Meet Kourtney

Roots & Values

I grew up in a small coastal town in Oregon, where my father worked in the timber industry. Timber shaped our communities in much the same way coal shaped Carbon County. It demanded grit, reliability, and a commitment to showing up even when the work was tough. That blue-collar foundation is a core part of who I am.

My mom was a cosmetologist who owned her own salon. From her I learned what it takes to run a small business in a small town. She managed customers, budgets, long hours, and the pressure of building something from the ground up. Between my parents, I was raised with a deep respect for honest work and for the people who keep a community running. When our family moved to Utah in 1999, I continued to grow up surrounded by their example of hard work and commitment, carrying those values forward as I built my own life, family, and career here in Carbon County.

I’ve been married to my husband, Adam, since 2010. Together we’re a blended family of five children: two his, two mine, and one ours, with four of them now adults. Like many families in Carbon County, our story is one of learning, adapting, and navigating life’s ups and downs together. These experiences keep me grounded as a leader and connected to the needs of families across the county.

Adam has built his entire law enforcement career in Carbon County. By March 2026, he will have served 18 years with the Sheriff’s Office, rising from deputy to sergeant to Lieutenant and Commander of the Carbon County Jail. Being his spouse has given me a perspective on the challenges our community faces that I never would have had otherwise. I’ve seen firsthand how leadership, elections, and decisions made at a distance can affect the people doing the day-to-day work, from staffing changes to budget decisions, not just through secondhand accounts but through the experiences of Adam and his colleagues. These experiences have shown me how important it is for elected officials to be connected to the boots on the ground and accessible to the wider community. Leadership is most effective when it understands the work, the people, and the real-world impact of every decision.

Through Adam’s career, I’ve also witnessed the effects of addiction, mental health challenges, and other crises on our community. These experiences have strengthened my empathy and informed my understanding of the support systems our community needs to thrive.

Professional Background

Professionally, I’ve worked in property management, hospitality, and the medical field, with the majority of my career spent as a Medical Assistant in local clinics. This work put me alongside residents in their most vulnerable moments and gave me a candid, behind-the-scenes perspective of an industry that is often misrepresented. Rumors rarely match reality. That lesson became a core leadership principle for me: assumptions create bad decisions, insight creates good ones.

On January 2, 2022, I began my work in county government, which became a turning point in my career. Since joining the county, I’ve held roles across operational areas, each providing unique insight into how government functions and how decisions impact employees and residents.

I’ve worked directly with facilities, recreation, events, vendors, community organizations, and internal departments. I’ve managed budgets, contracts, partnerships, and large-scale public activities that bring thousands of people together. I’ve seen the operational strengths that keep the county running and the pain points that slow us down. I’ve learned the differences between perception and process, between what people assume government does and what government is legally required to do.

County Leadership & Operations

My experience in county operations has given me a 360-degree view—from frontline staff to leadership, from internal management to residents interacting with government services. I’ve seen how decisions made at the Commission level can either empower departments or tie their hands. I’ve learned how rules, processes, and state laws shape these decisions and why perception often differs from reality. I’ve also witnessed how limited budgets, staffing shortages, and resource gaps require creativity, teamwork, and dedication to overcome.

In 2024, I was promoted to Department Head and currently serve as the Carbon Events & Recreation Director. I oversee county facilities including the Event Center, Fairgrounds, Motocross Track, RC Airport, Athletic Fields, and North Springs Shooting Range. My team and I work to improve operations, restore and enhance community spaces, and increase accessibility while operating within tight budgets.

I also established the Carbon County Fair and Black Diamond Rodeo Committees, reviving two legacy events for the community. The Black Diamond Rodeo was recently named a top finalist for PRCA Wilderness Circuit Rodeo of the Year, reflecting the high standards, dedication, and collaboration we bring to our work.

Leadership Development

In May 2025, I graduated from the Eastern Leaders Academy. That program expanded my strategic perspective and deepened my understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities facing our region — from economic growth to education, public health, community services, and more. It connected me with government leaders, nonprofit directors, business owners, educators, and other community stakeholders across Carbon and Emery Counties. Those relationships are real-world working connections that help solve problems collaboratively and effectively, not just political alliances. ELA strengthened my commitment to community-focused leadership and gave me tools to help bring balanced, informed decisions back home.

Community Engagement

I am deeply committed to giving back to Carbon County. I have served on the Friends of the Carbon & Emery Counties Children’s Justice Center Board, supporting fundraising and awareness initiatives for children in crisis. I am an organizer and active member of the Carbon County Fair and Black Diamond Rodeo Committees, helping restore these cherished community traditions. Beyond these roles, I regularly participate in local events, volunteer opportunities, and charitable initiatives throughout the county, working alongside community members to create meaningful experiences, support those in need, and strengthen the connections that make our community thrive.

