Where Utah candidates stand on the proposed Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola — General Election, Tues., Nov. 3, 2026: FoLCC's Utah Voting Guide – 2026 General Election
NOTE: This voting guide is not comprehensive - some candidates and districts are not included. We invite FoLCC followers to reach out to candidates not covered on this guide regarding their opinions on spending tax dollars on projects such as a $1.4B gondola that only stops at two private ski resorts.
Friends of Little Cottonwood Canyon (FoLCC) opposes the proposed $1.4 billion Little Cottonwood Canyon (LCC) gondola. This canyon deserves better. Join us in opposing this terrible idea that will only serve two private ski resorts, and a few private land owners. We are committed to making this a defining issue in the 2026 General Election.
We asked candidates two questions:
1. What is your position on a gondola in LCC?
2. If elected, or reelected, what actions would you take consistent with the position stated above?
Below is what they told us in their own words, and who refused to answer. Join us in being vocal about your opposition to the proposed gondola. Pressure candidates to publicly state a position — and VOTE. This issue is political, but it is not partisan.
Friends of Little Cottonwood Canyon (FoLCC) opposes the proposed $1.4 billion Little Cottonwood Canyon (LCC) gondola. This canyon deserves better. Join us in opposing this terrible idea that will only serve two private ski resorts, and a few private land owners. We are committed to making this a defining issue in the 2026 General Election.
We asked candidates two questions:
1. What is your position on a gondola in LCC?
2. If elected, or reelected, what actions would you take consistent with the position stated above?
Below is what they told us in their own words, and who refused to answer. Join us in being vocal about your opposition to the proposed gondola. Pressure candidates to publicly state a position — and VOTE. This issue is political, but it is not partisan.
📣 Not sure who represents you? Find your candidates and districts using Utah's official lookup tool below, then come back to see where they stand. Election Day is November 3, 2026. Register & check your status →
All
✅ Opposed
🚫 No Response
❔ Unknown
🤔 Responded, No Firm Position
U.S. Congress
District 1
US Congress · District 1
Riley Owen — Republican
✅ OPPOSED
Opposes the gondola.
Detailed Response: Thanks for your email, and for protecting the beauty of our valley and canyons.
This project proposes to inefficiently use a massive sum of public funds to develop two private companies, incurring a colossal expense for taxpayers while damaging the canyon’s beauty.… These businesses have far more efficient ways to address this problem themselves.
Furthermore, the government has far more efficient ways to use our tax dollars to alleviate canyon congestion or fund other projects that would benefit all Utahns instead of just two companies.
In Congress, I will fight to protect and preserve our public lands and ensure public funds are used transparently, responsibly, and efficiently. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactThis project proposes to inefficiently use a massive sum of public funds to develop two private companies, incurring a colossal expense for taxpayers while damaging the canyon’s beauty.… These businesses have far more efficient ways to address this problem themselves.
Furthermore, the government has far more efficient ways to use our tax dollars to alleviate canyon congestion or fund other projects that would benefit all Utahns instead of just two companies.
In Congress, I will fight to protect and preserve our public lands and ensure public funds are used transparently, responsibly, and efficiently. Read More
US Congress · District 1
Jesse West — Constitution
🚫 NO RESPONSE
Has not responded to FoLCC's request for a position.
Contact and ask where he stands → Send an email: libertywhale@pm.me
🔗 Learn More & Contact
US Congress · District 1
Ben McAdams — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED
Opposes the gondola. Send an email: press@benmcadams.com
Detailed Response: Thank you for reaching out and for your advocacy on behalf of Utahns who care deeply about the future of Little Cottonwood Canyon. This is an easy issue for me and I want to be very clear.
I oppose the…proposed gondola project. I always have. I opposed SkiLink for the same reasons, and I helped launch the Mountain Accord to bring stakeholders together and resolve long-standing conflicts in the Central Wasatch. That work was grounded in a simple principle: we can protect these canyons while responsibly addressing transportation and other challenges—but only through consensus and conservation-first solutions.
Little Cottonwood Canyon is a place I grew up hiking and camping in, and I believe we have a responsibility to preserve it for future generations. As we move forward, I would like to see stronger conservation protections put in place.
To your specific questions:
1. What are your thoughts on building a gondola in LCC with taxpayer dollars?
I oppose building a gondola in Little Cottonwood Canyon. It does not solve the transportation challenges in a meaningful or cost-effective way, and it would have significant impacts on the canyon. At $1.4 billion, it is not a responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
2. What do you think about Federal tax dollars being used on a project as controversial as this?
Federal dollars should be used for projects that have broad public support, clear transportation benefits, and responsible environmental stewardship. This project does not meet that standard. I would strongly oppose using federal funds for the gondola.
3. If elected to Congress, what actions would you take consistent with this position?
If elected, I would oppose any effort to direct federal funding toward the gondola project. I would instead advocate for consensus-based transportation solutions that are more effective and aligned with conservation goals—while supporting efforts to strengthen long-term protections for the Central Wasatch. As a user of the Wasatch Canyons, I have seen benefits to enhanced bus service and believe that continuing to develop improvements to bus routes, in addition to other collaborative solutions, should be our focus.
I appreciate the work your organization is doing to elevate these issues and engage the public in this important conversation. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactI oppose the…proposed gondola project. I always have. I opposed SkiLink for the same reasons, and I helped launch the Mountain Accord to bring stakeholders together and resolve long-standing conflicts in the Central Wasatch. That work was grounded in a simple principle: we can protect these canyons while responsibly addressing transportation and other challenges—but only through consensus and conservation-first solutions.
