Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

As one of the biggest libraries in North Utah County, the American Fork Library has served as a gathering place for families and the community since 1923. This year, the library was presented with an award from the Utah State Library Division recognizing its excellence in services provided at the library.

The library was first established in 1923 through a Carnegie Grant, special funding given to libraries. The original building was smaller and more basic, while the current building was constructed in 2000 to hold more books and resources.

“We get a lot of visitors from other parts of the county,” said Cassandria Crane, director of the library. “It’s a great place to be.”

In addition to books and other media resources, the library also provides many free services to help the community. An academic lab in the basement provides one-on-one tutoring in reading and math, various programs involve people in Dungeons & Dragons, and various events held at the library cater to all interests and age levels. During election season, the library also serves an important function as a polling place and a location to drop off ballots.

Storytimes remain among the most popular activities, providing a fun environment for kids ages 0-5. Similarly, the Summer Reading program is always popular with the community. The activity provides an opportunity for residents of all ages to continue reading and earning prizes during the months off school.

“We try to make most of what we do very adaptable to what anyone’s situation is,” Crane explained. “We provide programs and resources that serve our community and are completely free. There is a rare occasion that we would ever charge.”

In the coming months, the library will have Christmas in the Rotunda, a tradition including choir performances, music rooms and sometimes special performances of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

To celebrate their achievements as a library, the Utah State Library Division gave the American Fork Library the Quality Library Award. The award is given based on a recertification process that the library completes every year. The award is given each fall at the Director’s Summit Event to a library that goes “above and beyond” with basic services.

Not only does the library host various programs, but it also tries to listen to the community and its needs.

“We recently did our strategic plan. A year ago, we started asking our community what their needs are, polling them and talking to different shareholders in the community. That is really how we become a quality library, not just in name but in reality,” Crane said. “Since we are owned by the public, we really care a lot about what their changing needs are and what our community is becoming.”

The research the library has done in the community has changed many things, most notably getting rid of book fines. To help widen their scope of books, the library also participates in a co-op program with the Pleasant Grove and Highland libraries, where books are shared between the facilities.

“Reading is the gateway to information. It’s knowing things and being skilled at school and at work,” Crane shared. “It’s the first step to literacy of any kind. … We are very committed to that and making it fun.”

In the future, the library also hopes to develop a Winter Reading Program starting in January. Author visits and other various events will also be held at the library in the near future. For more information about the award or to see a list of libraries awarded, visit www.library.utah.gov/quality-library-awards/. For more information about AF Library and its services, visit www.americanfork.gov/203/Library.

Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen

The American Fork High School girls volleyball team played true to seeding in the 6A state tournament. The Cavemen received the No. 7 seed in the final RPI rankings and advanced to the quarterfinals in the playoffs, finishing their campaign with an 18-11 record.

Oct. 29: American Fork 3, #10 Lehi 1

The Cavemen played crosstown rival and Region 3 stablemate Lehi to start the tournament in the second round after a bye. The Pioneers put up a stiff fight at the start and American Fork needed extra work to pull out the first set 28-26.

Lehi claimed the second game 25-21 but the Pioneers weren’t able to sustain the momentum as the Cavemen won the final two sets comfortably 25-14, 25-16 to secure the match.

Junior outside hitter Macy Melville led the effort with 14 kills, four combined blocks, 10 digs and 30 serve-receives. Junior hitter Destinie Hampton added 10 kills and four aces while sophomore hitter Alivia Lemon posted seven kills with four combined blocks.

Junior setter Brynn Murray served six aces to go with 10 digs and 16 assists. Senior libero Halle Smith was tops in digs with 21 and also took 17 serve-receives. Senior setter Ellie Dickey provided 11 assists.

Oct. 29: #2 Corner Canyon 3, American Fork 0

The Cavemen advanced to the quarterfinals only to face another Region 3 team, the second-seeded Chargers. American Fork competed hard but Corner Canyon won the battle 25-21, 25-19, 25-16 and went on to capture the 6A title.

Melville tallied 10 kills, four aces and 31 serve-receives. Hampton scored eight kills with seven digs and six serve-receives. Senior outside hitter Rachel Hale registered five kills while Murray made four kills, three aces, 10 digs and 14 assists.

Smith dug eight times and took 10 serve-receives. Dickey dished out 13 assists and senior libero Mele Latu picked up 12 serve-receives.

