as discussed in the article at https://www.dailysignal.com/2020/06/09/during-covid-19-cutting-red-tape-helps-front-line-nurses-save-lives/)?
Thank you.
 
Answer:
 
I am a licensed architect. In Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Oklahoma and Texas. This last year I considered getting a license in New Mexico. I had given up on NM as it would have cost $7000 in the past. This year it would have been $1000 plus a lot of red tape. I decided not to which may or may not have been a good decision. 

In 2015 and 2016 I worked to increase the ability of interior designers, if properly trained and verified with testing, education and experience [to do more work, that at the time required an architect]. Some criticized me for creating more competition for me. 

It used to be that you could become a licensed architect with enough experience, even without a lot of education.  That unfortunately has changed. 

Some licenses are important. A doctor can make a mistake and someone dies. It is possible for an architect or engineer to wipe out a whole colosseum. All licenses are not bad. Too many or too hard to get is bad. It stops people's dreams. 

My dream at 15 was to be licensed architect by age 30. I beat that goal by 6 months. 

Some licenses are regulated to protect turf. Those should be simplified or eliminated. I have worked in the legislature to reduce some of these regulations. 

I know people that should be able to become an architect and can't. That should change. 

Many of these regulations are up to the state legislature. I will continue to do what I can to reduce the red tape while protecting health safety and welfare. 

We eliminated hair braiding as a required license. We need more changes. 

Fred C. Cox
For SLco District 2


 

Monday, June 8, 2020

The Budget

Neighbors and Friends,

I am hopeful that you are well and safe.

2020 started with a major achievement. We worked together to block the 2019 Utah Tax Reform bill that the Utah Legislature passed and was signed by the Governor last December. In a little over a month we secured 170,000 Utah Tax Referendum signatures across 29 counties. We did this with thousands of volunteers, both liberal and conservative and everything in between. Because of our success, the Legislature and Governor repealed 2019 SB 2001 instead of facing the backlash of the voters this fall.

Since then we have been hit with a Pandemic, an Earthquake, Riots and more. Utahns are made of tough stuff, but many of us are asking what is next!

This last week County Mayor Jenny Wilson announced that the current county budget will be $70 Million to $100 Million short this year based on shutting down the economy because of the Pandemic. She outlined many cuts, such as $6 Million from the Sherriff and $1 Million from the clerk.

At this same Tuesday meeting, the county mayor also announced the county would need to borrow $70 Million so they would have enough money until the property taxes come in later this year. It is now “standard” for our county to do this, year after year. This year the notes needed may have been larger, but they did it last year, and the year before, as well. The request to borrow $70 Million using notes passed on Tuesday.

Last year, Mayor Wilson proposed what she called a “no frills” budget. The Mayor’s proposal sought to address “huge structural problems” facing the county after years of not capturing inflation despite economic and population growth, she said. The Council reduced the budget some, but it was still a $16 Million increase or about 8%.

You may remember that last December the County passed the property tax increase, so we are likely going to have larger property taxes this fall. The County budget is about $1.5 Billion, with a B.

This Tuesday, the County Council is expecting more details to further reduce this year’s budget.

Right now, one of the last things we should do is short the Sheriff budget enough to close one of the blocks at the County Jail. We need better and more trained officers, and every time a city or county reduces this area of budget and then raises it later as crime goes up, we get brand new police officers. Some of them turn out great, but others do not. With the current deaths and protests, this is going the wrong direction.

The $77 Million in tax cuts being proposed now is a band-aid. We need more on the County Council willing to solve this “structural problem”. I need your help in standing up to the mayor and the current bureaucracy.

You can start by calling the mayor and council members and telling them you want real budget reform.

You can also help this week for voting for me, Fred C. Cox, in the primary election for Salt Lake County Council District 2 that begins this week. If you do not get your ballot this week, contact the county clerk’s office. Ballots are due the end of the month, but you do not have that long to fix things with voter registration if there is something wrong.

