Welcome to the City Journals Voters Guide!

2025's General Election Day is on Nov. 4.   (See other important dates and SLCounty information in our Voting Information Overview page at the Valley Journals here.) 

In preparation, we surveyed our readers (like you!) to ask which local topics would determine important voting decisions for local races. We then asked your local candidates those reader-suggested questions. Candidates were asked to limit their answers to 200 words.These are their answers: 

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In West Jordan, six candidates are running for three At-Large positions: Kayleen Whitelock, Annette Harris, Jessica Wignall, Rob Bennett, Chris McConnehey and Sergio Sotelo.

 

 

Q: One main reason/goal for why you are running for this election: 

Kayleen Whitelock: To serve the residents of West Jordan and be their voice on the council.

Annette Harris: To keep West Jordan a great place to raise a family.

Jessica Wignall: To ensure smart, transparent growth that protects our neighborhoods, strengthens public safety, and keeps West Jordan a great place to live for every generation.

Rob Bennett: The decisions made in the next 4-8 years will dictate the direction of West Jordan for the next 40-50 years. We can't leave this to chance. We must have proven decision making on the council as well as fresh ideas or risk going backward.

Chris McConnehey: I’m running because I care deeply about West Jordan and want to keep our city on the right path. This is where I grew up, where Noni and I are raising our family, and where I’ve worked alongside neighbors for years to make our community better.

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Q: Do you believe current property tax revenue is being used effectively? How so? 

Kayleen Whitelock: Overall in West Jordan the taxes collected are being used efficiently. We prioritize public safety and public services. Some items I would not include as ongoing budget items, but use one time money for them are Christmas lighting and funds for celebrations such as opening a new bridge.Recently the council voted for an increase in compensation which I voted against as I feel this is a service not a job.

Annette Harris: Yes. The FY 2025 budget reflects a prudent and effective use of property tax revenue, in my opinion.  | Balanced and sustainable revenue planning: Property tax comprises about 30% of the General Fund’s ongoing revenue—second only to sales tax—and the city forecasts a modest 3.5% increase to offset inflation while protecting services.   | Minimal impact on homeowners: That 3.5% adjustment amounts to roughly $14 annually for the average home—just $1.17 per month—generating $675,000 in new revenue to cover public safety costs, notably supporting 28% of those increases. | Debt retirement that eases burden: The budget completes the final payment on a General Obligation Bond funded by property taxes. Once retired next fiscal year, that portion of property tax will no longer be necessary—relieving future taxpayers  | In sum, property tax dollars are being allocated thoughtfully: funding essential public safety enhancements today while phasing out legacy debt—thus striking a balance between responsible spending and long-term fiscal relief for West Jordan residents.

Jessica Wignall:  Yes, I believe West Jordan is making strides in using property tax revenue  effectively, but there’s always room for improvement. The city’s budget reflects  investments in essential services like water infrastructure, public safety, and road  maintenance and expansion to accommodate a growing population. These are long term investments that support growth and sustainability. However, I would advocate  for clearer communication with residents about how their tax dollars are spent and  ensure that every dollar aligns with community priorities. 

Rob Bennett:  The State Legislature has mandated how taxing entities must function to provide accountability and get feedback from those affected. When those rules are followed, a group of citizens (that we have designated the City Council) get together to hash out what is appropriate, what may be extra, and what may be missing in the Mayor's proposed annual budget (he is responsible every year for bringing a budget to the City Council. The City Council does not set the budget - it can only approve, make changes, or deny the budget that is presented to them. It is up to the Mayor's office to follow it or not.) If they operate in their responsibilities properly - and receive and listen to feedback from the citizens - then the budget funds are used effectively. Is there room for improvement? Are there changes that should be made? Almost certainly YES! But the process helps us decide what those changes need to be and after the changes, the budget that is left is approved for the next fiscal year. This process works when the participants fulfill their roles properly.

