Platform
As mayor, I will prioritize listening to residents and creating respectful dialogue. Every decision that comes before the mayor and council deserves careful consideration, and I will approach each issue with an open mind and a commitment to understanding all perspectives. My goal is to foster transparency, grow trust, and ensure that the voices of Orem residents are truly heard in city government.
Mitch's Plans
Traffic and Infrastructure
Fact:
Orem is uniquely situated between the mountains and Utah Lake. As I often say, “All roads lead through Orem.” That’s both a blessing and a challenge. It’s a blessing because our commercial corridors thrive, generating the sales tax revenue that helps keep property taxes low.
It’s a challenge because we face congestion, long wait times, and air quality concerns.
The Plan:
I will continue to work closely with UDOT to improve efficiency on state roads in Orem—especially State Street—through projects like signal optimization and improved traffic flow. I will advocate for a comprehensive transportation plan that gives equal priority to bicycle and pedestrian safety, including filling sidewalk gaps and exploring grade-separated trail options.
Adding dedicated bus lanes such as UVX would only increase congestion. Instead, I will collaborate with UTA to find ways to make existing bus routes faster and more reliable without worsening traffic.
Housing
Fact:
Affordable, owner-occupied housing is increasingly hard to find in Orem.
The Plan:
While many factors that affect housing prices are outside a city’s control, cities do have authority over land use and zoning. I will examine zoning options that encourage owner-occupied housing affordable to first-time homebuyers—homes that qualify for public and private homebuyer assistance programs.
This could include infill projects, townhomes, duplexes, or other “missing middle” housing types—not large, high-density apartment complexes. These ideas would be developed with plenty of public input to ensure they fit neighborhood character and community goals.
Orem already has a large rental inventory. I do not support bringing back the former State Street Master Plan, nor do I support new very high-density apartment projects.
Economic Development
Facts:
Nearly one-quarter of Orem’s city revenue comes from sales tax, and Orem is home to Utah Valley University (UVU)—a major economic and community anchor.
However, only about 10,500 residents both live and work in Orem, meaning many commute elsewhere for jobs.
The Plan:
- Support and grow local retail businesses.
Orem has a strong tradition of small, family-owned businesses that give our city its character. I will host regular business roundtables to identify barriers—such as zoning or permitting issues—and make sure Orem remains a place where local businesses can start, grow, and thrive. These businesses generate the sales tax revenue that helps keep property taxes low. - Attract and retain non-retail employers.
Orem needs a healthy mix of industries that provide good jobs close to home. I will request a comprehensive business inventory to understand what we have and where the gaps are. Then, working with business leaders and residents, we’ll target the kinds of companies that fit Orem’s strengths and values. - Partner with Utah Valley University as an innovation and workforce development hub.
UVU is one of Orem’s greatest assets. I will collaborate with UVU to expand its role as an innovation center and business incubator, helping entrepreneurs launch and grow right here. By connecting students, faculty, and local investors, we can strengthen Orem’s innovation economy and keep local talent in our community. Orem can work closely with UVU to help connect those entering their careers with the best opportunity to stay in Orem, if that is what they choose. - Be a strong regional player in economic development.
Economic growth doesn’t stop at city boundaries. Orem must have a strong voice in regional partnerships through groups like the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce, Mountainland Association of Governments, and neighboring cities. I will work to ensure Orem helps shape regional strategies for workforce development, transportation, and housing—so our businesses and residents benefit from a coordinated, regional approach.