Voters Guide for District 1
Oct 07, 2025 11:45AM ● By City Journals Editorial Staff
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 Holladay, David Sundwall and Grant Bilstad are running for the District 1 council seat.
Q: Do you believe current property tax revenue is being used effectively? How so?
David Sundwall: Property taxes are divided among several entities, and Holladay City itself receives only a small portion. I believe the city has generally been a responsible steward of its share, using those funds to maintain essential services, public safety, and infrastructure in ways that directly benefit residents.
The largest portion of property tax revenue goes to the school district. Many residents have expressed concern about paying more each year while seeing fewer direct benefits, particularly with nearby school closures. I share those concerns, especially about the gap between rising revenues and declining enrollment, alongside growing administrative costs. Every education dollar should be dedicated to preparing our children for success.
Although the City Council does not control school district spending, I believe city leaders should raise these concerns, advocate for transparency, and stand with residents in seeking accountability from every taxing entity. My commitment is to ensure Holladay continues to manage its share responsibly while amplifying residents’ voices on broader tax burdens.
Q: Thinking about fiscal responsibility, what values should your local budget reflect? How do you plan to balance those values?
David Sundwall: A responsible city budget should reflect the core values of safety, strong infrastructure, efficient government, and a community that people are proud to call home. For me, fiscal responsibility means using every dollar wisely and making sure residents see a clear return on their investment.
My first priority is maintaining a safe community. Public safety must always be fully funded. Next is protecting and improving our public assets and infrastructure, since roads, parks, and utilities are long-term investments that serve everyone.
Q: Many residents reported concern for government oversight and transparency. What systems would you support to hold local officials accountable when transparency standards aren't met?
David Sundwall: Holladay residents deserve to know how decisions are made and how their tax dollars are spent. I support clear reporting requirements for city finances and contracts, regular public updates on major projects, and easy online access to council records and meeting materials.
When transparency standards aren’t met, there must be a system of accountability. Elected officials should set the example by being accessible, responsive, and open with residents.
As a City Council member, I will work to ensure Holladay’s government continues to operate in the open, answer to its residents, and keep the public’s trust through consistent transparency and accountability.
Q: What is your stance on local government cooperation with ICE?
David Sundwall: Immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, not a municipal one. As a Holladay City Council member, my priority would be to ensure our community resources are used wisely to address local needs—public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life. I support cooperation between local law enforcement and federal agencies particularly in cases involving serious crime or public safety threats. However, I do not believe our city should divert limited resources away from local priorities to carry out federal immigration enforcement. Our focus must remain on keeping Holladay safe and accountable to its residents.
Q: How do you feel about the current developments going in around Holladay?
David Sundwall: Development should strengthen Holladay’s character, not erase it. I support balanced growth, but too many current projects rely on dense, generic urban-style designs that don’t reflect the timeless, traditional character of our neighborhoods.
Q: How feasible are the plans regarding the Holladay District?
David Sundwall: The Holladay District has potential, but plans must be realistic, transparent, and supported by infrastructure. Growth should match community needs and preserve our city’s identity.
Q: Why is the Holladay Hills being allowed to develop these modern looking giants (when the original plans were to make them classy and more traditional like what’s being developed in downtown Holladay)?
David Sundwall: Residents expected timeless, traditional architecture, not oversized modern blocks. Going forward, I will push for higher design standards, so future projects reflect Holladay’s appeal.
City Journals Editor note: As of our press date, Grant Bilstad had not responded to our staff’s inquiries. The following information can be found on his website (www.GrantBilstad.com):
“My name is Grant Bilstad, and I’m running to represent District 1 on the Holladay City Council. I’m a neighbor who cares deeply about our community and is committed to making Holladay an even better place for all of us.
Let’s Work Together. Join me in making Holladay the same, only better. Our best days are always ahead—let’s build them together.
My Vision: I believe in building on what already works in Holladay. Together, we can strengthen our neighborhood, support local businesses and ensure smart growth that preserves our city’s character. I’m dedicated and accountable leadership that you can trust.
Why Me?
I’m not a politician—I’m a community member who listens and acts. When I’m not working for you, I’m out skiing, mountain biking or playing pickleball with friends.”
