I have a rare perspective: I am the only assessor who has had the opportunity to work with both candidates for Salt Lake County Assessor, and that experience has allowed me to make a clear decision about this election.

I worked in the Salt Lake County Tax Assessor’s office and had minimal contact with Chris Stavros, and he lacked substance. I barely saw him and had no opportunity to speak with him. I was certainly not the only person hoping for improvement, as many very smart staff members saw significant opportunities for improvement.

During my time as Director of Quality at Security National Mortgage, Joel Frost was one of our preferred appraisers. Not only was he considered a subject matter expert, but his friendly communication was impeccable, making Frost our go-to guy.

In June 2023, leaders of my faith community warned against voting for a single party, calling it a “threat to democracy” and urging all of us to seek honest and capable leaders regardless of our party affiliation.

While I rarely support Democrats, I’m happy to say I do in this situation! He is the best candidate because he wants to listen, learn, and solve real problems.

I can assure my fellow registered Republicans that Frost’s stance on abortion, gay rights, amnesty, and anything else that might prevent you from voting for a Democrat doesn’t matter. He is not a political person. He is a compassionate leader and real estate expert. I am glad I can confidently put my partisanship aside and vote for the candidate who has the vision, integrity, empathy, and commitment to make a much-needed difference for Salt Lake County.

This leader is Joel Frost.

Jonathan Allen Hale, Provo

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