I have had several town hall meetings, the last have been online. They are available to watch from links on my website. http://www.fredcox4utah.com/

You can contact me with ideas and questions, email is the best. It gives me information that I can follow up with

Fred C. Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2
801-966-2636 (home)
Paid for by Fred C. Cox, Campaign Fund

Saturday, June 6, 2020

Fred C Cox for SLco Council District 2 update

Facebook Live

Youtube

https://youtu.be/rM28-Jmfyrs

Question regarding protests about civil rights issues

On Wednesday I had received this email.

"Hi, I am reaching out to you and your opponent ... because I am concerned with how politicians listen and prioritize the civil rights issues we face in our country. I think it is important that politicians do what they can to fight systemic racism that has hurt people of color for years. What is your position on these protests? Thanks."

My Response:

Since 2009 I have lost track of how many protests I have been to. I was at one on February 8 and May 2.

[I was invited to speak at both].

I led the 2019 Utah Tax Referendum as the original sponsor. [1 of 5]. We got 170,000 signatures and the legislature and governor backed off.

I have no issue with protests. I disagree with the violence and property damage that happened a few days ago. There is no excuse for that. That is wrong.
The reason for the protests is valid. Too many people die because they are treated wrongly by those that should care.

I have worked with police officers in the past who are wonderful. Others are not. I do not know what some racism feels like but do know what prejudice feels like. I have been with others who were afraid because of racism.

We need more people to associate with others of different backgrounds, whether a different race or not. We can learn to care about others and that can help.

The government should be color blind and treat everyone fairly.
I am not sure reducing the sheriff budget by 6 million right now is a good idea. They need better and more trained officers not less.

I am meeting with the FOP this week. I will have more ideas after that meeting. Thank you for reaching out

Fred C. Cox

His response to my response was: "Thank you. Your response has earned my vote."

Endorsement of the Utah Fraternal Order of Police

June 5, 2020

To: Fred Cox
Re: SLCO Council Endorsement

Dear Mr. Cox,

On behalf of the 4,000 members of the Utah Fraternal Order of Police, it is my pleasure to inform you that you have received the endorsement of the largest police labor organization in Utah. We appreciate your willingness to work with us in furthering the law enforcement profession and we look forward to continuing that process.

Please feel free to use this endorsement in your campaign. You are also authorized to use the Utah FOP logo above to announce and promote that endorsement.

Sincerely,

Brent Jex, President
Utah FOP

Thursday, June 4, 2020

Salt Lake County is Borrowing 70 Million

What isn't in the report is the mayor proposed and the county voted on Tuesday to issue $70 Million in notes to be paid back.

If they are cutting the budget $77 Million for a $70 Million to $96 Million budget hit because of Covid-19 and they are getting $200 M in federal funds because of Covid-19 why do they also need to borrow $70 Million to write checks? The structural imbalance clearly isn't solved.

https://www.deseret.com/utah/2020/6/3/21279302/utah-covid-19-salt-lake-county-budget-cuts-jenny-wilson-county-council

I received these 2 responses from a budget hawk, County Councilor Aimee Winder Newton

"Keep in mind that we can't use any Covid dollars for budget issues. They have to go directly to Covid expenses."

"The $70 m is a tax anticipation bond to address our cash flow needs prior to receiving property tax in the Fall.  We will pay it off prior to EOY just as we have in the past." 

With a $1.5 Billion annual budget, it would be wise to budget enough money each year so we do not have to borrow $50 Million to $70 Million each year to pay bills and pay it off the the fall.  

Each year for many years they don't have enough money to get them through until the property taxes all come in. Covid made it worse. I am concerned the Jail will be hit hard. The number I saw on Tuesday as 6 million from the sheriff and $1 million from the clerk. That could wipe out 300 of the new voting machines.

They have reassigned staff as much as possible. They will not be building or repairing as much.

  

 

Saturday, May 30, 2020

Town Hall Facebook Live 30 May 2020

Facebook Live

https://www.facebook.com/fred.c.cox/videos/10216508264195573/



May 30 2020 Town Hall
Posted by Fred C Cox on Saturday, May 30, 2020

You Tube

https://youtu.be/5O2xvL5_G18

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Vote Fred C. Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2

Leadership, Experience, Integrity, Willing to Listen, Represent You, and Respect.

