Tyler Melling is committed to Cedar City’s future and our rich heritage. Tyler and his wife Hannah met in choir at Southern Utah University, and returned to Cedar City to open an estate planning law practice after law school. After 8 years as a business owner, Tyler recently accepted a position as general counsel to Velocity Builders, focusing on water law and regulatory compliance.
Beyond his profession, Tyler actively engages with the community through service on local boards like the Chamber of Commerce and the Orchestra of Southern Utah, and as a delegate for the Iron County Republican Party.
Four years ago, Tyler joined the Cedar City Council to fight the heavy regulations that deny future generations the opportunity to adapt and thrive like our predecessors. During that time, he has successfully advocated for expanded property rights for homeowners and small businesses.
Tyler’s advocacy for responsible water policy has saved taxpayers millions. Cedar City no longer subsidizes the water costs of new construction, and those who use more water pay for those costs instead of taxpayers.
Seeking re-election, Tyler remains dedicated to the community he loves. Vote for Tyler Melling to continue building a bright and prosperous Cedar City.
Issues
Water
I believe in responsible water resource management and sustainable development. I strongly believe in keeping city water rates low for everyday water users while holding those who use water excessively accountable for the cost of their usage. I have been a vocal advocate for requiring developers to cover the water impacts related to development, ensuring growth happens responsibly.
Recognizing the paramount importance of water security, I appreciate the example of the Central Iron County Water Conservancy District and encouraged Cedar City to adopt similar policy accepting water rights from the Beryl/Enterprise Basin. This decision effectively doubled the water rights available for municipal purchase and played a significant role in calming the frenzied water rights market.
I understand the complexity of water issues and am committed to finding practical solutions. I firmly believe in incentivizing conservation in agriculture and will actively pursue state-level changes to facilitate it. I am a strong advocate for water-wise landscaping principles that balance water efficiency and the quality of life of long-time residents and newcomers.
I am actively engaged with stakeholders in water discussions to plan for the future of water in Iron County. My expertise and commitment to water issues make me an advocate for our city’s water rights and the pursuit of sustainable water management policies.
Housing
My views and policies related to housing prioritize addressing the pressing issue of housing availability and affordability in our community. The defining challenge we face is ensuring that housing options align with the wages of our residents, so they can afford to live and thrive in our city.
To tackle this issue, I have actively participated in housing committees and worked on evaluating current city housing and parking regulations to find deficiencies and propose effective solutions. Allowing accessory dwelling units (in-law suites or backyard cottages in owner-occupied dwellings) was a key campaign issue for me. These units can provide affordable options for skilled workers and young families, easing the pressure on rental markets and stabilizing housing costs. I am glad the state legislature stepped up to the plate in permitting these arrangements that have reduced housing turnover in our town in past generations.
By allowing a balance between different housing types, such as apartments and single-family homes, we can address affordability challenges while maintaining the character of our neighborhoods.
My views and policies on housing focus on promoting affordability, diverse housing options, and preserving our community’s identity. By carefully considering the needs and values of our residents and working in conjunction with experts and private developers, we can find effective solutions to make our city a better place for everyone.
Economic Growth and Job Opportunities
As an advocate for small business and job opportunities in Cedar City, I strongly believe in protecting individual freedom and reducing unnecessary red tape. A business-friendly environment empowers the hardworking families behind every small business to put food on their table and build a prosperous future. Iron County’s economy is one of the most diverse and resilient in Utah, and we need to attract high-paying jobs while supporting our talented workforce. My goal is to remove barriers and regulations that hinder entrepreneurship and limit the potential of small businesses. I understand that allowing innovation and creativity is essential to a healthy economy. By removing barriers and bureaucratic hurdles to home-based businesses and startups, they are better equipped to take off and thrive, and eventually grow into the brick-and-mortar job creators we know and love. By protecting the ideals of free enterprise and property rights that our forebears espoused, we can recapture the unique charm that Cedar City has been known for. Local government should foster an environment where businesses can flourish, ultimately leading to a robust and sustainable economy for Cedar City.
I understand the complexity of water issues and am committed to finding practical solutions. I firmly believe in incentivizing conservation in agriculture and will actively pursue state-level changes to facilitate it. I am a strong advocate for water-wise landscaping principles that balance water efficiency and the quality of life of long-time residents and newcomers.
I am actively engaged with stakeholders in water discussions to plan for the future of water in Iron County. My expertise and commitment to water issues make me an advocate for our city’s water rights and the pursuit of sustainable water management policies.