“This year our team was extremely driven and determined to grow,” said Coach Melissa Guymon. “We focused on our values and worked to deconstruct our beliefs. This helped us to show up to practice each day with the process in mind.

“Because of that foundation and journaling every single day, we started making changes and improvements so quickly,” she continued.

“We experienced some adversity and struggle towards the middle of our season and it really helped us continue to grow and peak at the right time: the state tournament,” she said.

“We went from entering the tournament as the #16 seed the last three years and losing our first round match to entering ranked #7 this year and winning in the first round.

“I am so proud of this team. I am honored to coach them and love representing American Fork High,” Guymon concluded.

The team graduates just four seniors so the future is looking promising for the program.

Rob Shelton | American Fork Citizen

Two city council seats hang in the balance as American Fork residents prepare to decide who’ll tackle the city’s thorniest issues. Some of those issues include crumbling roads, high-density housing with its accompanying problems, and an aging fitness center. The Nov. 4 election pits four candidates for two open seats.

Ryan Hunter, Deb Anderson and Staci Carroll sat down with the American Fork Citizen to answer questions from its readers. Seth Stewart received multiple invitations but never responded. Each candidate tackled 15 questions with one minute per answer, covering everything from road funding to immigration enforcement. What follows hits just some highlights, but the full interviews are on YouTube (see the links at the end of this article), and readers are encouraged to watch them to gain a complete picture.

High-density housing emerges as a key issue

All three interviewed candidates oppose adding high-density housing beyond what’s already in the city’s general plan. This sentiment comes after a 2024 resident survey showed 61% of residents are concerned about density.

Hunter emphasized his consistent voting record. “I am not in favor of increasing densities anywhere in the city that aren’t already master planned for that,” he said. Hunter noted he was the lone dissenting vote on a recent density change and met with a developer requesting “significant density increase to the tune of basically double.”

Anderson agreed the city has enough. “I think we have plenty of high-density housing,” she said, adding that infrastructure needs to improve before considering more development.

Carroll clarified recent decisions. “We did not put in any high-density in that area. We just increased it from very low density to a medium density,” she explained regarding a controversial rezoning near the train station.

Road infrastructure tops concerns

Areas south and west of I-15 have seen explosive growth, but roads haven’t kept pace. Each candidate outlined plans to address the problem.

Anderson acknowledged the severity. “I’ve been out there at 5:30 at night, and I agree 100% that something needs to be done,” she said, though she cautioned against expecting immediate fixes to such a significant problem.

Hunter identified specific projects as prerequisites. “The first thing would be the extension of the Lakeshore drive,” he said. “The second thing that we need to tackle is a frontage road between basically paralleling the on-ramp southbound of I-15 and the train tracks.”

Carroll pointed to funding progress. “We have the funding mechanism, finally, for 200 South,” she said, noting plans for a new roundabout at 300 West and improved connectivity throughout the area.

Fiber internet divides opinions

Since 2019, American Fork has explored city-owned fiber while neighboring cities like Lehi and Pleasant Grove have moved ahead with construction.

Carroll backs a public-private partnership approach. “I don’t want the city running an internet service. I want a private industry to do that,” she explained, noting this model hedges costs while maintaining city revenue share.

Anderson strongly supports the project, citing personal frustration. Her street lacks access to quality internet providers. “For me and for my husband, who works from home most of the time, absolutely, I would like to see something better,” she said.

Hunter changed his position on full city ownership. “I used to believe that we could fund it and own it 100% as the residents of American Fork,” he said. Construction costs pushed him toward supporting significant partial ownership instead of complete control.

Fitness center rebuild sparks debate.

The aging fitness center topped the 2024 survey as residents’ preferred project, yet candidates split on priorities.

Carroll wants more analysis first. “We need a pretty good options analysis,” she said, promising any rebuild would go to voters for approval.

Hunter supports rebuilding eventually, but not yet. “I believe it’s a desire, not a need,” he said, ranking it fifth or seventh on his priority list. He opposes bonding for a facility where “45% of our people who are patrons at the fitness center are not from our city.”

Anderson backed reconstruction based on her seven years working there. “There is not another place in American Fork that can service people from birth all the way up to we had patrons coming in that were in their 90s,” she said.

