Public Policy
The Gardner Institute provides data-driven, context-specific insights about public policy in Utah. We prepare in-depth quantitative and qualitative studies on key Utah issues in partnership with private-sector stakeholders and state and local government. Our research provides vital information decision-makers and the public use to help Utah prosper.
Renewable Energy Insight: The best things in life are free
By: Thomas Holst Renewable energy in Utah has grown rapidly over the last decade. Renewable energy sources include solar, geothermal, wind, biomass, and hydropower. In contrast to fossil fuels, renewables have little or no carbon footprint and have been embraced by some states, most notably California, in an effort to slow climate change caused by greenhouse gases. […]
Insight: Utah could use a little beautification
By: Natalie Gochnour Originally published in the Deseret News During World War II, Germany destroyed Great Britain’s House of Commons Chamber. When it came time to rebuild the structure, an argument ensued. Some members of Parliament wanted to rebuild the chamber in a semi-circular design, but Winston Churchill favored the same rectangular pattern that existed before the bombing because he felt it bolstered the two-party system. He famously uttered, “We shape our buildings and afterwards our buildings shape us.” […]
Insight: Who is Responsible for Clean Air in Utah?
By: Juliette Tennert As residents of Utah, we are all contributing to the problem of air quality, and we must all be part of the solution. This was the main message from Thom Carter, the Executive Director of the Utah Clean Air Initiative (UCAIR) at the March Newsmaker Breakfast at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. […]
Family Planning Elevated
Facilitated deliberative work session for Family Planning Elevated’s Stakeholder Convening, and provided discussion guide consultation
March 2018 Economic Summary
The Utah economy remains healthy. Every major industrial sector expanded in 2017, contributing a total of 43,500 new jobs over the year. The consensus forecast predicts moderating–but still healthy–job and wage growth, low unemployment, and increased net migration in 2018.
Research Brief: Housing Prices and the Threat to Affordability
Utah business and community leaders wisely pay close attention to housing affordability. Since 1991 Utah housing prices have outpaced every state but Colorado, Oregon and Montana. The rate of housing price increases and challenges created by higher prices are on the minds of many decision-makers. Consequently, the Salt Lake Chamber, Utah’s largest business association, contracted with the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute to collect, organize, and review housing affordability data and produce the following report. […]
Policy Brief: Designation of Opportunity Zones
The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute has prepared an initial evaluation of census tracts within Utah with significant economic need and market potential. We conducted this research to help Gov. Gary Herbert make an informed decision as he designates “opportunity zones” in Utah as part of the Investing in Opportunity Act.
Insight: Food – Struggling Retail’s Best Friend
By: Dejan Eskic Innovate or die — that is the mantra of many of companies today. This is especially true in retail. Last year was the year of retail apocalypse with more than 5,000 store closures. This year, approximately 3,600 stores are expected to close their doors too. It is counterintuitive to have record store closings when consumer confidence is at an all-time high. I recently heard the phrase “retail isn’t dead, mediocre retail is dead.” The market is transforming for the next generation of shoppers. By some estimates, America retail is overbuilt by about 50 percent, indicating that we[...]
Policy Brief: Utah’s Olympic Economic Legacy, 2018
The 2002 Olympic Winter Games enlarged the Utah economy and left a lasting economic legacy. This legacy continues to grow and change as the Utah economy matures in each subsequent year since the Games.
Insight: Uintah Basin Energy Activities Set to Rebound in 2018
By: Thomas Holst Oil field metrics in the Uintah basin confirm a resurgence in oil and gas activity. The current Uintah basin rig count is 12, up from three a year ago. Operating permits issued to energy companies for exploration and production activity has also increased. This upswing in activity was triggered by a steady rise in oil prices to $64 per barrel from a low point of $30 per barrel in early 2016. […]