(4/10/99)

Another candidate has entered the race for Salt Lake City Mayor.

Today, Democrat Stuart Reid announced he would run against four other Democrats. And the list isn't done yet.

Political specialist Richard Piatt has more on the race so far.

It was a rousing announcement. Stuart Reid declares he's running for mayor with the apparent backing of the police chief, a county commissioner, two city council members, and a number of city insiders.

Reid is a highly organized and powerful candidate.

But so are most of his opponents.

Fellow democrats Rocky Anderson, Dave Jones, and Jim Bradley are also savvy, experienced and capable.

In addition, Republicans will add their voices to the mix. Political insiders say either City council chair Keith Christensen or businessman Steve Harmsen could fill that role, though neither is decided.

Rocky Anderson's lawn signs are popping up everywhere, an early indication of a hard-fought race.

Political pollster Dan Jones predicts the other candidates's signs will join them.

Political analyst Dan Jones, says, "I don't know a time since I've been covering elections and campaigns, and that's been since 1959, that I've known so many campaigns to have such great campaign organizations and leaders."

Political unknown John Renteria entered the race using crime as a tried and true platform.

Last week, Dave Jones held a news conference at the scene of a violent crime.

Reid says crime reduction is a major priority.

So did Rocky Anderson at his announcement, and Jim Bradley at his.

But as the campaign year progresses, growth is expected to emerge as an even bigger issue.

The fact is, Salt Lake City is facing new challenges as the year 2000 dawns.

It's new mayor will lead a city in the midst of change after tough election first.