As an organization, the Westside Coalition recognizes that we can’t fix all the problems facing Salt Lake’s Westside, but we’ve focused our attention on key issue areas that are most pressing right now. This list changes over time, and you can see some of our previous Issue Areas by selecting the main menu under the topic Issues.
In 2022, the WSC Board decided on six key Issue Areas upon which we are focusing our current attention:
Education
The WSC recognizes the importance of education and how it can improve socioeconomic mobility. The WSC values equitable access to high quality education from daycare, preschool, through college, universities, and trade schools. The WSC values strengthening our community schools to meet the needs of our diverse communities.
Environmental Resources
Clean air and water are foundational to life. WSC values having access to clean air and drinking water. The WSC recognizes the historical disproportionate environmental degradation in our communities and values efforts to lift environmental justice for our residents. The WSC is committed to improving the health of our urban canopy, soils, wildlife, rivers, and ecosystems as these all are integral to a healthy community.
Housing/Homelessness
The WSC values a wide range of housing options for all income levels in neighborhoods throughout the City and State that address the distribution of the housing burden equitably. The WSC recognizes the displacement of our families and neighbors that should not be forced out of the communities they live in. The WSC believes everyone should have access to shelter and those resources should be distributed throughout the region. The WSC values accessible and affordable homeownership as an investment in our families and our community.
Public Safety
The WSC values a public safety system that is responsive, effective, and respectful to our Westside communities. The WSC values strong partnerships between public safety agencies and the communities they serve aiming to improve trust and transparency. The WSC values a fair and equitable criminal justice system that eliminates systemic inequities. The WSC values dynamic data that helps us understand how public safety agencies are meeting the needs of our communities, schools, and residents.
Transportation
The WSC values a transportation system that provides accessible, equitable, and convenient transportation options. The WSC values a forward looking transportation system that reduces emissions, reduces household transportation costs, and enhances our communities. The WSC recognizes the disproportionate negative impacts the current transportation system has on SLC’s Westside communities. The WSC values building a sustainable transportation network that connects our communities to each other, our city, and region.
Westside Development
The WSC values economic development that empowers our community members, builds community wealth, and adds neighborhood amenities. The WSC values employers who pay living wages, provide a healthy work environment, and benefit packages meeting the needs of our families. The WSC supports programs that build capacity for residents to gain valuable skills that can help for future employment.