SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Christie Babalis, a seasoned attorney and dedicated resident of Summit County for over two decades, has officially announced her candidacy for the Summit County Council seat representing District 4. This district encompasses key areas including Snyderville Basin, Kimball Junction, and extends east towards Old Ranch Road. Babalis aims to address crucial issues such as managing growth, improving transportation infrastructure, and preserving the county's open spaces amidst ongoing development. Growing up in Utah, Babalis has deep ties to the community. With a career that has spanned various roles within the ski industry, she brings a wealth of experience and insight. In the mid-1990s, she served as a clerk for former City Attorney Jodi Hoffman during the tenure of Mayor Brad Olch in Park City. This early exposure to local governance has shaped her understanding of the economic, environmental, and infrastructural challenges facing the county today. In her campaign announcement, Babalis emphasized her commitment to the community, stating, "I care deeply about this community—not just where we’ve been, but where we’re going." She highlighted the significant changes Summit County has undergone since the early 2000s and expressed concern over the new issues that have arisen as a result of this growth. Babalis is particularly focused on the upcoming potential return of the Winter Olympics in 2034, viewing it as a pivotal opportunity for the county to tackle long-standing infrastructure challenges in collaboration with local governments, the state, and resort operators. "This is a chance for us to create a roadmap for the future that balances growth with the character and quality of life that we cherish here in Summit County," Babalis remarked. Her platform emphasizes the need for responsible development, advocating for limits on construction in certain areas to ensure that the natural landscape and wildlife corridors are preserved. She intends to prioritize local input in land-use decisions, voicing concern over external influences that could impact the community’s quality of life. "I am concerned about people who don’t live and work in this community making big, impactful decisions that will forever alter the quality of life for those of us who do call this place home," she stated. Babalis' entry into the race follows the announcement that Councilmember Chris Robinson will not seek reelection after a commendable 15 years of service on the council. In her statement, Babalis commended Robinson for his dedication and leadership. "I’m grateful for Chris Robinson’s years of dedicated service and the steady leadership he has provided. As Summit County continues to evolve, I am optimistic about what lies ahead and committed to good governance," she said. The District 4 seat will be contested in the upcoming general election in 2026, and Babalis is keen on building upon the foundation laid by her predecessor while addressing the pressing needs of the community. As Summit County faces rapid development and growth, her candidacy presents an opportunity for voters to choose a representative who prioritizes local engagement and sustainable development. Babalis is not the only candidate expected to enter the race, as the political landscape in Summit County continues to evolve. With the county’s population steadily increasing and development pressures mounting, the next few months will be critical in shaping the future of District 4. Babalis plans to engage with constituents across the district, seeking their input and addressing their concerns about the direction of the county. Her approach reflects a broader trend in local governance where community involvement is seen as crucial for effective decision-making. As voters prepare for the election, the significance of local leadership in navigating the complexities of growth, environmental stewardship, and community needs will be paramount. The outcome in District 4 could set the tone for how Summit County manages its development in the coming years, making Babalis' campaign a significant one to watch as the 2026 election approaches.