Summit County Councilor Canice Harte has officially declared his intention to run for reelection in 2026. Harte, who serves as the operations manager for Summit County Search and Rescue, represents District 5, which includes the Jeremy Ranch area and Pinebrook. He was first elected to the County Council in 2022, having previously campaigned in 2020. Harte emphasizes the importance of experience in addressing the challenges facing Summit County, including rapid growth and significant infrastructure decisions. He stated, "The work we have taken on as a county is long term, and I want to see it through." He expressed a commitment to guiding the county’s future in a responsible manner. Among his accomplishments, Harte highlights the ongoing acquisition of the 8,500-acre 910 Cattle Ranch for open space conservation, which has faced delays due to federal funding issues. He believes that preserving this land is crucial for maintaining critical habitats and recreational access. Harte also points to the successful acquisition of the Ure Ranch, which protected an additional 834 acres of open space. He aims to address the concerns of residents regarding growth pressures and state mandates. He has noted the challenges of balancing competing interests within the county, especially as local officials plan for rapid development. Fiscal responsibility is another priority for Harte, who aims to reduce the tax burden on residents. He acknowledges that while the County Council has not raised the tax rate since 2017, residents continue to face rising taxes driven by other district increases. As the county prepares for the 2034 Winter Olympics, Harte stresses the need for infrastructure improvements, including a bus rapid transit system and a parking facility in Kimball Junction to alleviate congestion. He also mentioned the importance of planned upgrades at the Highway 80 and Highway 224 interchange. The candidate filing window for local elections begins at 8 a.m. on January 2 and closes at 5 p.m. on January 8, with several positions, including two County Council seats, on the ballot for 2026.