Telluride Ski Patrollers Strike on Dec. 27 After Union Vote
Telluride ski patrollers have decided to strike starting December 27 after a union vote, following unsuccessful negotiations with Telluride Ski and Golf Co. This development marks a significant escalation in ongoing labor discussions.
Background on the Strike
The decision to strike was made after months of failed negotiations with Chuck Horning, the resort’s owner since 2005. Patroller Andy Dennis, who serves as the interim safety director for the union, expressed feelings of being undervalued and exploited. He stated that even though negotiations resumed this week, they yielded no new offers from the company.
Details of the Negotiations
The union, consisting of 78 members, had previously rejected the company’s final contract proposal made on December 6. This offer suggested an increase in hourly pay by about $4, leading to a median wage of $30. The company’s wage range was set from $23.50 for new patrollers to $46 for veterans.
In contrast, the patrollers initially sought a median wage of $35, with a range between $26 and $53 per hour. They proposed some concessions, reducing cost-of-living adjustments for more experienced patrollers, but the resort did not make a counteroffer during recent discussions.
Voting and Union Solidarity
On December 27, the union members voted overwhelmingly in favor of the strike, with 99% supporting the work stoppage. The union had previously authorized a strike in November, indicating the seriousness of their situation.
Impact on Resort Operations
The onset of the strike is expected to significantly affect operations at Telluride Ski Resort. The patrollers have been without a contract since August 31, and their three-year agreement had already expired before the season began. The resort industry closely monitors this situation, as previous strikes in the sector have led to intense consequences.
Broader Industry Context
This strike at Telluride follows last year’s high-profile strike at Park City Mountain Resort, which lasted 12 days and impacted resort operations significantly. The repercussions included legal actions from skiers facing long wait times and a fall in stock prices for Vail Resorts.
With the ski season in full swing, there is considerable community support for the patrollers, as they continue to push for fair compensation and working conditions.
- Strike Start Date: December 27
- Union Vote Support: 99% in favor
- Current Wage Range: $23.50 to $46 per hour
- Union Proposal Wage Range: $26 to $53 per hour
Both the patrollers and the resort management face pressure to resolve these issues quickly, with the community’s support for the patrollers remaining strong. The outcome of this labor dispute will be crucial for the future of the ski patrols at Telluride.
