David Alvord ends single term on Salt Lake County Council

David Alvord, a Republican councilman for Salt Lake County’s District 2, has concluded his term after choosing not to run for reelection. His tenure, which began in 2020, was defined by a mix of notable accomplishments for the county’s west side and several controversies that shaped his public image.

Alvord’s district encompassed a wide swath of Salt Lake County's west side, including parts of South Jordan, West Valley City, Riverton, Herriman and the unincorporated communities of Magna and Kearns. Reflecting on his decision not to seek reelection, Alvord stated on his Facebook page in January 2024, “Timing is important. Four years ago, I saw the need to fight for the west side of SL County. I am really gratified that we were able to get so much done.”

During his term, Alvord prioritized issues he believed were often overlooked by county leadership. According to Alvord’s Salt Lake County profile webpage, he takes credit for doubling the share of ZAP (Zoo, Arts & Parks) tax revenue allocated to the west side, encouraging the development of mountain biking trails in Butterfield Canyon, and advancing the completion of Bingham Creek Regional Park. He also stated that he was an advocate for revitalizing Magna Main Street and ensuring the west side received its fair share of transportation funding.

Alvord opposed a proposed .25% library tax increase, supported cuts to county employee incentive plans he deemed excessive, and reduced the mayor’s budget. Additionally, Alvord worked to expand the Salt Lake County Auditor’s office, supporting what he described as increased government accountability.

David Alvord meets with visitors prior to a county council meeting. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake County)

Prior to being to the County Council, Alvord was elected Mayor of South Jordan from 2014 to 2018. Alvord practiced dentistry for 16 years and is currently the CEO of Professional Insurance Exchange, a dental malpractice insurance company.

Despite his accomplishments, Alvord’s tenure was marred by controversies that generated public backlash. One of the most contentious incidents occurred in 2021, when Alvord posted a Facebook comment criticizing the equity movement. In the post, he wrote, “The left won’t be happy until...we each have light brown skin, exactly alike...we are all bi-sexual...there are no males, no females...we have no children, and simply have new humans arrive in labs and immediately put into school for collectivism and indoctrination.”

The post sparked outrage, with many interpreting his comments as racially insensitive and dismissive of gender equality. Advocacy groups called for his resignation, and the incident became a flashpoint in the debate over equity and inclusion in Utah. Alvord later apologized, issuing a statement, “Social media is a place for ideas and conversation. My post was meant to engage discussion about where 'cancel culture' is heading, which I believe has a dangerous destination.”

In 2022, Alvord faced further criticism for questioning the Utah Jazz’s all-female broadcast team, asking whether the development represented “matriarchal domination.” His remarks were seen by some as dismissive of the broadcasters’ qualifications and sparked additional calls for accountability.

That same year, Alvord also drew scrutiny for comments he made about the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He questioned the difference in values between the two countries, which some interpreted as sympathetic to Russia amidst its invasion of Ukraine. Critics viewed his comments as insensitive, particularly given the gravity of the humanitarian crisis.

“I recognize that as an elected official, words take on extra meaning and significance. I would like to apologize for any who misunderstood my intentions,” Alvord said in a statement.

Republican Carlos Moreno will succeed Alvord having won the general election by defeating Democrat Katie Olson. Moreno will take the oath of office in January.