Tentative Agreement Reached: Park City Ski Patrol Strike Update
In a significant development, Park City Mountain Resort and the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association announced a tentative agreement on January 7 that will extend their contract through April 2027. This agreement aims to address the interests of both parties and is set to end the current labor strike. The joint statement expressed optimism about restoring normal resort operations, highlighting the eagerness to reunite as a unified team.
The Ongoing Strike
Negotiations between Vail Resorts, the parent company of Park City Mountain Resort, and the ski patrollers’ union continued this past Tuesday, marking the second day of discussions in a week filled with back-and-forth dialogue. The strike began on December 27, with around 200 ski patrollers walking out amid the busy holiday season, fueled by demands for higher wages and improved working conditions.
Ski Patrollers’ Demands
The Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association has been advocating for increased wages, proposing a raise from $21 to $23 an hour for new patrollers and higher compensation for those with more experience. Furthermore, the union is seeking enhanced benefits and educational programs, particularly as veteran patrollers currently earn approximately 35% more than their entry-level counterparts, according to Vail Resorts.
Negotiation Dynamics
As negotiations progressed, Teddy Zerivitz from the union’s executive board expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing their dedication to their jobs and the desire to return to the slopes. He stated, “Once we have a fair contract, our skis are in our cars and we’re ready to get back to work.” Despite Vail Resorts agreeing to 24 out of the 27 contract items proposed by the union, progress has continued to stall, leading the union to file complaints with the National Labor Relations Board.
Impact on Operations
The strike is notably affecting operations during one of Park City’s peak holiday periods. Typically, the resort employs around 100 ski patrollers daily, but during the strike, only about 30 or 35 have been available. This has resulted in long lift lines and crowded runs, disappointing many visitors. Local residents, like John Fuqua, voiced their frustrations, noting that they did not receive timely communication about the negotiations, which disrupted their travel plans.
Support for the Ski Patrol
In response to the challenges faced by the striking patrollers, a GoFundMe campaign has raised over $260,000 to provide financial support. The letter from Park City Mountain Resort’s Chief Operating Officer, Deirdra Walsh, pointed out the complexities of the negotiations, stating that the ski patrol is requesting significantly more than just an increase of $2 per hour, adding that they sought up to $7 more per hour.
Broader Implications for the Ski Industry
The repercussions of the Park City ski patrol strike could potentially affect labor relations across the ski industry. With a wave of recent unionization amongst ski patrols, this strike exemplifies deeper systemic issues within ski resort operations. As negotiations continue, the outcome at Park City may serve as a bellwether for future labor relations at resorts nationwide, especially as key holidays approach. Skiers and riders are advised to remain patient as they navigate reduced terrain and longer wait times until a resolution is reached.
