Park City Mountain Resort, a major U.S. ski destination, is facing reduced operations due to a strike by 200 ski patrollers. The walkout, initiated on December 27th and continuing into the new year, stems from a dispute over wages deemed insufficient for the high cost of living in the area. While some skiers express support for the patrollers' demands, the reduced staffing has led to closed runs and longer lift lines.
The ski patrollers, members of the Park City Professional Ski Patrollers Association, argue that current wages, starting at $21 per hour, are not a living wage in Park City. They are seeking an increase to $27 per hour and improved compensation for veteran patrollers. Negotiations have stalled, with the union citing ongoing inflation since 2022 as a key factor.
Vail Resorts, the resort's owner, contends its 2022 50% wage increase to $21 per hour was significant. They counter with a proposed 4% pay raise for most patrollers and a yearly $1,600 equipment stipend. However, the union maintains these offers do not adequately address the cost of living or reflect the unique training and experience required for ski patrol work.
The strike comes amidst a surge in union activity across various industries. Recent strikes, including those by Boeing factory workers and port dockworkers, highlight a trend of workers demanding better compensation and working conditions. This escalation in union action is not solely confined to the industrial sector.
Currently, the resort operates at significantly reduced capacity, with only a fraction of lifts and trails open. The company has reportedly hired non-union workers from other resorts to mitigate the impact of the strike on operations. Patrollers at other Vail resorts are expressing solidarity.
Mediation efforts are underway, with talks scheduled for Tuesday. Further snow is predicted, potentially exacerbating operational challenges if the strike continues. The long-term impact of the strike on the ski season and the broader labor landscape remains uncertain.
