Why Run?

 

My name is Clark Bullen and I’m running for Murray City Council District 3. I have been advocating for the citizens of Murray for the last four years. In that time, I have been primarily focused on the following three priorities: 1) I believe that the majority of new housing should be homes that provide ownership opportunities, 2) I believe we should preserve our historic buildings because they establish Murray’s unique sense of place, and 3) I believe we should make Murray Downtown into a destination that draws people from all over. 

Keeping Homes Affordable

 

Communities need a mix of housing types. Murray already has a lot of higher density housing, partly because we are centrally located. There is a lot of pressure from the State and developers to build more high density housing. As of 2023, Murray had 20% more renter-occupied units than Salt Lake County on average. We have a lot more properties that are already zoned for higher density that are yet to be developed. Utah does have a housing crisis, but that includes a shortage of homes for sale. This drives up the cost of homes, making them unaffordable for many. If property owners want to rezone for housing, we should strongly encourage homes that provide ownership opportunities.

 

Preserving Murray’s Character

 

I got involved in Murray politics four years ago to save the Murray Theater. We rallied the citizens to the cause and won! The restored Murray Theater will open on September 26th. It will feature classic movies, live theatre, concerts and will be available to rent for events. It will be a catalyst for downtown redevelopment. It is a reflection of Murray’s unique identity and sets a precedent for future preservation. No new building would likely be as stunning as our restored theater will be. The same goes for our restored Armory building that is now a beautiful event center and the restored Murray Mansion, which is now a remarkable museum. Historic buildings have innate character that connects with us on a deep, human level.

 

Revitalizing Downtown

 

Murray should not sell itself short. We are at the center of the valley, with five freeway stops and three Trax stops. People pass by us all the time on their way to have fun and spend money somewhere else. We should make our downtown a destination. A place where people want to spend a few hours and more than a few bucks. This will increase our tax base and opportunities for residents. To do this, we need to have a vision for what we can become. I think this could include plazas with art or water features, promenades, street vendors, regular events, great restaurants, more entertainment options, etc. I think we should also enhance our parks with a splash pad, a skate park/pump track, dog parks, and an all abilities playground. I would like to partner with IHC on some of these enhancements as they are located downtown and should have a vested interest in the area.

 

If these things align with your priorities for Murray, please consider voting to elect me, Clark Bullen, for Council.

 

Ballots should be mailed Tuesday, July 22. They need to be received by the County Clerk or put in a drop box by 8p on Primary Election Day, August 12. I would love to earn your vote and put a sign in your yard. Let me know if you have any questions about Murray or if there is anything I can help you with.

 

Clark Bullen

Candidate for Murray City Council District 3

Call/Text 801-718-2017

 

Paid for by Clark Bullen For Murray City Council District 3