Little Cottonwood Canyon is a place I grew up hiking and camping in, and I believe we have a responsibility to preserve it for future generations. As we move forward, I would like to see stronger conservation protections put in place.
To your specific questions:
1. What are your thoughts on building a gondola in LCC with taxpayer dollars?
I oppose building a gondola in Little Cottonwood Canyon. It does not solve the transportation challenges in a meaningful or cost-effective way, and it would have significant impacts on the canyon. At $1.4 billion, it is not a responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
2. What do you think about Federal tax dollars being used on a project as controversial as this?
Federal dollars should be used for projects that have broad public support, clear transportation benefits, and responsible environmental stewardship. This project does not meet that standard. I would strongly oppose using federal funds for the gondola.
3. If elected to Congress, what actions would you take consistent with this position?
If elected, I would oppose any effort to direct federal funding toward the gondola project. I would instead advocate for consensus-based transportation solutions that are more effective and aligned with conservation goals—while supporting efforts to strengthen long-term protections for the Central Wasatch. As a user of the Wasatch Canyons, I have seen benefits to enhanced bus service and believe that continuing to develop improvements to bus routes, in addition to other collaborative solutions, should be our focus.
I appreciate the work your organization is doing to elevate these issues and engage the public in this important conversation. Read More
District 2
US Congress · District 2
Blake Moore — Republican
🚫 NO RESPONSE
Contacted twice; no response yet. Ask him directly → Send an email: blake@electmoore.com
🔗 Learn More & Contact
US Congress · District 2
Daniel Cottam — Libertarian
✅ OPPOSED
Opposes the gondola. Send an email: dan@cottamforutah.org
Detailed Response: I am the congressional candidate for the Libertarians in House District Two. I am completely against the idea of a gondola and taxpayer funding for a gondola. Well, if the ski resorts wanna put up the gondola, I would be fine with that; however, I don’t believe that state or federal funds should be involved in the gondola — its planning or underwriting it in any way.… As an avid backcountry skier, hiker, and canyoneer, I believe the gondola in no way serves the best entrances to the many natural wonders in Big or Little Cottonwood Canyon, and for that reason it should have no place in our long-term planning for traffic and congestion in either Big or Little Cottonwood Canyon.
If you ever need me to make a more official statement, or if I by some miracle was elected to Congress, I would never support any appropriation of funds in any way, shape, or form for a gondola in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactIf you ever need me to make a more official statement, or if I by some miracle was elected to Congress, I would never support any appropriation of funds in any way, shape, or form for a gondola in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Read More
CB
US Congress · District 2
Carlton Bowen — Independent
✅ OPPOSED
Opposes the gondola. Send an email: team@bowenforcongress.com
Detailed Response: On the gondola question, I would rather see a practical road-based solution first. Specifically, I think the state should look at concrete snow-shed or tunnel-like coverings over the most dangerous avalanche areas in the canyon — something like a prefabricated concrete box culvert, but sized and engineered for vehicle traffic.… There are only a few avalanche prone areas and this would be MUCH cheaper and more practical solution.
My preferred option would actually be adding a whole another road in a tunnel beneath the current road, which would double throughput, especially to the ski resorts in the winter. But since only a few known sections are especially avalanche-prone, targeted vehicle-sized coverings over those areas is the most cost effective near term solution -- much more practical than the proposed gondola.
That approach could save taxpayers, the state, and the federal government money while preserving the vehicle access most skiers already prefer.
One quick note on the congressional district: the district numbers changed after the court selected maps in 2025. Northern Utah’s new CD2 no longer covers Salt Lake County; it now covers much of northern Utah, including a lot of what was previously the 1st District. Even so, I appreciate the question and the chance to share where I stand. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactMy preferred option would actually be adding a whole another road in a tunnel beneath the current road, which would double throughput, especially to the ski resorts in the winter. But since only a few known sections are especially avalanche-prone, targeted vehicle-sized coverings over those areas is the most cost effective near term solution -- much more practical than the proposed gondola.
That approach could save taxpayers, the state, and the federal government money while preserving the vehicle access most skiers already prefer.
One quick note on the congressional district: the district numbers changed after the court selected maps in 2025. Northern Utah’s new CD2 no longer covers Salt Lake County; it now covers much of northern Utah, including a lot of what was previously the 1st District. Even so, I appreciate the question and the chance to share where I stand. Read More
US Congress · District 2
Peter Crosby — Democratic
🚫 NO RESPONSE
Contacted twice; no response yet. Ask him directly → Send an email: information@petercrosbyforcongress.org
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 3
US Congress · District 3
Kent Udell — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED
Opposes the gondola. Send an email: kent.udell@gmail.com
Detailed Response: Here are my answers to your questions:
1. What are your thoughts on building a gondola in LCC with tax payer dollars?
Tax payers should not have to subsidize another giveaway to wealthy ski resort owners.
2. What do you think about Federal tax dollars being used on a project as controversial as this?
Federal tax dollars should be spent on projects that serve people, not corporations. Controversies arise when people sense that something unfair is being pushed on them.… Whether it’s gondolas in LCC or data centers in Box Elder County, build public support and show real benefits so they’re less controversial. If not, there should be no Federal funding.
3. If elected to Congress, what actions would you take consistent with this position?
I would block Federal funding of a gondola in LCC. Read More
🔗 Learn More & Contact1. What are your thoughts on building a gondola in LCC with tax payer dollars?
