Dear Editor,

The Nederland city administration and its investors are overpaying for the ski area. Given the realities of global warming, Nederland is investing far too much in a ski area that is likely to become obsolete in the near future.

Because this process has occurred largely in the dark—without meaningful input from Nederland or other county residents—it is clear that the true beneficiaries of this transaction will be a small group of wealthy developers and investors, at the expense of the broader community.

Residents of Nederland, the town of Eldora, and surrounding areas will experience irreversible changes to their lives and environment. Wildlife corridors and habitats will be destroyed, and the impacts on residents will be significant. We will bear the costs of increased traffic, pollution, infrastructure maintenance, and growing demands on limited water and electrical resources.

The simplicity and tranquility that draw people to mountain living will be replaced by the challenges of urban-style development. Looking at other ski areas in Colorado makes it clear what this kind of development brings: loss of community control, unaffordable housing, and low-wage seasonal jobs.

Skiing as an industry is in decline. Housing prices are dropping as wealthy part-time residents leave, and jobs are disappearing along with them. These realities directly contradict the promises being made by Nederland administrators.

When it becomes clear that Nederland overpaid for an outdated ski area, developers will inevitably offer to “rescue” the town—by developing the land further.

This deal represents a boondoggle for investors and developers, a disaster for the environment, and a profound loss for the residents who have been excluded from the process.

Fran Mandel Sheets

Boulder