I’m running for Grand County Commission in District 4. Every resident of Grand County can vote in the upcoming election: Find your voting district.

Why me? I’m from a small town in rural Appalachia, a place with many of the same challenges and similar success stories as Moab. I didn’t grow up here — but as someone building a life here for the long haul, I know how difficult and complex life is for working families, long-time residents, and newcomers alike.

In Moab, I’m a historian and storyteller. As a Director of the Moab Museum, I've spent the past four years working closely with residents and long-standing local families to honor the stories, lived history, and legacies that shape this place we call home. I’ve worked with my team to put together exhibitions on topics like our uranium history, agricultural history, Navajo weaving, and historic rock inscriptions; and have recorded oral histories with many proud Moabites. In 2024, we were awarded the Utah Historical Society’s Outstanding Achievement Award. I firmly believe that our histories will shape our future.

I also serve on the City of Moab’s RAP TAX Committee, am a board member of the Utah Museums Association, and I hold a Change Leader certification from the Utah Division of Arts and Museums.

As a community advocate and nonprofit worker, I’m running for Commission to create an economically and culturally resilient future for local families and workers. I believe we commissioners should embody the values of our constituents, so I’m here to represent the future you want.

I'm committed to following three things:

• Bringing financial common sense to county decision-making

• Balancing growth with the way of life that makes Moab and Grand County unique

• Strengthening trust and respect between the Commission, County staff, board members, and the public.

I believe good leadership starts with listening. Good leadership means keeping people informed, inviting the community into conversations early, and working together to find practical solutions grounded in local values and lived experience.

However we’ve connected, or if we haven’t yet, I aim to earn your trust through thoughtful leadership, meaningful collaboration, and a genuine commitment to serving our community.

Read more about my actionable platform.

I’ll be at lunches at the Grand Center, Chamber of Commerce events, coffees at the Press, and knocking on doors of my district. Let’s meet.

Grand County is at an inflection point in our history. What do you want to see from this County in the next four years?

Tell me: diego.gvelasquezz@gmail.com.