Tax payers should not have to subsidize another giveaway to wealthy ski resort owners.
2. What do you think about Federal tax dollars being used on a project as controversial as this?
Federal tax dollars should be spent on projects that serve people, not corporations. Controversies arise when people sense that something unfair is being pushed on them.… Whether it’s gondolas in LCC or data centers in Box Elder County, build public support and show real benefits so they’re less controversial. If not, there should be no Federal funding.
3. If elected to Congress, what actions would you take consistent with this position?
I would block Federal funding of a gondola in LCC. Read More
US Congress · District 3
Michael Stoddard — Libertarian
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
When asked, indicated it was "not an issue for him to be concerned with" — no substantive position on record.
Reported reaction, not a formal policy statement.
FolCC Response: The possibility of Federal Tax dollars being directed to a “local” unpopular project is something that his district is concerned with. Send an email: info@2amike4congress.org
FolCC Response: The possibility of Federal Tax dollars being directed to a “local” unpopular project is something that his district is concerned with. Send an email: info@2amike4congress.org
Detailed Response: Sorry that is not in my district and it is a state issue not a us congressional issue 😉 Thanks so much for your efforts.
🔗 Learn More & Contact
US Congress · District 3
Cassie Easley — Constitution
✅ OPPOSED
Opposes the gondola. Send an email: contact@cassieforcongress.com
🔗 Learn More & Contact
US Congress · District 3
Celeste Maloy — Republican
🚫 NO RESPONSE
Contacted twice; no response yet. Ask her directly →
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 4
US Congress · District 4
Mike Kennedy — Republican
🚫 NO RESPONSE
Contacted twice; no response yet. Send an email: info@mikekennedyforutah.com
🔗 Learn More & Contact
US Congress · District 4
Jonny Larsen — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED
Opposes the gondola. Send an email: press@jonnyutah4congress.com
Detailed Response: 1. I do not approve of building the gondola with taxpayer funds. An 8-mile project with 22 towers up to 262 feet tall, threatening the drinking water for nearly half a million Salt Lake Valley residents, serving only two private ski resorts.… Salt Lake City, Salt Lake County, the Town of Alta, and Cottonwood Heights have all passed resolutions against it. When taxpayers need so many other things that would directly improve everyone’s lives, we must serve the many instead of the few.
2. Same stance, and stronger. Federal dollars on a $1.4B gondola to two private resorts is exactly the kind of misuse I will fight. Olympic planners have already promised no events in the Cottonwood Canyons. There is no honest case for routing federal Olympic infrastructure money into a project that disturbs a century of mining contamination, threatens federally protected golden eagle nests, and is currently in litigation with Salt Lake City and Sandy’s own water districts. We have more federal revenue than state revenue, and at the federal level we need to honor what we have promised everyone. A healthcare system that works for everyone, not the for-profit one we have now that only benefits the insurance companies that have become the middleman for everything. SNAP, Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. Infrastructure that benefits the people instead of the wealthy or in this case, private ski resorts.
3. I have no idea what committees I will be assigned to. But I will always work with my colleagues on common-sense bills designed for the people. From co-sponsoring the right legislation to ensure we are not abusing taxpayer funds, to writing and sponsoring my own legislation if I am on the right committee, we will champion what is morally right for the people instead of what corrupt wealthy corporations want at the expense of others. Read More
🔗 Learn More & Contact2. Same stance, and stronger. Federal dollars on a $1.4B gondola to two private resorts is exactly the kind of misuse I will fight. Olympic planners have already promised no events in the Cottonwood Canyons. There is no honest case for routing federal Olympic infrastructure money into a project that disturbs a century of mining contamination, threatens federally protected golden eagle nests, and is currently in litigation with Salt Lake City and Sandy’s own water districts. We have more federal revenue than state revenue, and at the federal level we need to honor what we have promised everyone. A healthcare system that works for everyone, not the for-profit one we have now that only benefits the insurance companies that have become the middleman for everything. SNAP, Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. Infrastructure that benefits the people instead of the wealthy or in this case, private ski resorts.
3. I have no idea what committees I will be assigned to. But I will always work with my colleagues on common-sense bills designed for the people. From co-sponsoring the right legislation to ensure we are not abusing taxpayer funds, to writing and sponsoring my own legislation if I am on the right committee, we will champion what is morally right for the people instead of what corrupt wealthy corporations want at the expense of others. Read More
US Congress · District 4
Steven Burt — Unaffiliated
🤔 RESPONDED — NO FIRM POSITION
"I generally support traffic congestion measures for Little Cottonwood Canyon. Is better busing the answer? More organized entry and exit, and parking solutions? A gondola? Perhaps all of the above… I'm skeptical of a permanent and highly impactful change to what I understand is a problem that has only seemed really intense during the winter, and at that only some days."
"I don't have a concrete position on the topic because I don't know what the folks in District 4 think about it. My philosophy of representation involves staying as close to my constituents as possible, and then doing what I think is best based on their views and the District's needs."Responded directly to FoLCC with a detailed statement, but has not taken a firm public position either for or against the gondola — says he wants to hear from District 4 constituents before deciding. Send an email: stevenb@stevenburt.com
🔗 Learn More & Contact"I don't have a concrete position on the topic because I don't know what the folks in District 4 think about it. My philosophy of representation involves staying as close to my constituents as possible, and then doing what I think is best based on their views and the District's needs."Responded directly to FoLCC with a detailed statement, but has not taken a firm public position either for or against the gondola — says he wants to hear from District 4 constituents before deciding. Send an email: stevenb@stevenburt.com
US Congress · District 4
Taylor Wright — Libertarian
🚫 NO RESPONSE
Contacted twice; no response yet. Ask him directly →
🔗 Learn More & ContactUtah State Senate
District 13
Utah Senate · District 13
Ryan Mahoney — Republican
✅ OPPOSED (verified)
"I oppose the proposed Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola project... committing approximately $1.4 billion in taxpayer funds to a single fixed-guideway system is not fiscally responsible."