Economy, growth, taxes, your rights, transportation, water, sewer, clean air, and crime.

The end of 2019 and the beginning on 2020, I was the original sponsor (1 of 5) for the Utah 2019 Tax referendum. Working with voters throughout the state, both liberal, conservative, and everything in between, and as volunteers, we were able to gather over 170,000 signatures in 29 counties, exceeding the 116,000 required signatures in 15 counties. Because of the success of our team, the Legislature and the Governor repealed 2019 SB 2001, instead of facing the backlash of the voters this fall.

I served in the Utah House of Representatives in 2011, 2012, 2015 and 2016. I had a reputation of being willing to listen, read, speak up and fight for and vote for what I believed was right, no matter the opposition. I held regular open town hall meetings, not just when I was running or when the legislature was in session.

Community Involvement: Valley West Rotary Club President, West Point (West Valley) Neighborhood Watch Chair, Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the Western Growth Coalition.

Vote Fred C. Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2

Who is Fred C. Cox?

Some Issues:

A few Endorsements:

What would Fred do differently than the current county Council

Against the Property Tax Increase the Council passed 7 v 2 a few months ago.
For reducing or more efficient spending.

Against additional gun restrictions.
For the 2nd Amendment and the State Constitution

Against the Olympia Hills Vote.
Promoted a different solution

Shutdown?
See the video at:

The Economy:

See links to past town hall meetings and other videos at:

Facebook Live Town Hall May 30, 2020 at 10am

Vote for Fred C. Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2

Any campaign costs are paid by Fred C. Cox, Campaign Fund


Sunday, May 24, 2020

Issues Questions and answers 2nd amendment and other rights

Where do you stand on the 2nd Amendment

I was asked to speak at a 2nd Amendment rights rally at the Utah Capitol February 8, 2020.

In the past I have been endorsed by the NRA-Political Victory Fund. I am a strong supporter of our right to protect ourselves.

I quoted this section from our Utah State Constitution:

 Article I, Section 6.  [Right to bear arms.]      The individual right of the people to keep and bear arms for security and defense of self, family, others, property, or the state, as well as for other lawful purposes shall not be infringed; but nothing herein shall prevent the Legislature from defining the lawful use of arms.

Notice the Legislature can define the lawful use of arms, but it can't take away the right of the people to keep and bear arms for security and defense. I spoke opposing the "Red Flag" laws being proposed.

I have strongly condemned the Salt Lake County Mayor's decision for an “operational change” to close the gun show background check "loopholes" at gun shows at county facilities.

I am running to replace the Republican incumbent who voted to support the county mayor, when the county council voted 5 vs 4 on February 11, 2020, a few days after the rally.

https://www.deseret.com/utah/2020/2/17/21136549/utah-gun-control-background-checks-gun-shows-salt-lake-county

I wrote this:
https://fredcox4utah.blogspot.com/2020/04/we-need-to-reverse-salt-lake-county.html



If you are a defender of  property rights, then why did you publicly oppose and speak against the Olympia Hills Project before the Salt Lake County Council vote?

A good explanation is at:
https://fredcox4utah.blogspot.com/2020/02/olympia-hills-project-too-fast-or-is.html

I proposed a compromise which was not voted on. I also believe it was wrong for the county to vote on this when the decision should have been up to a city annexing the property.


Where are you re: Government closing private businesses regarding the pandemic?

https://fredcox4utah.blogspot.com/2020/05/i-was-asked-to-speak-for-few-minutes-at.html


Check back for more updates.





Saturday, May 2, 2020

Government Mandated Shutdown


I was asked to speak for a few minutes at the business revival meeting at Vineyard today. Sometime between 3 and 4. The event starts at noon.

They already have a bunch of speakers. I spoke to Eric who is leading this celebration. He knows I don't agree with him on everything.