Chris McConnehey: Yes, our property tax funds are used effectively. Looking solely at property tax, it’s worth noting that what West Jordan collects would barely cover the fire department, so we work hard to find additional revenue to fund everything else residents expect, such as police, courts, snow plows, parks, and more. That’s why the city has focused on economic development and sales tax growth, so we can strengthen essential services without overburdening homeowners…. We’ve even been able to include projects that while not strictly essential, make life better - like upgraded street lighting and improved playgrounds.  | At the same time, we’ve delivered where it matters. During my time on the council we added 24 police officers, 8 firefighters, built Fire Station 54, maintained nearly 80 crossing guards, and added 63 acres of parks. And by pursuing creative ideas like opening a passport office at City Hall, we turned mandated passport fees into a local benefit, keeping over $215,000 here in West Jordan to fund services without raising taxes.

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Q: Thinking about fiscal responsibility - what values should your local budget reflect? How do you plan to balance those values?

Kayleen Whitelock: Our residents value public safety and keeping the community safe and well kept. I will continue to review the budget in depth and look for ways to improve our fiscal health by thinking outside the box to accomplish tasks. 

Annette Harris: The budget should reflect prudence, prioritization, and preparedness. I approach city finances as I would my own family budget: cut unnecessary costs, invest in core services, and build reserves to weather uncertainty. By rooting decisions in those values, we balance careful spending with targeted investment. 

Jessica Wignall:  Our budget should reflect transparency, equity, sustainability, and public safety. That means prioritizing:  Infrastructure that supports growth and resilience. Public safety funding that ensures our police and fire departments are  well-equipped. Community services like parks, libraries, and senior programs. Economic development that attracts businesses and jobs.   | To balance these values, I would support performance-based budgeting and  regular audits. I’d also push for citizen-friendly reports and open communication to ensure residents have a voice in how funds are allocated.  

Rob Bennett: Fiscal responsibility is a core value that must be retained by those who lead us. Tax money is sacred money that comes from the elderly, widows, single parents, people down on their luck, as well as everyday citizens and business owners. These funds must be only used to benefit the lives of ALL the people and not just those who can afford to be heard. I believe that during budget time, town hall meetings need to be held in person around the city to get the proposed budget and how to address it - seen, considered, and feedback given to those responsible for making the decisions. These need to be weighed and brought together after the feedback is given to decide what will stand and what is optional. The budget process is the most important one - and that affects the most number of people directly - of anything the city council does. We need to elect those who have demonstrated that they will always put the needs of the people first and have the wisdom to make decisions for those things that we can't predict right now. We must not leave this to chance.

Chris McConnehey:  Our city budget should reflect the core values of our community. For me, that means focusing on stewardship, safety, quality of life, fairness, and innovation. Balancing those values requires putting essentials first, maintaining discipline in spending, and being creative enough to still invest in the things that give West Jordan its character. Stewardship… Safety… Quality of Life… Growth and Innovation… Fiscal Responsibility & Fairness – funding essentials first and leveraging outside resources whenever possible through grants, partnerships, and regional cooperation. It also means recognizing that many other government entities (counties, schools, libraries, and more) are drawing from residents’ wallets, so every tax dollar collected by the city must deliver a clear and visible benefit.

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Q: Many residents reported concern for government oversight and transparency so; What systems would you support to hold local officials accountable when transparency standards aren’t met?

Kayleen Whitelock: I am open to all ideas, currently we rely on voters to hold elected officials responsible. I wish in West Jordan we would see an increase in resident input. The way we can increase participation is by truly listening and taking what residents share to heart and acting on it. I try to respond to any resident email within 24 hours. If elected officials respond and follow through it helps increase the participation. Also community events for residents to gather and share ideas. We are trying to start district meetings to give an opportunity for residents to share ideas and electeds and staff to answer questions.

Annette Harris: I support: Regular, public budget audits with clear reporting channels: Mandatory performance and spending dashboards online, accessible in real time: Community oversight forums, where residents can question and review decisions alongside elected officials: These tools reinforce accountability and keep government within sight and within reach.