Confirmed via his campaign site — not a direct statement to FoLCC. Send an email: Ryan.Mahoney4Utah@Gmail.com
🔗 Learn More & Contact
Utah Senate · District 13
Colin Smith — Utah Forward
✅ OPPOSED
"In its current iteration, I am against the gondola. We need better public transit to get us to the mouth of the cottonwood canyons... there are more effective solutions currently like increased busing."
Detailed Response: In its current iteration, I am against the gondola. We need better public transit to get us to the mouth of the cottonwood canyons. It is one of my goals while I’m in the Utah state Senate is to have a robust… train system that will get folks to the mouth of the canyons. Because of the environmental impact and the cost, I think there are more effective solutions currently like increased busing. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 19
Utah Senate · District 19
OPPOSED
Learn More & Contact
Shana Anderson — Democratic
OPPOSED"I am strongly opposed to the gondola in LCC. I believe in responsible use of tax dollars that benefit the majority of people in Utah, not a small minority of skiers and privately held ski resorts."
Detailed Response: 1. I am strongly opposed to the gondola in LCC. I believe in responsible use of tax dollars that benefit the majority of people in Utah, not a small minority of skiers and privately held ski resorts.…
2. I would push for a fiscally responsible solution to the traffic problems on Little Cottonwood Canyon. Enhanced busing is the first step to a solution, and we should push busing as far as we can before we jump to other options. I would further push the legislature to invest funding in traffic solutions that benefit a wider group of Utahns with greater public transportation options up and down the valley. Strong public transportation options for the north-south corridor will reduce traffic congestion and air pollution for more people than a gondola that is really only impactful for a few months out of the year. With my background in economics I will highlight the cost/benefit tradeoffs inherent in funding a gondola over public transportation solutions that have a broader impact.
Thank you so much for your time and I look forward to working with you more in the future. Read More
2. I would push for a fiscally responsible solution to the traffic problems on Little Cottonwood Canyon. Enhanced busing is the first step to a solution, and we should push busing as far as we can before we jump to other options. I would further push the legislature to invest funding in traffic solutions that benefit a wider group of Utahns with greater public transportation options up and down the valley. Strong public transportation options for the north-south corridor will reduce traffic congestion and air pollution for more people than a gondola that is really only impactful for a few months out of the year. With my background in economics I will highlight the cost/benefit tradeoffs inherent in funding a gondola over public transportation solutions that have a broader impact.
Thank you so much for your time and I look forward to working with you more in the future. Read More
Learn More & Contact
Utah Senate · District 19
NO RESPONSE
Learn More & Contact
Kirk Cullimore — Republican
NO RESPONSEHas not responded to FoLCC's request for a position.
Contact and ask where he stands → Send an email: kcullimorejr@gmail.com
Learn More & ContactUtah House of Representatives
District 21
Utah House · District 21
Stephen Otterstrom — Democratic
🤔 RESPONDED — NO FIRM POSITION
"I feel like I have not fully researched this, so there is a possibility I could be swayed, but from where I stand, this seems like a tremendous waste of money for very little payout... I am all for investing $640 million in public transportation, but right now that looks like investing in the Rio Grande Plan, adding more routes and stops, and lowering pass costs."
"I believe something must be done to manage traffic in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Expanding bus routes and potentially closing the canyon to personal vehicles, like what we do in Zion National Park, would make more sense... I do not support making it a toll road." Responded directly to FoLCC, but has not taken a firm public position either for or against the gondola.
🔗 Learn More & Contact"I believe something must be done to manage traffic in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Expanding bus routes and potentially closing the canyon to personal vehicles, like what we do in Zion National Park, would make more sense... I do not support making it a toll road." Responded directly to FoLCC, but has not taken a firm public position either for or against the gondola.
District 22
CV
Utah House · District 22
Char Varga — Republican
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia
🔗 Learn More & Contact
Utah House · District 22
Jen Dailey-Provost — Democratic
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia Send an email: jdprovost@le.utah.gov
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 32
Utah House · District 32
Sahara Hayes — Democratic
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia Send an email: Contact@VoteSahara.com
🔗 Learn More & Contact
Utah House · District 32
Aileen Hampton — Republican
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Civoren Send an email: aileen@voteforaileen.org
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 33
Utah House · District 33
Doug Owens — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED (verified)
"We need to find commonsense solutions for the issues we face in Little Cottonwood Canyon. A gondola is NOT that solution."
Confirmed via his campaign's public materials and social posts — not a direct statement to FoLCC. Send an email: doug@dougowensutah.com
🔗 Learn More & Contact
Utah House · District 33
Anna Reeves — Republican
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 34
Utah House · District 34
Julie Jackson — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED
"I do not support the gondola and plan to vote against it if the opportunity arises. Still looking for the right solution to the canyon transportation issue." Send an email: julejack@gmail.com
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 35
Utah House · District 35
Monique Ketchum — Republican
✅ OPPOSED
"I don't support moving forward with the LCC gondola as currently proposed. This is a taxpayer-funded project estimated at $750 million to $1.4 billion, plus millions more annually in operating costs, to serve two private resorts, and it remains tied up in litigation. As a data analyst, my standard for any major infrastructure spend is simple: measure before you spend. The Legislature has already funded $150 million for a bus and tolling system (Phase 1) that hasn't been given a real chance to prove itself yet."