I do believe the government has overstepped the constitutional authority we gave them. I also believe in following the law and getting laws changed. We need to rescue the small businesses. The economy and food and farmers and everything has been hit hard. We need to save this country from socialism and the last 2 months have not helped.

Many people have been traumatised by earthquakes and deaths in addition to this Coved-19 virus. If that means someone is going to feel better if I wear a mask or if I am going to feel better in some situations to wear a mask, that needs to be OK. I have one or two I can wear.

Our governor and mayors and health dept officials need to know that many of us find the past several weeks of government mandated shutdown not acceptable. They can not be repeated.

We need to work on principle. Businesses should be able to keep their staff and customers safe and be able to be open. This next "phase" is where we needed to be seven weeks ago.

A couple of weeks ago, when the Governor had this idea of telling people crossing into Utah they needed to fill out papers, I said this:

Most people in this state feel that a mayor or governor shutting down private businesses generally or by category and requiring papers to travel is an abuse of power and is not constitutional. Period.

We have shut down a restaurant for norovirus or other reasons before. This is not the same. There is no reason each and every business can't figure out a way to stay safe and stay open. I have been working from home generally. That doesn't work to go visit a building.

Most people are doing their best to wash hands and keep distances. That is a good thing for now.

The last thing we need is the government taking over everything.

Be civil. Be caring. Be safe. Be free.

update, a copy of the introduction and actual remarks is at: https://youtu.be/QNcL5--h-m8 

Friday, April 24, 2020

Balance in transportation funding

I saw this opinion in the Desert News today.

Some background
Utah uses 2 main ways to fund transportation. The gas tax and Transportation related sales tax, including sales tax on new cars, tires, etc. The 2nd method is not direct, it is through an earmark on sales tax roughly based on 17% of sales tax being transportation related.

In the now repealed 2019 SB 2001 which was the bill we ran the referendum petitions against, the 4th item of concern was removing transportation related sales tax from funding transportation so the Legislature could use the $600 Million somewhere else. It is also why they were taking $680 Million out of the education fund with SB 2001 which was the 3rd issue we had with the bill.

All of this is based on the same section of the Utah Constitution, with the education part of it being proposed to be amended by voters this fall.

Article XIII, Section 5
(5) All revenue from taxes on intangible property or from a tax on income shall be used to support the systems of public education and higher education as defined in Article X, Section 2.
(6) Proceeds from fees, taxes, and other charges related to the operation of motor vehicles on public highways and proceeds from an excise tax on liquid motor fuel used to propel those motor vehicles shall be used for:
(a) statutory refunds and adjustments and costs of collection and administration;
(b) the construction, maintenance, and repair of State and local roads, including payment for property taken for or damaged by rights-of-way and for associated administrative costs;
(c) driver education;
(d) enforcement of state motor vehicle and traffic laws; and
(e) the payment of the principal of and interest on any obligation of the State or a city or county, issued for any of the purposes set forth in Subsection (6)(b) and to which any of the fees, taxes, or other charges described in this Subsection (6) have been pledged, including any paid to the State or a city or county, as provided by statute.

This opinion in the Desert News is trying to take transportation funding the other direction. We need balance. This isn't it.

https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2020/4/23/21231760/gas-prices-utah-oil-crisis-coronavirus-economy-oklahoma-tax



Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Led the fight to pass the 2019 Utah Tax Referendum

While Aimee Winder Newton and Jeff Burmingham and Jon Huntsman as Utah governor candidates were very helpful showing public support of the 2019 Utah Tax Referendum, Jeff Burmingham in his current campaign flyer claiming he led the fight to pass the referendum to stop the 2019 Utah tax reform package is total rubbish. Why does he think he is more important than Aimee who not only also showed up to the press conference, she personally helped as a referendum packet witness many times over. 

Who were the referendum leaders: there were 5 original Referendum sponsors, Fred C, Jeff W, Gina C, Darcy V, Judy R. along with regional coordinators Lloyd, Lisa and Matt, and county coordinators, local and store coordinators, and other key people, such as Marci working with businesses such as Harmons, along with hundreds if not thousands of volunteers that helped get 170,000 signatures in 29 counties.

