Choose Richard Smith for Utah County Commissioner
Experienced Leadership.
Proven Service.
Always Present.
About me
I was born in Sandy, Utah to a mother who grew up on an Idaho farm, and a father who served in the Vietnam War. Because of my parents' background, my five siblings and I were taught the value of hard work and were instilled with a deep love, respect, pride, and honor for our great country and those who defend it.
I graduated from Utah State University with my bachelor's degree in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics. I then proceeded to get my master's degree in Public Policy from the University of Utah. Learning more about our government, policies, and the impact it has on individuals in society led me to being employed at the Utah County Assessor's Office where I have worked for the last six years. While working for the assessor's office I have had the opportunity to help many tax payers through governmental processes.
My wife and I have been married for 13 years and have five wonderful children together. Throughout our life together, we have enjoyed living all across Utah County. From Cedar Hills, to Provo, to Spanish Fork, we have appreciated the beauty of the various canyons, hiking trails and parks that these areas provide.
Things that Matter to You and Me
Fair Taxation
Nobody loves taxes. My priority is making sure taxpayers only pay the portion they should — and no more. Having worked in the Utah County Assessor’s Office, I’ve seen the process from the inside and understand how it directly affects residents. Too often, people feel surprised or confused when property values rise or taxes increase. I will ensure that taxes are fair, transparent, and distributed equitably, so homeowners, farmers, and small businesses pay their rightful share. Residents deserve to know exactly what they’re paying and why.
Growth
One of the biggest challenges our county faces is its rapid growth. Utah County’s growth creates a real need for careful planning by our public servants. To address it effectively, we need collaboration with cities, state entities like UDOT, and community stakeholders. These efforts should focus on thoughtful, long-term planning that reflects the priorities of our residents.
I support infrastructure improvements and land-use planning that preserves the rural feel that our residents value, while also paving the way for the next generation of Utah County families to succeed. Growth should be viable and fair, with roads, schools, public safety, and utilities planned in advance — not as an afterthought.
Redevelopment Agencies (RDAs) and Public Improvement Districts (PIDs) often play a role in managing development, but they must be transparent, limited in scope, and accountable to taxpayers. These programs have a tendency to be used to subsidize developments that benefit private interests more than the public. As a county commissioner, I will make sure that taxpayer dollars are used appropriately, that investments produce real, measurable community benefits, and that new developments pay their own way, rather than burdening families and small businesses with hidden costs.
My vision is for Utah County growth to be smart, transparent, and taxpayer-first, so that we preserve the things that make our communities special — from neighborhoods and farms to open space — while responsibly preparing for the future.
Government Efficiency
Having spent years managing operations in the Utah County Assessor’s Office, I know where inefficiencies and unnecessary costs can creep into county government. My goal is to ensure that departments coordinate, communicate, and share resources rather than duplicating work or wasting taxpayer dollars. I’ve seen firsthand how streamlining processes and improving transparency can save money without cutting essential services. Government doesn’t have to be slow, confusing, or expensive — it can be efficient, transparent, and responsive, and that’s exactly what I intend to deliver.
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