Today the Utah State Senate voted with unanimous support to approve Governor Spencer Cox’s nominees to serve on the Utah Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Commission. Those approved today include reappointed commissioner Thomas Jacobson and two new members, Jennifer Tarazon and Natalie Randall.
“Alcoholic Beverage Control commissioners help to lead the department’s multi-pronged mission to provide a service that brings millions of dollars to vital community programs, reduce underage drinking, and act as a partner to local business owners and Utah’s tourism economy,” said DABC Director Tiffany Clason. “The newly appointed and reappointed commissioners are excellent additions to the ABC Commission. They will serve the community well, bringing with them diverse backgrounds and experiences that provide valuable perspectives.”
The newly approved commissioners offer the following quotes:
“It is a privilege to serve the State of Utah and have the confidence of the Governor and Legislature. My goal is to continue to promote the responsible administration of the laws and regulations of the state and assist our citizens with their business objectives when they elect to offer alcohol to their patrons,” said Thomas Jacobson.
“I am honored that Governor Cox has entrusted me with the opportunity to serve the state through this appointment to the DABC Commission. For the last several years, I have worked in professional and volunteer roles to advocate on behalf of our small business community and to promote Utah as a great place for diverse talent to live, work and thrive. I am excited to take on such an important responsibility and will do my best in executing the duties that this post requires,” said Jennifer Tarazon.
“Utah is a great state that boasts work and family life balance, paired with natural amenities that make us a renowned destination for visitors. A key element that further enhances the makeup of Utah is through the ever growing culinary and beverage experiences Utah businesses provide. The DABC is a dynamic organization that supports experiences and is a business itself. I hope that my prior and current experience in working with varied stakeholders engagement and businesses – particularly within the tourism industry, can lend in supporting the DABC in becoming more efficient, consumer-friendly, and communicative as a business to customers and to their licensees. Uniquely, in my experience living and working in rural Utah – I hope that I can provide further perspective and opportunity to the commission in supporting our rural partners,” said Natalie Randall.
Clason also recognizes outgoing ABC commissioners John T. Nielsen and Steven Bateman who served since 2013 and 2014, respectively.
“My sincere gratitude goes to former commissioners Nielsen and Bateman who ethically and tirelessly served on the ABC Commission for several years. They dug into complicated policy to make decisions to best serve Utahns. I know I speak for the entire DABC team in thanking them for their service,” said Clason.
The new appointees support Governor Cox’s goal for increasing diversity on Utah’s boards and commissions as part of the One Utah Roadmap’s Equity and Opportunity section, says Clason.
The first public ABC Commission meeting for the new members is scheduled for July 27, 2021.