Sunday, April 19, 2020

Q and A 2020 HB 3009 Local Government Emergency Response

Hi Fred
...
Have you read HB 3009? If so please give me your impressions.
Thanks
Answer
When I read the bill, I noticed it was putting checks and balances on the existing [potential] abuse of executive powers, of the Governor, County and City Mayors.

I have felt like current emergency laws needed that. Some have assumed that the bill was meant to add to existing powers. It was not. It could be amended to be more clear.

I believe some of the existing emergency powers are unconstitutional. Is a judge going to rule that way? Good luck with that. Is the Utah Legislature going to vote to repeal those powers? I am not sure they have the votes. If with a 2/3 vote they can add checks and balances to those powers, that is at least a step in the right direction. 

Over a week ago I had said this, and also had sent it to Governor. I posted it in a group with tens of thousands of people, liberal and conservative. The reaction was 95% positive. The comments, close to 1000 before they removed the comments were hardly civil. I am happy the country, state and county is starting to go this way. I hope I was helping in this process.

"Most people in this state feel that a mayor or governor shutting down private businesses generally or by category and requiring papers to travel is an abuse of power and is not constitutional. Period. We have shut down a restaurant for norovirus or other reasons before. This is not the same. There is no reason each and every business can't figure out a way to stay safe and stay open. I have been working from home generally. That doesn't work to go visit a building. Most people are doing their best to wash hands and keep distances. That is a good thing for now. The last thing we need is the government taking over everything. Be civil. Be caring. Be safe. Be free."

For more on HB 3009, this has valid points.


An opposing view also raises concerns. The sponsor has put the bill on hold for now.

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10219163194363779&id=1025123423



Fred C Cox
for SLco District 2

PS, Rep. Watkins has a floor amendment to remove the most controversial line. The bill is still stuck in Rules.

https://le.utah.gov/~2020S3/bills/static/HB3009.html

Saturday, April 18, 2020

Convention Videos

Round One Video
https://youtu.be/FyLoBV41kIA

Round Two Video
https://youtu.be/PPBpT8l0d6k







We need to reverse Salt Lake County Mayor Wilson on Gun Rights

Perhaps today we can take a step in undoing this. 

https://www.deseret.com/utah/2019/12/16/21024564/salt-lake-county-to-require-background-checks-for-gun-show-sales-at-county-facilities


This was an attempt at the legislature
https://www.deseret.com/utah/2020/2/17/21136549/utah-gun-control-background-checks-gun-shows-salt-lake-county

This was an attempt at the county council level, but it shows support of the Mayor
https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2020/02/11/salt-lake-county-opposes/


"Members of the Republican majority Salt Lake County Council voted 5-4 Tuesday to signal their opposition to the legislation amid concerns from several council members about its penalties for noncompliant communities and the ramifications for local decision-making."


What the article didn't say was which members of the county council voted with the mayor.

Clearly if the county council is 5 v 4 Republican, at least one GOP member voted with the mayor.

That would be in the incumbent for Salt Lake County Council District 2.

The good news I am running for Salt Lake County Council District 2 and the incumbent is not.

The Mayor is not a dictator, or should not be. She didn't consult with the council on this decision. She didn't on her stay home order. We need a council that can stand up to the county mayor when she is wrong.

Vote for Fred C. Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2
 
   



Friday, April 17, 2020

Questions and Answers


Fred,
Thanks for sharing information via email, blog, and Facebook Live.  I have a few questions to help me make a decision tomorrow:

1.  I feel that lack of civility and compromise in government is causing much gridlock and it appears to be getting worse.  Would you provide some examples of how you have worked with those of differing opinions to reach healthy compromise?  If elected, how to you plan to elevate civil dialogue and behavior?

2.  What is your relationship with current council members and city mayors?

3.  You, Dave Alvord, and Karen Lang are impressive candidates.  What are a few key strengths that make you a more suitable candidate?

Thanks for your passion and efforts to represent the West Side!

