“I first met Michael Clara about ten years ago, when he invited me to his community to meet with several of his neighbors about their falling property values because of the damage that occurred to their homes because of Union Pacific’s reactivation of the 900 South freight, rail-line.

Since that time, I have watched Michael work tirelessly to make his community a better place. Few candidates come as prepared as he is to assume the responsibilities of civic leadership. While serving in multiple positions of public service, Michael has demonstrated community leadership, acted according to principles of fairness, and exhibited a sense of urgency in defense of his neighbors.

As a former member of the board of directors of the Poplar Grove Community Council, he helped a group of Boy Scouts navigate city bureaucracy in renaming 300 South between I-15 and Redwood Rd. in honor of Cpl. Adam Galvez, a young Marine from the westside who lost his life in Iraq, fighting the war on terrorism. In spite of initial city hall opposition (from both the mayor & the city council), Michael was able to garner the support from all quarters of the community and convince the city council to vote in favor of the name change. As an elected official, I was honored to have the opportunity to financially contribute to the street name change project.

Today, you can drive to 900 South (west of I-15) and see that there are no more freight trains rumbling through the heart of the community. You can also drive to 300 South (west of I-15) and see street signs emblazed with the red, blue and gold Marine logo proudly displayed next to the name of Cpl. Adam Galvez.

These are but a few examples of the indelible impact Michael has had on the westside. I look forward to seeing him have the opportunity to apply his great energy and focus in tackling problems facing the Salt Lake City School District.