Hi, I’m Neal Herbert.
I’m running for the at-large seat on the Grand County Commission. I believe great things happen when people work in genuine partnership. When differing viewpoints are treated like assets rather than obstacles. When relationships are built on respect and trust. When talented people feel empowered to do their best work. I want to bring these qualities to our local government and help lead it in a more positive direction.
Help spread the word by hosting a yard sign.
Donate
I’m excited about the chance to represent you on the Grand County Commission next year.
Any amount helps. Donate here or mail a check to the address at the bottom of the page.
My Story
When someone offered me a job in Canyonlands during the summer of 1994, I thought a friend was playing a prank. For years I took trips to Moab whenever I could. Being offered the chance to live and work there seemed too good to be true.
More than 30 years later, I still think Moab is one of the best places on the planet to live. And while it was the landscape that drew me here, it’s community and friendships that make it home.
My professional career followed two paths. One in the public sector managing communications and technology for the Department of the Interior. This work helped me understand the complexities and compromises of public land management.
The second in the private sector building commercial websites. I loved working with local clients like the City of Moab, Town of Castle Valley, as well as dozens of businesses and nonprofits. They taught me a lot about what it takes to serve the public here.
I left Moab for 12 years to pursue opportunities in Yellowstone and Boise, Idaho. This was a time of intense personal growth for me as I stepped into roles leading projects and teams. I learned a great deal about what makes government work well, and what causes it to break down.
Grand County was always on my mind. No matter where I was, I never stopped reading the local news. Last year I retired from my federal career and moved home with my wife Jennifer and two adorable cats.
Why I’m Running
Grand County government is struggling. Divisiveness and a lack of civility on the commission is driving away good staff. The commission's inability to work cooperatively or follow processes has led to budget overruns and kept them from solving real, local problems.
Last summer I started attending county commission meetings. I talked to neighbors and business owners. And what I found confirmed what I already believed: this community is full of remarkable people. We deserve an equally remarkable local government working on our behalf.
As a county commissioner, I’ll focus on:
SPENDING
Stay within budget and save for the future. Eliminate unplanned, special-interest use of tax dollars.
PLANNING
Put locals first by building wealth in our community and infrastructure that protects our quality of life.
LEADERSHIP
Create an environment that strengthens partnerships and empowers employees.
COMMUNICATION
Ensure clear and timely delivery of user-friendly information and services.
What do you want to see?
Let’s talk: I’d love to hear from you.