How to vote

Ballots were mailed to registered voters beginning Oct. 14. Voters who don’t receive a ballot in the mail should call the Utah County Elections Office at 801-851-8683.

Mail-in ballots must be received by the elections office by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. Voters are urged to mail ballots early or use an official county dropbox to ensure they’re counted.

Voters will vote for two candidates to fill the two open seats.

American Fork Real Estate Snapshot: September 2025

September 2025 vs (2024)

Homes sold: 38 (35)

Average home price: $541,175 ($553,145)

Median home price: $529,250 ($551,143)

Average days on the market: 56 (44)

Average square feet: 2,267 (2,229)

Average price per square foot: $252.80 ($252.40)

Most expensive home sold: $1,150,000 / 3 bedrooms / 2.5 baths / 4,984 sq. ft. / .28 acres

Least expensive home sold: $190,000 / 1 bedrooms / 1 bath / 706 sq. ft. / condo

Total listings currently available: 96 (existing homes) and 38 (new construction)

Listings over $1 million: 12

*According to the Wasatch Front MLS as of 10/5

Presented by: Skyler Beltran – Realtor / Coldwell Banker

Elizabeth Spencer
American Fork Citizen

Friday, at about noon, American Fork High School Students were excused early from the school day after a sticky note with the word “bomb” written on it was found at the school. The American Fork Police Department quickly took action, calling in assistance from the Pleasant Grove and Provo Police Departments. Four K-9 bomb dogs and police searched the school for an explosive, but found no evidence of one. There was no indication when the note was left, but authorities took strict caution.

An email was sent to parents from AFHS principal Peter Glahn explaining the situation. Glahn stated the “safety and well-being of our students is our absolute highest priority, and we took the most cautious approach possible given the circumstances.”

“Any and all information regarding this threat is welcome, and we urge anyone who knows something to contact us immediately or notify the local police department,” concluded Glahn.

Ryan Archuleta with the AFPD said the majority of bomb threats are false, but they needed to take all necessary safety measures today. “You know that one time that you don’t take it seriously to some degree, might be that one time that you should’ve taken it seriously. That’s our job; to have those resources and try to be a source of calmness, direction, and to keep people safe. So, we have to take it seriously.”

Archuleta also expressed gratitude for other police agencies who responded to the incident.

AFPD completed their investigation and gave the school the “all clear,” since nothing suspicious was found.

Elizabeth Spencer | American Fork Citizen

In memory of 9/11, numerous residents of North Utah County answered the call to serve on Saturday, Sept. 13, participating in the National Day of Service. Alpine, American Fork, Cedar Hills, Highland, and Pleasant Grove city and government representatives coordinated and supported the efforts. The event hosted over 36 service projects and 11 hands-on service stations for volunteers to choose from on Saturday from 9:30 AM to 2 PM.

Hundreds gathered to kick off the event at Lone Peak High School with Kirby Heyborne conducting the opening ceremonies. Utah’s 3rd District Congressman Mike Kennedy, Detective Chris Ruiz with the Pleasant Grove Police Department, and Kyle Fox, founder of Follow the Flags, shared their thoughts. The event began with a prayer by Pastor David Elijah from the New Hope Calvary Chapel.

Following the prayer, Scout Troop 26 presented the colors for the flag ceremony, which was hoisted to the top and then lowered to half mast, honoring President Donald Trump’s orders to pay respects to Charlie Kirk and the tragic events that took place at Utah Valley University just days before.

Gena Jepsen was the planning coordinator for the opening ceremonies. “I was pretty emotional after the week we had. This was the perfect time to do service after this week,” shared Jepsen.

During a moment of silence, the large crowd remembered those who had fallen on 9/11. Pleasant Grove City and Lone Peak Fire Departments were present with their trucks and equipment, allowing residents to greet them and express their gratitude for their service in the community.

National Day of Service projects included building a trail bridge, painting curbs and fire hydrants, trimming and planting new trees, cleaning up overgrowth and garbage in popular city parks and trails such as Cook, Discovery, and Harvey Parks, along with the Murdock Canal Trail. Alpine City also hosted a blood drive.

Cara Allred and her husband Richard were the Day of Service Lead Coordinators. When asked how Allred felt seeing the way residents responded to the call for help, she replied, “awesome, especially in light of what happened this week. I think people are raw and their feelings are tender, and it’s hard to know what to do to help and heal.” Planning a service project of this magnitude took many hours, along with a master committee and assistance from captains with subcommittees and subteams.