Jessica Wignall: A: Transparency is non-negotiable. I support: a. Easy access to mandatory publication of meeting minutes and financial reports. b. Independent audits and public dashboards. c. Truth in Taxation hearings that are accessible. d. Citizen advisory boards to review major decisions and spending. e. Whistleblower protections and ethics training for city officials. If transparency standards aren’t met, I would advocate for formal reviews and public accountability measures, including censure or removal from committees if necessary. 

Rob Bennett: The vote is a huge, often underutilitzed opportunity to show those in office and running for office what values are most important to the voters. When we keep electing the same people time after time no matter what they have done or how long they have been there, we lose the right to complain when they do exactly what they have been doing before. We need to seek out candidates who are accountable to the voters now! - who seek to give them the knowledge and information they need to make informed vote choices. I support having all city council meetings viewable and readable by all residents of the city (no matter what language they speak), have city council representatives attend meetings IN PERSON except when absolutely necessary (which would require a change to the council's rules), and foster city-wide town hall meetings at regular intervals and when specially needed so residents know when they will be able to bring their issue before someone who can do something about it.

Chris McConnehey: In Utah, transparency is governed by the Open Meetings Act and Open Records laws. I support those laws fully and believe they should be enforced whenever violations occur.  | But while those statutes set the formal minimum, I wholeheartedly support the intention behind them, that the public has a right to see how decisions are made by the people they’ve entrusted to act on their behalf. I’m proud that West Jordan has gone above and beyond to include residents in the process. In addition to formal council meetings, brainstorming and work sessions are recorded, broadcast, and open for the public to attend. We’ve also adopted technology that makes it easier for residents to obtain records requested, including emails, text messages, and even voicemail.

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Q: What is your stance on local government cooperation with ICE?

Kayleen Whitelock: ICE is a federal program and where required by law we need to cooperate. We should also not be afraid to set standards of operation in our community and stick to them. Currently my own thought is ICE is not operating as they should and we are seeing this play out in courts which is how our democracy works best by the three branches of government balancing each other. We need to reform our immigration laws and then follow them. Immigrants built America and we are better together. When we don’t follow law we have chaos and that benefits no one.

Annette Harris: West Jordan deserves community trust in government. Therefore, I would oppose city-level cooperation with ICE that undermines that trust—especially when it chills community engagement or disproportionately targets families. Local government should focus on public safety and community well-being—not federal immigration enforcement.

Jessica Wignall: I do not support blanket cooperation with ICE, especially when it leads to civil  rights violations or undermines trust between law enforcement and immigrant  communities. West Jordan should not participate in immigration sweeps or  workplace raids, and any cooperation should be limited to individuals already in  custody for serious criminal offenses. I would ensure West Jordan maintains a  community-first approach, prioritizing safety and dignity for all residents regardless  of immigration status. 

Rob Bennett: I believe that ICE fills a legal need to perform a service of government to keep the land and its law-abiding citizens safe. Having said that, I believe that ICE and all other government entities involved in law enforcement have Constitutional requirements to follow the provisions of that document whether a higher-up decides to follow them or not. We must be a land of law. We cannot dismiss the law just because it is inconvenient or "seems" wrong to us. Processes must be followed so all can be protected. When they are, we are some of the strongest people on earth. Any government entity must obey the stipulations of law and due process, and when they do, then I can support their efforts.

Chris McConnehey: If the law requires our cooperation with federal agencies, I will support doing what is legally required. But I don’t believe West Jordan should volunteer local resources for responsibilities that fall outside our jurisdiction. Our budget is already stretched to provide the essential services residents depend on every day, and we need to stay focused on those commitments. I was elected to serve the city, not to take on federal responsibilities, and that will remain my priority.

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Q: What are your highest priorities in regards to community safety, education, and resources? 