If elected, she says she would: push for full implementation and honest evaluation of Phase 1 transit before further gondola planning; request an independent cost-benefit review comparing lifecycle costs of the gondola vs. the bus alternative; support legislative oversight of UDOT's corridor preservation spending; and let the EIS litigation run its course before further appropriations. Send an email: Monique4Office@gmail.com
If elected, she says she would: push for full implementation and honest evaluation of Phase 1 transit before further gondola planning; request an independent cost-benefit review comparing lifecycle costs of the gondola vs. the bus alternative; support legislative oversight of UDOT's corridor preservation spending; and let the EIS litigation run its course before further appropriations. Send an email: Monique4Office@gmail.com
Detailed Response: 1. What is your position on a gondola in LCC?
I don't support moving forward with the LCC gondola as currently proposed. This is a taxpayer-funded project estimated at $750 million to $1.4 billion, plus… millions more annually in operating costs, to serve two private resorts, and it remains tied up in litigation. As a data analyst, my standard for any major infrastructure spend is simple: measure before you spend. The Legislature has already funded $150 million for a bus and tolling system (Phase 1) that hasn't been given a real chance to prove itself yet. Until we know whether that less expensive, less permanent option actually solves the congestion problem, I don't think the state should be committing to a billion-dollar, decades-long infrastructure project. I'd also note that the environmental arguments on this issue cut both ways: ongoing car emissions during ski season are a real cost, but so is permanent new infrastructure through currently roadless, federally protected land. I don't think that debate is settled enough to decide this on its own, which is exactly why the fiscal case matters more.
2. If elected, or reelected, to the Legislature, what actions would you take consistent with the position stated above?
Push for full implementation and honest evaluation of Phase 1 transit (buses, tolling, mobility hubs) before any further state dollars go toward gondola planning or construction.
Request an independent legislative cost-benefit review comparing the full lifecycle cost of the gondola (construction, operations, maintenance) against the bus alternative already funded and in motion.
Support legislative oversight of UDOT's corridor preservation fund spending, including scrutiny of land purchases made for a project that remains unfunded and unresolved in court.
Let the litigation over the Environmental Impact Statement run its course rather than pushing appropriations ahead of it, since the watershed serving roughly a million residents deserves a real answer.
Insist that any future decision on the gondola be transparent, data-driven, and based on how Phase 1 actually performs, not on pressure from any single interest. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactI don't support moving forward with the LCC gondola as currently proposed. This is a taxpayer-funded project estimated at $750 million to $1.4 billion, plus… millions more annually in operating costs, to serve two private resorts, and it remains tied up in litigation. As a data analyst, my standard for any major infrastructure spend is simple: measure before you spend. The Legislature has already funded $150 million for a bus and tolling system (Phase 1) that hasn't been given a real chance to prove itself yet. Until we know whether that less expensive, less permanent option actually solves the congestion problem, I don't think the state should be committing to a billion-dollar, decades-long infrastructure project. I'd also note that the environmental arguments on this issue cut both ways: ongoing car emissions during ski season are a real cost, but so is permanent new infrastructure through currently roadless, federally protected land. I don't think that debate is settled enough to decide this on its own, which is exactly why the fiscal case matters more.
2. If elected, or reelected, to the Legislature, what actions would you take consistent with the position stated above?
Push for full implementation and honest evaluation of Phase 1 transit (buses, tolling, mobility hubs) before any further state dollars go toward gondola planning or construction.
Request an independent legislative cost-benefit review comparing the full lifecycle cost of the gondola (construction, operations, maintenance) against the bus alternative already funded and in motion.
Support legislative oversight of UDOT's corridor preservation fund spending, including scrutiny of land purchases made for a project that remains unfunded and unresolved in court.
Let the litigation over the Environmental Impact Statement run its course rather than pushing appropriations ahead of it, since the watershed serving roughly a million residents deserves a real answer.
Insist that any future decision on the gondola be transparent, data-driven, and based on how Phase 1 actually performs, not on pressure from any single interest. Read More
Utah House · District 35
Rosalba Dominguez — Democratic
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia Send an email: me@voterosalba.com
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 39
Utah House · District 39
Drew Howells — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED
"My position is straightforward: I oppose construction of the Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola. Full Stop! ... I fully recognize the serious traffic problems in the canyon, particularly during peak ski days... but the solution should be low-impact, fiscally responsible, publicly accessible, and designed to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of the canyon rather than permanently altering it."
If elected, he says he would: oppose appropriations, bonding authority, property acquisition, planning, engineering, or public expenditures intended to advance the gondola; and support a Canyon Mobility Assessment funded by the resorts themselves — not taxpayers — dedicated exclusively to low-impact transportation solutions like expanded bus service and mobility hubs.
If elected, he says he would: oppose appropriations, bonding authority, property acquisition, planning, engineering, or public expenditures intended to advance the gondola; and support a Canyon Mobility Assessment funded by the resorts themselves — not taxpayers — dedicated exclusively to low-impact transportation solutions like expanded bus service and mobility hubs.
Detailed Response: Thank you for reaching out and for giving candidates like myself the opportunity to state our positions clearly.
