Telluride Ski Resort Faces Closure Amid Ski Patrol Strike: Wage Structure Dispute
Telluride Ski Resort in Colorado's southwest region is set to close this Saturday due to a strike called by the Telluride Ski Patrol. The patrol rejected the resort's contract and has been vocal about the differences in proposals. They are advocating for a wage structure that addresses attraction and retention issues within the ski patrol team. The resort, in response, expressed disappointment over the strike and announced the closure for the upcoming busy holiday period.
The ski patrol union has proposed various solutions to address the wage structure concerns and ensure a sustainable career path for its members. They argue that a fair wage structure is essential for the ski patrol's continued contribution to the community. The resort's offer included a 13% wage increase for the 2025-26 season, with additional cost-of-living adjustments for the following years. However, the union deemed the offer insufficient for patrollers to afford living in the area and requested a higher pay increase.
Telluride Ski Resort owner Chuck Horning expressed disappointment over the strike and its timing during a crucial period for the community. The resort is working on a plan to safely reopen as soon as possible but is uncertain about the duration of the strike. The resort's website and social media channels will provide updates on the situation.