Kayleen Whitelock: Safety is a high priority and since being on the council we have increased both police and fire personnel. I have and will continue to request data to help us plan for the future. We recently acquired property for an additional police and fire station on the far west side as this area is growing at a rapid pace. We are also prioritizing equipment to keep our police and fire staff healthy and equipped with what they need. I was instrumental in bringing a second pair of turn outs for our firefighters which has shown to decrease cancer rates. As for education, that is a separate elected body, in our community I will support emergency preparedness classes for residents such as CPR and babysitting training. I will partner with entities that serve the community such as South Valley Services and the library.

Annette Harris: Community safety: Maintain well-funded, community-focused policing and emergency response, with emphasis on proactive and preventive strategies.  | Education: Strengthen partnerships with local schools, support after-school and youth programs, and ensure that our children and families have access to quality learning opportunities.  | Resources: Advocate for parks, recreation, mental health support, and essential social services that build a resilient and thriving community

Jessica Wignall: My top priority for community safety is ensuring our police and fire departments  are well-staffed, well-trained, and equipped to serve a growing population while also building trust through transparency and community engagement.    | In education, while the city doesn’t directly control schools, I will advocate for  strong partnerships with Jordan School District to support safe routes to schools,  after-school programs, and mental health resources.   | When it comes to community resources, I’m focused on expanding access to parks,  libraries, and senior services, and ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with  growth. Every neighborhood deserves to feel safe, supported, and connected.  

Rob Bennett:  Mental health issue affect all of us. More and more, we come to realize how important it is for students, parents, individuals, families, first responders, health care workers, and everyday people to learn about mental health issues and how to get help to those affected by them. Too many lives have been lost. Too many livelihoods destroyed. Too many families torn apart. We have the learning and resources to make a much larger impact on these things if we will only recognize them. I believe by partnering with County, State and private resources to get the help and education that affected people need to work through their issues. As a city, we can support and help blaze the trail for these efforts. How many people with mental health issues do YOU know? Are they getting the help that they need? We can do better. And we will!

Chris McConnehey: The highest priority is balancing the resources we have (primarily tax dollars) to meet the needs of our community. For me that begins with safety: maintaining reliable infrastructure like water systems, storm drains, streets, lighting, and school crossings, along with ensuring our first responders are trained and equipped to serve.  | Education is directed by the school district, but the city can partner to support it through safe walking routes, providing crossing guards, well-maintained parks, and recreation programs that give students positive opportunities outside the classroom.  | In short, my focus is on using our limited resources wisely: funding essentials first, supporting education where we can, and investing in the quality-of-life amenities that make West Jordan a great place to live.

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Q: How do you plan to serve community needs?

Kayleen Whitelock: I will continue to be present at local and community meetings to hear resident desires and to ensure West Jordan has a voice at the table of other entities that impact life in our city. I will show up to meetings where transportation is being discussed and advocate for our city. I will continue to listen to residents and work to accomplish their desires.I will continue to listen.

Annette Harris:

Jessica Wignall:  I plan to serve by listening first. That means being accessible to residents and  using data to guide decisions. I’ll prioritize smart growth, fiscal responsibility, and  inclusive policies that reflect the needs of all West Jordan residents—from young  families to seniors. I’ll also push for more transparency in budgeting and  development decisions, so residents know how and why choices are made. My goal is to be a responsive, solutions-focused leader who brings people together to build a  stronger, safer, and more vibrant West Jordan. 

Rob Bennett:  I'm at a stage of life where my kids have grown, my small business is self-sustaining, and I have the time and ability to commit to dedicating that time and effort to be in the community. To be available and to actively listen to those residents who think that no one will care what they have to say. I am one of those who will answer the phone, return an email, talk to you on the street or in the grocery store, and honestly care about what you have to say. I will be on the job 24/7. I bring with me a wealth of experience, troubleshooting skills, and the desire to bring West Jordan into a player at the big boy's table where the truly important decisions will be made affecting the next 40-50 years.