My position is straightforward: I oppose construction of the Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola.… Full Stop!
As a Sandy resident who lives in the shadows of the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, I view the canyon as one of Utah’s great natural treasures. We have a stewardship obligation to preserve its natural beauty, watershed, “viewshed", and the ecological integrity for future generations.
I fully recognize the serious traffic problems in the canyon, particularly during peak ski days. As someone who lives off 90th South, I live with it. Doing nothing is not an acceptable answer. But the solution should be low-impact, fiscally responsible, publicly accessible, and designed to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of the canyon rather than permanently altering it.
Solving this problem will require a level of civic imagineering— bringing together transportation planning, engineering, environmental science, technology, and public accountability to find solutions beyond the false choice between gridlock and a gondola. I believe those solutions exist, and we will find them.
I support expanded and reliable bus service, strategically located mobility hubs, improved park-and-ride capacity, parking and reservation management, incentives for carpooling and transit use, and other innovative, low-impact transportation solutions. These alternatives should include clear implementation dates, service standards, performance measurements, and public reporting so enhanced transit is treated as a genuine solution rather than merely a temporary step toward the gondola, or these performative “fixes” without fully implementing the plan, while claiming they did. We need transparency.
My opposition is not new. During Sandy’s 2025 mayoral race, I publicly stood with Mayor Monica Zoltanski in opposition to the gondola. That advocacy, and work against the oppositions misinformation campaign has already drawn the attention of longtime gondola advocate Chris McCandless and his allies, who has now turned their attention toward opposing my campaign for House District 39. Nevertheless, I will carry my opposition to the gondola into the Utah Legislature.
If elected, I would oppose appropriations, bonding authority, property acquisition, planning, engineering, or other public expenditures intended to advance the gondola. I would also oppose efforts to redirect existing canyon transportation funds toward gondola construction or debt.
I would also support establishing a Canyon Mobility Assessment tied to commercial resort visitation. The resorts generating and benefiting from canyon transportation demand should help fund the public transportation necessary to manage it, and not place the burden on the public through taxes.
Revenue from that assessment must be legally prohibited from supporting gondola planning, property acquisition, design, construction, operation, maintenance, or debt service. It should be dedicated exclusively to current and new innovative, low-impact transportation solutions, including expanded UTA service, mobility hubs, park-and-ride capacity, transit-supporting infrastructure, and other measures that reduce congestion while protecting the canyon.
Little Cottonwood Canyon belongs to all of us. We can solve its transportation challenges without sacrificing the canyon itself. That is the standard I will carry into the Legislature. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactMy position is straightforward: I oppose construction of the Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola.… Full Stop!
As a Sandy resident who lives in the shadows of the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, I view the canyon as one of Utah’s great natural treasures. We have a stewardship obligation to preserve its natural beauty, watershed, “viewshed", and the ecological integrity for future generations.
I fully recognize the serious traffic problems in the canyon, particularly during peak ski days. As someone who lives off 90th South, I live with it. Doing nothing is not an acceptable answer. But the solution should be low-impact, fiscally responsible, publicly accessible, and designed to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of the canyon rather than permanently altering it.
Solving this problem will require a level of civic imagineering— bringing together transportation planning, engineering, environmental science, technology, and public accountability to find solutions beyond the false choice between gridlock and a gondola. I believe those solutions exist, and we will find them.
I support expanded and reliable bus service, strategically located mobility hubs, improved park-and-ride capacity, parking and reservation management, incentives for carpooling and transit use, and other innovative, low-impact transportation solutions. These alternatives should include clear implementation dates, service standards, performance measurements, and public reporting so enhanced transit is treated as a genuine solution rather than merely a temporary step toward the gondola, or these performative “fixes” without fully implementing the plan, while claiming they did. We need transparency.
My opposition is not new. During Sandy’s 2025 mayoral race, I publicly stood with Mayor Monica Zoltanski in opposition to the gondola. That advocacy, and work against the oppositions misinformation campaign has already drawn the attention of longtime gondola advocate Chris McCandless and his allies, who has now turned their attention toward opposing my campaign for House District 39. Nevertheless, I will carry my opposition to the gondola into the Utah Legislature.
If elected, I would oppose appropriations, bonding authority, property acquisition, planning, engineering, or other public expenditures intended to advance the gondola. I would also oppose efforts to redirect existing canyon transportation funds toward gondola construction or debt.
I would also support establishing a Canyon Mobility Assessment tied to commercial resort visitation. The resorts generating and benefiting from canyon transportation demand should help fund the public transportation necessary to manage it, and not place the burden on the public through taxes.
Revenue from that assessment must be legally prohibited from supporting gondola planning, property acquisition, design, construction, operation, maintenance, or debt service. It should be dedicated exclusively to current and new innovative, low-impact transportation solutions, including expanded UTA service, mobility hubs, park-and-ride capacity, transit-supporting infrastructure, and other measures that reduce congestion while protecting the canyon.
Little Cottonwood Canyon belongs to all of us. We can solve its transportation challenges without sacrificing the canyon itself. That is the standard I will carry into the Legislature. Read More
Utah House · District 39
Ken Ivory — Republican
🚫 NO RESPONSE
Has not responded and has no public statement on record.
Verified via search — no public gondola position found as of Aug. 2026. Send an email: kivory@le.utah.gov
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 40
Utah House · District 40
Andrew Stoddard — Democratic
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia Send an email: astoddard@le.utah.gov
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 41
Utah House · District 41
Darren Croft — Republican
✅ OPPOSED
"I am opposed to the gondola in UDOT's plans for Little Cottonwood Canyon."
