I supported Malena Stevens when she first ran for Summit County Council in 2020, and I am proud to support her again as she runs for Summit County clerk. At that time, Malena had less formal experience in elected office, but what stood out to me and what ultimately led to my support was the way she approached complex systems. She was thoughtful, curious and deeply committed to understanding the issues in front of her before acting. That quality is not always easy to see on paper, but it becomes very clear in practice. Over the years, I have watched Malena grow into that foundation and expand it through her work in our community, particularly in the area of behavioral health. As a therapist, I pay close attention to how leaders engage with systems that are often under strain, systems that require not only technical understanding, but also patience, collaboration and a willingness to navigate complexity without oversimplifying it. Malena has demonstrated that kind of leadership. Through her work on the Summit County Behavioral Health Executive Committee, her involvement in renegotiating the behavioral health contract, and her support of behavioral health initiatives through the county budget, she has shown a consistent commitment to strengthening services critical to the well-being of our community. She has also engaged with local nonprofits and service providers in a way that reflects both respect and a genuine desire to understand the challenges they face. That kind of engagement builds stronger partnerships and, ultimately, more effective outcomes. Earlier in her career, Malena also worked as a victim advocate, supporting individuals during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. That experience requires a unique combination of compassion, steadiness and the ability to respond thoughtfully in situations that are often emotional and complex. Those qualities have carried through into her leadership. What I have consistently observed is that Malena does not rush to conclusions. She takes the time to listen, to ask questions, and to understand the broader context before making decisions. In systems that serve people, especially those experiencing vulnerability, that approach matters. The role of county clerk is in many ways about stewarding systems that the public depends on. It requires attention to detail, consistency, and a commitment to ensuring that processes are carried out with integrity and care. It also requires someone who understands that behind every process are people, residents who rely on those systems to function well and to be accessible, transparent and fair. Malena brings that understanding. She has demonstrated over time that she is capable of working within complex systems, strengthening them, and approaching her work with both thoughtfulness and responsibility. For those reasons, I am pleased to support Malena Stevens for Summit County clerk. Kathy Meyer Park City The post Thoughtful leadership appeared first on Park Record. ...read more read less