Telluride Resort to Close Amid Patrollers’ Strike, Says Owner Chuck Horning
Chuck Horning, the owner of Telluride Ski Resort, has announced the closure of the ski area on December 27. This decision comes as ski patrollers plan to strike due to unresolved wage negotiations. The announcement has raised concerns about the impact on the local community during a busy ski season.
Strike Announcement and Reasons
The closure was confirmed following a vote by the Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association to strike. All but one member of the 78-person team voted in favor. This decision followed over 16 negotiation sessions with Telluride Ski and Golf Company.
Wage Dispute
- The ski patrol is seeking a three-year contract with an $8 hourly wage increase.
- The company’s last offer in early December was a $4 hourly raise.
- The wage gap totals approximately $115,000 over the contract’s duration.
Previous Strikes
This upcoming strike is the second incident in the last year involving ski patrollers in the U.S. The first occurred at Park City Mountain Resort, resulting in a 12-day work stoppage. Vail Resorts, the owner of Park City, faced substantial financial losses during that period.
Impact on Local Businesses
Local businesses in Telluride are preparing for the ramifications of the strike. The community has already begun experiencing declines in tourist numbers. This trend follows a decision by Horning to cut marketing expenses.
Community Response
- Businesses are developing messaging for activities beyond skiing.
- Discussions are underway for special events to engage visitors.
According to Kiera Skinner, executive director of the Telluride Tourism Board, efforts are being made to provide alternative activities for guests. She emphasized the importance of community collaboration during this challenging time.
Future Outlook
While the situation remains fluid, the hope is that both parties can reach an agreement soon. The goal is to resume normal operations and restore the skiing experience for visitors to Telluride.