If elected, he says he would: require Phases 1 and 2 (buses, tolling, carpooling restrictions) to be iteratively implemented and evaluated before any move to Phase 3 (the gondola); push UDOT to remove the "95% uptime" reliability requirement that helped justify choosing the gondola; and build legislative support to block funding for gondola implementation. Send an email: dvcroft@gmail.com
If elected, he says he would: require Phases 1 and 2 (buses, tolling, carpooling restrictions) to be iteratively implemented and evaluated before any move to Phase 3 (the gondola); push UDOT to remove the "95% uptime" reliability requirement that helped justify choosing the gondola; and build legislative support to block funding for gondola implementation. Send an email: dvcroft@gmail.com
Detailed Response: I am opposed to the gondola in UDOT's plans for Little Cottonwood Canyon. If elected I will fight against gondola implementation in the following ways:
1. The gondola is phase 3. It is currently not dependent… on phase 1 and phase 2. I will work to require phases 1 and 2 to be iteratively implemented and evaluated with the goal of solving traffic problems without needing to move to phase 3. This would include testing tolls, mandatory carpooling, and restriction of personal vehicles during heavy use.
2. The gondola plan was chosen in large part based on a 95% reliability or "uptime" requirement. I believe that is an unnecessary requirement for a recreational area. I would work to require UDOT to remove that requirement and re-evaluate transportation solutions.
3. I will work to build support with other legislatures to block funding for the gondola implementation. Read More
🔗 Learn More & Contact1. The gondola is phase 3. It is currently not dependent… on phase 1 and phase 2. I will work to require phases 1 and 2 to be iteratively implemented and evaluated with the goal of solving traffic problems without needing to move to phase 3. This would include testing tolls, mandatory carpooling, and restriction of personal vehicles during heavy use.
2. The gondola plan was chosen in large part based on a 95% reliability or "uptime" requirement. I believe that is an unnecessary requirement for a recreational area. I would work to require UDOT to remove that requirement and re-evaluate transportation solutions.
3. I will work to build support with other legislatures to block funding for the gondola implementation. Read More
Utah House · District 41
John Arthur — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED
"I remain firmly opposed to the proposed gondola. I do not believe it is the right transportation solution for the canyon, nor do I believe it represents the best use of public resources."
If elected, he says he would: support enhanced bus service combined with tolling, and is sponsoring legislation to dedicate new UDOT revenue through the Cottonwood Canyons Transportation Investment Fund (CCTIF) to cover ongoing operations and maintenance costs for expanded bus service. Send an email: info@johnarthur.com
If elected, he says he would: support enhanced bus service combined with tolling, and is sponsoring legislation to dedicate new UDOT revenue through the Cottonwood Canyons Transportation Investment Fund (CCTIF) to cover ongoing operations and maintenance costs for expanded bus service. Send an email: info@johnarthur.com
Detailed Response: I really appreciate you reaching out and for your continued advocacy on behalf of Little Cottonwood Canyon.
As the Representative for House District 41, I want to be clear about where I stand. I remain firmly… opposed to the proposed gondola. I do not believe it is the right transportation solution for the canyon, nor do I believe it represents the best use of public resources.
Instead, I support a transportation strategy centered on enhanced bus service combined with tolling to reduce congestion while protecting the canyon's unique environmental and recreational treasures. These approaches can be implemented more quickly, are significantly more flexible, and can be adapted over time as conditions and demand change.
To support that effort, I am sponsoring legislation during this upcoming session that would dedicate new revenue available through UDOT and open the Cottonwood Canyons Transportation Investment Fund (CCTIF) to cover the ongoing operations and maintenance costs associated with enhanced bus service. One of the longstanding challenges with expanding transit has been identifying a sustainable funding source for operations. My bill is intended to address that challenge and ensure that enhanced bus service remains a reliable long-term alternative.
I am so grateful for the work that Friends of Little Cottonwood Canyon has done to elevate these issues and look forward to continuing our work together going forward. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactAs the Representative for House District 41, I want to be clear about where I stand. I remain firmly… opposed to the proposed gondola. I do not believe it is the right transportation solution for the canyon, nor do I believe it represents the best use of public resources.
Instead, I support a transportation strategy centered on enhanced bus service combined with tolling to reduce congestion while protecting the canyon's unique environmental and recreational treasures. These approaches can be implemented more quickly, are significantly more flexible, and can be adapted over time as conditions and demand change.
To support that effort, I am sponsoring legislation during this upcoming session that would dedicate new revenue available through UDOT and open the Cottonwood Canyons Transportation Investment Fund (CCTIF) to cover the ongoing operations and maintenance costs associated with enhanced bus service. One of the longstanding challenges with expanding transit has been identifying a sustainable funding source for operations. My bill is intended to address that challenge and ensure that enhanced bus service remains a reliable long-term alternative.
I am so grateful for the work that Friends of Little Cottonwood Canyon has done to elevate these issues and look forward to continuing our work together going forward. Read More
District 42
Utah House · District 42
Iva Williams — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED
"Just behind HD 42, state officials are moving forward on a plan to build a gondola through Little Cottonwood Canyon. Not a shuttle. Not a train. A gondola... The idea of scarring it with tower footings and construction equipment for a project that will not even meaningfully reduce canyon traffic is exactly the kind of decision-making I am running to fight."
If elected, she says she would: fight to stop the gondola and push for smarter, more sustainable transit that actually reduces canyon traffic.
