Press Release

January 1, 2026

Former Planning Commission Chair John Kucera Announces Candidacy for Summit County Council District 4

Snyderville Basin, Utah — John Kucera, former Chair of the Snyderville Basin Planning Commission, announced his candidacy for Summit County Council District 4, pledging to bring thoughtful planning, public service experience, and financial decision-making skill to the Council.

Kucera served six years on the Snyderville Basin Planning Commission, where he obtained a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding growth and development in Summit County.

“My track record on the Planning Commission is clear,” Kucera said. “I opposed the Dakota Pacific and Highland Flats projects because I believed they represented irresponsible growth based on their scale and impacts to the community.”

Kucera went on to note the importance of managing development responsibly.

“We have millions of square feet of entitled land in the county that will eventually be built,” Kucera said. “When we cannot say ‘no,’ we must incentivize intelligent growth. Traffic mitigation, affordability, mixed-use development, and preservation of open space must be carefully addressed as we update our General Plans and Development Codes.”

Kucera noted that the Summit County Council’s responsibilities extend far beyond land use and development. The Council oversees a $100 million operating budget and provides direction on critical services including community infrastructure, law enforcement, taxation, and public health.

“Growth, traffic, and open space are primary issues; however, they represent only part of the Council’s responsibilities,” Kucera said. “I believe my combination of professional experience and public service will help me contribute to the full scope of council decision-making.”

Professionally, Kucera is the Managing Partner of a small, Utah-based real estate investment partnership. He oversees all financial aspects of the business in addition to acquisitions, lease negotiations, and tenant relationships. Prior to moving to Summit County, John lived and worked in New York City, holding fixed-income and equity analyst positions at institutional investment firms.

Reflecting on how his professional experience informs his approach to public service, Kucera pointed to his time working in New York City during the Great Financial Crisis.

“During that period, I was working with strong personalities in very challenging circumstances,” Kucera said. “It taught me the importance of active listening, finding common ground, and working toward solutions that create win-win outcomes. Those are skills that translate directly to effective Council leadership.”

“I am passionate about where I live, and believe it is important to play an active role in shaping the future of our community and solving its challenges” Kucera said. “I will make every effort to ensure the Basin remains an exceptional place to visit, do business, and most importantly, call home.”

John Kucera is a Utah native, who has lived in the Silver Springs neighborhood for over 10 years with his wife and two school-aged children. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Utah, is a Chartered Financial Analyst Charterholder, and participated in the PC Citizen’s Police Academy and Leadership Park City - Class 23.

During his free time, John enjoys skiing, mountain biking, trail running, hot yoga, or playing pickleball and tennis (yes both!).

Press Contact:

John Kucera

Candidate for Summit County Council District 4

Phone: 435-200-5734 

Email: john@john4council.com