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Show Bangerter cites main concerns By JACK HILL "We can't adopt a no-growth policy in a state that produces so many children," stated Norm Bangerter, Republican candidate for governor. Bangerter spoke Friday at a neighborhood meeting held at the home of Jay and Carol Harmer. Born and raised in Granger (now West Valley City), Bangerter has been the Speaker of the Utah House of Representatives for the past 10 years. He views education as one of the critical issues facing Utah residents. "This year 20,000 seniors will graduate from Utah high schools," Bangerter said. "But this September, 40,000 youngsters will enter kindergarten." Citing the statistic, he explained why a no-growth policy will not work in Utah and why he wants to accept the challenge of being Utah's next governor. "We must build on the foundation that was laid by our forefathers in the canal system, mining, agriculture and manufacturing. We are the beneficiaries and now we must continue to build for our children," Bangerter added. He sees two options concerning funding of education. (1) Increase taxes just to fund the system at its present level or (2) become more efficient with what we now have. A growth-oriented economy will be the key according to Bangerter. "There must be more money for teachers, especially beginning teachers," he said. Bangerter sees his 10 years in the 1 1 i House of Representatives as the best of possible training grounds to qualify him for the governorship. "I understand the legislative process and I know how to get things done in the legislature," Bangerter said. Along with his brothers, Bangerter has been a carpenter in supporting his wife and six children. At least five other Republicans are seeking their party's nomination for governor. |