 
Answers:
Civility. I believe the 2019 UT Tax Referendum was a good example. When the legislature failed to get 2/3 of both houses for 2019 SB 2001, I called my most liberal and conservative friend to see if they were interested in running a referendum. The volunteers were both liberal and conservative and everything in between. I had one rule, respect. That worked well in almost all cases during the referendum. In many cases friends were made and I am hopeful this will be more long term.

For serving in the House, the best person I can suggest [to ask] is Rep. Brian King, house minority leader at the Utah House of Representatives. You can ask him, he described me as "non partisan" in my voting. I voted on the bill, not the sponsor or party they were from. While that has angered a few in the current house leadership, I still have many friends there.

While in the Utah House, I often had democratic senate sponsors for bills I ran, such as Sen. Karen Mayne, then Sen. Ben McAdams, Sen. Davis, and Sen. Escamilla.

With the Olympia Hills vote in the SLco council, I proposed what I thought would be a compromise that would work. 3 of the 9 voted against what passed, and likely would have supported my proposal.
One that voted for the Olympia Hills project, Shireen Ghorbani, told me she appreciated my suggestion, she just thought it was too late. She was involved in the tax referendum and has shown interest in working together.

 A. Shireen Ghorbani     B. Richard Snelgrove     C. Jim Bradley     1. Arlyn Bradshaw     2. Michael Jensen     3. Aimee Winder Newton     4. Ann Granato     5. Steve DeBry     6. Max Burdick, Chair

In addition to Shireen, as mentioned above:
I have known Richard Snelgrove and worked with him for over ten years on different committees. We have a good relationship. He was one that encouraged me to run. (He is not endorsing in the race)
Aimee Winder Newton, I have worked with on other committees for many years as well. We have a good relationship. She was one that encouraged me to run.  (She is not endorsing in the race)
Steve was someone that voted against Olympia Hills and was responsive to my suggestions, as well as Aimee and Richard.
I spoke to the council several times recently. Max treated me with respect. 
The person running against him, Dea Theodore has also reached out to me
Michael Jensen is not running for reelection.

I have worked with Ron Bigelow for 30 plus years. He has not endorsed anyone is this race, [he doesn't typically endorse]. I was disappointed that one of the candidates implied he did.
I have known Dirk Burton also for many years. I met him at the Western Growth Coalition a decade ago. (not an endorsement)

For actual endorsements:
https://fredcox4utah.blogspot.com/2020/04/endorsements-for-fred-c-cox-for-salt.html

I have support of several current and past members of city and metro councils. I have attended the Western Growth Coalition for many many years. Attendees are typical chamber members, representatives of all the city and metro councils from the district and school district members. It was one of the reasons I changed my membership to the South West Valley Chamber. I have not typically seen the other candidates there.

I had attended the Copperton and Kearns metro township meetings and was planning on attending other council meetings when the virus shut that down. I am well known by many.

I have lived in West Valley City for over 30 years and the west side for over 35. I represented a large portion of West Valley City for 4 years in the legislature and have been involved. I am have lived in Salt Lake County, or kept residency here, my entire life, almost 60 years.

See:

Strengths:
1. I have had and will continue to have regular town hall meetings. I listen. I am willing to get great ideas from others.
2. I have created and read many bills. Literally thousands of bills and state laws. I am known for seeing things others miss.
3. I have worked with county and city zoning and ordinances.
4. While I am willing to fight, I try to find win-win solutions where possible.
5. All of us are small business owners. All of us has had to work with public budgets. I have a reputation of protecting taxpayer funds.
6. The constitution:
A week ago, I posted this in a nonpartisan facebook group of tens of thousands. I had over 1000 comments. Some were not civil, however 95% of the up arrows, and hearts were in agreement.
I also sent it the Governor. This week changes are being made there.
As we see today, the State and Federal Government things are finally moving this direction. We need checks and balances on the executives, including our county mayor.

