The Telluride Ski Resort in Mountain Village, Colorado, has closed indefinitely due to a labor dispute with the ski patrol union concerning wages. The closure, announced by resort management on Wednesday, stems from ongoing negotiations between the Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association and resort ownership, who have failed to agree on wage increases that account for the high cost of living in the area.
The union voted to strike after months of discussions, claiming that management has ignored their proposals. In a statement released on Friday, the ski patrol association emphasized their efforts to negotiate in good faith and expressed frustration over what they perceive as a lack of movement from the resort’s management.
“We’ve exhausted every idea to avoid this situation,” the ski patrol association stated, noting that the resort’s management has not provided any viable solutions or improvements during discussions. The group’s dissatisfaction is exacerbated by the timing of the strike, which comes just before the busy holiday season.
Chuck Horning, the owner of the Telluride Ski Resort, stated that the ski patrol union rejected what he described as the resort’s “best and final offer.” He voiced disappointment at the timing of the strike during peak season and clarified that the decision to close the resort was driven by the strike rather than the management’s choice.
Bailey Mallette, a ski patroller with 15 years of experience, mentioned that the wage adjustments sought are modest but necessary to create sustainable career paths for ski patrollers. He emphasized the need to retain skilled personnel, given the significant time required to master the complexities of the job.
Ski patrol members play a critical role in ensuring safety on the slopes, providing rescue services and preventive measures against avalanches. Many are equipped with specialized training, including EMT certifications. Mallette noted the time invested in training new patrollers, making retention crucial for the team’s effectiveness.
Mayor Teddy Errico characterized the strike and resulting closure as “unprecedented” and expressed concern about the economic repercussions for the community during the resort’s busiest period. He offered support in hopes of a swift resolution to the dispute, acknowledging the impact that the ski resort has on the local economy.
The labor dispute in Telluride reflects a broader trend, as ski patrollers at other resorts, including Park City Mountain Resort and Keystone Resort, have recently negotiated for better wages and benefits. The Telluride ski patrol continues to advocate for a revised wage structure that aligns with their specialized skills and contributions to the skiing community, underscoring the importance of addressing these concerns for the sustainability of their program and community well-being.
As the situation unfolds, both parties hope to reach an agreement that balances fair compensation for workers with the operational needs of the resort, ensuring that the Telluride Ski Resort can reopen as soon as possible for the enjoyment of its visitors and the livelihood of its employees.