Chris McConnehey: Serving community needs starts with listening. As a councilmember I’ve always tried to be accessible and responsive so residents know their concerns are heard. From there, the responsibility is to prioritize by making sure essential services like police, fire, roads, water, and parks are funded first.

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Q: Bio/experience/background:

Kayleen Whitelock:  I have served on several boards including Jordan Board of education, I currently serve on the council. I was a director of a pharmaceutical research company and wrote policy.

Annette Harris: I hold a Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Utah, work in Utah’s biotech industry, have lived and raised my family in West Jordan since 2015, and while I haven’t held elected office before, I bring fresh perspective, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to transparent, community-focused leadership.

Jessica Wignall:  I’m a Weber State graduate with a professional background that expands over a  decade in both healthcare and regulatory compliance, where I’ve worked to uphold  ethics and accountability in complex systems. My current role as a Compliance  Analyst provides me with a detail-oriented, policy-driven approach to problem solving.  

Rob Bennett:   Iwas a city council district representative from 2004-2008, and for 30 days in December 2023 to fill a vacancy there. I have been going to city council meetings for the past 18 months to see how the city is run and what our needs are. I have served on various city committees, own a small West Jordan computer repair business where I evaluate problems and fix them, and studied for 2 years for a Master's at the U in Political Science. I have life experience, past experience and present experience in getting things done in the city and using creative ways to fix problems.

Chris McConnehey: Bachelor’s in Business Finance; MBA with an emphasis in Entrepreneurship; PMP certification. Career: Professional experience in software, helping organizations analyze financial data and build tools for better decisions. Government service: 12 years on the West Jordan City Council (2012–2023). Community roots: Lifelong West Jordan resident; raising my family here with my wife, Noni, and our five boys

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Q: How can residents stay informed about your campaign?

Kayleen Whitelock: Website: kayleenwhitelock.com

Annette Harris: Website: www.electannette.com

Jessica Wignall: Residents can stay informed by following my campaign on social media – Facebook and Instagram: Jessica for West Jordan. Both will maintain updates, issue positions, and ways to get involved.

Rob Bennett:  My website: www.bennettforcouncil.com, give me a call and let me know any thoughts you have, or go to my website to sign up for a voluntary email newsletter with updates and news about the campaign.

Chris McConnehey: Follow along at www.WJChris.com 

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Sergio Sotelo

ElectSergioSoltelo.com

FB:  @Sergio Sotelo for West Jordan City Council

[email protected]

City Journals Note - As of our press date, Sergio Sotelo had not responded to our editorial staff’s inquiries. The following informant can be found on his website: 

“I’m running for City Council because I believe in people-powered leadership. My priorities are shaped by the voices of my neighbors — not party politics. From affordable housing to supporting local businesses to making our city safer and cleaner, I’m committed to showing up, listening, and taking action.”

“Our city is growing, but our infrastructure isn’t keeping up. I’ll push for strategic traffic solutions, improved access to public transportation, and better roadways to keep our city moving.”

“Too many families in our city are being priced out. I’ll fight to expand access to affordable housing options that meet the needs of working families and future generations.”

“Our neighborhoods deserve clean, safe, and accessible green spaces. I’ll advocate for the development and improvement of parks and recreational areas so families have places to gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors.”

“Growing up in a hardworking Mexican American family, I learned early on that leadership means showing up, listening, and working together to build a better future. My wife runs a small business here, and like many of you, we’re raising our kids right here in West Jordan — juggling work, school, and family life with love and determination.

I’m running for City Council because I know our city deserves leaders who put people first, not politics. I want to bring honesty, accessibility, and real solutions to the challenges our neighborhoods face — from affordable housing and safer streets to better parks and public spaces.

Together, we can build a West Jordan where everyone has a seat at the table. I’m ready to listen, learn, and serve — will you join me?

Let’s make this community stronger — together.”