Park City Ski Patrol Support

         First let me say that I consider all Ski Patrols as the chief focus of customer service and safety.  From their avalanche control work to medical assistance, and from skier safety to public information, they are the kingpin of mountain operations.  To underestimate their contribution should be considered hubris if not fatal.  My friend suffered a serious injury at The Canyons in 2020 (see her letter of thanks in your April 8 edition) and the emphatic professionalism of the responding Patrol was exemplary, if not lifesaving.  I personally have had interactions with the Patrol for 45 years, in the resort, side country and back country and have been met with courtesy and respect every time.  They are a vital component of our community that should not be underestimated or undervalued.

Secondly, to pinch these employees for asking for a 10% raise over a period of 20% inflation should be considered crazy if not criminal.  They are asking for a miniscule piece of the corporate pie.  Last time they received a 50% raise from $14-21 dollars an hour, after months of negotiations, and the following week Vail raised all employees’ wages to at least $20 an hour, keeping the Patrol at the bottom of the food chain.  This was a slap in the face and an obvious sign of disrespect.  Respect is  as important as recognition and remuneration.  These are highly skilled specialists who give their heart and soul, backs, hips and knees to their profession and are treated like dishwashers.

Lastly, Vail claims that there are  3,000 'qualified' applicants for 300 Patrol positions because this is a well-respected and fun occupation that provides self-satisfaction and lifestyle benefits for just half of the year.  I’m sure there would be more than 3,000 applicants for the $6.5 million CEO job or any of the well-respected positions around Vail’s management table that include perks and fun  lifestyle benefits but that hardly preclude them from receiving a living wage!  

We don’t blame the local representatives of the company for they know the value of the Patrol’s expertise.  This is an obviously ploy by Corporate to prevent the precedence of paying a living wage to essential employees.  This should be an opportunity for Vail to reward excellence and send a message to the community that they are valued and not just another widget or cog in the corporate machine.   This is, again, Vail giving us a number and taking away our name.  Shameful, disrespectful and regrettable. 

Matt Lindon

Snyderville