Park City, Utah, wrapped up a remarkable year in 2025, marked by significant events that will shape the community's future for years to come. From the iconic Sundance Film Festival's planned departure to a ski patrol strike that disrupted holiday operations, the year was filled with challenges and change. Additionally, a closely contested mayoral election brought forth new leadership, reflecting the town's evolving political landscape. Here are the top five stories that defined Park City in 2025. 1. A Sundance Set Change For over four decades, Park City has served as a mecca for independent filmmakers, drawing filmmakers, studio executives, and film enthusiasts from around the world to the Sundance Film Festival every January. However, in a significant shift, festival organizers announced in the spring of 2025 that after the 2026 edition, Sundance would move to Boulder, Colorado, beginning in 2027. This decision came after the expiration of an agreement between Sundance and Park City, prompting the festival to explore new opportunities for growth. The Sundance Film Festival has been a cornerstone of Park City's identity and economy, contributing significantly to tourism and local businesses. Mayor Nann Worel expressed her disappointment, stating, "For over 40 years, we weren’t just the host of the Sundance Film Festival — Park City was part of the beating heart of the independent spirit that made it such a success. While I am deeply disappointed, I’m grateful for the legacy we built together." The festival's departure is expected to have far-reaching impacts on the local economy, particularly in tourism, as Sundance has been one of the most lucrative events on Park City's calendar. The loss will be felt by both local businesses and the community of devoted film fans who have cherished the festival’s intimate atmosphere. 2. Patroller Picket Line The winter of 2025 was marred by a significant labor dispute involving the Park City Mountain ski patrol, culminating in a 13-day strike that began in late 2024. The strike stemmed from ongoing contract negotiations between ski patrollers and Vail Resorts, which owns Park City Mountain. The labor action disrupted operations during the busy holiday season, leading to frustration among skiers and tourists alike. The Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association picketed close to the resort, aiming to draw attention to their demands for better wages and benefits. As the strike progressed, the community rallied in support of the patrollers, with demonstrations from ski patrols at other Vail resorts, including Keystone and Breckenridge. Ultimately, the strike ended in early January when a new contract was ratified, which included a pay increase and improvements to the benefits package. The union leadership expressed gratitude for the community's support during the strike, highlighting the importance of collective action in achieving their goals. This incident brought attention to the working conditions of ski patrollers and reignited discussions about labor rights in the ski industry. 3. Every Vote Counts The 2025 election cycle in Park City was intense and prolonged, beginning long before candidates could formally announce their campaigns and extending nearly three weeks past Election Day. The political atmosphere was charged when Mayor Nann Worel announced she would not seek reelection, opening the door for new candidates to vie for the city’s top office. Ryan Dickey, a sitting council member, and Jack Rubin, a newcomer to local politics, faced off in a heated mayoral race. The campaign was marked by debates over policy and leadership style, with Dickey representing the establishment while Rubin challenged the status quo. The election results were incredibly close, with Dickey ultimately winning by a mere seven votes after a recount. "I’m honored by the trust Park City has placed in me and am ready to get to work with our new council," Dickey stated following his victory. Alongside the mayoral race, two City Council seats were contested, with incumbents and newcomers vying for position. The election underscored the community's desire for change and set the stage for new leadership as the council prepares to address pressing issues facing Park City. 4. Ranch Land Development Throughout 2025, a contentious debate unfolded over the potential development of 10 to 15 acres of the Clark Ranch, a 344-acre tract largely designated for open space. City officials aimed to pursue an affordable housing project intended to create options for residents priced out of Park City's competitive real estate market. The proposed project included plans for 200 housing units, including rental apartments for low-income residents. Opposition emerged from nearby residents, particularly in the Park City Heights neighborhood, who voiced concerns about increased traffic, construction costs, and the preservation of open space. A group called Keep Clark Ranch Wild formed to advocate for the preservation of the land, arguing that the proposed development would significantly impact the community. The Park City Planning Commission expressed unease regarding the project, emphasizing the need for compatibility with the surrounding area. Ultimately, city leaders decided to protect most of the Clark Ranch as open space, while leaving room for potential development on a smaller portion of the land. This decision highlighted the community's ongoing struggle to balance development needs with the preservation of Park City's unique character. 5. Snow Park Development Deer Valley Resort made strides in 2025 toward a major redevelopment of the Snow Park base, winning critical approvals from the Park City Planning Commission. The resort aims to utilize development rights dating back to the 1970s, with plans that include a new parking garage and an underground transit center, which will facilitate future residential and commercial projects. This initiative is seen as integral to enhancing Deer Valley's reputation as a world-class destination. Todd Bennett, the president of Deer Valley, commented on the importance of this development, stating, "We’re making progress to start to realize that vision." The partnership between the resort and the city aims to address transportation infrastructure needs while fostering economic growth in the region. As Park City moves into 2026, the events of 2025 will undoubtedly continue to shape the community's identity and future, with ongoing discussions about economic development, labor rights, and the balance between growth and preservation.