Meet Your Springville Candidates
Who’s on the Ballot? Meet the Faces of Your Community
Ray Grover here, and I am truly blessed to announce myself as Springville’s future Mayor! I have a deep passion for leading and building with integrity, as I have demonstrated from greatly improving a busy U-Haul store to being Springville’s artist of the month. I was born and raised here; however, I moved to PA only to move back four years ago to be part of the solution instead of the problem! In case you haven’t heard, I am NOT here to play nice with the current system! We WILL have accountability, transparency, and justice here, with a FULL audit before I AM elected! I WILL overhaul our police and public works departments, fraught with poor leadership and overpaid employees, as property taxes, housing costs, food prices, etc, have continued to skyrocket! I Will cut through red tape, revitalize our downtown, and bring light where it has been so dark. Please know, I am here to serve YOU! I am ushering in a new golden era of prosperity that will prove without a shadow of doubt God’s hand is upon me! Get excited about a bright future, because change isn’t just coming… It’s HERE!
Matt Packard -
MAYORAL CANDIDATE
I am Matt Packard and am seeking reelection for the position of Mayor of Springville. Over the past four years, I have sought diligently to fulfill my commitment to the citizens of Springville to keep a balance of economic growth while keeping the touch of our small-town feel. If reelected, I promise to continue to fight to keep this balance in our community. It is our greatest challenge moving forward.
Springville City is known for its beauty and culture. People are attracted to our small town feel and the personal touch of our neighborhoods. Most importantly, people are attracted to our town because of the citizens who make up the businesses and neighborhoods. We do not want to and cannot afford to, lose this feeling in our city. I feel I bring to the city many years of experience in business and working in the city government. I have served on many boards and committees both in my industry and in our community. I love Springville, and I believe I am best qualified to serve as the Mayor of Springville.
I ask for your vote for Mayor to move Springville forward.
1. I believe one of the many strengths of Springville is our community. Whether you are out and about or online if someone needs help our community is quick to help.
I believe one of our weaknesses is our desirability, which is also a strength in a sense, people want to be here and I know the growth is frightening to some people.
2. I see the advantages and the disadvantages. I am in favor of cheaper and easier travel that cuts traffic down in our city. I also listen to others who don't want it because the city feels as though it is losing its small town feel and too much money is being spent already. Ultimately, I would say no. Taxes are high enough already.
3. I would like Springville to offer small and local businesses the tax breaks that we give to the big businesses currently. Big businesses don't need them. Once the tax incentive expires most companies pack up and leave for another city willing to give them a tax break. We need to take care of our own first.
4. My strengths are as follows. Dedication to the task at hand, not folding under pressure, achieving what I set out to do and listening to all view points while maintaining a healthy dialog to get what needs to be done complete. Weaknesses consist of the following. I can be quite stubborn when I am completing a task, I have a goal and I will get there one way or another. I also obsess on the task at hand. If it needs to get done it will get done.
5. By prioritizing responsible budgeting, making sure property rights are maintained, shrinking regulatory walls for private development while making sure our infrastructure keeps up pace while not expanding government run housing or transit systems.
6. I will prioritize private-public partnerships, streamline permitting, and focus spending on roads, utilities and essential services to make sure our infrastructure keeps up with growth without waste or government expansion.
7. We grow by supporting local businesses, preserving our community while maintaining community traditions so advancements don't come at the cost of our hometown character.
Karen Ellingson -
CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE
Karen Ellingson is a dedicated public servant with over 15 years of experience serving Springville and Utah County. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science with a focus on Public Health and a Master’s in Public Administration. Karen currently serves on the Utah County Planning Commission and has past service on multiple Springville boards, school community councils, and volunteer emergency response teams. Her leadership has included roles on the Springville Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, Library Board, and as PTA Council President overseeing all elementary school PTAs in Springville and Mapleton.
Professionally, Karen works in law enforcement as a civilian Public Information Officer, with additional responsibilities in campus safety compliance, records management, mental health support, and event security. She also launched the successful “Provology 101” citizen education program while working in the Provo Mayor’s Office.
As a candidate for City Council, Karen is committed to responsible budgeting, sustainable growth, and improving transportation infrastructure. She will work to prioritize efficient use of tax dollars, preserve Springville’s unique character and open spaces, and support thoughtful planning that benefits both families and businesses. Karen’s proven track record of community involvement and collaborative leadership makes her a strong voice for Springville’s future.
Michael Snelson is seeking re-election for a 4-year term on the Springville City Council, bringing proven leadership and a commitment to community progress. Michael is the President of Snelson PhotoColor Lab, a 53 year old Springville business. As a council member, Michael has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including the construction of the Cherry Ridge Bike Park, improvements to Dry Creek Trail Park, and the development of the Active Transportation Plan, enhancing recreational and mobility options for residents.
He served on the board of the Chamber of Commerce, as chairman of the Mayor’s Economic Advisory Commission and chairman of the Sign Ordinance Committee, driving economic growth and clear community standards. Michael’s commitment to Springville’s cultural vitality is evident through his extensive work with the Springville Museum of Art, where he currently serves on the Art Board. Additionally, together with former council member Chris Sorensen, he formed and now actively serves as council representative on the PAR Board, fostering community engagement and recreation.
With a record of initiating impactful projects and collaborating with local organizations, Michael is dedicated to continuing his service to Springville, prioritizing sustainable development, cultural enrichment, and community-driven solutions. Re-elect Michael Snelson to ensure experienced, forward-thinking leadership for Springville’s future.
