Telluride Ski Patrol's Contract Negotiations Are Heating Up

In anticipation of a possible work stoppage, TPSPA has set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for patrollers. "We had hope that it wouldn't be necessary, but with each communication and action from the Company, [a work stoppage is] looking more and more likely," said TPSPA President Graham Hoffman in an email statement provided to POWDER.

The raised funds are intended to cover patrollers' basic needs, such as rent, groceries, fuel, child care, medical costs, and utilities, in the event they are unable to work. If a contract is ratified, any funds raised will be redirected to supporting causes that aid livability for San Miguel County's workforce.

"We remain open to bargaining and open to a new offer," said Hoffman. "We are all working to open more terrain as fast as we are able to. We remain hopeful that common sense will prevail before a work stoppage is called for."

The GoFundMe page cites the cost of living in Telluride and/or greater San Miguel County is roughly 59% higher than in the rest of the state, and 75% higher than the national average.

TPSPA's fight for higher wages is not a new one.

It seems, despite the demonstration last winter of just how essential a skilled patrol unit is for Park City Mountain Resort, resort management companies are still reluctant to increase wages.

POWDER will continue to cover this developing story.