If elected, she says she would: fight to stop the gondola and push for smarter, more sustainable transit that actually reduces canyon traffic.
Detailed Response: Just behind HD 42, state officials are moving forward on a plan to build a gondola through Little Cottonwood Canyon. Not a shuttle. Not a train. A gondola. And every year, the process gets closer to… approval.
Little Cottonwood is one of the things that makes living in this part of Utah what it is. It is where our kids learn to ski, where our families go for the first fall leaves, and where a lot of us go when we need the mountains to remind us why we love this state. The idea of scarring it with tower footings and construction equipment for a project that will not even meaningfully reduce canyon traffic is exactly the kind of decision-making I am running to fight.
If you send me to the legislature, I will fight to stop the gondola. I will fight for smarter, more sustainable transit that actually reduces the cars in our canyons. I will fight to refill the Great Salt Lake and clean up the air our kids breathe. And I will fight every development, including the Box Elder data center, that puts our water and our natural spaces at risk. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactLittle Cottonwood is one of the things that makes living in this part of Utah what it is. It is where our kids learn to ski, where our families go for the first fall leaves, and where a lot of us go when we need the mountains to remind us why we love this state. The idea of scarring it with tower footings and construction equipment for a project that will not even meaningfully reduce canyon traffic is exactly the kind of decision-making I am running to fight.
If you send me to the legislature, I will fight to stop the gondola. I will fight for smarter, more sustainable transit that actually reduces the cars in our canyons. I will fight to refill the Great Salt Lake and clean up the air our kids breathe. And I will fight every development, including the Box Elder data center, that puts our water and our natural spaces at risk. Read More
Utah House · District 42
Clint Okerlund — Republican
✅ OPPOSED
"I will fight the gondola at every step... As a member of the House Transportation Committee I am in a unique position to be able to influence this decision." Send an email: cokerlund@le.utah.gov
Detailed Response: I will fight the gondola at every step and, strategically, when the time is right, in collaboration with other stakeholders like FoLCC, would be happy to work on sponsoring legislation that will reverse the… record decision on the gondola. I think there is new information available now that can be relied upon to reverse the decision. As a member of the House Transportation Committee I am in a unique position to be able to influence this decision. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 43
Utah House · District 43
Steven Eliason — Republican
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia Send an email: seliason@le.utah.gov
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 44
Utah House · District 44
Jordan Teuscher — Republican
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia Send an email: jordan@jordanteuscher.com
🔗 Learn More & Contact
Utah House · District 44
Jess Birtcher — Democratic
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia Send an email: yes2jesshd44@gmail.com
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 45
Utah House · District 45
Tracy Miller — Republican
✅ OPPOSED
"I am opposed to the current proposal for the LCC gondola. I believe there are more cost effective and environmentally friendly alternatives that should be considered. I would like to see Phase 1 of the plan fully implemented before further decisions are made." Send an email: tracymiller.ut@gmail.com
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 46
Utah House · District 46
Cal Roberts — Republican
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia Send an email: croberts@le.utah.gov
🔗 Learn More & Contact
Utah House · District 46
Braxton Rutherford — Democratic
❔ NO RESPONSE / UNKNOWN
No verifiable public statement found.
Not a direct campaign statement — no position located via research. Source: Ballotpedia
🔗 Learn More & ContactDistrict 49
Utah House · District 49
Lillian Bowles — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED
"I oppose the gondola. Little Cottonwood is a critical watershed and fragile alpine environment... an estimated $1,200 per household statewide is too much to ask taxpayers to pay for something with such limited public benefit." Send an email: info@lillianbowles.com
Detailed Response: 1. My position:
I oppose the gondola. Little Cottonwood is a critical watershed and fragile alpine environment, and building towers and base stations into that terrain would do lasting damage, all to serve a… project that mainly benefits two private ski resorts. On top of that, an estimated $1,200 per household statewide is too much to ask taxpayers to pay for something with such limited public benefit.
2. If elected/reelected, I would:
Oppose state funding or bonding for the gondola.
Push for cheaper, faster alternatives: expanded bus service, tolling, mobility hubs that move people through the canyon without the environmental cost.
Demand transparency in UDOT’s environmental review, especially given the pending litigation over the EIS.
Prioritize watershed protection in any future canyon planning. Read More
🔗 Learn More & ContactI oppose the gondola. Little Cottonwood is a critical watershed and fragile alpine environment, and building towers and base stations into that terrain would do lasting damage, all to serve a… project that mainly benefits two private ski resorts. On top of that, an estimated $1,200 per household statewide is too much to ask taxpayers to pay for something with such limited public benefit.
2. If elected/reelected, I would:
Oppose state funding or bonding for the gondola.
Push for cheaper, faster alternatives: expanded bus service, tolling, mobility hubs that move people through the canyon without the environmental cost.
Demand transparency in UDOT’s environmental review, especially given the pending litigation over the EIS.
Prioritize watershed protection in any future canyon planning. Read More
District 59
Utah House · District 59
Celeste Johnson — Democratic
✅ OPPOSED
Opposes the gondola.
🔗 Learn More & Contact
Utah House · District 59
Luke Searle — Republican
🚫 NO RESPONSE
Has not responded to FoLCC's request for a position.
Contact and ask where he stands → Call: 307-350-5300
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🗣️ See a "No Response" or "Unknown" candidate above? Reach out and ask them directly where they stand on the LCC gondola — then let us know what they say. Silence on a billion-dollar decision for our canyon isn't acceptable.
