The Economic Case for a Locally Owned Park City Mountain

A locally owned Park City Mountain would bring transformative benefits to the community, reshaping the local economy, culture, and environment in ways that external ownership under Vail Resorts simply cannot match. While external corporate ownership prioritizes shareholder profits, a community-driven model could create sustainable, equitable growth for Park City and its residents. Here’s why a shift to local ownership is essential and what it would mean for the town's future.

Keeping Revenue Local: The Multiplier Effect

One of the most immediate and powerful benefits of a locally owned ski resort is the multiplier effect, where money spent in the community circulates locally, creating broader economic benefits. Currently, under Vail’s ownership, a significant portion of the resort’s revenues flows to shareholders across the globe, bypassing Park City entirely. Local ownership would ensure that profits stay within the town, funding improvements that directly benefit residents, visitors, and businesses.

For example, resort revenues could be reinvested into community infrastructure like affordable housing for employees, public transit to alleviate traffic, and environmental sustainability projects. Additionally, sourcing products locally—whether it’s coffee for the lodges or items for gift shops—would support small businesses and amplify the economic benefits for local producers and vendors.

Boosting Middle-Class Wages

A locally owned Park City Mountain could provide a significant boost to middle-class wages, addressing a glaring issue under the current corporate model. Vail Resorts relies heavily on low-wage, temporary workers, many of whom cannot afford to live in Park City. This creates a disconnect between the resort and the community it serves, weakening the town’s social fabric.

Local ownership would prioritize sustainable wages and career opportunities. By offering competitive salaries and benefits, the resort could attract and retain a skilled, long-term workforce—empowering employees to live and thrive in Park City. This would not only improve working conditions but also create a more authentic and welcoming culture for visitors, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Supporting Local Businesses

External corporate ownership has limited the ability of local businesses to benefit from Park City Mountain’s success. Vail’s franchise-style operations tend to favor national brands and standardized offerings, leaving little room for local entrepreneurs.

Under local ownership, the resort could collaborate with local businesses to supply products, food, and services. Imagine lodges serving locally roasted coffee and gift shops showcasing items made by Park City artisans. These partnerships wouldn’t just enrich the guest experience—they’d also help local businesses grow, creating a stronger and more resilient economy.

Improving Tax Revenue

Local ownership could also lead to better tax outcomes for Park City. Currently, the bulk of profits made by Park City Mountain are directed toward Vail Resorts’ headquarters in Broomfield, Colorado, reducing the tax benefits for Utah and Park City specifically. By retaining profits locally, more revenue could be channeled into property taxes, sales taxes, and other contributions that directly benefit the town.

These funds could support vital community initiatives such as public infrastructure improvements, better public transit, and expanded recreational opportunities for residents. A more robust tax base ensures a higher quality of life for everyone in Park City.

Restoring Cultural Authenticity

One of the most significant losses under Vail’s ownership has been the erosion of Park City Mountain’s unique culture. What was once a community-focused ski resort now feels like a generic corporate franchise. Night skiing has been eliminated, terrain openings are delayed, and even the dining options lack local character.

Local ownership would restore this cultural authenticity by reimagining the mountain as a reflection of Park City’s identity. From unique events to locally inspired dining experiences, the resort could create a distinctive atmosphere that resonates with both locals and visitors. This cultural richness would set Park City apart from other resorts and make it a more attractive destination.

Environmental Stewardship

Large corporations often prioritize short-term profits over long-term sustainability. Local ownership, by contrast, could take a more responsible approach to environmental stewardship. Reinvesting in eco-friendly snowmaking equipment, reducing traffic through improved public transit, and prioritizing sustainable practices across operations would protect Park City’s natural beauty for future generations.

The Negative Effects of External Ownership

Under Vail Resorts, the current model has exacerbated several challenges for Park City:

  1. Economic Leakage: Profits generated at Park City Mountain flow to shareholders worldwide instead of being reinvested locally. This limits the town’s ability to address critical issues like housing, traffic, and infrastructure.

  2. Wage Suppression: Vail’s reliance on low-wage, temporary workers reduces the earning potential of residents and limits career opportunities within the community.

  3. Cultural Erosion: The resort’s character has been homogenized, losing the unique cultural identity that made it special.

  4. Underutilization of Potential: Opportunities for summer activities, local partnerships, and innovative events remain largely untapped, leaving revenue and growth on the table.

A Vision for the Future

A locally owned Park City Mountain would represent a bold step forward for the town, creating a resort that serves the community first. By reinvesting profits locally, supporting small businesses, boosting wages, and restoring cultural authenticity, the resort could become a model for sustainable, community-focused operations.

This vision is achievable through community support, innovative financial planning, and collaboration with local leaders. The ultimate goal is to create a resort that not only provides world-class experiences for visitors but also elevates the quality of life for Park City’s residents.

Together, we can reimagine Park City Mountain as a cornerstone of economic, cultural, and environmental sustainability.