Park City Mountain ski patrollers, represented by the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association, went on strike early Friday, citing unfair labor practices and negotiating a new contract with Vail Resorts. The strike, which involves around 200 patrollers and safety workers, marks the latest development in the union’s ongoing contract negotiations.
The union members formed a picket line near the Canyons Village and Mountain Village base areas of the resort, holding signs and chanting as music played. Despite snowfall, they stood their ground, calling for a livable wage and better benefits. The strike is meant to “amplify our fight” for a fair contract.
Vail Resorts stated that safety remains its top priority, citing its commitment to deploying patrol support teams with specialized training in various terrain areas. However, the union argues that this practice puts the safety of everyone at risk by bringing in patrollers from other areas during a strike.
The union has been seeking a higher starting wage of $23 an hour instead of $21, better pay for experienced patrollers and safety workers, and a benefits package with year-round coverage. Vail Resorts proposed a 4% increase in wages and provided $1,600 for equipment.
The strike is the result of failed negotiations, which the union claims were marred by stalling and bad faith bargaining tactics. The union has had the ability to authorize a strike since December 13, when 98.5% of its members voted in favor of it. The National Labor Relations Board has been notified of Vail Resorts’ alleged practice of bringing in patrollers from other areas during a strike.
As the strike continues, the union is asking public support by encouraging people to shop at local businesses instead of visiting the resort. The negotiating team has met with the mediator but not with Vail Resorts, and no progress has been made.
Source: https://www.sltrib.com/news/2024/12/27/park-city-mountain-ski-patrollers