"Most people in this state feel that a mayor or governor shutting down private businesses generally or by category and requiring papers to travel is an abuse of power and is not constitutional. Period. We have shut down a restaurant for norovirus or other reasons before. This is not the same. There is no reason each and every business can't figure out a way to stay safe and stay open. I have been working from home generally. That doesn't work to go visit a building. Most people are doing their best to wash hands and keep distances. That is a good thing for now. The last thing we need is the government taking over everything. Be civil. Be caring. Be safe. Be free."

At decade ago, I said this was why I was running for office. It still is:

"I believe we must stand up and be heard or watch our constitutionally protected rights disappear. We can't continue to let government take over our lives".

Thanks for the questions.

Vote for Fred C Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2. You matter.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

It is the Economy

Many years ago I wrote this:

A Stable and Growing Economy
Utah is among Forbes best fiscally managed States and one of the best for business and careers. Many families are still struggling. We need to continue to improve. The Economy will grow when Government will allow it. In many cases Government is holding business growth back with too many regulations. 


This statement applies today even more than when I originally wrote it.

I have been self employed and worked as an employee.  

For decades of being self employed, it seemed that as soon as you started getting ahead, the government wanted the money.

We need transportation and water and sewer infrastructure. We need safe communities. With the Olympia Hills development passed by the existing county council, the local water district told me that future west bench development would need to get the water from the Bear River. They did not tell me how many $ Billions that would cost. 

We need better ideas.  Yes, I have ideas. I would love to hear yours.

I have town hall meetings. I did for each of the 4 years I served in the Legislature. It was the best place for me to listen to great ideas of how to solve things or learn what needed to be solved.

Vote Fred Cox for Salt Lake County Council 2
He listens.  

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Endorsements for Fred C Cox for Salt Lake County Council 2

2020 Endorsements for Fred Cox, running for Salt Lake County Council District 2
Check back for updates.

Utah Fraternal Order of Police
  

Kent and Carma Nay, West Valley City, UT

Jeffrey C. White, West Valley City, UT

Troy Council, West Valley City, UT
 

Clayton Hinman, West Valley City, UT
 

Christie Bigham, West Valley City UT
 

Tim and Gienie Assink, West Valley City, UT
 

Timothy Assink, West Valley City, UT
 

Don Christensen, West Valley City, UT (City Council)

Shirene Saddler, West Valley City, UT
 

Janice Auger Rasmussen, Taylorsville, UT (former Mayor)
 

Larry Johnson, Taylorsville, UT (former Mayor)
 

Bill Both, Magna, UT
 
Apollo Pazell, Copperton, UT (Metro Council)
 

Tessa Stitzer, Copperton, UT (Metro Council)

Benjamin Thompson, West Jordan, UT

Alan Anderson, West Jordan, UT

Tammy Bills, West Jordan, UT
 

Rebecca Campbell, South Jordan, UT
 

Steve Barnes, South Jordan, UT (former City Council)
 

Casey Jackson, Herriman, UT
 
Bill Clayton, Granite, UT (Metro Council)
 

Lee Anne Walker, Cottonwood Heights, UT

Helen Redd, Holladay, UT

"My experience is that Fred is a man of integrity who listens and makes decisions based on empirical data. I hope Herriman can stand behind Fred and help him get elected."
George Bekmezian, Herriman, UT

"I fully endorse Fred Cox.  I have personally worked with Fred C Cox. He is a man of integrity. He is honest and very knowledgeable. He understands the issues and is very capable of getting the job done. If you want to have trust in your elected officials you want to elect Fred Cox!"
Andrew S. Young, former chair of the Iron County Republican Party

Legislative Awards:

2016 Utah Defenders of Liberty Award, Libertas Institute
2015 and 2016 “Friend of the Taxpayer” Recipient, Utah Taxpayers Association (100%)
Salt Lake Chamber 2012, 2015 and 2016 "Business Champion"

Disclaimer: After the success of the 2019 Utah Tax Referendum,
it should be clear I don't have an campaign endorsement from the above 3 organizations.

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

Fred C Cox for Salt Lake County Council 2

Salt Lake County Delegates,
I hope you and your family are safe and doing well.

