Christie Babalis cites growth, traffic in campaign for Summit County Council, District 4

Christie Babalis has announced she is running for Summit County Council, District 4. Photo: TownLift

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Christie Babalis, an attorney and longtime Summit County resident, has announced she is running for the Summit County Council seat representing District 4.

District 4 includes Snyderville Basin, Kimball Junction, and east of the junction to Old Ranch Road.

Babalis, who has lived in the county for more than two decades, said her campaign will focus on managing growth, improving transportation and preserving open space as Summit County continues to develop.

A Utah native, Babalis said she was raised near her current home and has worked extensively in and around the ski industry. In the mid 1990s Babalis clerked for the then City Attorney , Jodi Hoffman, when Brad Olch was the Mayor of Park City. She said her experience has given her insight into the economic, environmental and infrastructure challenges facing the county.

“I care deeply about this community—not just where we’ve been, but where we’re going,” Babalis said in a statement announcing her candidacy. She said Summit County has changed significantly during her time in the area and now faces issues that did not exist in the early 2000s.

Babalis pointed to the potential return of the Winter Olympics in 2034 as an opportunity for Summit County to address long-standing infrastructure concerns in partnership with local governments, the state and resort operators. She said planning efforts should balance future growth with the county’s existing character and quality of life.

Among her priorities, Babalis said, are limiting development to appropriate areas, protecting wildlife corridors and open space, and addressing traffic congestion in the Snyderville Basin. She also emphasized the importance of local input in land-use decisions.

“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,” Babalis said.

Babalis’ announcement follows Councilmember Chris Robinson’s decision not to seek reelection after 15 years on the council. Babalis praised Robinson’s service and said she hopes to build on his leadership.

“I’m grateful for Chris Robinson’s years of dedicated service and the steady leadership he has provided,” Babalis said. “As Summit County continues to evolve, I am optimistic about what lies ahead and committed to good governance.”

The District 4 seat will be on the ballot in the 2026 general election.