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CEDAR CITY — Next week, people in Cedar City will vote for a new mayor — and the two main candidates offer a stark contrast.
John Black is an experienced city councilman who retired to Cedar City, and Maile Wilson is a 26-year-old law school graduate with infectious enthusiasm.
"I'm absolutely just passionate about our city," Wilson said Tuesday.
Wilson attended her first city council meeting when she was just 3 years old. Now, she's says ready to lead Cedar City.
"I have the background of our history, of where Cedar comes from. But I also have the ideas and the experience, and just the drive to help our community go forward to bring the jobs here," Wilson said.
Black, on the other hand, said he's not sure that growing up in Cedar City and getting an education is enough preparation to be mayor.
"The difference is experience and hands-on, everyday involvement with the city," he said.
I have the background of our history, of where Cedar comes from. But I also have the ideas and the experience, and just the drive to help our community go forward to bring the jobs here.
–Maile Wilson, Cedar City mayoral candidate
Black has served in government more than 30 years and feels at home in the office or the barbershop.
The difference is experience and hands-on, everyday involvement with the city. ...I embrace what Cedar City's heritage is. It's integrity, and it's hard work and especially service.
–John Black, Cedar City mayoral candidate
"(Black) is a conscientious city councilman. He works hard. He knows the issues, and he knows how to deal with them," said Don Marchant, who lives in Cedar City.
Wilson said her lack of age is not a lack of experience — and others agree with her.
"She has the ability to lead. She has the ability to take us where we need to go," said Russ Olsen, who supports Wilson's run for mayor.
Both candidates said serving in government is the best way they can give back.
"This is my home, and so because of that I'm willing to throw my name in the hat. I'm willing to get in there," Wilson said.
"I embrace what Cedar City's heritage is. It's integrity, and it's hard work and especially service," Black said.
Both candidates are encouraging the public to come out and vote. Early voting is available through Friday in Cedar City, and general elections throughout the state are Nov. 5.
