Q&A with City Councilwoman Marcia White
Marcia White
City Council | Ogden, UT
Tell us about your background. What are the experiences, including education, that make up the person you currently are?
I am an engineer by trade and I have a master’s in public administration. I have held many positions, the most recent is I am the Economic Development Director for the Wasatch Front Regional Council.
What was your trigger moment and why this specific office?
I helped the current mayor in Ogden get elected and I felt that if I didn’t get on the “bus”, then it would pass me by. I love being on the city council as I like setting policy and looking at budgets.
What made you feel qualified to run for office?
Nothing ever makes you feel qualified for office! I feel like my engineering background, my public administrative side and the volunteering on the boards in Ogden have helped me.
Do you work full-time or part-time?
Part-time.
Most people don’t know what their elected official does on a daily basis. What’s a typical day looking like for you?
I answer a lot of questions about so many things. Anything from how can I make something better to can I plant a tree here. I spend a lot of time right now in a leadership role going to meetings and events.
Additionally, they might not know what their elected official is responsible for. What is your role in comparison to other elected offices on your level?
Our city is a strong mayor city. This means that there is an executive branch, the mayor, and the legislative branch, which is the council. Our council sets policy and budgets and has administrative oversight.
What do you think people would be surprised to know someone in your position does?
I think they would be surprised to know that despite what is happening at the national level and how it is very divided, that a council member works (and has to in order to get anything done) with all the other council members.
What are 3-5 skills needed to be successful in the elected office you served in/are currently serving in?
An understanding of local government budgets, being able to read and decipher a lot of information quickly, listening to ALL people in your community (even those you might not always agree with).
What’s the best part about serving in elected office?
Getting to listening to people in the community and watching what you have voted on come to fruition.
What has been the accomplishment you’re most proud of while in office?
Creation of the Natural Resources and Sustainability committee.
In terms of finances, how much money did you have to raise for your campaign?
$17,000.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone who’s thinking about running for the position you serve/have served in their community?
Get involved with your local community, boards, and volunteering. Then, jump off the cliff and build your wings on the way down.