My Thanks

I would like to thank those that have contributed, especially those who have sent endorsements already. I am very happy that so many have taken the time to read about me and have decided that I can make a difference. Thank you for the vote of confidence.

Letter to water/irrigation companies

This week my team and I are sending out letters to every officer/member of Utahs many water/irrigation companies detailing the danger our water laws face with certain legislation that is being suggested in our state house of representatives. Currently we are looking for endorsements and campaign contributions to help me fight this. Anyone who would like a copy of this letter, or would like to contribute in anyway, please email me at rbehling@behling67.com. I would be happy to answer any questions you have and I am also very interested in your comments or concerns.

My Priority Issues

1. Economy - I believe that in order for the Utah economy to continue to grow we need to stop accepting federal money and learn to support ourselves. By accepting federal funds we open the door for federal, special interest groups and individuals to dictate how we run our State. As far as our public education and our public lands are concerned, I believe it should be the local voices that decide what is to be done, not the federal government. We also need to make it easier for business to set up and operate in our State. An open business atmosphere will do more to create jobs than government can ever do.

2. Rural and Urban Interface - The towns and cities of Utah are growing. We need to make sure that we do not pave over the future of our children. We need to take care to leave open space and agricultural land in order to provide for that future. At this point, there is no thought or control in this area.

We also need to make sure that as cities and towns expand, that the county residents are treated fairly and honestly; that annexation plans are honored; and that all residences have input. Development needs to be structured and planned. It is about time we require this from the counties, cities and towns of this state. By doing this more city fathers will spend more time in developing master plans that benefit their residents and surrounding populations.

3. Water - We live in a desert state. Water laws needs to be safeguarded to avoid abuse. Water should be kept within the aquifer that it is generated in.  We need to protect from over appropriation of our precious resources.

Water and irrigation companies are under scrutiny with recent canal breaks. The state needs individuals on the hill to help oversee any change to water laws that may affect these companies. Change in water laws that allows for transfer of water rights without regard to other water users or the life of the water company needs to be watched, caught and stopped. Undue regulation needs to be avoided. Our state water laws have stood for over 100 years for a reason. It Works! Let’s not try to fix what isn’t broken.