In a guest column published September 2, Kari Harbath argued that Ogden leadership is prioritizing optics over the community. Harbath stated that the city's current administration and council are focused more on perception and social media than on addressing significant local issues.
Harbath criticized the conduct of local officials during a recent city council meeting, noting an instance where Council Member Dave Graf told a speaker, Dan Martinez, to change his tone with Council Member Flor Lopez. Harbath suggested this behavior used elected power to silence a minority voice.
Harbath also cited personal experiences with local leaders, including Mayor Nadolski and Council Member Jeremy Peterson. Harbath claimed the mayor ignored her while she was with her daughter and stated that Peterson blocked her on Facebook despite her being at a hospital with her child.
The column addressed a recent incident involving an individual detained by ICE, which Harbath noted occurred the day before his daughter's birthday. Harbath expressed concern that the city administration has not addressed the safety of Ogdenites following the incident, noting that the mayor posted a video of himself eating a burger a few days after the event.
Harbath concluded by stating that Ogden is becoming more divided and that the current administration has not provided a plan to bring the community together. Harbath urged citizens to continue attending city council meetings and speaking up to ensure leaders represent all residents.
