Statement on Legislative District 57
Issued by the Utah County Republican Party
January 15, 2011

Given the extensive public discourse in the past week regarding the status of legislative representation for House District 57, the Utah County Republican Party’s Steering Committee felt it important to publicly state the party’s position.

First, we share the frustration of many residents in the state, that a boundary discrepancy that has unwittingly existed for nearly a decade has resulted in this most unfortunate situation. We encourage civility and reason as all parties involved work toward a fair and constitutionally-based resolution to this issue.

Second, the party’s prevailing priority is to advocate for the rights of the delegates and voters in District 57, to assure that they have representation in the House of Representatives.

Third, we thank Rep. Craig Frank for his dedicated service to his constituents for the past nearly eight years. He has been an effective, forthright and engaged public servant. We support his election and hope that he can continue to serve.

Fourth, the question of whether Rep. Craig Frank currently lives within the boundaries of District 57 is one that is determined by the Legislature and not the party. We acknowledge that the Utah Constitution is very clear on the residency requirement for service in the Legislature. But what seems less clear is which map or boundary description to use.

However, the party suggests for consideration the following: Rep. Frank and his constituents acted in good-faith to this point, the legislative intent is clear that the entire city of Cedar Hills should reside in the same district, and a simple boundary adjustment should not be dismissed for political reasons. With conflicting “certified” evidence, the proper resolution is to do the right thing and not necessarily the easiest or politically expedient thing.

Fifth, since Rep. Frank was elected by the residents of District 57, we respect his right to explore his options through channels he deems appropriate, including his request to be seated by his colleagues in the Legislature when that body convenes on January 24.

Sixth, while it would be presumptive for the party to predict the outcome of that vote, one possibility is a vote not to seat Rep. Frank, which would leave District 57 without representation. Given that potential scenario, the party is laying out plans for a special election.

If a special election becomes necessary, we are tentatively scheduling for Saturday, January 29 at 7 p.m. at Lincoln Academy. Individuals interested in running for this seat, should it become vacant, should register their intent with the Utah County Republican Party in writing by Thursday, January 27, at 5 p.m. The written notice should be submitted to Taylor Oldroyd, chair, and Lisa Shepherd, secretary, via email at taylor@ucaor.com and lisa.shepherd@utahcountygop.org. District 57 Delegates will be notified of the possibility of a special election and will be asked to make themselves available on the 29th. Candidates and Delegates will be notified by the party after the Legislature votes on whether to seat Rep. Frank and whether the special election will take place or not.

Finally, party leadership acknowledges that if a special election comes to fruition, there are issues related to the status of delegates who live in precincts that lie within the disputed boundary area. The party will work to resolve those issues prior to a special election should it become necessary.

While this situation is fraught with much complexity and emotion, we wish to applaud the efforts of the many parties—residents of District 57, delegates, party leaders, legislative leaders, the Governor’s office, county officials and others—who have engaged in extensive dialogue to find an appropriate, fair and constitutionally sound solution.

Questions regarding this statement should be directed to Taylor Oldroyd, chair.