Political Involvement

My political involvement began as a Precinct Chair and continues as I serve my second term as Vice Chair of the County Republican Party. These roles have allowed me to gain hands-on experience with elections, candidate development, and the responsibilities of public service. They’ve also given me the opportunity to build relationships with leaders at the state and federal levels, strengthening my ability to serve our community effectively.

My leadership is guided by core values—hard work, family, and service to the community—that resonate with people across the county. I am committed to representing every resident of Carbon County, regardless of political affiliation, background, or beliefs. I value open, thoughtful conversation, new ideas, and evidence-based decision-making, and I am willing to consider perspectives that broaden my understanding.

Through this work, I have learned the importance of collaboration, transparency, and building trust across all parts of the community. The insights and connections I’ve gained through my party involvement complement my professional and community experience, equipping me to lead with both principle and a perspective that prioritizes the needs of every resident.

Vision for Carbon County

I am running for Carbon County Commissioner to bring my experience, perspective, and commitment to building a stronger, more connected community. I understand the county from many angles—as a resident, a parent, a spouse of a first responder, a county employee, a department head, a volunteer, and a political party leader. I have the perspective to make decisions that balance smart growth, fiscal responsibility, and community priorities.

My goal is simple: Bigger, Better Carbon County.

Smart and Sustainable Growth:

Carbon County has changed. Our coal mines are no longer operating, and we must continue the work already underway to bring new industry and opportunity here. I want to support the current trajectory of economic development, working alongside our local leaders, Economic Development professionals, GOEO, and elected officials at the state and federal levels. By attracting new businesses, we create jobs, expand opportunities for families, and share the property tax load across a broader base, lightening the burden for residents. Growth is not just about new companies—it must be balanced with affordable housing, infrastructure, and workforce training so that families can live, work, and thrive here. I am committed to ensuring that Carbon County continues to grow in ways that strengthen our economy and support the people who call this place home.

Property Tax Responsibility:

Property taxes are a major concern for residents, and I understand the direct impact on families and local businesses. Economic shifts in Carbon County—from coal mine closures to changes in commercial and industrial tax contributions—have increased pressure on homeowners. My approach is practical and forward-looking: ensure fair and accurate property assessments, expand the local economy responsibly, attract new industry, and manage county resources efficiently. This strategy keeps taxes sustainable, aligned with county services, and balanced so that residents and businesses alike contribute fairly while benefiting from a thriving, well-supported community.

Facilities and Programs That Serve Everyone:

Public services, community spaces, and events are the backbone of our quality of life. I want to ensure these facilities are well-maintained, developed responsibly, and supported so they can serve our community effectively. From public facilities to community events, recreation programs, and cultural gatherings, these are the spaces and experiences that bring people together, create lasting memories, and strengthen local pride across Carbon County. Through my work at CERCUT, I’ve seen the value of careful planning, collaboration, and creativity in improving facilities and programming. I will continue to advocate for spaces and services that our residents can enjoy for years to come.

Economic Development That Strengthens Local Businesses and Attracts New Industry:

Supporting existing businesses while attracting new opportunities is a key priority. Local businesses are the heart of our community, and expanding the economy ensures more jobs, higher wages, and broader opportunities for residents. I will continue to build relationships with companies and investors who see Carbon County as a place to grow, work, and call home.

Accessible and Connected Government:

Government works best when it listens, communicates, and educates. I believe in keeping the community informed, helping residents understand complex issues, and creating opportunities for engagement and collaboration. Carbon County is a team, and I want to foster that team through open communication, availability, and genuine partnership with our residents. Together, we can celebrate successes, tackle challenges, and improve quality of life for everyone.

This is the perspective I’ll bring to the Commission. Practical. Grounded. Informed by real experience across the system. And ready to deliver on day one.

Full-Time Commitment:

Serving as Carbon County Commissioner requires a full-time focus. Unlike some elected officials who are able to maintain outside employment while serving, my current role as a county department head means I cannot hold both positions simultaneously. If elected, I will step down as Carbon Events & Recreation Director to dedicate myself fully to the responsibilities of the Commission. This ensures that my time, energy, and experience are fully committed to serving the community and advancing initiatives that benefit all residents.

Ready to Serve

I am committed to serving Carbon County with energy, focus, and a practical approach grounded in real experience. I will dedicate myself fully to this role, working every day to support smart growth, strong community connections, and effective, accessible government. I would be honored to have your support and ask for your vote to help build a bigger, better Carbon County.

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