Seventh-grade student Peter Erickson and his father spent the morning cleaning up the shores around Manila Creek pond. “I think we owe it to the people who died serving others,” said Peter of volunteering. “You can help other people not only by serving, but by being an influence on them to go serve.”

Many volunteers helped to beautify Highland Glen Pond by trimming back foliage and supporting 15-year-old Caleb Mills and his Eagle Scout project. Mills’ project was staining the fences, picnic tables, and benches around the recreation area.

“I didn’t know how many people were going to come because it’s a very busy weekend, but I think we got a lot of people, and it was a pretty good turnout. So I’m glad we got a lot of people, because we’ve been able to get a lot done,” said Mills.

Highland City provided Mills with brushes and stain. City Councilman Ron Campbell and Highland Mayor Kurt Ostler were present. “It literally is a project that we’re thrilled with, because this is one of Highlands’ big parks that people love. They love the trails, they love the pond, and we’re grateful to keep it up to the level we want our city to be,” stated Campbell.

“We have a list, these are the big projects that we just have on our list forever, and when the community comes in, they’re able to get it all done for us. That’s the value and benefit for the city,” said Mayor Ostler.

“I also love how they’re connecting with the city, the residents are connecting, and they just take a little greater pride if they’ve been the ones doing some of the work. They take a greater pride in the city.” Mayor Ostler expressed the city’s gratitude for the significant cost savings achieved by the service at Highland Glen.

Inside Lone Peak High School, volunteers were able to choose where they would donate their time with 11 hands-on service projects. Different groups, such as Alpine Library, ATEC Schools for Individuals with Disabilities, Five.12, Hearts Knit Together, Jordan School District, Lifting Hands International, Stitching Hearts Worldwide, Tabitha’s Way, Utah Children’s Justice Center, and the Utah Refugee Connection staffed the event.

“Really, this is culminating several years of planning, and it just keeps building. That’s probably the beauty of what we’re starting to see,” shared Mayor Ostler.

At 101, President Russell M. Nelson, the 17th president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has died.

Rob Shelton

The general campaign season for the 2025 American Fork City elections is in full swing. The American Fork Citizen reached out to candidates for American Fork Mayor and City Council through their emails provided on the elections page of the city’s website to provide candidate profiles to our readers. The profiles below are provided in the order in which they were received. 

Mayoral Candidates:

George Brown

Where did you grow up? How did you come to live in American Fork, and how long have you lived here?

I was born and raised in American Fork. My parents were Easton and Millie Brown. My father was the Post Master of the American Fork Post Office. My parents had the red barn next to the freeway that said “Browns Arabians.” I graduated from American Fork High School. I was an Honor Student and was selected to speak at my graduation ceremony. I did live indifferent places while on a mission and in pursuing education, but my wife and I have lived in American Fork for the last 42 years.

Why are you running for American Fork City Mayor?

1. I want American Fork police and fire departments to be able to prevent a terrorist attack. They are well prepared to respond to a terrorist attack, but the most important thing is to prevent a terrorist attack. We have just seen a terrorist attack at UVU.

2. I want to improve the drinking (potable) water system in American Fork. I believe the water pressure can be more consistent which better supports the fire hydrants. I also wantthe water system to be less vulnerable to contamination or poisoning.

3. I want to improve the roads in American Fork that were impaired when the pressurized irrigation water system was installed. Roads are important for public safety personnel to toassist us.

4. I want to provide financial support and training to our police and fire department personnel who provide us with public safety. These departments are critical to our city.

What is your experience with city governance and municipal financial frameworks? Does experience matter?

From 1994 to 1998, I served as a member of the American Fork City Council. I had

many interesting and educational experiences. One of which was Mayor Green assigning me to the Library Committee and asking me to get the city a new library. I worked with the City Council to get the votes for the library to be put on the ballet. The citizens voted to have a new library. Everyone worked hard, and we now have the new library which has proven to be veryimportant to the citizens of American Fork. From this experience and others, I learned how city government functions. I also learned how the city obtains money for projects and repays the money. Experience in municipal matters is important.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I served as a missionary in Southeast Asia in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Thailand. I studied Mandarin, Cantonese, and the Thai language. I graduated from BYU in business management. I also graduated from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at BYU. I became a member of the Utah State Bar and the State Bar ofArizona. I have practiced law to the current date.

