Named Utah’s Best of State Elected Official (2024)

Recognized statewide for leadership and service, this honor was especially meaningful because Orem City staff nominated LaNae in appreciation of her dedication, accessibility, and behind-the-scenes work on behalf of residents. See my “Best of State” webpage

Fiscal Stewardship: Built a New City Hall with No New Taxes or Debt

Helped review, refine, and approve the updated plans for Orem’s new City Hall, ensuring the project was fully funded without raising taxes or taking on new debt. Hired a grant writer who was successful in securing a grant for rooftop solar, providing long-term sustainability and savings for Orem taxpayers. The new facility also includes a fully equipped Emergency Operations Center to serve residents during times of crisis.

Protected Neighborhoods and Orem’s Economic Engine–State Street — Stopped 10,000 apartments!

LaNae led the effort to repeal the State Street Master Plan, which would have allowed 10,000 high-density apartments along State Street. By restoring commercial zoning, she protected Orem’s economic engine—keeping property taxes low, supporting small businesses, and promoting balanced growth. She also championed stronger beautification standards for State Street, including greater setbacks, additional parking, and enhanced landscaping, creating a corridor that reflects Orem’s character and supports long-term economic vitality.

Full-Time Commitment to Orem

LaNae is known for her hard work, accessibility, and strong advocacy for Orem. She believes Orem must always have a voice at the table, and she ensures that voice is heard. LaNae works closely with city staff on a near-daily basis and regularly attends daytime meetings with key community partners, including UDOT, UTA, the Mountainland Association of Governments (MAG), the Utah League of Cities and Towns (ULCT), the Utah Lake Authority, and the Commission on Housing Affordability. She actively seeks resident feedback and remains readily available to help citizens navigate city processes, resolve concerns, and find solutions. Her hands-on approach and consistent engagement have earned her a reputation as one of Orem’s most responsive and dedicated councilmembers.

Worked with State Agencies to re-route traffic around Orem, not through it

Worked hard to reduce traffic congestion and improve flow throughout Orem. By collaborating with UDOT and regional partners, she has focused on directing through-traffic around the city rather than through neighborhoods. She has supported improved signal coordination, safer intersections, and projects that preserve existing housing. These efforts have helped protect neighborhoods, improve air quality, and prevent Orem from becoming a pass-through city.

MyHometown Initiative Supporting and Beautifying Neighborhoods

Assisted in strengthening the MyHometown partnership in Orem, which connects residents, churches, and volunteers to revitalize neighborhoods and strengthen families. Focused on education, beautification, and service efforts that bring people together, MyHometown uplifts neighborhoods and strengthens families across Orem. See the myHometown webpage

Advocate for Orem Families and Schools

A consistent voice for policies that support families, preserve neighborhood character, and promote thoughtful growth aligned with Orem’s schools and community priorities. LaNae added safe crossings, bike lanes, and sidewalks at Windsor, Bonneville, Cascade, Northridge & Parkside, all to protect Orem children.

Supported the Arts, Culture, and Community Events

As council liaison to the Orem Arts Council and Cultural Arts Commission, helped support and expand community events such as Oremfest, the Christmas “Lights On” celebration, the Come Together Rock Fest with Taste of Orem, Orem’s Got Talent, and planning for the new HeArt of Orem project at the SCERA. See my SCERA webpage

Partnered with Police and Fire for Public Safety Advances

Strong advocate for Orem’s Police and Fire Departments, ensuring they have the staffing, training, and equipment needed to keep residents and neighborhoods safe. Helped advance the construction of a new fire training facility—built with no new debt—to enhance emergency preparedness and life-saving response, committed to ensuring that in residents’ darkest moments, Orem’s highly trained first responders are ready and equipped to be there.

Preserved Historic Sites and Designed Children’s Memorial

Helped protect the historic site on 1600 North where two pioneer infants were buried, ensuring it is preserved and memorialized for future generations. Advocated for the creation of a Children’s Memorial Park and coordinated with selected community members to assist in its design and vision.