I have received the following dates and times from the Salt Lake County Republican Party re: the online County Convention
It is possible the instructions from them will be updated. You should have already received this.

April 18, 2020 9:00am Call to Order

Voting Round One: Polls to Open at 9:30am Saturday April 18, 2020 and will be open through Sunday April 19, 2020 to 10:00am
If you need to take part in a round two vote you will be emailed.

Voting Round Two: Polls to Open at 1:00pm Sunday April 19, 2020 and will be open through Monday April 20, 2020 to 2:00pm
There will be additional information being emailed to you and regarding polling locations, voting method and any additional information as needed.

For more information visit https://www.slcogop.com/conventions
Download your voting app today at: https://slcogop.voatz.com/

Since there are 3 Republican Candidates for Salt Lake County Council District 2, voting could take 2 rounds. If so, the 2nd round will be critical.

When I was selected by delegates to replace my state representative in 2011, I won by one vote in the 2nd round. Don't underestimate how important one vote is. 

For those that have may have missed my last 3 town hall meetings, or want to watch them again, there are links to watch at:


I have a new Facebook Live town hall meeting this Saturday, April 11, 2020 at 10am.

You should be able to find it from my personal facebook profile at:

The event information is at:
The facebook Group is at:

Fred Cox for Salt Lake County Council District 2

I was recently asked: "What do you think are some of the biggest issues facing Salt Lake County currently?"
My response was: Growth, Taxes, Transportation, Water, Air, and Crime.  Help us come up with the best answers to these by participating in the town hall meetings.

For 10 years I have said this:
I believe we must stand up and be heard or watch our constitutionally protected rights disappear. We can't continue to let government take over our lives.
That was the reason I ran for office when my State Representative, Ron Bigelow, stepped down to help the Governor at the end of 2010, and it is still so today.

It was one of the reasons I was awarded the Libertas 2016 Defenders of Liberty Award.

The end of 2019 and the beginning on 2020, I was the original sponsor (of 5) for the Utah 2019 Tax Referendum. Working with voters throughout the state, both liberal, conservative, and everything in between, and as volunteers, we were able to gather over 170,000 signatures in 29 counties, exceeding the 116,000 required signatures in 15 counties. Because of the success of our team, the Legislature and the Governor repealed 2019 SB 2001, instead of facing the backlash of the voters this fall.

For 2015 and 2016, I was given a 100% rating from the Utah Taxpayers Association for voting against tax increases and looking out for the taxpayers. I also received a Salt Lake Chamber 2012, 2015 and 2016 Business Champion award for working to help Utah businesses grow. I worked hard to make sure the legislature didn’t ignore the idea of replacing the prison in Draper, which I believed would have saved over $100 Million, which has since been shown to be true.

I had the opportunity to serve in the Utah House of Representatives in 2011, 2012, 2015 and 2016. During that time I had a reputation of being willing to speak up and to fight for and vote for what I believed was right, no matter the opposition.

I also had the reputation of reading though all of the bills I would vote on, and after the 2016 session a comedy song joked that I might have known other legislators' bills better than they did. During my service, I had one of the best floor attendance records of anyone in the House, except for one rare House Judiciary Standing Committee meeting called during floor time where I missed 12 votes in 2015. They were the only ones I missed that year. I wanted to be in the chamber during debates and voting so I could hear both sides of an issue and see if a bill was ready or needed to be amended or voted down. "Motion to Amend" was something I said more than once. I always voted for or against the bill no matter who the sponsor was or what party they belonged to.

I have been asked by many to run. I would appreciate your support, whether by endorsement for 2020 or campaign contribution. I need your vote.

Fred C. Cox for Salt Lake County Council 2
You can contact me with questions and ideas at:
My home phone number is 801-966-2636

Candidate lists are at:

Campaign Financial Disclosure statements are at:

The Salt Lake County Council 2 District map is at:
It includes the west part of West Valley City, Kearns, Magna, Copperton, West Jordan (west of U-111), and also parts of South Jordan, Riverton and Herriman.