In the Utah National Guard, I was assigned to command a company and reorganize it to work with NSA (National Security Agency). In the Army Reserve, I was assigned to command anew military intelligence battalion. The activation was so successful that representatives from OSD (Office of Secretary of Defense) came to investigate the secret of our success because they said our 500-soldier battalion was head and shoulders above the other 14 battalions. I retired from the military with over 33 years of service.

How will you manage the full-time demands of the mayoral role alongside other current significant time commitments (other employment, etc.)?

I will not have trouble with full-time demands because I am in the process of retiring. At the current time, I do not have any other significant time commitments. Although, I will spendsome time feeding and riding horses.

Brad Frost

Where did you grow up? How did you come to live in American Fork, and how long have you lived here?

I grew up right here in American Fork, and it’s always been home to me. My wife and I chose to raise our family here because of the values, the schools, and the spirit of community we both love. I’ve now lived here for decades and have seen how the city has grown, while still keeping that hometown feel. This is where my roots are, and it’s where I want to continue giving back.

2. Why are you running for American Fork City Mayor?

I love this city and its people. American Fork is full of neighbors who serve quietly behind the scenes, strong youth who represent our future, and incredible seniors with wisdom to share. As mayor, I’ve been blessed to witness that cumulative good. I want to continue building on it, helping us grow in the right ways, while keeping our sense of community strong. My hope is to make American Fork a place where our children and grandchildren will thrive for generations to come.

3. What is your experience with city governance and municipal financial frameworks? Does experience matter?

Yes, experience matters. I’ve served as both a City Council member and as Mayor, giving me the chance to understand city operations and financial responsibilities in depth. In addition, I’m appointed to key leadership roles to position our city and region in regards to transportation challenges. More importantly, I’ve learned how to work with others, residents, staff, and leaders to make decisions that keep our city strong and sustainable.

4. What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I know the people, the neighborhoods, and the challenges because they’re mine too. I lead by listening, working with others, and keeping politics out of the way. I’ve also focused on the things that truly matter like infrastructure, public safety, protecting and conserving our water supply, and ensuring that we are well positioned for the growth ahead. My focus has always been on helping this community succeed together. 

5. How will you manage the full-time demands of the mayoral role alongside other current significant time commitments (other employment, etc.)?

Being Mayor is one of my highest priorities, and I treat it as such. Time management plays a key role in success, and I’ve learned to balance my schedule so the cities needs are accomplished while meeting the needs of my family.  I could not do this without the outstanding team of city employees who work tirelessly every day to keep American Fork running smoothly. For me, it’s not just a job rather it’s a privilege to serve, and deserves my commitment to being fully present for the people and businesses of American Fork.

Editors note: Mr. Frost was not included in the print edition as we did not receive a response as of the date of publication.  After publication Mr. Frost reached out and it was discovered that the city’s election page had listed an incorrect email address for him.

City Council Candidates:

Staci Carroll

Where did you grow up? How did you come to live in American Fork, and how long have you lived here? 

I grew up in Orem, Utah. Our family moved to American Fork 15 years ago. When my husband and I were looking for a place to live, we wanted a strong community, good schools for our kids, access to trails and parks, and to be close to the mountains. American Fork proved to be a little pocket of all those things and more.

We have three children who have all been in American Fork recreation program, schools, and community events. Two have graduated from American Fork High School and one is currently a junior. We are Caveman through and through.

Why are you running for American Fork City Council? 

I have served on the city council for almost 8 years. I am running because the relationships, trust, and knowledge that I have built make me more valuable now than ever. I understand the city budget and how to get things done in our city. I see the roadblocks and ways to overcome them. I am more qualified, dedicated and excited about our city than ever.

I love American Fork and the history that we share. We have things to fix (ahem, roads) but there is so much good. If elected, I will continue to focus on infrastructure: water, sewer, and road/bike/pedestrian networks. In the past four years, the council has allocated significantly more funds for road repair and doing so smartly. We have made significant progress but there is more to do. I will pursue paths to accelerate road repair.

What is your experience with city governance and municipal financial frameworks? Does experience matter? 

Framework—I was raised to be frugal and am as careful with your money as I am my own.

