Transparency and Trust in a Small Town

503-793-6536, pcampbell@springdale.utah.gov

In the September issue of the Springdale Town newsletter, the Mayor included a dictionary refresher on “transparency,” courtesy of Oxford and Cambridge. Although both universities are fine authorities on plain English, in Springdale, we tend to define it more simply—honest communication and accountable leadership.

When the Mayor states, “Members of the Planning Commission and Town Council are invited to an annual training that includes OPMA,” it gives the impression that this training is optional. In reality, attendance is required by state law, not left to personal discretion.

Similarly, Utah law requires all elected and appointed officials to disclose conflicts of interest. Announcing that current officials are “happy” to comply is not an act of transparency, but simple obedience to the law—something expected of anyone who serves on Town Council or the Planning Commission.

The statement, “What does that mean to the residents of Springdale? Trust us,” raises a fundamental question: Why should trust be demanded if transparency is practiced? When politicians feel compelled to proclaim their transparency, it often has the opposite effect—sparking skepticism rather than confidence. True public trust is built through actions: sharing information openly, explaining decisions honestly, and consistently demonstrating accountability—never through self-congratulatory assurances or appeals for blind trust.

Genuine trust is grounded in accuracy and reliability: it arises when people can consistently and correctly anticipate both what will be done and that it will, in fact, be done. However, trust alone does not always yield desirable outcomes. If residents anticipate that officials will consistently pursue policies contrary to public wishes—such as the Workforce Housing Overlay Zone—then trust simply means reliably expecting disappointment.

In short, public trust must be earned through verifiable actions, not demanded by declaration. Listen to what is said, observe what is done, and decide for yourselves whether trust is warranted.