I do not defer knowledge to city staff; I make sure that I thoroughly understand everything we do and the implications.

Experience—I have learned a lot about city governance and budgeting in the last 8 years. My financial training and experience also include BYU education, ongoing public administration courses through my work at BYU, and 8 years of nerding-out about city finances and taxes with my dad, chair of the state Tax Commission.

Experience matters—It can all be learned but there is a learning curve. It takes time to gain understanding of ongoing issues and projects, which I have. It takes time to master the specifics of our city budget, which I have. Most importantly, it takes time to build confidence and trust, which I have.

What sets you apart from the other candidates? 

I am a Consensus Builder—I’ve built trust with the council, staff, and residents, which allows me to be an effective consensus builder. Collaboration starts with listening. I can scrutinize without alienating.

I build Community Relationships—Over time, I have built relationships with state and regional leaders that help our city navigate complex challenges, and allows me to advocate for resources and needs for American Fork residents. This has come from both a lifetime of community involvement and intentional time on the city council connecting with other community leaders.

I offer a Unique Perspective—I bring the perspective of a mom with kids who have been/are in American Fork schools, sports, and friendships. This critical perspective needs to be well represented in our council.

How will you manage the demands of a city councilmember role alongside other current significant time commitments (other employment, etc.)? 

Juggling it all can be a challenge. I typically spend around 15 hours per week with city related work. This includes reading materials in preparation for meetings; attending work sessions and council meetings; participating in my assigned committees (currently Library Board, PARC Tax Advisory Board, and Legislative Policy Committee); having phone calls and emails with residents; having additional meetings with city staff; and attending conferences and regional events.

My actions speak louder than words; I don’t think any words can say more than what I have shown by my dedication. I remain committed to fully participating in the legislative functions of the office. I am known for being prepared, even teased for being overprepared at times, and that is not going to change. 

Deb Anderson

Where did you grow up? How did you come to live in AF and how long have

you lived here?

I was born and bred in AF. I had a short stint in Lehi for 3 years early on in our

marriage (p.s. my husband Rich… of 30 years…is also an AF lifer) and I have

lived in AF for 50 years!

Why are you running for AF city council?

I believe so much in our unique people: the hardworking, collaborative, and kind

humans who make AF so special.

I want to build together with AF citizens to help ensure American Fork remains a

place where our traditions of hard work & kindness are honored and where future

generations can flourish.

What is your experience with city governance and municipal financial

frameworks? Does experience matter?

I haven’t had experience in city governance… yet. But I have had the privilege of

serving and interacting with so many of the diverse and varied citizens of

American Fork, whether working at the AFFC for over 7 years, to serving meals

at the Senior Center, to volunteering for years at our community events. Even in

all my hours of recent campaigning, I’ve been learning and listening to the

collective strengths, fears, frustrations, concerns and overall desires of what

people are hoping to get from this community.

And I feel, coming in with a fresh set of eyes and ears and a strong pulse of what

our every day people are hoping for, can actually bring more to the table and

might be exactly what our community needs.

What sets your apart from the other candidates?

It has been my joy serving people from all walks of life here in American Fork,

from our youngest residents all the way up to those elders who’ve helped build

our city. I have witnessed firsthand the heart of our communityand I have such a

desire to represent the good of the whole. Without an agenda, I would be a

level-headed leader who votes for decisions only after intently gathering all the

pieces.

How will you manage the demands of a city council member role alongside

other current significant time commitments?

Well, I had to actually quit my position at AFFC to run for city council— so that

means all working hours can be committed to my role if elected.

Also, 3 out of my 4 children have graduated high school and are self sufficient—

so my once very demanding home life has decidedly become less busy.

Ryan Hunter

Where did you grow up? How did you come to live in American Fork, and how long

have you lived here? 

Born in a Salt Lake City hospital, I moved to American Fork at just one year old.  My roots here run deep—my mother is from Alpine, and my father grew up in American Fork. I attended Greenwood Elementary, American Fork Junior High, and American Fork High School. My family were among the early settlers of this city, and today we’re raising the seventh generation in the same home my grandparents built in the 1960s. As a sixth-generation resident, American Fork isn’t just where I live—it’s home. 

I feel a strong responsibility to preserve theheritage that built this community while helping shape its future. With over 19years of service in various public roles, I’ve developed the experience and relationships to work effectively for the people of our city. I’m proud to serve and give back to the place that’s given me so much.

​

Why are you running for American Fork City Council? 

I feel a deep responsibility to honor our city’s history while helping shape its future.

These are critical times, and preserving the heritage of our hometown must remain a

priority. My time on the council has allowed me to begin working on the issues that

matter most to you. Moving forward, I believe we must focus on:

• Long-Term Infrastructure – Roads (yes, even lakeside), sidewalks, utilities, and fiber

• Public Safety – Competitive wages, training, mental and physical wellness, TOD

Station (2026), and designing Station 53

• Community Investment – PARC, embracing volunteerism, and comprehensive city

planning

• A Future for Our Children – Generational decision-making that puts them first

• Common Sense Leadership – Fiscal responsibility as the foundation for future success

I’m committed to thoughtful, forward-thinking leadership that protects what we love

about American Fork while preparing us for what’s ahead.

What is your experience with city governance and municipal financial frameworks?

Does experience matter? 

Yes, experience matters. Over the past 19 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving

in multiple public roles, including more than 12 years with Bank of American

Fork. I’ve also served as treasurer for several organizations and currently chair

the City’s Audit Committee. I’m proud to say our city maintains one of the

cleanest audits in the state—a testament to our strong fiscal stewardship.  Turning good ideas into real, lasting solutions takes time, collaboration, and persistence. I’ve learned how to work with local and state leaders to move important priorities forward, and today, I believe we’re on the verge of launchingseveral generationally significant initiatives. These efforts reflect what matters most to American Fork residents, and I’m committed to seeing them through. Our best days are ahead, and with continued focus and teamwork, we can strengthen our community for the future.

What sets you apart from the other candidates? 

I’m humbled to have served the past few years on the city council. Through my

day job, I work closely with municipalities and government organizations across

the state, giving me a unique perspective on what’s working well in other communities. This experience has allowed me to bring valuable ideas back to our city over the last 4½ years. I’ve worked alongside many residents to find practical solutions that improve our daily lives. But we’re not done—we still have important work ahead. 

I’m excited to continue representing you and to be your advocate for the issues that matter most. Every vote I cast is with the intention of protecting what American Fork is today and what it can responsibly become—without ulterior motives. I believe we can preserve our strengths, improve our weaknesses, and move forward together with a vision rooted in service,transparency, and respect for our shared future.

How will you manage the demands of a city councilmember role alongside other

Current significant time commitments (other employment, etc.)? 

I’m able to manage the demands of a city councilmember role through the strong

support of my wife and family, whose commitment makes it possible for me to serve effectively. Additionally, my current professional responsibilities align closely with the work of the council, allowing for meaningful overlap. This synergy enables me to contribute to both roles without compromising either. My daily work provides valuable insights and experiences that directly benefit the city, while my service on the council enhances my broader perspective and leadership.

I look forward to being able to represent you on the council for the next four years

and I ask for your vote this election.

Seth Stewart

Mr. Stewart did not provide a response as of the date of publication.

Sally Francom | American Fork Citizen

Provo (September 24, 2025)  This afternoon, the Utah County Commission unanimously approved a contract to appoint legal counsel for Tyler James Robinson, as required under Utah law and after the court determined he couldn’t afford private counsel. This action fulfills the Commission’s constitutional responsibility to ensure individuals accused of a crime who cannot afford legal representation are provided with a qualified defense.

The contract names Kathryn Nester as counsel for Robinson.

During Wednesday’s meeting Utah County Commissioner Skyler Beltran said, “The cost to Utah County taxpayers will exceed $1,000,000 in both the prosecution and defense of this case.”  

This is the one of several capital crime cases that are outside Utah County’s public defender’s contract.

Nester is a Salt Lake City based trial attorney with experience in capital murder cases, including those with high public profile. She is a partner in the Nester Lewis law firm. According to the firm’s website, Nester’s “sixty-plus jury trials have included a wide variety of complex cases including capital murder, murder, complex fraud, sex offenses, drugs and weapons cases in criminal courts and wrongful death, civil rights violations, employment discrimination and serious personal injury cases in civil courts.”

 In reaching the agreement with Nester, the Utah County Commission relied on the advice of an independent criminal defense attorney, Greg Skordas, whom it retained to advise the Commission in these types of cases.